An all-new Royal Oak Concept Flying Tourbillon limited edition, co-designed by Tamara Ralph, was launched at Haute Couture Week.

Our eyes were peeled not only for Tamara Ralph’s gorgeous spring/summer 2024 collection during Haute Couture Week in Paris, but also for the gorgeous Audemars Piguet watch she sent on the runway along with them. The all-new Royal Oak Concept Flying Tourbillon limited edition is inspired by Ralph’s aesthetic, a magical mix of feminine strength matched with timeless elegance.

When we last interviewed Ralph just after her inaugural show in July last year, she tells us clients love her work because of its femininity and its elegant and sophisticated details that don’t lose the modern touch. “I think that’s part of my ingrained design aesthetic that won’t change and will always be there,” she told us at the time.

And it’s this very DNA in her work that appealed to Audemars Piguet. Ralph collaborated with Audemars Piguet once before, in 2020, when she was still part of the duo behind the Ralph & Russo brand. The watchmaker brought along several of its watches to pair with their Spring/Summer 2021 ready-to-wear collection. It was a fun and natural partnership, and as AP’s former CEO Francois-Henry Bennahmias conceded then, “We actually realised that our watches had already been paired with their exceptional designs many times by clients in real life who didn’t need to wait for this partnership to match our two brands.”

Coming together for a second partnership, this time with Ralph herself, was a no-brainer. Starting off the new year with a first collaborative women’s watch is perhaps symbolic in more ways than one. This month, Ilaria Resta also officially steps into her role as AP’s new CEO, making history as Audemars Piguet’s first female CEO.

Ralph’s limited edition watch is based on a version of the Royal Oak Concept Frosted Gold Flying Tourbillon that was released in 2020 that showcased a contemporary dial design of blue concentric circles lined in gold and graded to draw your eyes onto the diamond-encrusted flying tourbillon at the 6 o’clock position. Frosted gold was used on the two versions released at the time, one in white gold and one in rose gold, marking the first time the Florentine hammered gold technique was used on a Royal Oak Concept case. A ladies timepiece, the watch was sized at 38.5mm, with the hand-wound calibre 2964 beating inside at 3 Hz and a 72-hour power reserve.

The Royal Oak Concept Flying Tourbillon “Tamara Ralph” limited edition, inspired by haute couture, is in 18K pink Frosted Gold and limited to 102 pieces only. The dial is rendered in a colour palette of bronze and gold, and plays with layers, textures and colours, and as with the previous versions, hour-markers are left out of the timepiece to retain the purity of the dial design. To match with the watch, the strap is bronze-toned with a pearly finish. A second watch strap, in brown alligator leather, is also provided.

Haute couture inspired the watch design, and vice versa, Tamara Ralph’s spring/summer 2024 collection was inspired by time. Red carpet gowns played with dimensions and different materials, and high jewellery elements were beautiful stand-outs in the collection. Watch the runway here, and if you look closely, you’ll spot the limited edition watch appearing on a few of the models.

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The post Tamara Ralph and Audemars Piguet Collaborate on a Haute-Couture-Inspired Timepiece appeared first on Prestige Online - HongKong.

The highly anticipated 75th Emmy Awards ceremony is finally over, and it came with its share of memorable moments. From an unconventional opening monologue by actor-comedian Anthony Anderson, who kept his act largely musical, to an emotional Christina Applegate making her way to the stage amidst a standing ovation, the shindig was an eyecatcher in the truest sense.

Applegate’s reception was not the only tearjerker we had in the Emmy Awards in 2024. Soundtracked by Charlie Puth and The War and Treaty, the In Memoriam segment saw a heartfelt rendition of the theme song of the ’90s popular sitcom F.R.I.E.N.D.S. to mourn the loss of Matthew Perry. The segment paid tribute to other stars we lost since the previous Emmys, starting from Harry Belafonte, and Leslie Jordan to Paul Reubens and several others.

Ever since Jo Koy’s heavily criticised opening number at the Golden Globes 2024, producers of award shows have been on their guard, and the hosts have stuck to conventional scripts. But the Emmy Awards saw Anderson tread a different path as he kicked off the show with a little housekeeping announcement. To adhere to the tight schedule, he urged everyone to keep the acceptance speeches short. And in this timekeeping endeavour, he had his mother Doris Bowman beside him to ensure brevity, who announced her presence from backstage with the words “Time’s up, baby, cut to the chase!” 

Speaking of time, we couldn’t help but notice that a host of the attendees sported eye-catching timepieces on their wrists. On that note, we bring to you some of the best watches we spotted at the Emmy Awards in 2024, both on the red carpet and inside the auditorium.

Which are the best watches we saw at the Emmy Awards 2024?

Jeremy Allen White’s Vacheron Constantin Fiftysix

One of the grandest stars of the night, Jeremy Allen White bagged the Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series Emmy for his portrayal of the troubled yet charismatic chef Carmen Berzatto in The Bear. Besides his charming personality and the stunning white tuxedo, the Vacheron Constantin Fiftysix self-winding timepiece on his wrist completed his award-winning portrait.

The timepiece, which portrays a retro-contemporary style, is inspired by a 1950s model by the same luxury watchmaker. This pink gold-coloured watch houses the caliber 1326, and its hands and indexes are coated with Super Lumi-Nova, a luminescent material that stores light during the day and glows in the dark.

For us, this Vacheron Constantin offering ranks among the best watches we spotted at the Emmy Awards in 2024.

The IWC Portugieser on Tom Hiddleston’s wrist

Arguably one of the best and boldest luxury watches seen at the Emmy Awards in 2024, the IWC Skeleton Portugieser Minute Repeater fittingly belonged on the wrist of the beloved ‘God of Mischief’, Tom Hiddleston. The actor, who portrayed the character of Loki in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, sported a special edition of the IWC Portugieser Minute Repeater with a skeletonised dial, rose gold hands and a white minute ring.

The timepiece features a 98950 caliber and offers up to 46 hours of power backup. It also comes with a skeletonised rhodium-plated hand-wound movement and a Breguet hairspring.

Colman Domingo’s Omega Constellation Globemaster with yellow gold bezel

An Emmy Award winner in 2022 for the HBO show Euphoria, Colman Domingo has been in the news this awards season for his performance in Rustin. Even though he did not win an Emmy in 2024, his Omega Constellation Globemaster did not fail to catch our attention. The timepiece, fitted with the revolutionary co-axial master chronometer caliber 8900, perfectly complemented Domingo’s bold personality.

Featuring a 39-millimetre stainless steel case with a yellow-gold fluted bezel, the Constellation Globemaster is a watch worthy of the star who wore it.

The Omega Constellation Globemaster on Young Mazino

His splendid performance in the Netflix series Beef earned Young Mazino a nomination in the ‘Outstanding Supporting Actor In A Limited Or Anthology Series Or Movie’ category. As a result, he was in everyone’s attention, and we did not miss this opportunity to spot the Omega Constellation Globemaster on his wrist.

Much akin to Colman Domingo’s timepiece, this Omega model comes with a similar co-axial master chronometer caliber 8900. The only difference lies in the material of the fluted bezel on the stainless steel case — instead of yellow gold, the bezel is made of a scratchproof hard metal.

Bill Hader’s Omega Speedmaster Chronoscope

Bill Hader is no stranger to the Emmy Awards, and in 2024, he was nominated in as many as four categories for the black comedy crime drama series on HBO named Barry. Besides sharing a kiss with his partner Ali Wong, Hader also caught netizen’s attention for sporting an Omega Speedmaster Chronoscope at the awards ceremony.

Arguably one of Omega’s largest watches, the 43-millimetre model is crafted in stainless steel and comes with a silvery dial and blackened subdials. The watch also sports the co-axial master chronometer caliber 9908 and is deserving of its spot on the list of the best watches worn at the Emmy Awards in 2024.

The Omega De Ville Tresor on Ariana DeBose

We kept an eye out for Ariana DeBose, and sure enough, the Omega De Ville Tresor sporting 18 kt moonshine gold on her wrist was worth the wait when she walked down the red carpet. The slim case of the watch features 38 full-cut diamonds which curve along each side of the timepiece. The moonshine gold mesh bracelet has a silk-like pattern on it and a foldover clasp. This elegant timepiece comes with the Omega Caliber 4061 under the hood.

The Vacheron Constantin Overseas Chronograph on Nicholas Braun

Even though he lost the award for Best Supporting Actor to his fellow Succession star Matthew Macfayden, Nicholas Braun’s time at the Emmy Awards in 2024 was all beer and skittles. Throughout the show, the actor wore a broad smile on his face and a Vacheron Constantin Overseas Chronograph on his wrist.

Elegant yet casual, this particular timepiece comes with a rubber strap and a black dial. The watch houses a column-wheel chronograph enhanced by a date aperture between four and five o’clock. Its self-winding movement comes with the stamp of the Hallmark of Geneva and makes use of the caliber 5200.

Donald Glover’s Tank Louis Cartier

Summing up the list of the best watches we spotted at the Emmy Awards in 2024 is Donald Glover with his Tank Louis Cartier watch. Glover is known for his bold outfits and accessories, and his latest choice of watch is in tandem with his personality.

The watch is powered by a mechanical movement with manual winding. The case is made of 18-carat yellow gold, and the crown sports a sapphire on top. A red lacquer effect adorns the dial, and the watch is complete with a semi-matte burgundy alligator-skin strap with an 18-carat yellow gold ardillon buckle.

(Main Image Credits: Courtesy Ilaria Urbinati/Instagram and Roger Gonzalez Show/Instagram; Featured Image Credits: Courtesy Ilaria Urbinati/Instagram)

This story first appeared on Augustman Malaysia

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With the Lunar New Year fast approaching, it’s time to consider the symbolism of the Chinese zodiac creature it represents. Although in chivalric and Christian traditions the dragon is regarded as evil, in Eastern traditions it symbolises supernatural power, wisdom, strength and hidden knowledge. With its flaming breath, serpentine form and dynamic personality, the dragon – the fifth animal in the 12-year lunar cycle – embodies chaos and untamed nature.

Watchmakers have released Chinese zodiac models for years, but the majesty of the dragon has always been special. Crafts such as enamelling, engraving and gem-setting enable artisans to push the boundaries as they create miniature works of art that bring to life the creature’s powerful gaze, the feathery lightness of its scales and the elegant glide of its tail. And though in one way or another each resulting timepiece will represent the dragon’s form, it will invariably also reflect the watch brand’s own codes and signatures.

Since 2013, Chopard has greeted the Lunar New Year with a watch or, in some years, watches whose Urushi-lacquer dials bear a representation of the appropriate Chinese Zodiac animal. The latest L.U.C XP, which is available in a limited edition of 88 pieces, is noteworthy not only because it celebrates the ascendancy of that most auspicious of creatures, the Dragon, but also because it completes the full 12-animal cycle. As with all previous timepieces in the series, the dial was entrusted to the Japanese master artist Minori Koizumi, who specialises in the maki-e technique and, in a meticulous process that takes 20 hours for each individual piece, combines mother-of-pearl inlays, gold flakes, painting and numerous layers of lacquering to stunning effect.

The final result is housed in a 39.5mm case of ethical rose gold, while Chopard’s L.U.C 96.17-L self-winding twin-barrel movement, which is equipped with an off-centre 22K gold micro-rotor, provides a weekend-proof power reserve of around 65 hours. Marking the completion of the cycle of Urushi Chinese Zodiac watches, Chopard is also unveiling a wooden case that brings all 12 timepieces together in a spectacular display of horological artistry.

At TAG Heuer, to maintain the collection’s aesthetic, its designers placed the dragon on the caseback of the limited-edition Carrera Chronograph, which merges Chinese elements with the brand’s motorsport heritage. The watch’s rear sapphire features a printed Chinese dragon alongside the inscription “One of 300”, with a red alligator leather strap and matching dial accents completing the look.

Dior has adopted a very different approach for its Grand Soir Dragon. The watch’s 36mm steel case houses a sunburst dial decorated with a golden dragon’s head and feathers, which is set with four round-cut and two marquise-cut diamonds. Faceted yellow gold minute and hour hands tell the time, while the straps are made from silver satin and white alligator, with diamond-studded steel ardillon buckles.

From Piaget’s sizeable range of Lunar New Year watches and jewellery, the 38mm Altiplano Zodiac references feature intricate cloisonné enamelling by the famous artist Anita Porchet, yet stand out for their elegant simplicity. A particularly modern and ebullient blue dragon swirls against a mother-of-pearl dial within a diamond-studded case, with gold engraving adding texture to the creature.

Meanwhile, Jaeger-LeCoultre’s made-to-order Reverso Tribute Enamel “Dragon” is a testament to the maison’s vision of culture and creativity, in which artistic crafts are perfectly melded with technical expertise. On one side of the Reverso’s pink-gold swivel case, a flawlessly engraved dragon appears to leap out from the black Grand Feu enamel background, while on the reverse side of this classy timepiece, pink-gold hands tell the time on an equally Stygian dial. 

Hamilton’s three-sided Ventura design is probably not talked about enough in the industry, but with its latest iteration inspired by the Chinese Zodiac, there’s no better time than now to revisit this unique, mid-century-inspired watch that was designed by Richard Airbib in 1957 and worn by Elvis Presley in Blue Hawaii, Rod Serling in Twilight Zone, and perhaps more recently by Will Smith and Tommy Lee Jones in the Men in Black franchise. On the Ventura Dragon Skeleton, striking cutaways on the dial reveal the creature’s face tilted to its side, to fit the Ventura’s avant-garde case design.

And though Vacheron Constantin’s new Les Cabinotiers – Récits de Voyages isn’t strictly a Lunar New Year edition, it does reference China and the company’s long relationship with the country. The Grisaille High Jewellery – Dragon watch features a green grisaille enamel dial (a first for the house), which serves as an original backdrop to a five-clawed imperial dragon. An ultra-thin movement, baguette-cut diamonds on the case and green alligator strap complete the package.

Does a dragon on your watch make it more precious or the time more readable? Certainly not, but that doesn’t detract one iota from the delight of looking at your wrist and finding a mythical form representing strength and authority staring back at you in stern approval. 

The post 7 Year of the Dragon Watches to Own in 2024 appeared first on Prestige Online - HongKong.

Armchair enthusiasts and hardcore collectors alike, be prepared: the Blancpain x Swatch Fifty-Fifty range has added yet another coveted colourway to their Scuba Fifty range.

First introduced back in September of last year, the elusive high-low collaboration between Swiss high-horology manufacturer Blancpain with commercial Swiss watchmaker Swatch has easily made a solid case concerning the voracious consumer market appetite for historically significant watch designs reinterpreted for the masses.

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Meet the Blancpain x Swatch Scuba Fifty ‘The Ocean of Storms’

Tapping into the storied heritage behind the world’s first-ever dive watch, the Blancpain Fifty Fathoms, as the basis for their partnership, the inaugural collection comprised five different colourways. Dubbed the ‘Scuba Fifty’ watches, each was named after one of the world’s five oceans, featuring subtly varying designs that are unique to the nautical inspirations that they are meant to embody.

However, this sixth edition may just be the most desirable of the bunch, as it will be the only one to feature a sleek, monochromatic white-on-black colourway. Suitably named ‘The Ocean of Storms’ in honour of the 2 million square kilometer Oceanus Procellarum ‘sea’ on the Moon, this enigmatic take on the Scuba Fifty is contained in the same Bioceramic case as its predecessors. Only this time around, it has been painted black and will feature contrasting white numerals on its rotating bezel.

Likewise, the watch dial is suitably outfitted in the same colour scheme, tastefully paired with luminescent hour markers and orange accents on the tip of the second hand and the depth rating.

As is the case with the rest of the Scuba Fifty collection, ‘The Ocean of Storms’ iteration will similarly be powered by Swatch’s proprietary SISTEM51 mechanical movement and come with a matching NATO canvas strap.

Be prepared to battle for it in stores and online upon its release on January 11th 2024 for HKD3150. Thankfully, as this is a non-limited release, you’ll still have your chance to nab it when stocks are replenished at a later date.

Feature and hero image credit: Swatch

The story first appeared on Lifestyle Asia Kuala Lumpur

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The red carpet is almost always just as exciting as the actual awards itself. And while this has often meant that all eyes are on the outfit choices and jewellery, at this year’s Golden Globes, it’s the watches that have caught our eyes. And the one watch that everyone can’t stop talking about is Timothée Chalamet’s Cartier Crash.

The Cartier Crash is decidedly the most desirable watch of all time, and it’s not out of the blue that Chalamet, a Cartier ambassador, would sport a watch from the brand. What has come as a welcome surprise is that he would choose a ladies’ version. The watch he wore to the Golden Globes ia a white-gold diamond-encrusted Crash that sees diamonds on the bezel as well as all around the bracelet. It went superbly with his embroidered jacket and outfit from Celine by Hedi Slimane.

Chalamet’s Cartier Crash wasn’t the only horological delight on the Golden Globes red carpet. Robert Downey Jr, who won Best Performance by a Male Actor in a Supporting Role in any Motion Picture for his role in Oppenheimer, wore an impeccable Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Tribute Chronograph in pink gold, a dual-faced masterpiece that had a sunray black dial on one side, and an open-worked reverse side that showed the details of the in-house Calibre 860 and the mechanics of the retrograde chronograph.

Cillian Murphy, Downey Jr’s co-star and winner of Best Male Actor in a Motion Picture, wore an equally dressy timepiece on the red carpet, an Omega De Ville Trésor in Sedna Gold with a deep burgundy dial. Quite a few Omegas were spotted on the red carpet, including a bejewelled Seamaster Aqua Terra in Sedna Gold that came with a snow-set diamond dial with ruby hour markers worn by actor Barry Keoghan that matched with his all-red ensemble by Louis Vuitton. Keoghan was nominated for the Best Male Actor award for his role in Saltburn.

Bradley Cooper, who is an ambassador at Louis Vuitton, turned up on the Golden Globes red carpet in full LV, including a blue version of the Tambour watch he shot a commercial for earlier last year. Blue’s clearly always a winning colour, as we see Simu Liu sporting a Vacheron Constantin Patrimony Retrograde Day-Date in the elegant shade.

Paul Giomatti, who celebrates his win for Best Actor in a Musical or Comedy, was a figure of understated luxury. The actor opted for a sleek L.U.C XPS watch in stainless steel with a black dial and matched it with cufflinks with 2.20-carats of trapeze cut diamonds and black guilloche inlays set in 18k white gold, both from Chopard.

The ladies too are putting their best wrist forward. Selena Gomez, who was nominated for Best Female Actor in a TV series – Musical or Comedy for her role in Only Murders in the Building, was decked out in Bvlgari jewels, including a Serpenti high jewellery watch with a diamond-studded double spiral bracelet, which she paired with a custom Giorgio Armani gown with cut-outs.

And last but not least, Michelle Yeoh, steadfastly loyal to her favourite brand Richard Mille, turned heads with the RM 67-01 on her wrist. The rest of her jewellery was fairly minimal, gold drop rings and earrings from Bottega Veneta to go with the brand’s strapless dress with a tulip neckline.

Here’s where to watch the award-winning titles from the Golden Globes 2024.

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With Lunar New Year on the horizon, we take a closer look at the H Moser & Cie Endeavour Chinese Calendar watch that places the lunar calendar in the spotlight.

We’re used to the more traditional aesthetic of Chinese zodiac watches, but it wouldn’t quite be an H Moser & Cie watch if it didn’t have a more minimalistic and modern look. It also wouldn’t quite be H Moser & Cie if it wasn’t an actual calendar either: the watchmaker makes some of the best perpetual calendars on the market, so adding a new one to its portfolio only seems right.

The company clearly thinks so too, bringing us the Endeavour Chinese Calendar that puts the Chinese lunisolar calendar, the solar-only Gregorian calendar and the 12 signs of the Chinese zodiac – as well as moon phases – all on the dial. As there are no repeated cycles in the lunar calendar, it’s mechanically impossible to create a Chinese perpetual calendar. Still, Moser worked with Agenhor SA to create a module for the HMC 210 calibre that’s able to precisely indicate all lunisolar calendar information (including the 13th month, which occurs every two to three years) for 12 years without any corrections.

The Endeavour’s red gold case is beautifully contrasted with a midnight-blue fumé dial that bears the Moser logo in transparent lacquer, in keeping with the brand’s discreet, if-you-know-you-know attitude. The two retrograde displays show the lunisolar months and days, a clever arrangement that keeps the dial clean. At 12 o’clock, two windows show the lunisolar year and the associated animal zodiac.

Only 100 pieces of the watch have been produced and, chances are, if you haven’t ordered one already you’re out of luck. But what a watch – and what a remarkable feat it is to see the marriage of two different cultures and time measurements executed so beautifully.

The post A Solar Eclipse: The H Moser & Cie Endeavour Chinese Calendar Watch appeared first on Prestige Online - HongKong.

In the ever-evolving world of horology, navigating the sea of new timepieces can be as intricate as understanding the gears within. That’s where we come in — your one-stop, wristy wonderland for the crème de la crème of watch releases of 2023. Whether you’re a seasoned collector purchasing your 15th watch or a novice in the art of watch appreciation, our curated list has something for every discerning palate.

Deep into the heart of 2023, the watch industry has unveiled a rich multitude of timekeeping marvels, each one vying for its moment in the spotlight. In the realm of watch releases of 2023, it’s not just about telling time; it’s about making a statement. This year, we’ve witnessed an enchanting dance between vintage charm and futuristic boldness, all encapsulated within the boundaries of dials and straps.

Anniversaries take centre stage in 2023, casting a nostalgic spell on watch aficionados. The echoes of time find their place through reissues, a trend that permeated the prestigious Watches & Wonders Geneva and continues to enchant enthusiasts throughout the year. However, in this temporal journey, vintage allure is just the beginning. The best releases of 2023 emerge as testaments to an industry unafraid to experiment, showcasing a vibrant palette of surprises and bold strokes that redefine modern watchmaking.

The watch trends set to dominate in 2024

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Let’s peer into the crystal ball of trends that will shape the future of watch releases. First on the horizon is the meteoric rise of smartwatches, seamlessly merging tradition with technology. The global smartwatch market size was valued at USD 20.62 billion in 2019 and is expected to reach USD 96.31 billion by 2027, growing at a CAGR of 19.7% from 2020 to 2027. Projected to soar even further, this data is a testament to the continuous evolution of these timepieces. From blood oxygen sensors to retina displays that stay on, smartwatches are rewriting the rules of wristwear, promising a future where innovation and tradition coexist in harmony.

Sustainability and ethical practices have also cast their shadows over the watchmaking landscape. In a world increasingly attuned to environmental consciousness, watch brands are adopting eco-friendly materials and consciously breathing new life into the concept of responsible luxury. Bamboo, cork, and vegan leather join the ranks, weaving sustainability into the very fabric of time.

Retro revival, a trend that transcends eras, has once again found its way to into conversations. Vintage-inspired designs are paying homage to the golden age of horology. The Q Timex Reissue, a modern ode to the iconic 1970s model, exemplifies the seamless fusion of nostalgia and contemporary aesthetics.

Personalisation too, has once again hit the spotlight, offering a bespoke touch to timekeeping. Interchangeable straps and crystals transform watches into canvases for self-expression. Like always, the Apple Series 9 Smartwatch, with its myriad of band options, is a glistening example in this department.

Our exploration into 2023’s watch releases has also revealed square watches as geometric protagonists. A trend that harks back to iconic designs like the Cartier Santos, these angular timepieces defy convention. While the rounded case remains a classic, the resurgence of the square heralds a new era in watch aesthetics, proving that in the world of horology, the unexpected is always the trend.

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The best watch releases of 2023

1. Rolex Cosmograph Daytona “Le Mans”

The Rolex Cosmograph Daytona “Le Mans,” priced at USD 51,400, emerges as a horological masterpiece, transcending the boundaries of timekeeping history with its audacious nod to the revered “Paul Newman” dial. First made famous in the 1960s and ’70s for its exotic panda design, this timepiece exudes vintage allure accentuated by a revolutionary movement visible through a sapphire caseback. Its design commemorates the 100th anniversary of 24 Hours of Le Mans, an annual endurance-focused sports car race held near the town of Le Mans, France.

At the heart of this timekeeping marvel is a bezel intricately moulded with a tachymetric scale, reaching speeds of up to 400 miles or kilometres per hour. Crafted from monobloc Cerachrom, a high-tech ceramic, the bezel epitomises durability, and is both scratch resistant and resilient against UV rays. The bright black and intense white dial, featuring snailed counters, gold applique hour markers, and hands with a Chromalight display, pays homage to Rolex’s timeless design legacy.

This Rolex masterpiece is not just a watch; it’s a symbolic fusion of heritage and innovation. Its relevance in 2023 lies not only in the resurrection of a beloved dial but also in its celebration of motorsport history. The watch stands as a testament to Rolex’s commitment to pushing boundaries and redefining the essence of precision timekeeping. With its distinctive design, cutting-edge technology, and historical homage, the Rolex Cosmograph Daytona “Le Mans” rightfully claims its place as one of the best watch releases as well as one of the best Rolexes of 2023.

Buy the watch here

2. Rolex Oyster Perpetual Day-Date 36 “Puzzle Dial”

The Rolex Oyster Perpetual Day-Date 36 “Puzzle Dial” disrupts the traditional script of horological predictability, making it a standout in the world of luxury watches. Priced to mirror its exclusivity at a staggering USD 59,600, this timepiece is a daring departure from Rolex’s incremental change, challenging conventions with a vibrant puzzle pattern motif on the dial. The unexpected twist continues with the omission of the day complication, replaced by inspiring keywords like “peace” and “love,” and traditional date numbers substituted with a playful array of emojis.

Crafted from 18 ct yellow, white, or Everose gold, the watch boasts an original crystal that showcases an arc-shaped aperture at 12 o’clock, unveiling the buzzy keywords. The dial, an artistic triumph in champlevé enamelling, frames a jigsaw puzzle-inspired motif in vivid hues, each piece representing key moments in life. Baguette-cut sapphires in six different colours mark the hours, adding a touch of luxury.

The Day-Date 36 houses the calibre 3255 movement, a pinnacle of watchmaking technology. Beyond its unconventional design, this Rolex retains the Superlative Chronometer certification, guaranteeing exceptional performance. The Rolex Oyster Perpetual Day-Date 36 “Puzzle Dial” stands as a testament to the brand’s unexpected foray into bold aesthetics, making it a relevant and compelling choice for those who seek innovation in the world of timeless luxury.

Buy the watch here

3. Vacheron Constantin Overseas Moon Phase Retrograde Date

The Vacheron Constantin Overseas Moon Phase Retrograde Date, priced at USD 43,800, introduces a thrilling fusion of high-end complications — usually reserved for dress watches — to the realm of luxury sports watches, delivering one of the most unexpected releases of the year. Vacheron Constantin, with its illustrious history dating back to 1755, stands among the giants of Swiss watchmaking alongside names like Patek Philippe and Audemars Piguet. Renowned for high-horology movements, this release showcases the integration of classic complications — the precision moon phase and the signature retrograde date — into the modern luxury sports aesthetic.

Crafted in sporty yet elegant steel, this timepiece embodies a harmonious blend of technical sophistication and aesthetic prowess. The precision moon phase, depicting two gold moons against a star-studded sky, adds an astronomical touch, requiring adjustment only once every 122 years. Beyond its horological prowess, the watch also offers versatility with a folding clasp and three interchangeable straps — steel, leather, and rubber — allowing personalisation to suit individual preferences. The Vacheron Constantin Overseas Moon Phase Retrograde Date represents a symphony of tradition and innovation, breathing fresh air to the world of luxury sports timepieces.

Buy the watch here

4. Omega Seamaster Ploprof “Summer Blue”

Priced at USD 14,300, the Omega Seamaster Ploprof “Summer Blue” emerges as a significant revival, breathing new life into Omega’s quirkiest watch and reconnecting it with its historical roots. In celebration of the Seamaster’s 75th anniversary, Omega took the bold step forward to revive the Ploprof, infusing it with a sense of nostalgia and re-establishing its prominence.

The Seamaster collection, spanning 75 years, has seen various iterations from divers to dress watches. Among them, the Ploprof stands out with its distinctive features — a chunky, asymmetrical dive watch with a large bezel lock, a left-handed crown, and an impressive depth rating of 1,200m. Despite languishing on Omega’s shelves, the Ploprof is now being touted as one of the best watch releases of 2023.

The “Summer Blue” rendition of the Ploprof is not just a cosmetic update; it introduces a fresh colourway that breathes vibrancy into its design. Beyond the aesthetic shift, the watch also boasts a brand-new case crafted from Omega’s proprietary O-Mega Steel. This material choice harks back to the smaller monobloc case found in the 1970s original, adding a layer of historical resonance to the contemporary redesign.

The watch’s design echoes Omega’s 1970s original, featuring a sun-brushed dial in Omega’s own Summer Blue, complete with a gradient finish that reflects its remarkable water resistance. The transparent sapphire crystal bezel, varnished blue on the back, unveils the light blue diving scale underneath to add a touch of sophistication to its functionality.

Retaining iconic elements such as the screwed-in crown and the characteristic security pusher at 2 o’clock, the Ploprof’s updated version features a blue ceramic ring on the pusher, enhancing its visual appeal. To maintain visibility, the varnished hands and indexes are imbued with a unique light blue Super-LumiNova.

The back of the watch is adorned with a laser-engraved commemorative Seamaster logo depicting Poseidon with a trident and two seahorses, framed by waves — the original from 1956 and Omega’s current design. The timepiece houses the Omega Co-Axial Master Chronometer calibre 8912, while an original-style blue rubber strap completes the captivating look.

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5. Ming LW.01

Priced at USD 22,254, the Ming LW.01 emerges as a Malaysian marvel, potentially securing the title of the lightest mechanical watch ever crafted. Despite its relative youth (the brand was established in 2017), Ming has rapidly become synonymous with innovation, pushing boundaries within the industry.

Weighing an astonishing 8.8 and 10.8 grams for the manual and automatic versions respectively, the LW.01 challenges conventional perceptions of luxury watches and how much they weigh. This feat is not merely a result of lightweight materials; it stems also from the brand’s ingenious design strategies, a remarkable accomplishment for a relatively young player in the industry.

In crafting the LW.01, Ming overhauls the traditional case construction, minimising metal usage while maximising rigidity. Departing from the conventional structure, the watch adopts a unique “dial” ring and movement holder, a mere 0.5mm thick in certain areas but fortified for strength. This assembly is supported from the rear by a cage with 3D struts, safeguarding the dial and movement while sealing the entire unit to the bezel. Even the bezel, despite its narrow profile, is internally hollowed to further reduce weight.

Every component, from screws in PEEK composite to the hollowing of the bezel, has been meticulously optimised to maintain the delicate equilibrium between durability and weight. The final result is a complete head weight of merely 8.8 grams with manual winding, 10.8 grams with automatic winding, with an additional 0.6 grams for the matching AZ31 buckle, or 1.2 grams for the ‘record’ spec Alcantara strap. This culminates in a ready-to-wear watch weighing 10.6 grams or 12.6 grams.

Distinctive features of the LW.01 pay homage to earlier Ming creations, including the pulse seconds disc, a shuriken hour hand, and a gradient and skeleton peripheral ring on the crystal. The indices, a skeletonised version of the 37 series, add to the visual lightness, while flared lugs and an ergonomic crown maintain consistency with Ming’s design language. The Ming LW.01, a featherweight marvel, marries innovative design with lightweight luxury, setting new standards in mechanical watch craftsmanship.

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6. Biver Carillon Tourbillon

Watch industry luminary Jean-Claude Biver has left an indelible mark with his bold and iconic designs. Renowned for his work with Hublot, Zenith, and TAG Heuer, he has now ventured into his own eponymous brand alongside his son, Pierre. The inaugural release in March 2023, the Biver Carillon Tourbillon, epitomises haute horologerie with a minute repeater, tourbillon, and stone dials.

Measuring 42mm in diameter and powered by the JCB-001 movement, this masterpiece comes with a price tag ranging from USD 570,000 to USD 1,315,000. The watch features a minute repeater and a tourbillon, showcasing Biver’s commitment to sophistication and precision.

A standout in the collection, the Minute Repeater Carillon Tourbillon is a personal prototype of Jean-Claude Biver. At auction, it set a new record for the brand at ₣1,270,000 (approximately USD 1.47 million). The watch incorporates a special diamond cut, exclusively developed for the brand, to set stones on concave surfaces like the outer lugs and case band.

Driven by a micro-rotor and equipped with a three-hammer striking device, the movement not only ensures precision but also aligns with Biver’s aesthetic vision. The selection of stones, including sodalite and silver obsidian, is based on their spiritual attributes, adding a unique and meaningful touch to the timepiece.

The gold dauphine hands with polished chamfers and satin-finished tops contribute to the watch’s luxurious appeal, which is further enhanced by an interchangeable metal bracelet. Inspired by a five-row design, the bracelet symbolically transitions from darkness to light. Additionally, the tourbillon’s upper bridge design draws inspiration from the Biver rosacea, showcasing meticulous attention to detail.

In crafting the Biver Carillon Tourbillon, Jean-Claude Biver has not only created a horological masterpiece, but has also laid the foundation for his namesake brand to leave an enduring legacy in the world of luxury watches.

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7. Patek Philippe Calatrava 6007G

Patek Philippe surprised enthusiasts in 2023 with a sporty iteration of the Calatrava 6007G, a vibrant twist on the classic Calatrava design. Encased in polished white gold, it features a black dial with a captivating embossed carbon fibre motif at its centre, which is similarly reflected in a matching carbon-patterned calfskin strap. The watch boasts colourful accents in yellow, red, or sky blue, adding a playful touch to its sophisticated aesthetic. Despite its athleisure-inspired appearance and dynamic design, it leans more towards a sporty dress watch than a true sports watch, given its water resistance of up to 30 metres.

This innovative timepiece was first introduced in 2020 as the foundation for the 5212A Weekly Calendar, and showcases Patek Philippe’s commitment to technical advancements. The incorporation of a new second wheel made with LIGA technology smoothens the ticking of the seconds hand, addressing issues seen in other timepieces.

Rooted in Patek’s history, the 6007G draws inspiration from the 6007A and the 5000G of the early ’90s. Positioned as a piece for daily wear, it caters to those seeking a modern Patek Philippe experience, balancing traditional elegance and contemporary design. The brand seems to be carving a new niche, serving up something that is not quite a sports watch, nor a classic Patek, but a timepiece for enthusiasts who appreciate both.

Like its predecessor, the 6007G maintains a casual vibe with Super-Luminova on the Arabic numerals and hands. The meticulous dial finishes, including stamped guilloche and circular graining, showcase the brand’s attention to detail. With contrasting stitching on the black calfskin strap, the 6007G is a testament to Patek Philippe’s ability to blend heritage with contemporary allure.

With a rumoured connection to a potential Patek-Ferrari partnership, the red-accented 6007G adds a nuanced link to the origin story of the 5000G. The watch comes with a 40mm diameter case, housing the Patek Philippe Caliber 26‑330 S C self-winding mechanical movement, and is priced at USD37,850.

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8. Breguet Type XX/Type 20

Priced at USD 18,000, the Breguet Type XX/Type 20 marks the triumphant return of Breguet’s sportiest timepiece, offering a delightful double take to enthusiasts.

In contrast to its reputation as a dress watch brand, Breguet has in its repertoire a notable tool watch: the Type XX, a pilot’s chronograph with roots dating back to the 1950s, originally crafted for the French naval air army. While modern versions of the Type XX have intermittently graced the horological scene since 1995, the line experienced a hiatus before making a stellar comeback this year. Breguet treated us to not just one, but two new Type XX chronographs – the Type XX for “civilian” use and the Type 20 for “military” applications. Both watches share the same case but diverge in lume, hands, dial layouts, and bezels. They also house distinct calibers of a new movement, tailored to meet the specific requirements of their intended audiences — in particular, the military version emphasises clarity for quick readability at a glance.

The Type 20 flyback chronograph in steel boasts a self-winding movement with a subdial for both date and seconds. Other features include a 30-minute counter and a bidirectional rotating bezel, as well as a balance spring crafted from silicon. Luminescent hands and hour-markers enhance visibility, and a sapphire caseback adds a touch of sophistication. With a water resistance of 10 bar (100m) and a diameter of 42mm, it exudes both robustness and style.

For added versatility, the watch comes with two interchangeable straps: one in calfskin and another in NATO fabric. An efficient rapid interchange system empowers wearers to effortlessly switch between the two, offering a blend of functionality and aesthetic adaptability. The Breguet Type XX/Type 20 stands as a testament to Breguet’s mastery in both elegant dress watches and robust tool watches, providing enthusiasts with a compelling choice in the sporty chronograph category.

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9. Blancpain x Swatch Bioceramic Scuba Fifty Fathoms

The Blancpain x Swatch Bioceramic Scuba Fifty Fathoms was one of the most viral watch releases of 2023. Seamlessly blending affordability with the legacy of Blancpain’s Fifty Fathoms, this timepiece is undoubtedly the pioneer of diver’s watches. Priced at a mere USD 400, this plastic iteration of a USD 16,000 luxury diver is not just a watch; it’s a testament to Swatch’s prowess in strategic collaborations. Following the global sensation of the MoonSwatch, Swatch teamed up with the illustrious Blancpain for a second Bioceramic venture, solidifying its position as a force in watchmaking.

The watch is available in five alluring colourways named for the oceans of our world: The Arctic Ocean, The Pacific Ocean, The Atlantic Ocean, the Indian Ocean, and the Antarctic Ocean.

The Antarctic Ocean model features an ice-white Bioceramic case and crown, inscribed with the Swatch emblem. The metal dial, printed in layers for a gradient effect, boasts Grade A Super-LumiNova for exceptional legibility in the dark. Treated with an anti-scratch coating, the one-direction rotating Bioceramic bezel and biosourced glass provide enhance durability. The SISTEM51 mechanical movement, made with only 51 parts, features 90-hour autonomy and anti-magnetic precision. It is visible through a transparent sapphire glass, showcasing an Antarctic Ocean illustration and Tritoniella Belli nudibranch print — the images of which differ across the different colourways, offering a nod to biodiversity. The Blancpain x Swatch Bioceramic Scuba Fifty Fathoms is not just a watch release; it’s a celebration of innovation, sustainability, and the synergy between tradition and modernity.

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Which of the watch releases of 2023 are on your year-end shopping list?

(Main and Feature Image Credit: Rolex) 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

– Which is the best watch released in 2023?

It is tough to pinpoint a single timepiece as the best release of 2023, as there are hundreds, if not thousands of new watches that were rolled out this year to select from. From the retro allure of the Tissot PRX Powermatic and Swatch’s MoonSwatch sensation sequel to the whimsically charming Rolex OP Celebration Dial, fondly dubbed “Bubbles” and the stand-out relaunch of the TAG Heuer Carrera Skipper, there are many highlights to celebrate in the horological world.

– Which is the best Rolex watch released in 2023?

Some of the best Rolex watches released in 2023 would include the Rolex Cosmograph Daytona for 24 Hours of Le Mans, the Rolex Yacht-Master 42 Titanium, the Rolex Perpetual 1908, the Rolex Day-Date “Puzzle”, and the Rolex Calibre 3285 automatic GMT.

– Which is the best luxury watch for men released in 2023?

Some of the best men’s luxury watches of 2023 include Patek Philippe’s 6300GR, Rolex OP Celebration Dial “Bubbles,” Vacheron Constantin’s Traditionnelle Tourbillon Retrograde, Jaeger-LeCoultre’s Reverso Precious Colours, Hermès’s H08 Chronograph, Chanel’s J12 Cybernetic, and Cartier’s Privé Tank Normale.

The post Beyond Ordinary Hours: The 9 Best Watch Releases of 2023 appeared first on Prestige Online - HongKong.

Discover Chopard’s beautiful jewellery and timepieces with its winter mascot, Arty the Bear, as he makes his annual appearance amongst white-capped mountains and frozen lakes to show us just how far he’ll go for loved ones.

For Caroline Shcuefele, the artistic director and co-president of Chopard, the polar bear is one of her most endearing motifs, shaped after every child’s favourite teddy bear. And in the magical land of Chopard, animals don’t hibernate, they play.

This holiday season, Arty the Bear and his friends are back for another enchanted and snowy quest, this time it’s a hide-and-seek adventure to find his friends Luna the doe, Tobby the rabbit, Jasper the badger, Gabby the owl, Elliot the squirrel and his beloved Amy as they bury themselves deep in winter snow. With snowflakes swirling in the air, the first to be found is Elliot the squirrel, clinging onto a Precious Lace Mini Frou-Frou ring in the sky. Arty also ambles past the majestic Lucent Steel Alpine Eagle watch and the bold and bright Mille Miglia Classic Chronograph, before finding Jasper the badger close to the L.U.C. Flying T Twin.

There are plenty of jewels to play with too. Gabby the owl finds herself entangled in the beautiful Happy Hearts collection bangles, while Jasper skilfully races down the hill on a golden Ice Cube bangle. Arty finally finds his beloved Amy under the swinging Happy Diamonds necklace. Holiday fairytales do come true.

You can explore Arty the Bear’s adventures and discover more of Chopard’s watch and jewellery collections here.

The post Discover Chopard’s Holiday Collection with Arty the Bear appeared first on Prestige Online - HongKong.

Take the guesswork out of gift shopping with our list of the best Christmas gift ideas, perfect for all unique personalities on your nice list. From foodies to fashionistas, there’s a whole new world of gift ideas that will keep the fun, joy, and merriment going.

It’s the most wonderful time of the year. Come the end of November, stores and malls are instantly transformed into magical wonderlands that marry brilliantly-sparkling baubles, twinkling fairy lights, and an abundance of thistle. As Mae West once said, “Too much of a good thing can be wonderful.”

And in the holly jolly season of Christmas, what else could be true?

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The best Christmas gift ideas for every personality on your nice list

For discerning gourmands and tipplers

As the saying goes, the way to a man’s (or woman’s) heart is through their stomach. Which is probably why food and drinks always make perfect gift ideas guaranteed to satisfy. In time for the Yuletide season, UK luxury department store Selfridges has introduced the The Christmas Celebration Hamper comprising two wicker baskets overflowing with 33 items such as nuts, cookies, chocolates, condiments, preserves, sweets, tea, coffee, and biscuits. Traditional staples of panettone, stollen, mincemeat (for your pies), hot chocolate and marzipan fruits are also included.

Not to be outdone, Harrods has unveiled The St James Christmas Hamper, which is well-stocked with British festive classics the likes of Christmas pudding, cake, panettone and mince pies. It also comes with jams and spreads such as spiced honey, chutney, brandy butter, port-infused cranberry sauce, and marmalade with whisky. For the little ones, there’s a variety of jellies, gummies, chocolates, and biscuits.

Also worth considering is Fortnum & Mason’s The Fortnum’s Christmas Collection Hamper filled with delightful treats. Highlights include biscuits presented in a tin that sings ‘Jingle Bells’, reindeer noses in the form of milk chocolate cereal balls, Peppermint Bark (white chocolate dusted with mint candy), Christmas spiced black tea, and blackberry and elderberry conserve — which we recommend slathering thickly on hot, buttery toast.

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Selfridges The Christmas Celebration Hamper

HKD 4,350

Harrods The St James Christmas Hamper

HKD 3,758

Fortnum & Mason The Fortnum’s Christmas Collection Hamper

Approx HKD 1,623.50

Make it a boozy Christmas for your loved ones with the indulgent Whisky Advent Calendar from Drinks by the Dram, which features 24 30ml drams of whisky concealed behind doors. Savour whiskies from a diversity of labels such as Balblair, Chivas Regal, Gulliver’s, Kyrö, Sheep Dip, Lagavulin, Talisker and Tobermory. The calendar comes in three colourways, but our pick is naturally the White Christmas, which depicts a beautiful, wintry landscape.

For gin aficionados, Drinks by the Dram has also rolled out a dedicated, juniper-centric Premium Gin Advent Calendar. Expect to sample 24 different types of gin from labels like Gin Ting, Hendrick’s, Hepple, Roku and Tanqueray. Get the calendar in the Art Deco colourway, which sets the drams against a vivid backdrop of blue, green and purple hues.

Travelling right before Christmas Day and fretting about how and when to do your gift shopping? The newly launched Macallan Colour Collection is a travel retail exclusive range of five aged statement whiskies available at selected stores in airports around the world. The whiskies feature natural golden-brown hues derived from their maturation in sherry oak casks, and come in packaging and boxes designed in collaboration with famed graphic designer David Carson. Standouts include the 21 Years Old — carrying notes of candied ginger and orange dark chocolate — and the 30 Years Old, which has tropical fruity notes with hints of cinnamon and nutmeg. The Macallan Colour Collection is available at the arrivals hall of Hong Kong International Airport and various other locations globally.

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Whisky Advent Calendar

Approx HKD 1,032.45

Premium Gin Advent Calendar

Approx HKD 884.88

The Macallan Colour Collection

From HKD 625

Planning to keep the vino flowing throughout Christmas? Wine lovers will need a Coravin wine preservation system, which is equipped with a needle that gently passes through cork so one can pour out the wine inside without actually opening it. The device fills the empty space in the bottle with argon gas to keep the remaining wine fresh so its taste and quality aren’t compromised, and reseals the cork upon the Coravin’s removal. If you’re shopping for an oenophile, the Timeless Six+ Burgundy, which pairs the product’s all-black hue with a striking red shade on top, is a stylish choice. It comes with a Timeless aerator, three Coravin pure argon capsules, six Timeless standard screw caps (for your screw top bottles), one Timeless carry case, one needle clearing tool, and one bottle sleeve.

A spectacular feast deserves equally incredible tableware. We’re particularly enamoured with the 17-piece blue and green glass dinner set by Completedworks, which is exclusively available on Net-a-Porter. It comprises four wine glasses, four tumblers, four dinner plates, two side plates, a salad bowl, a jug, and a tapered candlestick all crafted in recycled glass. The wine glasses are works of art with their delicate, swirling stemmed bases, while the glass jug is an eye-catching feature with its whimsical, sculptural lines. Dainty, beautiful and sustainable, the whole set is bound to be a conversation-starter.

For something a little breezier and über Instagrammable, go for the Anya Hindmarch Eyes leather-trimmed straw picnic set, which features a basket bag packed with plates, cutlery and cups for four people. It’s adorned with brown leather details along its straps, edges and sides, and boasts two spacious compartments. Embroidered on its front is the brand’s iconic eyes motif.

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Coravin Timeless Six+ Burgundy

HKD 3,430

Completedworks 17-Piece Blue and Green Glass Dinner Set

HKD 29,445

Anya Hindmarch Eyes Leather-Trimmed Straw Picnic Set

HKD 11,295

For the urban dreamer who lives life to the fullest

This Christmas, treat your loved ones to the luxury of smelling fabulous by giving them the ultimate scent experience. Step away from typical perfumes and pamper their senses with CELINE’s magnificent ‘CÉLESTE’ bath and body line, combined with the fascinating ‘ILLUMINATIONS’ candle.

The ‘CÉLESTE’ bath and body collection is a beautiful collection that contains cologne splashes, scented body oil, and bath milk. Explore the brand’s recently developed solid soaps, which capture the same enticing Eau De Cologne smell, ensuring a comprehensive and deep sensory experience.

In keeping with the luxury theme, gift your loved ones the enticing ‘ILLUMINATIONS’ candle, a new addition to CELINE’s candle line. That brings the brand’s unique scent options up to total of 7, making it the ideal present for individuals who love the art of fine fragrance.

If you believe in imbuing your gifts with personal thoughts, these are your options. This amazing wristband effortlessly combines aged wood with stainless steel links to create a magnificent accessory perfect for those with an eye for the extraordinary. Embrace the craftsmanship that comes from the heart of whisky culture with this timepiece, which features a classic black dial face decorated with a cork-shaped oak crown. This clock strikes a delicate balance between minimalist beauty and rustic appeal, making it the ideal gift for spirit fans who value craftsmanship as well as style.

Capture the essence of your special relationship with a unique holiday gift. Let Claudia Moldovan turn your favourite song into a magnificent wooden masterpiece. These one-of-a-kind wall sculptures are made to reflect the chosen tune’s soundwaves. Choose a clip, the chorus, or the complete song to transform it into a beautiful work of art that is sure to spark conversation.

Bridge the gap and illuminate the lives of those you miss dearly with this special Friendship Lamp. Whether they’re across town or across the world, this new design maintains the heartwarming functionality: touch your lamp, and theirs emits the same glow, sending a silent “thinking of you.” If you’re buying these for a group of friends, add a personal touch by assigning colours, so each person can enjoy their own special hue. Light up the holiday season and connect with those who hold a special place in your heart.

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Whiskey Barrel Watch

HKD 2,088

Custom Song Wall Art

HKD 1,493.00 – 6,618.00

Long Distance Friendship Lamp – Wood

HKD 1,670

Help your loved ones to resist the harsh winter elements with Augustinus Bader’s ‘The Winter Radiance System.’ Each product protects while promoting skin rejuvenation and is powered by the brand’s revolutionary Trigger Factor Complex technology. The ‘Cream Cleansing Gel’ eliminates pollutants and conditions the skin, preparing it for additional treatment. Follow up with the award-winning ‘The Rich Cream’, a daily moisturiser that nourishes while slowing water loss to keep your skin youthful and healthy.

With MZ Skin’s ‘LED 2.0 LightMAX Supercharged’ mask, you can embrace the year’s biggest skincare trend. This non-invasive at-home therapy promotes general skin renewal, similar to Dr. Maryam Zamani’s in-clinic procedures. Give this advanced LED mask to a loved one as a gift to help them maintain a glowing and revitalised complexion.

Consider the House of Dior’s magnificent Advent Calendar for a fantastic holiday experience. The gorgeous advent calendar opens up to reveal stunning adornments by artist Pietro Ruffo, and is designed to replicate the iconic boutique at 30 Avenue Montaigne. An exquisite representation of the Tuileries Garden with its beautiful wrought iron work, octagonal basin, and statues, this advent calendar serves as a backdrop for 24 miniature treasures. The calendar features fragrances, skincare, makeup, and lifestyle essentials, making it the ideal gift for any beauty fan. It even transforms into a reusable storage case after the holiday season, adding a touch of elegance to everyday life.

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Augustinus Bader Winter Radiance System

HKD 1,695

MZ Skin LED Mask

HKD 9,000

Dior Le 30 Montaigne Advent Calendar

HKD 5300

For adventure-seekers and travel-buffs

There’s one in every family and group of friends – the frequent flier whose life just seems to be an endless revolving door of glittering sandy beaches and exotic faraway places. These sorts never seem to tire and are blessed with an abundance of energy that they use to chase the next big thrill. To them, life is an adventure, and the world is an oyster just waiting to be explored. And, if you’re lucky enough to be the travel buff in your circle, send this gift guide out to make sure you get exactly what you want under the Christmas tree.

Adventure seekers are always on the go! There’s no time for meandering about the airport; they’re the first to clear security and customs, the first in line at duty free, and somehow always arrive at their gate with plenty of time to spare before boarding. Every airport speed walker needs easy access to their documents, money, and items at any given time. For that, we love Bellroy’s eco-tanned leather travel folio, which stores up to two passports, eight cards, and paper currencies of all sizes. It even zips up, keeping one’s documents safely tucked away to be conveniently retrieved at a moment’s notice.

Every adventure seeker wants to make the most of their time abroad, and that means there’s zero time to make up for jetlag. That means it is absolutely imperative they sleep through their flight. What better way to ensure that proper shut-eye than with Versace’s Crete de Fleur sleep mask, which is both effective as well as stylish?

Chasing down one’s next big adventure is a Herculean feat worthy of The Amazing Race. For those who waste no time getting in and out of the plane, a larger piece of luggage means lost minutes, which could be better spent hailing down a cab to start seeing the sights. If you know someone who travels light, Rimowa’s Signature Nylon flap backpack makes a great in-flight companion; it even conveniently attaches onto the handles of hard suitcases to make transportation an absolute breeze.

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Versace Crete De Fleur Sleep Mask

HKD 2,100

Rimowa Signature – Nylon Flap Backpack

HKD 11,300

Bellroy Travel Folio

HKD 1,290

For every adventurer who zips through the airport at the speed of light with minimal luggage in tow, there’s a planner who comes prepared for all situations. Without a doubt, these folks have distilled their departure-to-plane-to-arrival experience into a well-rehearsed performance. They are the kings and queens of thinking ahead, with lists upon lists of places to visit and items they’ll need both in-flight and upon arrival at their destination. They’re also wonderful travel buddies, particularly if you enjoy the experience, but none of the planning that goes with it.

Help your planner friends out by giving them the wherewithal to travel with everything they’ll need. The Celine travel spray case in smooth calfskin provides protection for delicate bottles, keeping them safe from the trials and tribulations of being on the move.

If your planner friend is a stickler for organisation, the Hermes Travelsilk PM travel cube provides a structured space for the careful storage of clothes. Adorned with a Mors Ajoure motif, it is available in four alluring colours, including a wine-red shade that’s perfect for the holiday season.

Do your planner friends have travel anxiety? The Samsonite x Maison Kitsuné sling bag is a stylish and convenient way to help them keep everything they need close on hand. Adorned with the Japanese label’s iconic fox emblem in a ‘camo’ pattern, the bag provides convenient storage within its organised and spacious interiors, with detachable and adjustable shoulder straps for optimum carrying comfort.

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Celine Travel Spray Case In Smooth Calfskin

HKD 2,950

Hermes Travelsilk PM Travel Cube

HKD 4,200

MK x Samsonite Sling Bag

HKD 1,720

There’s something incredibly romantic about traveling ala Audrey Hepburn on Roman Holiday. Give your loved ones the ultimate gift of style with these fantastic luxury picks – the perfect accessories to evoke quiet luxury on chic holidays abroad.

For those who want to travel in style, there’s Tumi’s International Expandable 4 Wheeled Carry On, now available in festive red to truly bring home the spirit of Christmas. Equipped with a built-in USB port, an integrated TSA lock, retractable top and side handles, a zipper expansion, and more, it’s got everything one could possibly need for traveling in ease and comfort. The kicker — plenty of storage space to keep you in festive ‘fits from Christmas to New Year’s Eve.

Nothing beats a leather duffel bag for a weekend getaway, and Gucci’s Savoy large duffel bag provides in, quite literally, a big way. Crafted of beige and ebony GG Supreme canvas incorporating a distinct pattern and Double G hardware, the design marries both form and function. A green and red web provides tasteful recall to the holiday season — with style.

Shopping for someone who wants to make a splash? Louis Vuitton’s Keepall Bandoulière 50 marries the design house’s new Epi XL grained leather with a vibrant-red colourway, making it an instant eye-catcher of noteworthy maximalism.

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Tumi 19 Degree International Expandable 4 Wheeled Carry On

HKD 6,700

Louis Vuitton Keepall Bandoulière 50

HKD 33,500

Gucci Savoy Large Duffel Bag

Click to find out more

For those who eat, breathe, and sleep fashion

What is Christmas if not the most socially acceptable excuse to dress up in fabulous clothing? With most big brands dropping their festive collections, the option to pick the perfect piece — for yourself or the discerning connoisseurs in your life — seems to be growing with each merry second! There are no fashion rights or wrongs during the holiday season; only an endless array of sparkly dresses, exquisite bags, glittery heels, and bedazzled watches.

Constructing the perfect party fit often starts with finding the right dress. Standing out in a sea of reds and greens requires bold colours and even bolder designs, which is why India-based couturier Kangana Trehan’s offerings are a cut above the rest. Our pick includes this black slip dress, which is encrusted with Swarovski crystals with slits high enough to give just the right amount of leg. If going dark isn’t your vibe, orange can be your new black with this mini dress from The Real B. Tease out your inner sexy goddess with this embellished number, which features a plunging neck, barely-there back, and a flare that’s fit for a queen.

For shoes that are sure to seal any deal, Jimmy Choos are your best friend. Part of the brand’s festive drop, these emerald satin pumps with Swarovski crystals are sparkly enough to keep all eyes transfixed in your direction.

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Kavya Trehan Black Strappy Embellished Dress

MYR 3,875

The Real B ‘Midnight in Summer’ Mini Dress

MYR 1,826

Jimmy Choo ‘Saeda 100’

MY 8,545

Pair any outfit with Bottega Veneta’s silver Sardine bag, and you’ve got yourself a look that’s going to be etched in your memory for several Christmases to come. If you’re looking for something a little less metallic, Coach is always here to serve up some hot girl handbags with their Barbie pink Tabby box bag.

When it comes to picking the right accessories to match your festive mood, no jewellery brand comes close to Tiffany & Co’s. A timeless addition to any jewellery collection, their small Wrap Necklace in yellow gold is here to impress and dazzle. Meant to embody the spirit of the women of New York City, this layered piece is your passport to global style — because why settle for sidewalks when you can own the runway?

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Bottega Veneta Sardine Bag

MYR 16,002

Tiffany HardWear Small Wrap Necklace

MYR 117,663

Coach Tabby Box Bag

SGD 665

In a world where time is money, a brand-new watch is an expression of love. Those looking to gift a timepiece for the first time can look to a Michael Kors number, which will certainly do the trick. The brand’s 38mm Runway watch features a silver brushed dial, chronograph movement, and a stainless steel pavé bracelet that’s worthy of stealing every limelight. The luminescence of the watch is meant to add that extra sprinkle of love this festive season.

The second watch on our list of recommendations is a stunner from Emporio Armani. This 42mm watch features a black sunray dial and comes with automatic movement and a lust-worthy stainless steel bracelet. Imagine whipping out this baby on Christmas Eve and undoubtedly becoming your loved ones’ favourite gifter of all time. Pretty sweet!

But for the watch connoisseurs who love their bold designs, Diesel’s 44mm Vert watch is the way to go. Featuring a black sunray dial, three-hand date movement, and a black textured leather strap, this accessory is more an architectural marvel than your conventional horology piece. Chunky enough to make a statement, yet subtle enough to seamlessly style with every outfit, the timepiece is worth every penny of that investment for anyone on your gifting list.

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Michael Kors Runway Pavé Silver-Tone Watch

MYR 3,669

Emporio Armani Automatic Stainless Steel Watch

MYR 1,860

Diesel Vert watch

MYR 1,875

For the technology savant

Know a tech lover or two? This holiday season, dive into the world of gadgets as the go-to choice for amazing Christmas presents. From cutting-edge gaming chairs that take gaming to a whole new level of comfort to the latest LED face masks, there’s a treasure trove of innovative and exciting options available. Whether your loved ones are gaming enthusiasts, tech aficionados, or skincare enthusiasts, there’s a gadget waiting to bring joy and excitement to everyone on your list.

On the lookout for that perfect Christmas gift? Enter the Leica Q3 camera, a compact powerhouse that guarantees stunning photos and videos in any light. Its easy-to-use features and seamless connections make creating captivating content a breeze for everyone. Plus, it effortlessly fits into your daily creative routine, blending style with the latest tech. Boost your workflow with lightning-fast transfer speeds, and keep it charged hassle-free with the sleek Charging Pad and handgrip. It’s the perfect combo for top-notch functionality and style.

Introduced last year, this remarkable system fuses the finest aspects of paper and digital interfaces. It’s not just a gadget; it’s an ingenious tool, an ideal Christmas gift for your loved ones in 2023. Seamlessly transition between handwritten notes and digital text; this gadget allows you to effortlessly send emails or share concepts directly from paper. The added feature of syncing audio with your notes enriches meetings and evokes cherished memories. With instant paper-to-digital backup and universal access to Smart Notebooks from any device, it serves as the ultimate organiser for your ideas. Whether connected or offline, the Smart Moleskine ensures your notes remain secure and easily searchable, ensuring your thoughts stay impeccably organised.

Introducing the Herman Miller x Logitech G Embody Gaming Chair — the ultimate throne for every gaming aficionado out there. Combining Herman Miller’s expertise in ergonomic design with Logitech G’s gaming prowess, this chair is a game-changer in comfort and performance. With unparalleled support and comfort tailored for long gaming sessions, it’s your ticket to leveling up in style and comfort. Built with precision and durability, it’s not just a chair; it’s an experience, keeping you fully immersed in your game while ensuring you can play comfortably for hours on end. Christmas is a great time to say goodbye to those uncomfortable sessions and welcome a new era of gaming indulgence.

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Herman Miller x Logitech G Embody Gaming Chair

MYR 12,419

Leica Q3 Black

MYR 29,570

Moleskine Smart Writing Set Smart Notebook & New Smart Pen

MYR 1,319

Looking for an extraordinary audio experience wrapped up in a gift? Balmuda’s innovative speaker might surprise you, coming from a home appliance company! Inspired by Gen Terao’s music background in a Japanese rock band, this speaker aims to mirror the live music experience. Unlike typical portable speakers, Balmuda’s design creates a three-dimensional sound, ensuring consistent quality from any direction. With a “vocally-driven” focus and minimal distortion, it flawlessly delivers the vibe of a live concert. Simply connect via Bluetooth or AUX input and immerse yourself in pure auditory delight.

Immerse yourself in a tale of luxury and innovation with Louis Vuitton’s Horizon Light Up Earphones — an exquisite addition to the Maison’s line of connected treasures. Inspired by the graceful curves of the Tambour watch, these earphones embody the perfect fusion of craftsmanship, elegance, and technological prowess. Crafted from lightweight aluminum and adorned with polished sapphire glass, they showcase the iconic Monogram flower, exuding a blend of opulence and sophistication. The charging case, a mesmerising masterpiece, comes alive with LEDs, creating a captivating visual symphony of vibrant colors that elegantly display the battery levels. A gift that encapsulates Louis Vuitton’s artistry and excellence, it is ideal for those seeking luxury and exceptional audio performance this holiday season.

Get ready to unwrap the future of health tracking with the Oura Ring Generation 3! This clever little ring packs a punch with its 15 advanced sensors and updated tech, keeping tabs on your sleep, daily activity, and even your body’s signals day and night. Whether you fancy the classic Heritage or the chic Horizon design, this ring is not just a gadget — it’s a style statement that’s all about your well-being. Just make sure the sensors are snug against the palm side of your finger for the best data. Plus, it holds onto all the awesome features of its predecessor, Gen 2, like monitoring your nighttime resting heart rate, skin temperature, and more. It’s the perfect gift for the health-conscious folks looking to elevate their wellness game this holiday season!

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BALMUDA The Speaker

MYR 1,879

Louis Vuitton Horizon Light Up Earphones in Black

MYR 7,550

Oura Heritage Ring in Gold

Approx. MYR 2,094

Discover the ultimate self-care treat this Christmas with the TheraFace Mask — a cutting-edge LED skincare solution that’s as effective as it is relaxing! This FDA-cleared mask combines Red, Red + Infrared, and Blue light therapy with tension-relieving vibrations for a spa-like experience at home. Clinical studies have sung its praises, showing firmer, smoother, and healthier-looking skin in just 8 weeks. Say goodbye to fine lines and dark spots — it’s proven to tackle them all. Plus, its hands-free design lets you multitask while enjoying your treatment, and the removable eye shields add a practical touch. It’s the perfect gift for anyone looking to rejuvenate their skin and indulge in some well-deserved me-time this holiday season.

Looking for a top-notch and super swanky Christmas gift? Meet the Courant Catch:3, a smart wireless charger that blends together tech and luxury to add touch of style to your charging game. With up to 10W of wireless charging and a hassle-free alignment, this charger keeps your space tidy and your phone juiced up. Crafted from top-tier Italian leather with top environmental ratings and high-grade aluminium alloy, it’s the ideal addition to any home. Perfect for entryways or bedside tables, it’s a sleek and practical present anyone would love.

This holiday season, gift the ultimate cocktail experience with the Bartesian cocktail maker. Transform any home into a cocktail lounge with this one-touch wonder. Just load your favorite spirits and water, and let the Bartesian capsules do the rest; they’re packed with top-quality ingredients for the perfect pour every single time. Whether you prefer mocktails or strong drinks, you’ll be able customise the strength to your liking and enjoy bar-quality cocktails in the comfort of your home. Give the gift of mixology mastery this Christmas with Bartesian. Cheers to festive celebrations!

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TheraFace Mask

Approx. MYR 2,794

Courant CATCH:3 Classics Single-Device Charging Tray in Cortado

Approx. MYR 816

Bartesian Premium Cocktail Machine

MYR 1,389.44

(Main and featured image: Laura James/Pexels)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

– What are the rules of Christmas gift giving?

All Christmas gifts should come from the heart. As a general rule of thumb, the best gifts are either useful, edible, or provide immeasurable beauty to your recipient’s life. If you’re buying gifts for a secret santa event, it’s good practice to set a budget so all participants know to stay within the same range.

– What is the etiquette for Christmas gifts?

Christmas gifts should come from the heart and should never be selected simply for its price tag. Remember that it is the thought that truly counts! A personalised gift goes a very long way.

– What is the most popular Christmas gift?

One of the most popular Christmas gifts, store cash vouchers and gift cards are a great way to show your appreciation and love for someone you care about.

– What are the rules on gifting?

While there are no hard or fast rules surrounding gifting, it’s generally understood that personalised gifts are a good idea. It’s the thought that counts, so don’t stress yourself out on the price tag; pick a gift you can afford, and that you know the recipient will like. Both money and gift cards are good ideas, as many people can actually prefer the wherewithal to buy something they would personally like. If you’re looking to support local businesses, check out some smaller boutique gift stores for handmade gifts. And most importantly, give from the heart.

– Where do most people buy Christmas gifts?

In our digital age of convenience and doorstep deliveries, online shopping has become the norm. Gift buying is no less personal whether you buy it in-store or online; the important thing to remember is to do your research, find a gift the recipient will love, and figure out a way to get your hands on it. Some gifts may only be available in-store, but doing prior research will greatly cut down on the time you’ll have to spend on your feet amidst the last-minute Christmas shopping crowd.

– What are the manners for gift receiving?

Receive a gift the way you would like your gifts to be received. Remember to thank the gifter for their thoughtfulness. If you especially love their present (or them), take special care of your gift, use it well, and return the favour with a gift you know they’ll love.

The post Season’s Giftings: 45 Best Christmas Gift Ideas For Every Unique Personality On Your Nice List appeared first on Prestige Online - HongKong.

A pair of new timepieces burnish Patek Philippe’s reputation as the world’s most prestigious watchmaking maison.

Earlier this year, at the annual Watches & Wonders extravaganza in Geneva, the hallowed watchmaking house of Patek Philippe astounded the horological community by adding no fewer than 17 new references to its range of collections, each incorporating innovative materials, aesthetics and technical features, and in various combinations thereof. Of these, the most remarkable was almost certainly a new haute joaillerie version of the Grand Complications Grandmaster Chime, a 20-complications masterpiece that’s become almost legendary since its first reference was unveiled in 2014. 

Against such an extraordinary tour de force it would be hard for any watch to shine, and yet that’s exactly a feat that two other of the maison’s newcomers – the first an impressive addition to Patek Philippe’s already exceptional portfolio of travel timepieces and the second an exquisite ladies’ Annual Calendar– managed to pull off. 

Emblematic of the Genevan watchmaking house’s penchant for understated and yet luxurious elegance since the collection’s launch in the early 1930s, the Calatrava line has now been joined by a new interpretation of the travel watch, the 24-Hours Travel Time Ref 5224-001, which features both a dual-time zone and a dial in 24 hourly increments, where noon is shown at the position normally occupied by 6 o’clock. It’s powered by Patek Philippe’s new self-winding 31-260 PS FUS 24H calibre, whose three-position crown enables winding and setting of the two time zones and which provides a reserve of around 48 hours; the movement can be viewed through a caseback crystal. 

The watch’s 42mm rose-gold case harmonises perfectly with the lustrous blue dial, which features applied rose-gold numerals, hour markers and cabochons, as well as different finishes on its three main sectors, and with a height of 9.85mm wears comfortably on all wrists. A hand-stitched navy-blue calf-skin strap with rose-gold buckle completes the ensemble. 

As for Patek Philippe’s Aquanaut Luce collection, its modern “casual chic” design is eminently suitable for women, yet the 39.9mm “diameter” of the new Ref 5261R Annual Calendar’s rose-gold, curved- hexagon-shaped case also makes the watch an attractive proposition for men. The first Annual Calendar in the Aquanaut Luce range, it’s powered by the self-winding 26-330 S QA LU calibre, which drives day, month and moon-phase complacations, shows the date at 6 o’clock and requires setting just once a year. Complete with a 21K rotor, the movement is visible through the caseback. 

The watch’s matte blue-grey Aquanaut- pattern dial and matching composite strap further enhance the Aquanaut Luce Annual Calendar’s unisex credentials, as well as contrasting beautifully with the rose gold of the case and applied dial furniture, and the white luminescent coating on numerals, markers and hands. 

Two outstanding timepieces, certainly – but then, what else would anyone expect from the brand considered by many to be the most prestigious manufacturer of luxury watches in the world? 

The post Patek Philippe sets Gold Standard with the New Haute appeared first on Prestige Online - HongKong.

Consider this a holiday gift from Partners Group, the ownership group behind Breitling, who has just announced its acquisition of Universal Genève, a move that promises to restore a hallowed name in the world of watchmaking.

It’s no small feat. Says Georges Kern, CEO of Breitling: “As excited as we are, we’re also fully aware of the task at hand and the profound heritage we are set to uphold.”

The rebuilding of the prestigious brand with a rich history will take time – “a meticulous labour of love that we anticipate will unfold over the coming years,” says Kern who adds that a dedicated team will be brought on board so that Breitling and Universal Genève will operate as separate maisons.

“Universal Genève was once hailed as the couturier of watchmaking, renowned for its in-house movements and mythical models. It’s a brand that watch enthusiasts have dreamed of seeing make a permanent comeback,” says Alfred Gartner, co-founder of Partners Group and Chairman of the Breitling board.

A Swiss brand that was founded in 1894, Universal Genève became popular through the early to mid-20th century, making a name of themselves through innovative designs and technical prowess. Universal Genève, as a leading specialist in chronographs, were equal parts rivals and allies with Breitling in the past. The advent of the quartz crisis was hard on the company, and since 1989, the brand has been owned by Hong Kong-based Stelux Group.

“We are convinced that Breitling is best positioned to take Universal Genève to the next level, as it has so successfully done with its own marque,” said Joseph Wong, Chairman and CEO of Stelux Group. “When stewarding a maison d’horlogerie of this stature, preserving its heritage is a topmost concern. The management at Breitling has demonstrated that it is 100 percent committed to ensuring that Universal Genève lives on, not just in name but in spirit.”

“This revival is a dream turned into a vision,” says Kern. “It’s a process we are embarking on with the utmost respect and dedication with the aim of seeing Universal Genève restored to its rightful place in watchmaking.”

(Header image: Advertising during an automotive race in Brazil in the 1950s)

The post Breitling to Revive Historical Watch Brand Universal Genève appeared first on Prestige Online - HongKong.

The largest Richard Mille boutique in the world, Singapore’s St. Martin is an unprecedented journey within the exclusive world of this legendary watchmaker.

Richard Mille is not in the habit of doing anything in halves – if something is even worth attempting, it is worth doing in an exemplary way. So, when the idea of a new flagship store was mooted, one that could host friends of the brand in the best possible way as well as welcome future buyers and enthusiasts in search of information, Richard Mille’s architecture and design teams got to work. It would take three long years of planning before this idea took flight in Singapore, much like the long planning process that goes into producing a single watch.

The result is a new flagship that marries the art of hospitality with an innovative vision, showcasing the brand’s multiple inspirations. Located along St Martin’s Drive, a quiet end of the bustling Orchard Road retail district, the space is meant to be a physical embodiment of Mille’s own psyche, offering visitors valuable insights into what inspires the maverick watchmaker. “Our intention was to play with visitors’ expectations,” shares Brand Director Alexandre Mille. “The architectural organisation of St. Martin creates a feeling of astonishment at not having guessed such a space could exist behind this door. Discovering it makes you wonder what the next surprise will be,” he adds.

The idea of adopting the fundamentals of a speakeasy stood out right away for renovating the 700 square metre site of a former restaurant. Like the famous Prohibition-era bars, the façade and traditional boutique conceal a surprising venue deeper within. Once inside, visitors are granted access to the interconnected spaces where Richard Mille’s parallel worlds and passions are deployed.

“Every Richard Mille event is an opportunity for wonderful encounters,” adds Brand and Partnerships Director Amanda Mille.

“As well as a chance to meet and share, each encounter with the brand also serves to highlight our strong convictions and commitments. St. Martin was designed in perfect harmony with this philosophy conducive to fostering human relationships. This venue awakens emotions and elevates the art of hospitality so dear to Richard Mille, thanks to an innovative vision.”

Entry to St. Martin, as the boutique is affectionately called, begins with a long corridor that opens up to a library. In this homely space, tall shelves stacked with art and design books stand astride furniture lovingly chosen like it was to fit someone’s living area. Anchoring the space is a piece by French visual artist William Amor – an olive tree made from recycled plastic that evokes the Mediterranean basin so dear to Mille, but also, that symbolises loyalty and transmission, along with resistance, friendship, peace and health.

This main hub leads to a total of 11 themed spaces, all serving different needs. Central to this is the Crafting area, where the brand’s watchmakers can service timepieces, but more poetically, take them apart so customers can get an idea of how truly intricate their watches are. At special events, expect to be absolutely enamoured by the food and drinks (there are floor-to-ceiling wine cellars to choose from) served up at its Restaurant and Bar, while the Sports Bar is sure to please sports fans of inclinations with its display of signed paraphernalia from Richard Mille’s extensive arsenal of global athletes.

A second library hidden by an actual vault door is an imaginative touch, while a beautifully landscaped Moroccan-inspired riad patio makes the Singaporean humidity worth enduring. Where are the watches, you ask? There is but one small room dedicated to the brand’s new releases; reminding visitors that anyone is welcome, and an experience at St. Martin will be one to remember.

The same eye for detail used on its watches was applied to the to design of the new flagship, each material painstaking chosen to add visual richness and subtle contrast. Delicate shades of colour provide a refined backdrop, and in each space, harmony and balance tell a story, evoking memories, travels and cultural inspiration. A broad array of artistic crafts was brought together to achieve this, with almost 30 specialist artisans contributing to its layout and decoration. From leather to wood, metal, stone and glass, 250 materials were selected through a sourcing process in which each was chosen for its manufacturing qualities and aesthetic contribution. Every craftsperson called upon was keen surpass their own limits to meet the requirements imposed by the creation of this unique space in Singapore with the utmost rigour.

The largest Richard Mille boutique in the world, St. Martin is designed to achieve the perfect balance of style, innovation, tradition, and emotion. And while the design team will draw inspiration from the spirit of the space for future boutiques, the same design will never be replicated anywhere. Again, this draws parallels to the watchmaker’s approach to its highly covetable timepieces – while they may all be recognisably Richard Mille, no two are ever alike.

Discover more from Richard Mille St. Martin here.

(Images: Richard Mille)

The post Step Inside Richard Mille’s St. Martin Boutique in Singapore, the Largest of its Kind in the World appeared first on Prestige Online - HongKong.

Bighit Entertainment has announced that the four youngest members of the legendary K-pop boy band Bangtan Sonyeondan, popularly known as BTS — RM, Jimin, V, and Jungkook — have begun their enlistment process and will be joining the military on Dec 11 and 12. This news has left millions of ARMY members (BTS’s official fanbase moniker) worldwide heartbroken. Meanwhile, the older members, Jin, Suga, and J-Hope, have already started their mandatory military duties, and fans can only hope and pray for the safe return of their favourites. BTS has not only provided fans with wonderful music, entertainment, love, and comfort throughout the band’s remarkable decade of capturing hearts; they have also been a source of some genuine fashion inspirations. Beyond their trendy apparel, BTS members’ luxury watch collections stand out, capturing the envy of any watch enthusiast.

With each member’s net worth topping USD 20 million, it’s no wonder the group enjoys indulging in some expensive timepieces. The septet’s taste for luxury extends beyond simply splurging; watch lovers will codify the band’s indulgences as having a flair for making wise investments. While BTS is on hiatus, there is no doubt their popularity will continue to grow through their contributions to music, entertainment, and even their sophisticated taste in luxury items.

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BTS members and their luxury watch collections

Jin

Let’s start with the hyung of the group. The eldest member of BTS, Kim Seok-Jin is a well-known Rolex fan, displaying a special affection for the brand’s iconic timepieces. Vocalist Jin embraces his self-proclaimed moniker of “worldwide handsome,” and his watch collection reflects his characteristic minimalist style and casual flair.

Rolex Oyster Perpetual Day-Date 36

Jin has been seen wearing an excellent Rolex Oyster Perpetual Day-Date 36 in white gold. This specific watch, decorated with diamonds in 18-carat gold settings and baguette-cut diamonds at 6 and 9 o’clock, stands out as a symbol of eternal luxury. Its white mother-of-pearl dial and diamond-set bezel make it a spectacular accessory that perfectly matches Jin’s exquisite taste. Reportedly, he also owns the same watch in Everose gold with a pink dial.

Vintage Tank Louis Cartier watch

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Jin of BTS (@jin)

BTS Jin’s luxury watch collection extends beyond Rolex, with a vintage Tank Louis Cartier watch spotted in one of his Instagram pictures — an homage to Louis Cartier’s legendary Tank watch. Designed in 1917, the timepiece has not only weathered the test of time but has also served as a continuous source of inspiration for innumerable versions within the Cartier collection. This large-model watch is encased in dazzling yellow gold 750/1000 and exudes timeless beauty, and the beaded crown, with its sapphire cabochon adds a royal touch to the overall design.

Suga

One of the rappers, songwriters and producers of the group, Min Yoongi or Suga (also known as AgustD) isn’t just successful in his musical career — he’s also a stand-up human being. Suga showcases his compassionate side by actively participating in philanthropy, particularly by donating food and money to children’s charities.

Rolex Oyster Perpetual Datejust

In terms of timepieces, Suga has been seen wearing remarkable watches that demonstrate his excellent taste. Among them is the Rolex Oyster Perpetual Datejust, a prominent member of the iconic Rolex Datejust family. Suga’s special choice is the 36mm variation, which highlights the collection’s distinctive features. The monoblock main casing and screw-down winding crown of this clock ensure durability and water resistance. The scratch-resistant crystal sapphire and Cyclops lens over the date increase its practicality and clarity, evoking the precision and craftsmanship that has become synonymous with the Rolex name.

Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Self-Winding Automatic

BTS Suga’s luxury watch collection also boasts a swanky Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Self-Winding Automatic, which is available in 34mm and 37mm sizes. With its steel structure and silver-toned “Grande Tapisserie” dial, this clock exudes sophistication. The Royal Oak’s striking octagonal bezel and integrated bracelet add to its iconic design, distinguishing it as a mark of luxury and timeless style.

J-Hope

Jung Hoseok aka J-Hope, the multi-talented rapper, singer-songwriter, and dancer of the septet, holds the distinction of being the wealthiest member of the boy band. Fans widely regard him as the most fashionable member of BTS, and his passion for luxury timepieces further adds to this view.

Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Selfwinding

Like his best friend Suga, J-Hope adores the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Selfwinding. In the music video for “Chicken Noodle Soup,” a song from J-Hope’s mixtape “Hope World,” he can be spotted wearing an Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Selfwinding with its silver “Grande Tapisserie” dial in dark blue. This stainless steel-cased watch, which was released in 2020, features a glare-proofed sapphire and case back, as well as a screw-locked crown.

Audemars Piguet Royal Oak in gold

Another exceptional piece in J-Hope’s collection is this extraordinary 37mm frosted gold Audemars Piguet Royal Oak, produced in collaboration with Florentine jewellery designer Carolina Bucci. This particular wristwatch made its debut on J-Hope while he was filming a car commercial with fellow BTS members, and famously broke the internet when fans found it boasts a higher price tag than the featured car.

RM

Because he is fluent in English, BTS’s leader, Kim Namjoon, more widely known as RM, serves as the group’s spokesperson for overseas interviews. In addition to being a rapper, he is also a talented songwriter and producer.

Patek Philippe Nautilus Moon Phase

RM has been captured wearing a rose gold Patek Philippe Nautilus Moon Phase watch, a famous sports watch with a rich history dating back to 1976. The timepiece is known for its attractive yet durable design, with a characteristic rounded octagonal bezel and a self-winding mechanical movement. The black-brown dial has gold and luminescent-coated hour markers, and the rose gold case has a screw-down crown and a sapphire-crystal case back.

Rolex Oyster Perpetual Day-Date

In addition to his Patek Philippe, RM also owns a Rolex Oyster Perpetual Day-Date. His Rolex, with its platinum ice blue colour and diagonal motif dial, is widely regarded as one of the world’s most refined and exquisite timepieces.

Jimin

Park Jimin, the charismatic dancer and vocalist of the group, has an affinity for luxury. He currently represents not one, but two prestigious brands: Dior and Tiffany and Co.

Cartier Tank Américaine

Among Jimin’s prominent accessories is the Cartier Tank Américaine, a premium timepiece with a storied history dating back to 1917. The watch is well-known as a favourite among creatives and Jimin joins the prestigious list of people who added this watch to their collections. For his design of the watch, Louis Cartier found inspiration from World War I tanks as seen from above. The design features an octagonal crown with a blue synthetic spinel, a silver dial, blued-steel sword-shaped hands, and an attractive navy-blue alligator leather strap.

Patek Philippe 5905P

Jimin has also worn a Patek Philippe 5905P, which was spotted during one of his Vlive sessions. The dial of this self-winding mechanical wristwatch is an ebony grey-black sunburst with gold applied in the hour markers and numerals. The sapphire-crystal case back is set in platinum, and the hand-stitched alligator strap with matte black square scales complements the elegant design. Besides that, Jimin has also been photographed with K-pop artist Jessi whilst donning an ultra-expensive Patek Philippe Nautilus in stainless steel with a blue dial.

V

Reigning “most handsome man in the world” and vocalist-dancer of BTS, V is famous for his unique style. Kim Taehyung or V, like his best friend Jimin, endorses two luxury brands: Celine and Cartier. Let’s have a look at the magnificent luxury watches owned by this fashion-forward BTS member.

Gucci Le Marché des Merveilles watch

Before officially becoming “Celine boy”, V was popular as the “Gucci boy” among the ARMYs. V’s love of Gucci extends beyond his clothes and bags, even making its way into the timepieces he wears. His choice: the Gucci Le Marché des Merveille, a famous chronograph tastefully incorporated in a gold case with a light-brown leather bracelet strap. It features a striped surface with a Gucci bee design, a classic emblem from the 1970s. Anti-reflective sapphire crystal glass complements the polished gold-tone casing.

Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Eight Days and Duomètre Quantième Lunaire

V also owns two timepieces from Swiss watchmaking brand Jaeger-LeCoultre — a Master Eight Days and Duomètre Quantième Lunaire in a polished pink gold case. The Lunaire, surprisingly, was not his choice; it was a heartfelt gift from loyal Chinese fans, which was presented to him on his birthday in 2017. The singer has also been seen wearing a few different Cartier watches including a vintage Tank Louis Cartier.

Jungkook

The exceptionally talented youngest member of BTS, Jeon Jungkook, Golden Maknae, recently released his debut solo album, Golden, which is already breaking records and dominating the charts. Jungkook is well-known for his abilities as a vocalist and dancer, as well as for his avant-garde style.

Rolex two-tone Submariner

Despite being the youngest member of BTS, Jungkook has the most extensive watch collection of all the members. According to rumours, his collection includes nine Rolexes, including a two-tone Submariner. The Submariner boasts a solid-link oyster bracelet with a rotatable bezel, keeping it relevant as a conventional diver’s watch while retaining its loyalty to the original model that debuted in 1953.

Rolex Cosmograph Daytona

Jungkook extensive collection includes the iconic Cosmograph Daytona, a timepiece with heritage dating back to 1963. Aside from its iconic significance in watchmaking, the Daytona’s architecture prioritises barrel space, providing a power reserve of about 72 hours. The Chronergy escapement and Parachrom hairspring contribute to its remarkable performance. Outfitted with triple waterproofness mechanism screw-down pushers and the Triplock winding crown, the Oyster case’s hermetic properties are well-maintained. Reportedly, Jungkook also keeps a Day-Date 36 on a President bracelet in his watch collection.

(Main and featured image: Kim Seokjin 진 and BTS JK – 정국/FB)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

– What is the most expensive watch BTS has ever worn?

BTS leader RM wore a luxury watch — the Rolex Daydate Platinum Bar which comes at a price tag of USD 77000. It’s by far the most expensive watch the BTS or any idol has worn.

– Which watch brand does BTS wear?

BTS wear various watch brands including Rolex, Cartier, Jaeger-LeCoultre, and Patek Philippe.

– What watch does Jin wear?

Jin has been spotted wearing the Rolex Oyster Perpetual Day-Date 36 and a Vintage tank Cartier watch.

– What expensive things does BTS V own?

Kim Taehyung or V owns many expensive things including a luxurious apartment in the posh Gangnam district of South Korea, a Genesis GV80 SUV, and expensive fashion items including chronographs.

The post BTS Members’ Most Incredible Luxury Watches appeared first on Prestige Online - HongKong.

As the oldest watchmaker that has been in continuous operation in the world, Vacheron Constantin holds an eminent position in the realm of haute horlogerie. To be frank, when a watchmaker ascends to such heights of excellence, it no longer needs to adhere to short-lived trends or resort to artifice to draw attention. Standing firmly by its identity and maintaining its superlative quality are more than sufficient to earn the admiring gaze of its watchmaking peers. Read on as we discover the best Vacheron Constantin watches every collector needs to get their hands on, today.

Vacheron Constantin has a wealth of designs that cater to the diverse preferences of watch enthusiasts today. Whether it’s daily wear for a glamorous evening gala or as part of trendy athleisure, fine watchmaking adds sophistication to your style and ensures you rise above the crowd. From the fluid and elegant minimalism of the Traditionnelle collection to the effortlessly stylish and sporty Overseas, there’s something to satisfy the desires of collectors of all genders and styles.

Best Vacheron Constantin watches to add to your collection

#1 : OVERSEAS SELF-WINDING

The bezel of the Overseas collection, inspired by the brand’s iconic Maltese cross, sets it apart from other luxury sports watches. The Overseas is a sports-chic model that remembers its roots. Like a gentleman on the green, who maintains his composure during a challenging game, the watch exudes an air of elegance.

The latest Overseas Self-Winding model is available in a royal blue or gentle pink dial, set with 84 diamonds on the bezel. A little-known fact about the Overseas: a second row of diamonds is added on the notches of the bezel which follows the form of the Maltese cross. To ensure the size and carat of the diamonds are the same, Vacheron Constantin enlarged the bezel slightly to accommodate them, set in a prong setting.

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#2: OVERSEAS CHRONOGRAPH

The “panda” or black-and-white chronograph display is a much beloved design among watch collectors. This year, the Overseas inducts a new chronograph model featuring this particular dial execution.

There are three snailed black counters set against a sunray-brushed silver dial, encircled by a velvety, black minute track on the flange. The distinct colours offer superb legibility on the dial. The hands and hour indexes are crafted from white gold. Super-LumiNova is applied on the hour and minute hands as well as the hour markers, with needle hands for the small seconds and chronograph totalisers.

The watch is equipped with the self-winding, in-house manufactured Calibre 5200 with a 22K gold rotor. A compass rose motif is stamped on the rotor, symbolising the spirit of travel and exploration the Overseas exemplifies. Strap options for the watch include a three-link, half-Maltese cross bracelet as well as alternatives in calf leather or a black Elasto NBR strap, all fitted with interchangeable lugs for convenience.

#3: PATRIMONY RETROGRADE DAY-DATE

The day-date complication is most often displayed using windows. However, in the style of the Patrimony, this watch uses two retrograde hands to display the date on the upper half, and the day of the week on the lower half of the dial. The unconventional dial arrangement gives the watch a certain gravitas and sophistication. In fact, the retrograde display is an icon of Vacheron Constantin, used in its watches since the 1920s. This is a complication that is appreciated by watch aficionados deeply familiar with the brand’s history.

The watch case is in 950 platinum with a rose gold or salmon dial colour, giving it a vintage flavour. This watch is produced in only limited numbers each year and available exclusively at Vacheron Constantin boutiques.

#4: TRADITIONNELLE TOURBILLON

Sharply-faceted dauphine hands housed in a stepped gold case with a mirror finish. On the dial, applied “bâton de Genève” hour markers are positioned along the chemin de fer minute track. The slim bezel and debossed caseback are all defining characteristics of the Traditionnelle collection. What makes this Traditionnelle Tourbillon reference stand out is the shade of olive green the dial possesses, emanating the calm of the forest without being gloomy.

At 6 o’clock, a large cut-out reveals a generously-sized tourbillon. The tourbillon carriage is fashioned in the shape of a skeletonised Maltese cross, one of the most recognisable features of Vacheron Constantin tourbillons. The black oxidised screw on the carriage acts as a small seconds indicator, allowing you to read off the seconds.

The balance of the in-house Calibre 2160 tourbillon movement paces steadily at 2.5Hz – a total of 18,000 vibrations per hour. It runs more slowly than other modern movements, but this steady and unrushed rhythm enables one to admire the balance’s oscillation as the tourbillon carriage rotates even better.

#5: ÉGÉRIE CREATIVE EDITION

The Égérie collection is dedicated to ladies and takes its inspiration from haute couture. Embracing artisanal values of fine craftsmanship, every component of each timepiece is painstakingly hand-crafted and perfected, placing it on a par with haute couture in every way. The haute horlogerie pieces in the collection feature rare handcrafts rather than technical complications, with elaborate work on each dial, from tapisserie and engraving to gemsetting and enamelling.

This particular model features a skeletonised and hand-engraved dial in the style of Burano lace, which originates in Venice. In using a combination of skeletonisation, engraving and gemsetting, Vacheron Constantin artisans are able to mimic the look of hand-woven Burano lace with its pearl-like sheen and intricate patterns. The dial’s tapisserie motif is carved by an expert in guilloché à main (rose engine engraving), followed by grand feu enamelling in a deep black, exactly like the pleats on a couture fabric. The delicate floral patterns of the dial are outlined in white gold, as fine as spun lace, and hand-carved by a master jeweller to set each diamond in place. The moonphase window features a plique-à-jour enamel cloud that is merely 0.27mm thick, with mother-of-pearl stars and the Moon.

#6: ÉGÉRIE MOON PHASE

At just 37mm in diameter, this watch with a moonphase complication suits every wrist. Housed in 18K 5N rose gold, the lavish watch features 845 brilliant-cut diamonds that are set all over the case, lugs, dial and the inner bezel which acts as the minute track.

The moonphase display of the Égérie collection is positioned between 1 and 2 o’clock, rather than the bottom of the dial, enhancing its prominence. Two mother-of- pearl moons reveal the waxing and waning of the moon as they appear and hide under a layer of translucent sapphire crystal on a midnight blue background decorated with stars. This exquisite complication embellishes the bejewelled timepiece with a poetic beauty.

The watch comes with two easily interchangeable straps in alligator leather or satin fabric, to perfectly complement your wardrobe for any occasion.

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#7: PATRIMONY SELF-WINDING

The 1950s saw a mélange of design philosophies flourish, but also gave birth to a minimalist, mid-century modernism. The Patrimony collection inherited this aspect of the Vacheron Constantin genetics. This watch features 72 round diamonds on the bezel – a simple yet glamorous touch. The dial is in a gradient shade of ultramarine with applied white gold bar and narrow triangular indexes at the quarters, matched with white gold beads for the minute track. With a compact date window at 6 o’clock, this watch offers a purity in design that does away with the unnecessary and focuses on the essential.

Discover more from Vacheron Constantin here.

Art Direction: ING
Photography: CHING/GREEN PLASTIC SOLDIERS

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Piaget has emerged as the double award winner in both the Ladies category and Artistic Crafts category at Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève (GPHG) 2023.

With its stunning half-hidden design of gold on one side and sapphire on the other, the aptly-named Hidden Treasures Cuff is an embodiment of what happens when mastery, artistry, creativity and – dare we say – audacity collide.

Inspired by Piaget designs from the 1960s and 1970s, the GPHG winner is bold in every aspect. The devil is in the details: Each line on the cuff is engraved by hand, one line at a time with the tip of a burin, meaning no two pieces of the Hidden Treasure Cuff are the same. A turquoise dial completes the watch, going seamlessly with the sapphires on the frame.

Bold shades of green and blue also come forth in the Métiers D’Art Undulata Watch, winner of the Men’s Artistic Crafts award category.

Miniature marquetry by French artist Rose Saneuil takes centrestage in the timepiece with swirling layers of straw, parchment, sycamore, leather and elytron assembled by hand.

These shapes envelope the hours-minutes counter and the flying tourbillon carriage – both intentionally off-centre – creating a hypnotic yet calming visual that is rounded off with a bezel set with baguette-cut diamonds.

Featuring textures, colours and artistic craftsmanship that go beyond the expected, Piaget’s choice of returning to their roots with the Hidden Treasures Cuff and embracing of the bold with the Métiers D’Art Undulata Watch has truly paid off. One can only look forward to the house’s offerings in the next GPHG.

(All Images: Piaget)

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The Code 11.59 by Audemars Piguet collection expands with two new 38mm references in ivory and purple.

Photography TYLER LI

There were great expectations for the Code 11.59 by Audemars Piguet when the new watch collection made its long-awaited debut in 2019, at least by the standards of the brand, which had put in many years of effort to develop a watch it deemed worthy of – and distinctly different from – the legendary Royal Oak that defined the Audemars Piguet name for so long. 

While for many, the Code 11.59 by Audemars Piguet wasn’t quite love at first sight, no one could deny it was an extremely cleverly designed watch, with an architectural construction that sandwiches an octagonal middle case and openworked lugs that are welded to the extra-thin bezel. Now with several years behind it, it’s evident that Code 11.59 by Audemars Piguet is a brilliant collection whose brilliant potential has since been demonstrated by the brand several times. Indeed, it’s been the perfect canvas for revered complications such as the Starwheel, as well as the most complicated Audemars Piguet watch in history, the Universelle. 

And soon enough too, Audemars Piguet gave the base models a well-deserved facelift, replacing the much simpler first-generation dials with ones that are finely embossed, as well as new hands and hour markers. Gone are the plain-looking baton hands and indexes with Arabic quarters, replaced by faceted markers that bring extra detail to the dial, while the hands are partially open-worked. Both markers and hands are in white gold and feature luminous filling to enhance legibility. These new base models came in a three-hand version or a chronograph, with three dial colours available. The green and blue come in a stainless-steel case, while the more unusual smoked beige dial is encased in steel with a ceramic middle section. 

But the standout detail of this new generation of Code 11.59 by Audemars Piguet models is without doubt the guilloché dials. While those used in the serially produced watches are stamped, they were specially created by Swiss guillocheur Yann von Kaenel; the dies used in the stamping process are first engraved using a hand-operated machine via traditional methods, enabling the team to bring an intricate concentric pattern to life. 

But beautiful as the collection is, the line-up has always been on the larger side, with most models coming in 41mm and even 42mm diameters – and with their extra-thin bezel and rather open face, these watches can appear even more substantial that they actually are. For those preferring smaller watches or with slimmer wrists, the larger models simply felt too big. 

The logical next step for the brand, then, was to create a new model designed specially with those smaller wrists in mind. Enter the 38mm Code 11.59 by Audemars Piguet, which debuts with two models in pink gold with unconventional dial colours of either purple or ivory. 

With the smaller watches come a different movement: the new 38mm version is now powered by the calibre 5900, which launched in 2022 with a 60-hour power reserve and 3 bars of water resistance. The watch is not only smaller, it’s thinner too, with a new case thickness of just 9.6mm. Otherwise, the smaller watch stays the same, with the same beautiful embossed dial, faceted hour markers and everything we loved about the sandwich case design. 

The Code 11.59 by Audemars Piguet collection today seems more complete than ever. Beautifully modern yet elegant basic models in appealing sizes, and brilliantly complex watches that showcase Audemars Piguet’s unrivalled watchmaking savoir-faire. It’s the dawn of a new era. 

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For half a century, Rolex’s support for golf and golfers has become one of the most enduring and important partnerships in the world of sport. 

Whether it’s in sport, the arts, exploration or the sciences, the words Rolex and achievement have, over the past century, become inextricably linked. In parallel with its own unrelenting quest for excellence, the Swiss watch manufacture has actively supported individuals and organisations that strive for accomplishment and innovation in all these fields, a perfect illustration being its involvement with the sport of golf at the highest level, a commitment that’s endured for more than 50 years. 

During that time, some of the greatest names in the sport, from Arnold Palmer, Gary Player and Jack Nicklaus to more recent legends such as Tiger Woods, Sir Tom Watson and Bernard Langer – as well
as leading women golfers including Nancy Lopez, Lorena Ochoa and Annika Sörenstam – have all partnered Rolex as Testimonees. Nor does the brand confine itself to supporting established talents: it also inspires generations to come by supporting up-and-coming players through the Rolex New Guard. 

At the same time, Rolex has also teamed up with many of the world’s leading golf tours and competitions, including the four annual Majors tournaments widely considered as being at the pinnacle of the professional game: the Masters Tournament at Augusta, the PGA Championship, the US Open and, the world’s oldest championship, The Open, as well as all five women’s Majors and team competitions that include the Ryder Cup, President’s Cup and Solheim Cup. 

In addition to extending its patronage to many other leading golf tournaments around the world, Rolex has been appointed as Official Timekeeper to numerous major events. Among them is The Open and a 40-year partnership with the USGA, which organises the US Open – and in 2021, the brand was appointed Official Timekeeper and Partner to the PGA Championship, the only Major contested solely by professional players. Rolex’s reach in the sport even extends to the three major tours: the PGA Tour, the DP Tour and the Asian Tour. 

That latter presence in Asia has now been extended to the sport here in Hong Kong, as from this year Rolex has been appointed official timekeeper to the Hong Kong Open. 

No other brand from any sector of industry has enjoyed such a close and enduring relationship with this truly global sport – one that’s enjoyed and played by millions around the world, from beginners
to enthusiastic amateurs to players at the highest level – than Rolex. It’s part of that perpetual striving for excellence that’s underpinned all of the watch brand’s activities from the very beginning. 

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Richard Mille’s engineering marvel is ready for the limelight.

It comes as no surprise that Richard Mille and Ferrari joined forces in 2021 via a multi-year partnership that includes Formula 1, WEC endurance, GT racing and e-sport. United in their pursuit of performance, the two manufacturers are engaged in the same quest for excellence in their respective domains, sportscars and contemporary haute horlogerie – two distinct realms with much common ground.

What will go down as the most significant result of this union is last year’s RM UP-01 Ferrari, which established the new standard by which razor-thin watchmaking is measured. Coming in at an astonishing 1.75mm thick, this super slender timepiece is powered by the ultra-flat Calibre RM UP-01, which features hours, minutes, seconds and a function selector spread across the thin case design. The RM UP-01 Ferrari is, to date, reportedly the thinnest mechanical watch ever made.

Released last July to intense fanfare, all 150 editions of this watch are being delivered in the coming months to Richard Mille boutiques across Asia.

A watch this slim – and one that its owners could wear every day if they were so inclined – required a rethink in several aspects of watchmaking. After all, this was more a feat of material research and engineering than traditional craftsmanship. Such a project requires the suspension of watchmaking knowledge and rules accumulated over many years, says Julien Boillat, Richard Mille’s technical director for cases. “This is exactly what we did throughout our collaboration with the laboratory of Audemars Piguet Le Locle. Eliminating those last few millimetres of depth was a long and arduous process.”

The team started with the movement, which needed a completely new design and manufacturing approach. The winning idea was to distribute across a large surface area the elements that could not be stacked, creating a greater symbiosis between the movement and case, which mutually stiffens each other. This segues into the second critical aspect: what the watch should be made of. The baseplate and skeletonised bridges are consequently made of grade 5 titanium to guarantee perfect flatness without losing any strength and ensure optimal functioning of the going train. In lieu of a winding stem, two crowns were integrated in the case as movement wheels and ringed with black ceramic inserts that protect the bezel from wear.

The case is also made of titanium, chosen for its combination of lightness and resistance with certain segments coming in at merely 0.18mm. The two sapphire crystals, one over the time indicator, whose hands are transferred directly to the wheels, the other positioned over the regulating organ to showcase the movement, were also reduced to a gossamer-thin a fifth of a millimetre, its diameter calculated to guarantee resistance.

“This watch is the result of a lot of work. Its unique relationship between the case and the movement provides a sensation without precedent among our other creations,” shares Richard Mille’s technical director for movements Salvador Arbona.

“As with all our watches, technicity dictates the lines of the product. But I think with the RM UP-01 Ferrari, we have gone a step further by blurring distinctions separating the work of the case and movement engineers. From the very first sketches through design and production, our respective offices became a single entity.”

Complementing the timepiece’s extraordinary craftsmanship is its suitably modern, unconventional design. Unlike other ultra-thin watches, which generally subscribe to a more conventional style, the aesthetic of the RM UP-01 Ferrari was dictated by the technology that made it possible. The time display is housed on the central axis with numerals and indices bringing in Richard Mille’s design DNA, while two discs indicate the hours and minutes. The balance wheel is on the right of the watch, while the Ferrari emblem, the Cavallino Rampante, is laser engraved at the bottom. It is like nothing anyone has ever seen before, which was the point.

The inclusion of the Ferrari team in the design of the watch lent the project a competitive spirit essential to most exciting adventures. In a definitive win, the RM UP-01 Ferrari successfully respects the principles of Richard Mille, right from its extreme lightness, unusual shape, spline screws, skeletonised bridges and level of finishing, even in areas invisible to the eye. While it is correct that this wasn’t like anything the manufacture had ever made, its high standards of finishing were firmly adhered to.

In breaking with its usual iconography, Richard Mille has created with the RM UP-01 Ferrari, a work of incredible prowess and unparalleled technical innovation to meet the requirements specific to a watch that can be worn in any situation.

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Jonathan Chan only began collecting just few years ago, but his genuine passion for horology has led him to start, as he claims, Hong Kong’s first association for watch collectors. 

Photography ALISON KWAN
Location ARTEMIS & APPOLLO

I got into watches just four years ago. A friend of mine has been into watches since he was 15, and one day we were hanging out and I just realised I’d never had a nice watch. So he said, “Let’s go buy a watch now.” I wanted something that wasn’t seen everywhere. I never liked that aspect of Hong Kong, like you’re wearing a uniform. I decided on Jaeger-LeCoultre, because I thought it was very classy and timeless. And at the time, I thought I only needed one watch for the rest of my life, so I went with the Master Control Geographic, 39mm. It had a sector dial, I was travelling a bit at the time and it had a second time-zone complication. It was really quite insane how the movement worked. That’s kind of how it all started.

Helbert Tsang, Carlos Pang and I started The Horology Club. I’ve known Helbert for years; he helped me buy my first watch. Carlos is a colleague of mine. One day we wanted to design a watch together to commemorate our friendship and we wanted to have a name for us on the back, so we came up with The Horology Club. We had a bunch of friends who were also interested in talking about watches, so we set up an Instagram page. It grew from there. 

How did we settle on working with Habring? We’d been looking for a watch brand and design that we felt could represent our taste, while allowing us to express our individualism. It was Helbert who came across the Austrian brand Habring. We felt the mix of the stealthy deadbeat seconds complication and the green sector dial would be the perfect combination for what we were looking for. We loved the nerdy quartz-looking seconds hand, the proportions and the fact it looked like a classic vintage sector dial watch while incorporating an uncommon sage green colour.

When it comes to independent watch brands, I have so many favourites. To just name just three, there’s MB&F, because Max Büsser’s genuine childlike passions have always been an inspiration for so many collectors. The Horological Machines always bring a smile to my face and it’s a true expression of creativity and horology combined. There’s also Greubel Forsey, because there aren’t enough superlatives to describe what is, in my opinion, the pinnacle of watchmaking in current times. I had the pleasure to visit the manufacture and was blown away by the culture and obsession towards creating some of the most amazing watches you can find in the market today. Seeing a Greubel Forsey is like watching HDTV for the first time; nothing else looks the same afterwards and the finishing is just on another level.

And then there’s Sylvain Pinaud: I first met Sylvain at his workshop in Saint-Croixe and I’ve since built a great relationship with him. He’s such an authentic guy with an amazing story, almost quitting the industry completely before coming back to launch his own brand. His dedication to quality means he only produces a tiny number of watches for a few lucky people every year, but his work is sublime and I’m glad to be able to say he’s a friend. 

Before making the decision to buy a watch, for me it always has to evoke certain emotions. Watch collecting is purely an emotional thing for me. I find the best watches are always tied to an emotion – whether it’s like a graduation watch, or in my case, when I travelled to Switzerland and met this watchmaker in the middle of nowhere, who made just 10 a year, and we became fast friends. I love the fact I can support his livelihood and be able to custom-design watches. When it comes to watches in production, it has to be something I feel represents the best essence of that brand.

My usual style is whatever tickles my fancy that day. Generally speaking, I like stuff that’s a bit quirky and not so ubiquitous. I think as individuals, when we get an opportunity to express ourselves by picking what watch to wear, it’s a shame to wear the same watches as others. Recently, sports models seem to be all the craze, so naturally I’ve shied away from them. The last thing you want after spending your hard-earned money on a luxury item is realising everyone else is wearing the same thing!

My style has definitely evolved since I began collecting. Nowadays I’m more into independents, but I’m finding that I’m learning something new all the time. I’m also kind of into smaller vintage pieces. I like to get really deep into things and go extreme, like these crazy spaceship watches. And then on the other hand, I’ll have vintage tiny Cartiers or older models from Ulysse Nardin. I’m always learning and evolving. 

I really got into Cartier in the last 12 to 18 months. I’d always thought it was a brand for women, but I was wrong. What draws me to Cartier watches is their perpetual elegance. I’m by no means a classy gentleman but when I put one of them on, for a second it makes me feel like one and I think that’s what I enjoy the most about them. Since getting my first Cartier, I’ve become addicted and I’ve lost count of how many more pieces I’ve bought since. I don’t dare to count – it’s become a bit of a problem!

We consider ourselves the first official watch club in Hong Kong and I think we definitely started a trend and there are now so many communities popping up. It’s a good thing to have collectors in different communities, because there’s always something different with each one. Maybe they’re more focused on vintage, or they have their own niche. Ultimately, if it leads collectors and other people to get into the hobby it’s great for Hong Kong.

Previously it wasn’t easy finding people with the same passion, because you might see a lot of people with Pateks, Rolexes and APs, or maybe they have different motivations for buying watches. But now we’ve got a place where no one’s going to judge or blame you for spending that kind of money on watches. It’s like the opposite of Alcoholics Anonymous but for watches. We’re so enabling. We see watches we’ve never seen before and it’s so nice when you try them on. And then you realise you’re on Chrono24 at three in the morning looking for good deals. 

Watches have always been more of a men’s hobby but what we’ve seen in the last few years is that with increased education and exposure to watches as a whole, women are becoming more attracted to the hobby – and we’ve noticed a rise in female membership of the community too. They’re still far from becoming the majority but it’s encouraging to see more women joining the hobby. It’s often interesting to discuss watches with the opposite sex as they can offer a different perspective. In The Horology Club, we emphasise being open and inclusive. That means keeping an open mind towards people with different backgrounds and tastes, and whose journey will be different from yours. Only by being exposed to diverse opinions will we learn more about what ultimately speaks to them. 

The Horology Club organises a variety of events, ranging from sit-down dinners, cigar nights and whisky tastings to go-karting nights. One by-product of setting up the community has been the formation of smaller subgroups covering other interests, which include sport, photography, art and wine. There’s always going to be a type of event that’s suitable for you at the club and we really enjoy continuing to provide enjoyable events for our members. 

The post Jonathan Chan Welcomes You to the Horology Club appeared first on Prestige Online - HongKong.

Our eyes were peeled not only for Tamara Ralph’s gorgeous spring/summer 2024 collection during Haute Couture Week in Paris, but also for the gorgeous Audemars Piguet watch she sent on the runway along with them. The all-new Royal Oak Concept Flying Tourbillon limited edition is inspired by Ralph’s aesthetic, a magical mix of feminine strength matched with timeless elegance.

When we last interviewed Ralph just after her inaugural show in July last year, she tells us clients love her work because of its femininity and its elegant and sophisticated details that don’t lose the modern touch. “I think that’s part of my ingrained design aesthetic that won’t change and will always be there,” she told us at the time.

And it’s this very DNA in her work that appealed to Audemars Piguet. Ralph collaborated with Audemars Piguet once before, in 2020, when she was still part of the duo behind the Ralph & Russo brand. The watchmaker brought along several of its watches to pair with their Spring/Summer 2021 ready-to-wear collection. It was a fun and natural partnership, and as AP’s former CEO Francois-Henry Bennahmias conceded then, “We actually realised that our watches had already been paired with their exceptional designs many times by clients in real life who didn’t need to wait for this partnership to match our two brands.”

Coming together for a second partnership, this time with Ralph herself, was a no-brainer. Starting off the new year with a first collaborative women’s watch is perhaps symbolic in more ways than one. This month, Ilaria Resta also officially steps into her role as AP’s new CEO, making history as Audemars Piguet’s first female CEO.

Ralph’s limited edition watch is based on a version of the Royal Oak Concept Frosted Gold Flying Tourbillon that was released in 2020 that showcased a contemporary dial design of blue concentric circles lined in gold and graded to draw your eyes onto the diamond-encrusted flying tourbillon at the 6 o’clock position. Frosted gold was used on the two versions released at the time, one in white gold and one in rose gold, marking the first time the Florentine hammered gold technique was used on a Royal Oak Concept case. A ladies timepiece, the watch was sized at 38.5mm, with the hand-wound calibre 2964 beating inside at 3 Hz and a 72-hour power reserve.

The Royal Oak Concept Flying Tourbillon “Tamara Ralph” limited edition, inspired by haute couture, is in 18K pink Frosted Gold and limited to 102 pieces only. The dial is rendered in a colour palette of bronze and gold, and plays with layers, textures and colours, and as with the previous versions, hour-markers are left out of the timepiece to retain the purity of the dial design. To match with the watch, the strap is bronze-toned with a pearly finish. A second watch strap, in brown alligator leather, is also provided.

Haute couture inspired the watch design, and vice versa, Tamara Ralph’s spring/summer 2024 collection was inspired by time. Red carpet gowns played with dimensions and different materials, and high jewellery elements were beautiful stand-outs in the collection. Watch the runway here, and if you look closely, you’ll spot the limited edition watch appearing on a few of the models.

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As we’re now eschewing the tracksuit bottoms and T-shirts of the past three years for a more stylish dress code – or so the fashion cops are telling us – it’s also time to strap a more elegant timepiece to the wrist than that chunky 45mm diver. Here are nine beautifully understated men’s dress watches whose classic style should prove an ideal match for a business suit or tuxedo.

Rolex Perpetual 1908 Collection

The year 2023 was a milestone for the Swiss manufacture, with the unveiling of an entirely new collection of classic watches.   

The annual announcement of the latest novelties from that powerhouse of watchmaking, Rolex, is always a major event, and that of 2023, which coincided with the opening of the Watches and Wonders fair in Geneva in late March, was no exception. Indeed, it’s fair to say that this year’s launches served as a milestone for the brand, in that they included the unveiling of an entirely new Perpetual collection of dress watches. 

Named for the year in which the company’s founder, Hans Wilsdorf, registered the Rolex trademark, the new Perpetual 1908 is a svelte timepiece in a 39mm case of either white or yellow gold that combines both classic and contemporary design elements. Especially outstanding are the bezel that’s both domed on the upper part and finely fluted below, the sleek dial that’s finished in either intense white or black dial, and the Arabic numerals 3, 9 and 12, which along with the indexes and hands are all in gold that matches the case material. Also of note are the small seconds subdial at 6 o’clock, with the words “Superlative Chronometer” discreetly displayed in an arc above it, the distinctive circle beneath the tip of the hour hand and the sword-shaped minute hand.    

Elegant, understated but distinctly luxurious, the Perpetual 1908 also features a transparent caseback that reveals the new self-winding Superlative Chronometer Calibre 7140, its skeletonised gold oscillating weight and Rolex Côtes de Genève-finished bridges. Boasting all Rolex’s latest technologies, including a Chronergy escapement, Syloxi hairspring and Paraflex shock absorbers, the calibre provides superb accuracy and a power reserve of around 66 hours.   

In keeping with the Perpetual 1908’s character, the watch is fitted on a matte alligator-leather strap, which comes in brown or black depending on the dial colour,  which is attached with a double-folding Dualclasp in either white or yellow gold that ensures the watch always at the centre of the wrist. Because whichever angle you look at it from, Rolex’s new Perpetual 1908 subtly epitomises both perfection and elegance. 

#Perpetual #Prestige #Rolex

A. Lange & Söhne Saxonia Thin

In the rarefied realms of A Lange & Söhne, the Saxonia Thin qualifies as “entry-level”, though judged by any other criteria this gorgeously simple two-hand timepiece, which comes in a 40mm case of pink or white gold that’s just 5.9mm thick and features slender gold baton markers on a solid silver argenté dial, is fabulously luxurious. Flip it over and be equally awed by the manually wound L093.1 calibre, whose solid-silver three-quarter plate and balance cock are decorated and polished by hand. A hand-stitched alligator strap, black for the white-gold version and reddish-brown for the pink-gold model, serves as a suitably elegant attachment.  

FP Journe Chronomètre Souverain

Somewhat more complicated than the average dress watch in that it features a retrograde power-reserve indicator as well as a small-seconds hand (the latter at 7.30), the latest version of FP Journe’s Chronomètre Souverain is also unusual in that it features a Havana dial, a shade of brown achieved by painstakingly mixing gold and ruthenium until the desired hue was achieved. Available in a 40mm case of either rose gold or platinum, the Havana Chronomètre Souverain takes its power from the rose-gold, manually wound, double-barrel Calibre 1304, which features four inertia weight and beats at a frequency of 3Hz for a 56-hour reserve. To carry this one off you’d need a full brown ensemble, especially as the watch comes with a caramel alligator strap.

 Grand Seiko SBGD202

Among the multiple interpretations of classic watch style purveyed by Grand Seiko’s Masterpiece Collection, the SBGD202 is as beautiful as it’s technically advanced, in that its 43mm Zaratsu-polished rose-gold case houses a 9R01 Spring Drive movement with three mainspring barrels, which not only provides eight days’ worth of power but also promises supreme accuracy. In keeping with the case material, the dial features rose-gold hands and faceted hour markers, all of which catch the light and sparkle enticingly against a black background dusted with minute gold particles to resemble a night sky. Luxurious and exceedingly rare, the watch, which is a product of Grand Seiko’s Micro Artist Studio, is presented on a deep-brown crocodile leather strap.   

Omega Seamaster 1948

Omega delved deep into the corporate archives for the Seamaster 1948, which was released in 2018 to celebrate the model’s 70th anniversary and features many of the design codes of the original. However, within the 38mm case – and it’s available in either stainless steel or ultra-luxurious platinum 950 – Omega has inserted a thoroughly modern Co-Axial Master Chronometer calibre in either central- or small-seconds variations. Dials vary according to the case material: with the steel model it’s opaline silver with white-gold markers, while the platinum version gets a dial in opaline Pt and pink-gold furnishings – as well as a decorated pink-gold oscillating weight that’s visible through the caseback, which is engraved with a 70th-anniversary logo and silhouettes of a period Chris Craft boat and Gloster Meteor fighter jet.

Chopard L.U.C XPS Twist QF

The offset small-seconds dial at 7 o’clock is just one of the unusual features that enable Chopard’s L.U.C XPS Twist QF to live up to its name. A contemporary take on the men’s dress watch, this 250-piece limited edition in a 40mm Fairmined white-gold case also features circular satin-brushed dial finishing that radiates from the sub-dial and contributes to the watch’s subtle asymmetry, the latter complemented by the dial’s intriguing blue-grey hue. Power is provided by a Fleurier Quality Foundation-certified self-winding Calibre 96.26-L, which has twin stacked barrels yet still measures just 3.3mm thick. The movement and its engraved 22k gold micro-rotor can, of course, be seen through the caseback crystal.  

Patek Philippe Calatrava

No selection of dress watches would be complete without at least one piece from Patek Philippe, and though we’re seriously spoiled for choice, this Calatrava 5227J in yellow gold whispered so insistently in our ear we couldn’t resist it. If the aesthetics and proportions of its 39mm case, curved grooved lugs and warm ivory lacquered dial, dauphine hands, markers and even minute dots are a class apart, there’s virtually no other watch in this category that can offer a hinged case-back dust cover (and especially not one that’s less than 10mm thick). Open the cover and you encounter the self-winding Calibre 324 in all its glory, which means Côtes de Genève stripes and a beautifully engraved oscillating rotor in solid gold. Dazzling. 

Parmigiani Fleurier Toric Chronomètre

Parmigiani Fleurier’s more traditional offerings may have been overshadowed of late by the flurry of incoming Tonda PF models, but when it comes to a luxurious men’s dress watch, the brand’s original Toric line – the name derives from the Doric columns of Greek antiquity – has few equals. A case in point (and a watch we’re in absolute awe of) is this Toric Chronomètre Qualité Fleurier Rose Gold, a 40.8mm beauty with elegant proportions and a silver guilloché grains de riz dial with rose-gold hands and numerals, and a curved, gold-framed date window at 6 o’clock. Turn it over to inspect the double-barrel PF331 movement through the rear sapphire, and you’ll find the finishing on the bridges and 22k-gold rotor are just as exquisite.  

Vacheron Constantin Patrimony

Blue and pink gold has always been a colour combination made in heaven, and when it’s the work of Vacheron Constantin you can expect the results to be even more sublime. We’re talking here about the three-hand, time-and-date Patrimony Manual Winding, whose timeless design purity – unadorned case and bezel, square lugs, slender hands and curved applied gold hour markers – are matched by the almost perfect dimensions: 40 x 8.55mm. The open-worked caseback reveals Vacheron’s self-winding Calibre 2450 Q6/3, whose 22k-gold oscillating weight is engraved with the brand’s Maltese Cross motif. Pair it with a midnight-blue tuxedo – though frankly, it looks fabulous in just about any context. 

The post Nine Perfect Gentlemen’s Dress Watches to Add to Your Collection appeared first on Prestige Online - HongKong.

The Only Watch auction, originally slated to take place on November 5 2023, has been postponed to next year.

This announcement was made in a press statement by the biennial charity event on October 23, and comes in the wake of recent discussions about transparency. Only Watch, which auctions off luxury timepieces from the world’s top watchmakers to support research into Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, has raised some EUR 100 million since its start in 2005. While the auction is held in Geneva, Switzerland, its charity organisation is based in Monaco and the event comes under the patronage of Prince Albert II of Monaco.

The past weeks have seen a growing number of watch collectors and enthusiasts demanding for answers on social media about how Only Watch’s donations have been used, and whether they’ve been channelled towards their intended purpose.

Amidst the commotion, Audemars Piguet pulled out of the show last week, stating it had “cancelled its participation and donation to the 2023 edition of Only Watch”. Its Royal Oak Flying Tourbillon Openworked had been one of the star highlights of the auction, with an estimated price of CHF 300,000 to CHF 350,000. It featured a blue openworked movement against a 41mm white ceramic case and bracelet, with white gold hour markers and hands.

“A few days before the auction, questions were raised about the allocation of funds and the governance of the AMM, an association of patients’ families. Answers were provided regarding the funding strategies chosen, the structures and projects supported, and the association’s accounts and budget,” said Only Watch’s organisers in the press release.

“However, the time for certification, changes in governance and the imminent auction do not coincide. We cannot bring ourselves to cast doubt on the sincerity of the commitment of all the parties involved in this project, nor can we allow this wonderful story to be rewritten.”

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On October 4, prominent watch collector Santa Laura created a stir when he posted Instagram Stories about being denied a copy of Only Watch’s annual financial report. He also left comments on one of Only Watch’s Instagram posts seeking clarity on how the organisers manage donations, and where he could find audited details on this.

A few other watch collectors echoed his queries, with one named zug_gal looping in Only Watch’s sponsors and Monaco’s ministry of interior.

A day later, the event organisers uploaded a series of Instagram Stories in a question and answer format, with examples like “What data do we make available on our financials? What about audited accounts?”

In response to the latter, they said they “understand that there is a normal need for more information and material on how the funds are spent and are happy to address it and move forward together,” and added that they’ve appointed an auditor from KPMG Monaco to certify their accounts. These have all been compiled as a Highlight titled “The Charity” on its Instagram page.

Only Watch founder Luc Pettavino, who is also the chairman and co-founder of Association Monégasque contre les Myopathies (AMM, the charity behind Only Watch), issued an open letter on October 8. He acknowledged the online allegations and explained that half of its accumulated funds has been utilised, with a “large majority” going towards discovering a drug to treat Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.

The rest of the money has apparently been set aside for now, for other stages of the research process and clinical trials. “At the request of our research community, the remaining funds are rigorously managed to ensure that we are ready for the next steps: the next phases of the SQY51 clinical trial, development of the molecule for other exons of Duchenne muscular dystrophy (exons 16 and 45 are in preparation) as well as for other genetic diseases (work is in progress on spinal muscular atrophy and epidermolysis bullosa), and the launch of new clinical trials testing the safety and efficacy of the molecules,” he said.

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The controversy surrounding Only Watch didn’t end there. In the following days, Santa Laura posted extensively on social media about his own research into the companies associated with Only Watch and AMM, and requested for his doubts to be addressed. Several watch collectors also left comments on Only Watch and Pettavino’s recent Instagram posts.

On October 18, Audemars Piguet withdrew its participation from the auction, and its listing was removed from the Only Watch website.

The next day, Swiss watchmaker Francois-Paul Bourne of F.P Journe voiced support for Pettavino, whom he describes as a “remarkable man”, as well as emphasised his commitment to donating to “medical charity that is necessary to save children.”

 

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Only Watch, which had been in the midst of a promotional tour throughout the whole hullabaloo, made a stop in Singapore from October 20 to 22. Its presentation of over 60 watches went on as planned, but Pettavino was absent. The auction showcase had kicked off in Los Angeles on September 6 and included stops in New York, Monaco, Hong Kong, and Bangkok.

In the wake of its postponement, which was announced on October 23, it’s unlikely to continue its final stops in Dubai (October 27) and Geneva (November 3 to 5) — which were supposed to culminate in the actual auction.

What happens next?

Now that Only Watch 2023 — which would have marked its 10th edition — has been put on hold until 2024, we can only wait for more news from its organisers and AMM. Click here to read its full press statement, and watch this space for updates.

(Main and featured image: Only Watch)

The post The Only Watch Charity Auction Has Been Postponed to 2024 — Here’s What We Know appeared first on Prestige Online - HongKong.

Here are all the watches that have gone into orbit and earned their space watch bragging rights – they’re not just Omega Speedmasters or Breitling Cosmonautes.  

The 50s and 60s were a period of intense exploration, as humankind – who have for centuries looked up in admiration of the night skies – realised their dreams of going into space. Rockets developed in the latter half of the 20th century were finally powerful enough to overcome the forces of gravity and reach orbital velocities. Sputnik 1, the Soviet’s first artificial satellite, launched into space in 1957. A year later, NASA, America’s National Aeronautics and Space Administration announced its intention to put a US astronaut into Earth’s orbit with the initiation of Project Mercury. 

It was the start of what is to become known as the space race. Newspaper headlines reported on nothing else, and all around the world, eyes were set skyward with excitement. The race was driven by none other than the two world superpowers at the time – the US and the USSR – who were vying to send man into space. 

As orbital missions drew closer, the general needs of astronauts in space came into question. What would they need to fulfil their missions? The Mercury Seven, under NASA’s programme, would unanimously request the provision of a wristwatch, which they would use as a backup device in the event the clocks in the cockpit malfunction. 

And not just America. When Russian cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin became the first human to orbit Earth in Vostok 1 on April 12, 1961, he too wore a watch over his spacesuit, a Russian brand called Sturmanskie that exclusively designed watches for the Russian military and navy troops. 

At the time, the NASA office hadn’t provided astronauts with official watches, so many US astronauts wore their own personal watches on space flights. John Glenn, who became the first American in orbit, wore a Heuer 2915a stopwatch on his wrist during his landmark flight on Mercury-Atlas 6 on February 20, 1962. And three months later, on May 24, Scott Carpenter became the second American to reach Earth’s orbit on his Mercury-Atlas 7 mission. On his wrist was the Breitling Navitimer Cosmonaute ref 809, which apart from being a chronograph – and one of the best aviation watches of the time – also came with the additional function of telling 24-hour time. Later, Walter “Wally” Schirra would become the third to orbit space, during the Mercury-Atlas 8 flight on October 3, 1962. On his wrist was his own Omega Speedmaster CK 2998. 

Bulova was also a popular choice amongst NASA astronauts. Space fans may in fact already know that the Accutron Astronaut was made for astronauts. Originally named the Accutron GMT, the watch was issued to the Mercury-Atlas 9 crew in 1963 where it was assumed that the battery-powered Bulova 214 movement would survive the harsh environments of space more than a mechanical watch would. 

By then, the solo-flight Mercury space programme was almost completed. The next scheduled space missions would include Gemini (two-man) and Apollo (three-man) flights, with a key goal to move about in space outside the spaceship. It was more pertinent than ever, that the astronaut’s equipment, including their wristwatches, would withstand and function in space. 

Astronauts once again approached Flight Crew Operations Director Donald K. Slayton about providing a watch for use during training and flight. This time, NASA approved their request. Slayton issued an internal memo stating the need for a highly durable and accurate chronograph to be used by Gemini and Apollo flight crews. A request was also sent to different watch manufactures to provide wrist-worn chronographs for testing. 

The tests that the NASA engineers devised could only be described as exceptionally radical, exceptionally brutal, and exceptionally strenuous. But then, they were dealing with exceptional conditions too. Space was uncharted territory and no one knew what conditions the astronauts would be facing. Not exactly. 

First, the watches that were put to the test had to prove that they were waterproof, shockproof and anti-magnetic. In short, the chronographs had to be reliable and precise. The second phase of testing went way beyond normal procedures – the watches were tested against extreme temperatures, extreme shock, extreme pressure and extreme frequencies. In the end, only one watch survived. The Omega Speedmaster, originally designed for racing drivers, only lost the luminous material on the dial from the gruelling qualification process. 

On March 1, 1965, the Speedmaster ST 105.003 was declared flight-qualified for all space missions under the Gemini programme. Three weeks later, the Speedmaster went to space officially for the first time on the wrists of Virgil Grissom and John Young during the Gemini III mission. The watches only had one slight modification – they were fitted with a Velcro strap so that the astronauts could wear them over their space suits. And on the Gemini IV mission on June 3 of the same year, Edward White wore a Speedmaster on the US’s first spacewalk. 

Omega continued to accompany many a space mission after that, including the milestone moon landing in 1969 aboard Apollo 11, when Neil Armstrong became the first man to walk on the lunar surface, closely followed by Buzz Aldrin, who was wearing the Speedmaster Professional on his wrist. The story was that Armstrong had left his watch in the cockpit at the time. 

The Apollo 13 mission was another moment in history for Omega when the Speedmaster watch was used to time the critical engine burns needed to ensure the safe re-entry of the heavily damaged spacecraft. Omega is often credited for the safe return of the astronauts on board, and for their services, the brand was awarded the coveted Silver Snoopy Award, the highest recognition given to those who have helped the American space programme.   

The Omega Speedmaster was, and still is, the only watch to have survived NASA’s rigorous testing, and the only official watch that’s been approved to be worn outside a spacecraft.  

But they’re not the first watch to have gone to space, nor are they the last. Space nerds and enthusiasts have worked hard to uncover all the watches that have gone to space. Omega has dominated the narrative – deservedly so of course – but there have been so many more interesting stories since.

Even though the Speedmaster was the official issue, astronaut Charles Conrad wore his own Glycine Airman on Gemini V in August 1965 and Gemini XI in September 1966. Interestingly, several Casios and Seikos made it to space during the Shuttle era from 1981 to 2011. No surprise as to how popular the GMT-Master and the GMT-Master II would be (not just on Earth it seems), as astronauts including NASA’s Lloyd Blain Hammond and Leroy Chiao were captured wearing them during their missions in the 1990s. 

As space travel grows more popular, in 2009, Cirque du Soleil CEO Guy Laliberté wore his Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Unique Piece on the Soyuz TMA-16 to the Space Station in 2009, making it the most expensive watch to have been worn to space at the time. When Japanese billionaire Yusaku Maezawa went to space aboard the Soyuz MS-20 in 2021, he took with him his Richard Mille RM27-02 Rafa Nadal. 

For the first all-civilian orbital mission in 2021, IWC created the Pilot’s Watch Chronograph Edition “Inspiration4” for each of the crew, each individually engraved for the astronaut based on their mission value: commander Jared Isaacman (Leadership), Sian Proctor (Prosperity), Hayley Arceneaux (Hope) and Chris Sembroski (Generosity). These four watches, when returned to Earth, were auctioned off for charity.

On January 19, 2022, Anton Shkaplerov was reported to be wearing the Panerai Radiomir 45mm PAM210 while working from the International Space Station. There are reportedly 1,899 watches that have flown to space thus far, according to a database built by US-based watch enthusiast Robert Jackson who leads a community of equally enthusiastic space fans to build a complete list of space watches based on empirical evidence. 

And in case you’re wondering, we’ve looked. Yes, even Apple watches have made it to space. 

The post Space Race: The Watches That Have Gone Interstellar appeared first on Prestige Online - HongKong.

When it comes to luxury timepieces, one name stands out as a symbol of innovation, exclusivity, and sophistication: Richard Mille. Join us on a journey through the upper echelons of horology, as we unveil the top 10 most expensive Richard Mille watches that redefine the meaning of opulence and style.

Since its inception in 1999, this Swiss watchmaker has been pushing the boundaries of horological design and craftsmanship. With the fusion of cutting-edge technology, lightweight materials, and a flair for futuristic aesthetics, Mille has given birth to some of the most expensive and sought-after watches on the planet.

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10 most expensive Richard Mille watches 

RM 022 AM CA: Carbon Nanotube Marvel

Price: USD 1,192,148 (HKD 9,335,824)

 The RM 022 AM CA is a remarkable luxury timepiece that is part of Richard Mille’s collection of high-performance, avant-garde collections that combine cutting-edge materials and innovative engineering. What sets the RM 022 AM CA apart is its unique construction and use of materials. The case of the watch is crafted from a composite material known as Alusic, which combines aluminium and silicon carbide. This composite is super lightweight, yet exceptionally strong, making it ideal for high-end sports watches.

The RM 022 AM CA boasts a tourbillon movement, a complex and highly regarded feature in watchmaking. The tourbillon is a rotating cage that holds the escapement and balance wheel, continuously rotating to counteract the effects of gravity on the watch’s accuracy. This level of precision and craftsmanship is a hallmark of Richard Mille watches. Additionally, it features a distinctive barrel-shaped case design, an open-worked dial, and a transparent case back that allows you to admire the intricate inner workings of the watch.

On a playful and somewhat whimsical note, it’s worth mentioning that the RM 022 AM CA features a unique detail that draws inspiration from aeronautics. The crown of the watch is designed to resemble a jet turbine engine, adding a touch of aviation-inspired flair to its overall aesthetic. This creative and unexpected element demonstrates Richard Mille’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of design in watchmaking, making the RM 022 AM CA a conversation starter and a source of fascination for those who appreciate both engineering excellence and a touch of playfulness in their timepieces.

RM 027 AK-CA Prototype: Rafael Nadal’s Tennis Companion

Price: USD 1,380,000 (HKD 10,807,125)

The RM 027 AK-CA Prototype watch stands out not only for its design and craftsmanship but also for its solid connection to the world of professional sports. The watch gained significant attention and acclaim when it was worn by legendary tennis player Rafael Nadal during his matches. This remarkable timepiece is specially engineered to withstand the extreme conditions of professional tennis, thanks to its lightweight construction and shock-resistant features. Its case is crafted from a high-tech material called Carbon TPT, which is exceptionally durable and incredibly lightweight, making it the perfect choice for athletes.

This watch, designed for one of the most physically demanding sports in the world, weighs just 20 grams, including the strap. To put this into perspective, it’s lighter than a single AA battery. This remarkable feat of engineering is achieved by using advanced materials and meticulous design, ensuring that the watch doesn’t hinder the athlete’s performance on the tennis court. Nadal’s choice to wear this extraordinary timepiece during his matches not only showcases the watch’s durability and precision, but also highlights the intersection of luxury horology and professional sports.

RM 07-02 ‘Pink Lady’: A Symphony of Elegance

Price: USD 1,360,000 (HKD 10,650,337)

Ladies, the RM 07-02 ‘Pink Lady’ is a dream! Crafted from a single block of pink crystal, this watch is a testament to meticulous artistry. Adorned with hand-cut rose gold plates and an array of diamonds, it’s no wonder this timepiece sells out before it even reaches boutiques. This timepiece not only garners attention for its distinctive design but also boasts a notable connection to the world of entertainment. It gained widespread recognition when it became the choice accessory of the global pop sensation, Rihanna.

What adds a touch of intrigue and charm to the ‘Pink Lady’ is its unconventional pink colour scheme, a deviation from the traditional palette in luxury watchmaking. This audacious choice not only catches the eye but also reflects Mille’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of his aesthetics. It injects a sense of whimsy and daring into an industry known for its seriousness, establishing this timepiece as an emblem of individuality and boldness in the world of high-end watches. It’s undoubtedly gorgeous and one of the most expensive Richard Mille watches ever made!

RM 009 Felipe Massa Tourbillon: The Lightness Revolution

Price: USD 350,000 (HKD 2,740,935)

In 2005, Richard Mille dared to challenge the status quo by creating the RM 009 Felipe Massa Tourbillon. It is like the superhero of watches, built to withstand the most extreme conditions in the world of Formula 1 racing. The fun twist? Felipe Massa, the famous Formula 1 driver, wore this watch while zooming around racetracks, taking luxury to the fast lane!

The tourbillon in the RM 009 Felipe Massa is like the watch’s secret weapon. It’s a tiny, spinning cage that holds the watch’s important bits and keeps them accurate. Even when Felipe Massa was racing like a rocket on the racetrack, the tourbillon made sure his watch didn’t miss a beat.

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RM 018 ‘Hommage a Boucheron’: A Gem of Collaboration

Price: USD 449,000 (HKD 3,516,229)

The RM 018 tourbillon is a manual-winding timepiece featuring hours, minutes, and a power reserve indicator. It’s a limited edition, with only 30 pieces available. In a remarkable collaboration celebrating Boucheron‘s founding in 1858, the iconic jeweller of the Place Vendôme teamed up with Richard Mille to create this unique watch. The RM 018 tourbillon is a true fusion of Boucheron’s expertise in exquisite jewellery craftsmanship and the innovative spirit of Richard Mille.

What sets this timepiece apart is the way precious gemstones are integrated into the movement, going beyond mere ornamentation to become an integral part of the watch’s inner workings. This represents the pinnacle of refinement combined with breathtaking technical prowess. Inspired by the 150th anniversary of Boucheron, what initially began as a friendly collaboration with Jean-Christophe Bédos, then CEO of Boucheron, quickly evolved into a profound partnership. Both companies shared a common set of values and principles in creating exceptional objects, and together, they embarked on a memorable journey.

The production of this unique tourbillon watch was a joint effort, with Richard Mille handling the case and movement while Boucheron selected and adorned the timepiece with semi-precious and precious stones such as coral, tiger eye, jade, malachite, jasper, and black onyx.. Each watch is distinct, featuring unique combinations of stones. Due to the meticulous hand-finishing and embellishment required in the production process, only five pieces of this extraordinary watch were crafted each year.

RM 27-04, No. 21/50: Rafael Nadal’s 10th Anniversary Tribute

Price: USD 1,050,000 (HKD 8,222,628)

Celebrating a decade of partnership with Rafael Nadal, Richard Mille introduced the RM 27-04. Only 50 of these timepieces were ever made, making each one as precious as a unicorn. This watch is like Rafael Nadal’s lucky charm. Imagine wearing a watch while playing tennis that can survive 12,000 Gs of force when you hit a ball! It’s like having a mini superhero on your wrist.

The RM 27-04 is so lightweight; it’s almost like wearing air. It weighs just 30 grams, which is less than a chocolate bar! Mille used a special material called TitaCarb, making the watch super light and incredibly strong. So, while you might not be a tennis pro like Nadal, wearing this watch is like having a piece of tennis history right on your wrist!

RM 56-02, No. 10/10: A Sapphire Extravaganza

Price: USD 2,200,000 (HKD 17,228,530)

In 2015, Richard Mille wowed the world with the RM 56-02 Sapphire. It is like the James Bond of watches – it’s incredibly high-tech and built to withstand anything. What makes it so cool? Well, it’s crafted from a material called sapphire, the same stuff used for bulletproof glass. Plus, it’s transparent, so you can see all the gears and gizmos inside, like a peek into the future. What’s truly impressive is that crafting this watch from sapphire is an incredibly complex and time-consuming process. It takes about 960 hours of machining and finishing to create a single case, which is about 40 days of continuous work!

Jackie Chan, the martial arts legend and actor, wore the RM 56-02. Imagine jumping off buildings and still having a watch that works flawlessly. The watch can handle shocks and vibrations like a champ, thanks to its unique movement suspension system. So, whether you’re a fan of cutting-edge engineering or an action movie aficionado, the RM 56-02 is like a crystal-clear statement of your appreciation for innovation and style, with a dash of Hollywood glamour. It’s no surprise that this one’s easily one of the most expensive Richard Mille watches to exist!

RM 001, No. 001: The Birth of a Legend

Price: USD 210,137 (HKD 1,645,594)

The RM 001, Richard Mille’s inaugural reference, marked a historic moment in watchmaking. Launched in 2001, it was the first watch to bear the Richard Mille name and introduced a new era in horology with its robust tourbillon movement, disrupting the Swiss watch industry.

The RM 001 isn’t just for keeping time; it’s like a piece of artwork for your wrist. It’s known for its skeletonised design, where you can see all the intricate gears and springs. And although it’s not known for being celebrity-worn like some other Richard Mille watches, it’s a true collector’s item, like owning a piece of history. It’s where it all began for Richard Mille, and it’s a timeless symbol of craftsmanship from the brand. 

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RM 67-02 Charles Leclerc Prototype: A Symbiotic Masterpiece

Price: USD 1,750,000 (HKD 13,704,162.50)

The RM 67-02 Charles Leclerc Prototype by Richard Mille is like the Formula 1 car of wristwatches. It’s a watch that’s made to be incredibly lightweight and tough, just like the racing cars driven by Charles Leclerc, the famous Formula 1 driver. In fact, this exquisite piece weighs a mere 32 grams, thanks to the combination of TPT composite materials, grade 5 titanium and the elastic wristband, the lightest strap ever created by the brand. Leclerc has even been spotted wearing this watch during his high-speed races.

What’s fascinating about this timepiece is its use of high-tech materials like Carbon TPT and Quartz TPT, making it super light yet durable. Designed to adapt to the athlete, it’s a true symbol of harmony between man and machine, earning its place among the most expensive Richard Mille watches. While some watches are content with just telling time, the RM 67-02 combines cutting-edge technology with a stylish design.

RM 52-01 Skull Tourbillon – ‘Vanitas Vanitatum’: The Pinnacle of Luxury

Price: USD 500,000 (HKD 3,915,450)

Our list concludes with the RM 52-01 Skull Tourbillon, the most expensive Richard Mille watch ever sold at auction. This unique timepiece’s standout feature is the bold, three-dimensional skull design on the dial, which is like a daring piece of art. But there’s more to it than just looks – it also has a tourbillon inside that makes sure the watch keeps time accurately. The Richard Mille Skull Tourbillon Vanitas Vanitatum, Ref. RM 52-01, features these skull-shaped plates and bridges within its movement. Four bridges, inspired by pirate ship crossbones, connect the movement to the 42mm brown sapphire case. This limited series from 2012 consisted of just 21 pieces.

What adds a dash of intrigue is that famous actor Sylvester Stallone, known for his roles in action-packed movies like Rocky and Rambo, has been seen wearing the RM 52-01. So, whether you’re a fan of Sylvester Stallone or simply want a watch that’s as bold as your personality, the RM 52-01 ‘Vanitas Vanitatum’ is like a cinematic masterpiece for your wrist – it’s timekeeping with a punch!

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Richard Mille has unquestionably transformed the landscape of luxury watchmaking by merging innovation, lightweight materials, and cutting-edge design. These 10 watches exemplify the brand’s dedication to challenging the limits of horology and crafting timepieces that transcend mere accessories, evolving into symbols of craftsmanship and exclusivity.

(Main and featured image credit: Richard Mille)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is a Richard Mille watch expensive?

The retail prices of Richard Mille watches are on the higher end of the spectrum, even within the realm of haute horlogerie. Currently, the most expensive Richard Mille watch is the RM 56-02 Tourbillon Sapphire, with a retail price of around USD 2 million.

How much is a Richard Mille watch?

The average price for a Richard Mille timepiece is around USD 200,000.

Why is a Richard Mille so expensive?

The company has made deals to include some proprietary materials, such as thin-ply Carbon TPT, made by Swiss brand North Thin Ply Technology. Richard Mille has the exclusive rights among watchmakers to the material, which has layers of carbon fibre, making it light and strong, the company says.

What is Richard Mille’s cheapest watch?

The cheapest Richard Mille watch is the RM 016 Automatic Winding Extra Flat, which costs USD 60,000 MSRP.

The post 10 Most Expensive Richard Mille Watches of All Time appeared first on Prestige Online - HongKong.

Since the creation of the first water clocks and sundials, mankind’s endeavour to count the seconds, minutes, hours and days has evolved in tandem with technological advances. This month, we select nine timepieces that encapsulate both material innovations and material revolutions.

Richard Mille RM 35-03 Automatic Winding Rafael Nadal

An early pioneer of advanced materials, Richard Mille was one of the first watchmakers to create cases using carbon fibre, a revolutionary choice in the early 2000s when they were mostly made from precious metals and stainless steel. Now, after more than two decades of research, development and innovation, Richard Mille has taken a huge leap by creating Carbon TPT and Quartz TPT, two materials exclusive to the brand that are used in the RM 35-03 timepiece created for tennis legend Rafael Nadal. The materials are produced by layering parallel filaments obtained by dividing carbon fibres or silica threads, which are then impregnated with resin, woven together and heat-treated in high pressure
to create an incredibly lightweight yet robust watch case and band.

Roger Dubuis Excalibur Monobalancier DBEX0949

In 2020, Roger Dubuis unveiled a new material named mineral composite fibre, or MCF, a pristine, radiant white alloy engineered from 99.95 percent silica, in which numerous layers are compressed through a sheet moulding compound process. The result, as evidenced in the resulting Excalibur Monobalancier DBEX0949 of 2021, is a material that’s 13 percent lighter than carbon fibre and 2.5 times lighter than ceramic, as well as being easier to machine. It’s also highly resistant to UV light, meaning its clear white tone will remain stable and won’t yellow as easily over the years. MCF was subsequently used in the brand’s Excalibur Spider Countach DBEX0988, a Lamborghini-inspired timepiece of which only eight pieces were made.

IWC Schaffhausen Pilot’s Watch Chronograph 41 Top Gun Ceratanium

Another material that’s recently come to the forefront of watchmaking is ceramic. You’ll find it gracing the bezels of many dive watches, such as those from Rolex and Omega, but IWC Shaffhausen has gone further by combining the material with titanium to create a new composite named Ceratanium. The patented material combines the best of both worlds, bringing the lightness and toughness of titanium with the scratch-resistance of ceramic to construct one of the most robust aviation watches you can find: the IWC Pilot’s Watch Chronograph 41 Top Gun Ceratanium. Powered by the manufacture 69385 movement, the chronograph also features a day-date display at 3 o’clock and a 46-hour power reserve.

Hublot Big Bang Integrated Tourbillon Full Blue Sapphire

Given the hardness of sapphire and the difficulties of machining the material, its use in watchmaking has long been restricted to protecting the watch’s dial. Never one to turn down a challenge, however, Hublot decided to see how far it could take the material, the result being a series of timepieces constructed almost entirely of sapphire, except for the movement. Various metal oxide combinations are also introduced to achieve a spectrum of colours, which can significantly complicate the production process. Nonetheless, the luxury Swiss watchmaker has managed to master the growing, tinting and machining crystals to create veritable works of art under its flagship Big Bang collection. They include this Integrated Tourbillon in an almost enigmatic indigo hue, which is limited to just 10 examples.

Ulysse Nardin Blast Skeleton X Carbonium Gold

Mankind has sought and chased after gold for thousands of years, the shimmering precious metal serving for millennia as an emblem of wealth and prosperity. So when the watchmakers began innovating with high-tech materials, some – like Ulysse Nardin – decided the natural next step would be to integrate gold into them. With the help of the French start-up Lavoisier Composites, the manufacture in Le Locle, Switzerland, has developed Carbonium, a green spin on carbon fibre that’s 40 to 50 percent eco-friendlier than its traditional counterpart. Two-thirds carbon fibre is fused under high pressure with one-third epoxy used as a glue, with gold threads integrated during the process to create Carbonium Gold. As seen on Ulysse Nardin’s Blast Skeleton X 43mm, the resulting finish almost resembles woodgrain.

Panerai Submersible Carbotech PAM02616

Another spin on carbon fibre is Panerai’s trademarked Carbotech, a composite the Italian watchmaker began researching more than a decade ago. With a matte black appearance and a woodgrain-like pattern, the material is produced by compressing thin sheets of carbon fibre in precisely controlled temperatures and pressures together with Polyether Ether Ketone (PEEK), a high-tech polymer. The result is a composite that’s lighter than titanium and stronger than steel, making it perfect for outdoor or combat environments, with the latter demonstrated last year through a collaboration with the US Navy Seals. Those unable to pick up one of those extremely limited editions can also turn to the brand’s Submersible Carbotech PAM02616, a fully automatic tool watch with a power reserve of three days and 30-bar water resistance.

A Lange & Söhne Tourbograph Perpetual Honeygold “Homage to F A Lange”

While the likes of Ulysse Nardin have incorporated gold into high-tech materials, more traditional watchmakers such as A Lange & Söhne have focused on developing a proprietary gold with improved material properties. To celebrate the 165th anniversary of its founding, the brand unveiled Honeygold in 2010, though its chemical formula remains tightly under wraps. What we do know, however, is that silicon is involved in the alloy, which significantly increases its hardness, which is almost akin to that of platinum. Its metallurgic composition also results in a unique appearance, somewhere between yellow rose golds, which can easily be seen in this Tourbograph Perpetual Honeygold “Homage to F A Lange”. 

Chopard Alpine Eagle XL Chrono Lucent Steel

When talking about high-tech materials, it’s easy to overlook the good old stainless steel we’ve trusted and loved for so long. In its effort to bring this metal staple up to date, Chopard has worked in partnership with Voestalpine Böhler to develop Lucent Steel A223, an alloy known for anti-allergenic properties that some have compared to surgical steel, but which is much harder than traditional stainless steel and can achieve an even glossier and more reflective finish. A perfect example of the use of Lucent Steel is in Chopard’s Alpine Eagle XL Chrono, a 44mm sports watch whose Lucent Steel case is paired with navy-blue rubber strap that matches the Aletsch dial.

MCT Sequential One S110 EVO Vantablack

You may have noticed that most material innovations used by the watch industry are mainly focused on case construction. However, Manufacture Contemporaine du Temps (MCT) has taken a different approach by employing one of this century’s most interesting coatings, Vantablack, for its dials. The material involves the use of carbon nanotubes whose thickness measures a millionth of a millimetre, all of which work together to absorb 99.965 percent of light shone on to it. Hailed by its inventor as “the blackest material in the universe, after a black hole,” it makes objects almost impossible to see. If you’re curious as to what staring into the void really feels like, you only need to strap on MCT’s Sequential One S110 Evo Vantablack to find out.

The post Forging Time: Nine Watches Built With Revolutionary Materials appeared first on Prestige Online - HongKong.

This year’s Watches and Wonders Shanghai witnessed the debut of four thrilling timepiece collections from Vacheron Constantin, all of which combine a mastery of time-honoured artisanal craftsmanship with unparalleled technical sophistication.

If you were lucky enough to have attended the Watches and Wonders Shanghai 2023 edition, which ran from September 13 to 17, you would have seen an array of magnificent timepieces from more than a dozen of the watchmaking world’s most renowned names. But if you’re wondering who stole the show, that honour – in the minds of many – went to Vacheron Constantin, who drew back the curtain of four phenomenal horological creations.

PATRIMONY
The most glamorous timepiece unveiled by Vacheron Constantin at Watches and Wonders Shanghai would have to be the Patrimony. Inspired by classic watches developed by the brand back in the 1950s, it retains the harmonious proportions and pure lines that have characterised the collection since 2004.

The slim 37mm white gold silhouette of the watch comes adorned with 769 round diamonds, while the dial is paved with 420 round diamonds using the very demanding snow-setting technique. The slightly domed dial presents an additional challenge, requiring the gem-setter to exercise tremendous dexterity and patience to obtain a perfectly even surface and stunning brilliance. Topping everything off, slender white gold hour-markers are swept over by dainty leaf-type hands, also in white gold.

Of course, aesthetic elegance and technical refinement go hand in hand, and as such the in-house Calibre 2460 SC/3 confidently marks time with precision and reliability. Finally, the interchangeable alligator leather strap, with an 18k white gold ardillon buckle set with 17 round-cut diamonds, adds a charming versatile touch.

YEAR OF THE DRAGON
The Year of the Dragon will soon be upon us, and Vacheron Constantin is getting ready to celebrate with two ornate self-winding creations featuring this mythic creature. Unveiled at Watches and Wonders Shanghai, both these Métiers d’Art The Legend of the Chinese Zodiac – Year of Dragon timepieces combine the finesse of the master enameller with the delicacy of the master engraver.

The artisan first sculpts the gold dial to create a dreamlike decor of air flows and clouds, against which the dragon stands out in snake-like silhouette. It takes more than three days of work to bring this mystical figurine to life, its body adorned with some 300 scales. The similarly hand-engraved pearl the dragon grasps – synonymous with knowledge, wisdom, and abundance – adds a spiritual dimension to the scene.

Both of these 25-piece limited editions differ in appearance, with the 40mm case in 950 platinum exhibiting a deep blue grand feu enamel dial matched with a blue alligator leather strap, while the 40mm 18k 5N pink gold version features a brown grand feu enamel dial matched with a tone-on-tone alligator leather strap.

TRIBUTE TO EXPLORER NATURALISTS
An ode to exploration, craftsmanship, and the natural world, the four 10-piece limited editions that make up the Métiers d’Art Tribute to Explorer Naturalists collection are dazzling to behold. For this series – all powered by the iconic manufacture Calibre 1120 AT/1 – Vacheron Constantin focuses on the scientific discoveries of the naturalists who travelled the world’s oceans aboard the HMS Beagle in the early 1830s (Charles Darwin being the most famous of the bunch).

These unparalleled timepieces utilise the combined talents of distinguished artisans, most notably the high-precision dexterity of the master engraver, who creates the curves and depth effects of the decoration with a touch accurate to the nearest tenth of a millimetre, and the master enameller, who tames fire as well as pigments to compose miniature masterpieces with the tip of his brush. Four days of toil are needed to bring to life each of the scenes unveiled in the heart of a 41mm white or pink gold case, whose silhouette is distinguished by an extremely slim bezel and screw-topped lugs.

TRADITIONNELLE
Putting a modern twist on a classical design, Vacheron Constantin has expanded its Traditionnelle collection with two new exceptional models. The 38mm iteration of the series features all the collection’s characteristic design codes, and is immediately recognisable by the slender, stepped case middle and the railway-type minutes track punctuating the dial, swept over by Dauphine-style hands.

The contemporary twist, however, comes in the form of a new green dial with a sunburst finish playing with light effects at every subtle flick of the wrist. On the technical side, the watchmaker has opted for a manual-winding Calibre 4400 AS, endowed with a generous 65-hour power reserve – all of which can be admired through the sapphire caseback, along with the watchmaker’s definitive Côtes de Genève decorative pattern.

A tad flashier is the 33mm model, with its pink gold case and the added radiance of 54 round-cut diamonds delicately set on the bezel. A truly luminous sight, enhanced by a tone-on-tone alligator strap, this stately timepiece is driven by an in-house manual-winding Calibre 1440 with a 42-hour power reserve.

vacheron-constantin.com

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While the new RM 30-01 Automatic with Declutchable Rotor timepiece is a highly complex mechanism, requiring craftsmanship par excellence, it still maintains the timeless lines of the classic Richard Mille tonneau shape.

To put it simply, Richard Mille does not make boring watches. If further proof is required, one needs only to gaze upon the manufacture’s latest new release – the extraordinary RM 03-01 Automatic with Declutchable Rotor – which is a revamped and more advanced rendition of the original RM 030 (which made its debut back in 2011). Essentially it can be described as a self-winding watch with a date display and power reserve indicator, although this only scratches the surface of what this tour-de-force timepiece encompasses.

The first thing to consider is the completely overhauled display, which has a much more open-worked aesthetic. The dial, interestingly, features a two-layer construction, with the first layer crafted from transparent sapphire, while the other makes use of titanium in a diamond-shaped design that mirrors the appearance of the plates and bridges of the movement.

The grade 5 titanium bridges and baseplate create perspective and depth through the multiplication of their parallel segments, while the curves of previous models have been eliminated to allow a diamond-based geometry to emerge. This, in turn, adds dynamic energy to the display of information, in which the power reserve, clutch engagement, and function-selector indicators all benefit from this unprecedented arrangement, highlighted by coloured transfers for added emphasis.

As the watch’s name suggests, the declutchable rotor feature is of major importance. It’s a complex mechanism that works to remove any tension linked to winding through a variable-geometry rotor that automatically declutches once the power reserve reaches 55 hours, and it does this by disconnecting itself from the winding mechanism. This enables the RMAR2 calibre to operate when the barrel torque benefits from the best constant torque/power ratio.

When energy starts running short – the moment the 40-hour power-reserve threshold is crossed – the rotor then reengages to rewind the barrel spring. This also allows the oscillating organ to operate while delivering excellent chronometric performance. For the wearer, it’s actually possible to observe these phases on the clutch engagement indicator, conveniently located at 11 o’clock on the watch face, which indicates whether the rotor is operating in the winding phase (on) or is disengaged (off).

The intricacies of the function selector are also noteworthy, since this feature facilitates everyday life by allowing the owner to choose their desired mode by simply pressing the pusher located at 2 o’clock. The highly visible indicator, positioned on the dial above the oversized date, illustrates the chosen option at all times – whether in “W” mode, for winding, “D” mode, for date correction, or “H” mode, for setting the hands.

Adding to the intrigue of this latest release, there are actually two uniquely configured iterations of the RM 03-01 Automatic with Declutchable Rotor available. One features a case back and bezel in 5N red gold, teamed with a case middle in grade 5 titanium, while the other is entirely machined in grade 5 titanium – which is not only a hypoallergenic material, but also boasts exceptional resistance to corrosion and shocks. Of course, despite being crafted from different materials both feature exquisite tonneau-shaped cases that measure 42mm in diameter by 17.59mm in thickness, with an overall lug-to-lug profile of 49.94mm.

Whichever version you prefer, both are beautifully enhanced with the same luxurious satin finishes and polished bevels. In addition, the overall weight has been reduced as much as possible – to a mere 96 grams, including the strap – while superior ergonomics result in a remarkably comfortable feel on the wrist. Finally, sapphire crystals with anti-reflective treatment are fitted to both the dial sides of the watch and its display caseback, while the water resistance clocks in at an impressive 50 meters.

The RM 30-01 Automatic with Declutchable Rotor epitomises the quintessence of the brand, revealing a true synthesis of the identity of its collections. It stays true to Richard Mille’s key values – ergonomics, pure lines, and exceptional finishes – despite the fact that all that complexity, coupled with the intricate geometry of the case, make it one of the most demanding timepieces to develop and produce in the entire watchmaking industry.

richardmille.com

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Outside of his accomplishments in music, American singer-songwriter John Mayer is well known for his expensive watch collection, which boasts some of the most luxurious and rarest timepieces in history.

Mayer is a seven-time Grammy Award winner. He started his career in 1999 with the independently released debut EP, Inside Wants Out. His first full-length album was Room for Squares (2001). It was a smash hit and established Mayer as a musician to watch out for.

Over the years, he has released seven more albums to critical and commercial acclaim. These include Heavier Things (2003), Continuum (2006), Battle Studies (2009), Born and Raised (2012), Paradise Valley (2013), The Search for Everything (2017) and Sob Rock (2021). He is also loved for his live performances, particularly for his guitar skills in which he is recognised as one of the best.

At the same time, Mayer rules the world of horology as one of the few bonafide celebrity watch aficionados and collectors. Over the years, he has built a distinct reputation for himself starting from his first “real” watch, a Rolex Explorer II, which he bought with his first paycheque in 2001.

In a 2015 interview with The New York Times (NYT), he said that the value of the watches he owns is “in the tens of millions.” The report said that he stored his collection in bank vaults.

Two years later, CNBC estimated that his watch collection was around 25 per cent of his net worth of USD 40 million. The report said that he owned at least one Patek Philippe watch worth USD 300,000.

Among the several types of watches that John Mayer owns are an IWC Aquatimer Jacques Cousteau, a Rolex Military Submariner Ref.5517, a Patek Philippe Ref.5970G, a Rolex Submariner Ref.5514 for COMEX edition, and multiple Rolex Daytona pieces, including one with an Omani Khanjar logo and another with the official crest of the UAE.

One of his special watches is a white-gold Patek Philippe Ref.5004G with salmon dial and 5004G with luminous hands, which was made on his request.

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Rolex Daytona ‘Paul Newman’

Price: USD 4 million (auction)

Paul Newman was one of the best actors of all time. A charismatic face from the Golden Age of Hollywood, Newman often sported a Rolex Daytona watch, which was launched originally in the 1960s and inspired by the racing history of Daytona in Florida.

The suave persona of the Oscar-winning star and the popularity of the watch gave some of the exotic variants from the series the nickname ‘Paul Newman Daytona.’ Reports suggest that the Refs.6239, 6241, 6262, 6263, 6264 or 6265 are usually identified as Rolex Daytona ‘Paul Newman’ class.

John Mayer is a fan of the watches, which are counted as one of the most coveted timepieces of all time. He has more than one Rolex Daytona ‘Paul Newman.’ One of them is an 18k yellow-gold version of Ref.6263 with a “lemon grené” dial. This particular watch is a collector’s delight. A similar model was sold at the Phillips Geneva Watch Auction in 2017 for USD 4 million, underlining the demand for the type in the secondary market.

Mayer also has a steel version of the Ref.6263 fitted with a bund strap similar to what Newman’s personal Daytona’s had as well as a Ref.6264, which has a silver dial with bluish-black sub-dials.

The singer has, however, indicated that his interest is now in vintage but non-Paul Newman-type watches.

“I remember seeing prices on the ‘Paul Newman’ Daytonas skyrocket and thinking to myself that it was time to let go of those pieces and focus a little more on the ‘plain Jane,’ non-PN versions. I’m glad I did, for several reasons – not the least of which is that I can wear them without any doubt they’re unquestionably authentic. And this version may be the coolest gold Rolex ever made,” he said on the 2019 Talking Watches series by watch publication HODINKEE.

In June 2023, Rolex released a special Daytona with a Paul Newman-inspired dial to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the 24 Hours of Le Mans endurance motor race.

Set in 18k white gold, the chronograph has a ‘reverse panda’ style layout and sub-counters with distinctive square-shaped markers seen on the prized ‘Paul Newman’ watches. The ‘100’ on the tachymeter scale on the bezel is highlighted in red ceramic as an ode to the 100th anniversary.  The price of this watch at the time of its launch was around USD 54,000. But given the rarity of the production, it is expected to go for much more in the secondary market.

Rolex Daytona Ref. 6269 and Rolex Daytona Ref. 6270

Price: USD 1.8 million (auction for Ref.6269)

John Mayer is one of the handful of people in the world who own the two costliest Rolex Daytona watches ever made.

The Ref.6269 and Ref.6270 are watches made in the 1980s, which are special because they are the only bejewelled Valjoux movement Daytona watches ever made. Both have brilliant gems on them, which were set by hand. This is why some suggest that no two pieces may be exactly identical.

The Ref.6269 has 48 brilliant-cut diamonds on the bezel. Its dial features 240 brilliant-cut diamonds. Nine brilliant-cut sapphires form its hour markers. It was the first Rolex Daytona watch designed for pure luxury and is one of the rarest ever in watch history.

Ref.6270 was originally made for the Sultan of Oman and has almost a similar look as that of Ref.6269, with baguette-cut diamonds on the bezel and sapphires for hour markers. Its sub-registers, however, have a dark bluish-purple sheen.

The exact number of the two watches and their actual price are not known. However, Christie’s auctioned a 1985-made Ref.6269 in May 2022 for around USD 1.8 million.

Rolex Daytona Rainbow

Price: USD 103,000 (retail price at launch) / USD 600,000 (secondary market)

The Rolex Daytona Rainbow is named so because of its bezel, which has gems that form the colours of a rainbow.

On an episode of Hot Ones in 2018, John Mayer proudly revealed that he has several Rolex Daytona Rainbow wristwatches.

In a conversation on Talking Watches, he said, “The attitude on a rainbow Daytona when they first came out was, ‘Yuck. Who would do that? Who would go so far?’ Something happened that’s brilliant, where the joy of collecting superseded the craziness of the design of these watches.”

The watch came in three different models: yellow gold (Ref.116598RBOW), white gold (Ref.116599RBOW), and Everose gold (Ref.116595RBOW). The first two were released in 2012 while the third came in 2018. At the time of the introduction of the Everose gold model, Rolex discontinued the previous two models.

All the watches have black dials with 56 diamonds on the mid-case and diamond lugs surrounding the dial. The gems on the bezel are in fact 36 multi-coloured sapphires cut in baguette shapes and forming the ‘VIBGYOR’ of the light spectrum. The watch indeed looks like a colourful piece of jewellery on the wrist. The Everose gold model has the hours formed by sapphires in the same rainbow pattern. The yellow gold and white gold models have diamonds as hour markers.

At the time of its launch, the Rolex Daytona Rainbow Everose gold was roughly USD 103,000. Today, the three models have a secondary market demand somewhere in the range of USD 450,000 to USD 600,000.

Among other celebrities who own a Rolex Daytona Rainbow are several musicians and footballers including Post Malone, DJ Khaled, Zlatan Ibrahimovic, David Beckham, and Cristiano Ronaldo.

Rolex Daytona ‘John Mayer’

Price: USD 34,650 (retail) / USD 520,000 (secondary market)

The 18K yellow gold Rolex Daytona Ref.116508 has a very interesting story. Launched at the Baselworld watch fair in Basel, Switzerland, in 2016, it is the first Daytona with a distinctive bright green dial. Reports suggest that the reception for the USD 34,650 watch was initially mixed to tepid.

But three years after the launch of the 40mm watch, John Mayer revealed on Talking Watches that he owned the green dial Rolex Daytona and called it a “sleeper hit”. What resulted was a tremendous surge in demand and an incredible level of popularity for the green Daytona. This is how the watch got the nickname Rolex Daytona ‘John Mayer’.

The watch is one of the most prized timepieces in the Daytona series. According to IFL Watches, its secondary market demand is as high as USD 520,000 as of July 2022. Among those who reportedly own the watch are former UFC fighter Conor McGregor and tennis great Roger Federer. There is no confirmation on whether the watch has been permanently discontinued, but some reports claim Rolex stopped making the watch in 2023. 

Patek Philippe Nautilus

Price: USD 35,000 (retail) / USD 441,000 (auction)

The Patek Philippe Nautilus Ref.5711/1A-014 is counted among the rarest Nautilus models. The Geneva-based luxury watchmaker released it at the prestigious Watches & Wonders event in 2021. The company announced at the time that 2021 would be the last year of the stainless steel model of the Nautilus 5711/1A-014.

Its exclusivity is why it is one of the costliest watches in the secondary market. In June 2022, a watch of the same make with a green dial was auctioned for USD 441,000 at Christie’s. It was described by the auction house as “a very rare and highly desirable” watch.

The price realised was more than 10 per cent over the maximum estimated range, attesting to the high demand for the Patek Philippe Nautilus 5711/1A-014. Reports suggest that a watch of the same model can fetch as much as USD 600,000 in the secondary market.

The watch shares some features with its predecessor, the blue dial Patek Philippe Nautilus 5711/1A-10. The green dial version has the classic grooved pattern on the face and a sunray-brushed finish. It has white gold hands and indexes, with a date window positioned at 3 o’clock on a white disc set within a metallic insert. Set in a 40mm stainless steel case, its movement is equipped with a 21k gold rotor.

Mayer’s watch is also one with a green dial, which he showed in a selfie. He is believed to have bought it shortly after its unveiling.

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Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Ultra Thin Tourbillon

Price: USD 350,000 (secondary market)

John Mayer owns several Audemars Piguet watches. One of them is the platinum Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Ultra Thin Tourbillon Ref.26516PT.

 

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It has a 41mm platinum case and is just 8.85mm thick. The dial is a smoky grey with a “Petite Tapisserie” pattern. The highlight of the watch is its bezel, which has 32 baguette-cut diamonds totalling 3.04 carats on the circle.

Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Minute Repeater Supersonnerie Titanium

Price: USD 321,700 (retail)

The watch was originally launched in 2014 as the Royal Oak Concept Supersonnerie. It was followed by a piece with a platinum Jules Audemars case featuring a blue dial. In 2019, Audemars Piguet introduced the Minute Repeater Ref. 26591TI version of the original watch.

The timepiece won the Men’s Complication prize at the Geneva Grand Prix the same year.

Two case types were released for the watch: a platinum one featuring a black dial and a titanium one with a blue ‘Grande Tappisserie’ dial. Mayer owns the blue-dial version.

Only 20 pieces of each type were launched, all of them exclusively at Japanese retailer Yoshida. The watch is known for making a distinctive sound emanating from a soundboard inside the caseback. The soundboard has gongs on it. Openings on the case back allow the sound waves to flow out clearly. This acoustic design is Audemars Piguet’s patented Supersonnerie system.

Audemars Piguet released an upgraded variation – a smoked grey dial set in titanium – of the watch in 2021. The watchmaker released two more versions in 2023, both in black ceramic with one featuring white gold markers and the other with baguette-diamond indices. There is one more version of the watch available, though as a special edition. It has a titanium case with a platinum bezel and a smoked burgundy dial with white gold hour markers.

When Audemars Piguet released the two new versions in 2019, they were priced at USD 321,700 for the titanium blue dial and USD 386,600 for the platinum black dial.

Patek Philippe Perpetual Calendar

Price: USD 170,000 (secondary market)

The most unique feature of the Patek Philippe Perpetual Calendar Ref.5270G watch which John Mayer owns is that it can adjust for short and long months as well as the leap days of February automatically once every four years. It is a complex system, but the watch executes the task with incredible accuracy.

The watch has three sub-dials, showing a 30-minute counter, a second dial and a moonphase-and-days dial. Placed between 4 and 5 o’clock is a small leap year indicator window. There is also a day-and-night indicator positioned between 7 and 8 o’clock. At the 12 o’clock position is the day and month counter.

Mayer’s Patek Philippe is a white gold version with a gold face and a gold bracelet, whose secondary market price is estimated at around USD 170,000.

He also has another Patek Philippe Perpetual Calendar Ref.3970EJ. This version, a vintage model, is in yellow gold. The watch was originally launched in 1986 and remained in production for the next 20 years. The watch can fetch around USD 120,000 or more on the secondary market.

Patek Philippe Aquanaut Travel Time

Price: USD 42,580 (retail) / USD 150,000 (secondary market)

John Mayer owns a Patek Philippe Aquanaut Travel Time Ref.5164A watch. One of the most unique features of the artist’s watch is that it is signed by Tiffany.

 

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The watch comes with a rubber strap – a green one in Mayer’s jewel – instead of the usual bracelets that Patek Philippe is known for. Its dual time movement which is of help to frequent flyers is what has given the watch its name. It has local and home day/night indications in apertures set on either side of the watch.

The Aquanaut was launched in 1997. It has a self-winding mechanical movement and a steel case. The new versions are resistant to both UV and salt water. Though the retail price of the new versions is around USD 40,000, they can easily go up to USD 150,000 on the secondary market depending on the year of make.

Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Extra-Thin Tourbillon

Price: USD 159,130 (retail price for latest design)

One of the favourite watches of John Mayer is a specific Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Extra-Thin Tourbillon. Though Audemars Piguet has produced several variants of the watch, Mayer particularly loves the gold-on-gold version. This watch has a pink gold case, with a pink gold bezel, a similar colour bracelet and a grid-patterned dial.

 

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Audemars Piguet released a limited-edition set of 100 new Extra-Thin Tourbillons in 2019. The all-black design came with a ceramic case, bracelet and bezel. A matching titanium case back and folding clasp made the watch stand out from its predecessor and look more ultra-modern. The dial face, too, was changed to the ripple look known as “Tapisserie Evolutive.” The retail price of this watch was USD 159,130, which means that the one Mayer has can be of far more value on the secondary market.

IWC Big Pilot

Price: Around USD 15,000 (retail)

The IWC Big Pilot Ref.5002 wristwatch that John Mayer owns has been with him for over a decade. He has been seen sporting it on several occasions.

“It’s a watch I identify with, that people identify with me,” he told NYT in his 2015 interview. “Now, all it does is tell the time and the date, that’s it. But, man, how it does it.”

The IWC Big Pilot was launched in 2002. Its design was inspired by the military navigators IWC produced in 1940.

The watch has an extra-large diameter of 46.2 mm, larger than most other luxury watches. The original 1940s look was retained with new facelifts. The watch was produced in a steel case and two limited-edition platinum versions. In 2006, a “transitional” model with a faster beat movement was introduced.

(Main image: John Mayer/@JohnMayer/Twitter; Featured image: John Mayer/@johnmayer/Instagram)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

– How much is John Mayer’s watch collection worth?

CNBC reported in 2017 that his watch collection is worth around USD 10 million.

– How much is the John Mayer Rolex?

The John Mayer Rolex, or Rolex Daytona ‘John Mayer,’ can sell for over USD 500,000 in the secondary market.

– What watches does John Mayer have?

Among the several types of watches in John Mayer’s collection are an IWC Aquatimer Jacques Cousteau, a Rolex Military Submariner, a Rolex Submariner For COMEX edition, multiple Rolex Daytona pieces, and multiple Patek Philippe watches.

– Is John Mayer a watch collector?

John Mayer is one of the most famous celebrity watch collectors and is renowned in esoteric horology circles for his insightful understanding of the watchmaking industry and his rare watch collection.

The post Most Expensive Watches In John Mayer’s Collection appeared first on Prestige Online - HongKong.

In the world of haute horlogerie, where tradition meets innovation, Bulgari continues to push boundaries and redefine the very essence of watchmaking. This year, at the prestigious Geneva Watch Days 2023, Bulgari Horlogerie SA unveiled an array of extraordinary timepieces that captured the imagination of watch enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike.

From the Octo Finissimo CarbonGold series that artfully marries high-tech anthracite carbon with opulent gold accents, to the mesmerizing Serpenti Misteriosi watches that seamlessly blend high jewelry with mechanical movements, and the enchanting Monete Catene secret watches that elevate ancient coins to new heights of luxury, Bulgari’s new releases celebrate the union of craftsmanship, creativity, and technical expertise.

In an interview with Fabrizio Buonamassa Stigliani, the Product Creation Executive Director at Bulgari Horlogerie SA, we gain insights into the creative process behind these horological marvels. Fabrizio sheds light on how the Octo Finissimo CarbonGold series harmonizes materials and aesthetics, the ingenious blend of jewellery and mechanics in Serpenti Misteriosi, and the delicate balance of history and modernity in Monete Catene. He shares how Bulgari’s designers navigate constraints, incorporate heritage, and infuse innovation into their creations, bringing forth watches that capture the essence of Bulgari’s unique vision.

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In conversation with Fabrizio Buonamassa Stigliani:

The Octo Finissimo CarbonGold series introduces an intriguing blend of materials. How did you approach designing these models to balance the technical aspects with the aesthetics of carbon and gold?

When crafting the Octo Finissimo CarbonGold series, our approach focused on achieving a harmonious fusion of materials, without being overly constrained by technical considerations. We aimed for seamless functionality and captivating aesthetics. Reflecting on our heritage, we began with inspiration from plastic watches in the 1980s. This journey led to the use of forged carbon for the case and bracelet, with solid gold bridges in the movement, marking a first for the Octo Finissimo series. Collaboration and refinement were key, with a focus on aesthetics and wearability. Technical constraints emerged during production, leading to a new bracelet design and the use of titanium for enhanced performance and design integrity.

The Serpenti Misteriosi watches blend the iconic serpent motif with high jewelry and mechanical movements. Can you share insights into how you design these pieces to maintain both functionality and visual appeal?

Designing the Serpenti Misteriosi watches is a seamless blend of Bulgari’s heritage, mechanical expertise, and artistic sensibilities. The journey began with mechanical movements becoming available as our watchmaking expertise grew. The Piccolissimo movement now graces our ladies’ watches, echoing our initial creations from the 1950s. This fusion of mechanical and jewellery craftsmanship effortlessly integrates elements like the serpent’s head, which acts as a disguise for functional aspects, allowing for transformative experiences. The blend of these elements reflects decades of experience and craftsmanship.

Is Piccolissimo the smallest mechanical movement? How do you balance the elegance of the serpent motif with accommodating the micro-mechanical movement?

Piccolissimo, though not the smallest mechanical movement available, was purposefully designed for adaptability. Unlike some alternative movements with similar dimensions in the market, Piccolissimo’s round shape and specific technical attributes were crafted to ensure compatibility with various watch forms and designs. This approach allowed for the seamless integration of Piccolissimo into Serpenti watches while preserving the motif’s elegance.

The Monete Catene watches bridge the gap between ancient coins and modern luxury. What were the creative considerations while incorporating these historical elements into the design?

The fusion of ancient coins and modern luxury in the Monete Catene watches was guided by Bulgari’s reverence for its heritage. Gourmet chains and coins played pivotal roles, with a deep respect for tradition intertwined with innovation. Gourmet chains became an extension of our identity, bridging the past with the present. The octagonal shape, inspired by historical coin collections, merged with Bulgari’s design language to ensure a harmonious marriage of aesthetics. Craftsmanship reflected Bulgari’s commitment to refined design, honouring tradition while forging ahead in luxury watchmaking.

When designing the Octo Finissimo CarbonGold Automatic and Perpetual Calendar, how did you approach creating a design that showcases the distinctive features of both the carbon case and the luxurious gold accents?

In crafting the Octo Finissimo CarbonGold Automatic and Perpetual Calendar, we aimed to harmoniously unite carbon and gold, creating a captivating visual symphony. While both models share a common essence and structural build, the Perpetual Calendar variant has its distinct dial design and intricate movement. Gold accents distinguish these models, with elements like the gold crown and solid gold bridges in the movement, adding a touch of opulence. These elements form a cohesive aesthetic thread that seamlessly weaves them together.

Can you tell us about the underlying inspiration and theme behind Bulgari’s 2023 watch collection, particularly focusing on the concept of duality in nature?

Bulgari’s 2023 watch collection draws inspiration from the concept of duality, offering two distinct variations of Piccolissimo watches. The Single watch represents minimalistic charm, while the Dual watch delves into the complexity of multiple coins, symbolizing global connections in modern life. This theme unfolds through our timepieces, capturing the essence of duality in tangible forms.

The Octo Finissimo series has been a testament to Bulgari’s pursuit of innovation. Could you share more about how you decide on the unique materials and textures that are being introduced each year?

The Octo Finissimo series reflects Bulgari’s relentless pursuit of innovation. Each year, we embrace challenges as opportunities and constraints as creative catalysts. Unique materials and textures are chosen based on creative exploration. Often, constraints lead to the discovery of novel materials and textures, igniting fresh creativity. Our design process celebrates the distinctive facets of each material, refining them to create a harmonious symphony of design. The pursuit of innovation is an ever-evolving journey, honouring design excellence and heritage.

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How would you explain the role of a product designer in watchmaking?

A product designer in watchmaking is an artist navigating the intersection of art and engineering. They shape timepieces, encapsulating a brand’s DNA into tangible expressions of luxury.Designers balance creativity with practicality, working within the parameters of production, materials, and functionality. Their role is pivotal in defining the essence of design in horology.

With Fabrizio Buonamassa Stigliani’s insights, we gain a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship, innovation, and artistic ingenuity that define Bulgari’s horological marvels. The intricate interplay of materials, mechanics, and design elements continues to shape Bulgari’s legacy in the world of haute horlogerie

Hero and Feature images: Courtesy Bulgari

This story first appeared on Lifestyle Asia.

The post Fabrizio Buonamassa Stigliani on Bulgari’s Luxury Innovations Exclusive appeared first on Prestige Online - HongKong.

In the glistening world of luxury timepieces, Rolex stands as the undisputed crown jewel, and its enduring appeal at auction houses is nothing short of legendary. What is it that elevates the brand to such remarkable heights, making every piece a veritable treasure of horological history? Join us, as we explore this through the iconic and most expensive Rolex watches sold at auction.

Discover the allure of the brand’s most exquisite timepieces that transcended utility to become symbols of status, craftsmanship, and history. From the iconic “Paul Newman” Daytona to the unique ‘Unicorn’ and the legendary ‘Bao Dai,’ delve into the stories and special features behind these watches that fetched jaw-dropping prices at eminent auction houses. These timepieces are more than just watches; they’re testaments to Rolex’s enduring legacy.

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The 10 most expensive Rolex watches sold at auction

Rolex Daytona “Paul Newman” Oyster Sotto – USD 17.8 million

There is no greater Rolex legend than the Daytona “Paul Newman” Oyster Sotto, which commanded a staggering USD 17.8 million at auction. This is the highest auction price ever! What elevates this horological marvel to unparalleled heights is its exquisite dial design, an Art Deco symphony of numerals, contrasting sub-dials, and the iconic “Paul Newman” signature. An embodiment of rarity, this magnificent chronograph wristwatch boasts the coveted ‘Oyster Sotto Paul Newman’ dial, complete with a tachymeter bezel, guarantee, and presentation box, an ensemble coveted by collectors worldwide.

This timepiece is not merely rare; it’s a masterpiece that endures time, design, and, with its association with the legendary actor and race car driver Paul Newman, was able to achieve a record-breaking price. The absence of serifs in the “Oyster” designation on the dial further emphasises its distinction. Now that’s a boast-worthy living relic from Rolex’s past!

Rolex Daytona ref 6265 ‘Unicorn’ – USD 5.9 million

The Rolex Daytona ref 6265 ‘Unicorn’ is a watch that weaves an intriguing tale of rarity and luxury. Originating in the 1970s, this timepiece stands as a paragon of distinction. What sets it apart is its ethereal white gold case, a splendid deviation from the commonplace stainless steel or yellow gold cases of Daytona models. The allure of white gold bestows upon it an aura of exclusivity and opulence, a true unicorn among Rolex’s creations. This ‘Unicorn’ earned its title by being the sole vintage white gold Rolex Cosmograph Daytona ever crafted. Until the appearance of the rare ref 6265, it was widely believed that Rolex exclusively fashioned manual-winding Daytonas in stainless steel or yellow gold cases. Rumours swirl that this particular watch was a bespoke creation for a German patron, adding an enigmatic layer to its history.

In 2018, the Rolex Daytona ref 6265 ‘Unicorn’ took centre stage at an auction, securing an astounding USD 5.9 million. This soaring price was not a mere coincidence but a reflection of its exceptional rarity, distinctive design, and the fervour of collectors vying for one of the rarest and most coveted Daytona models ever manufactured. In a heartwarming twist, the proceeds from this remarkable sale were channelled towards Children Action, a foundation dedicated to enhancing the lives of youths worldwide. The ‘Unicorn’ Daytona, a captivating blend of scarcity and magnificence, continues to enchant and inspire the world of watch enthusiasts.

Paul Newman’s Rolex Daytona, ‘Big Red’ – USD 5.48 million

In the grand symphony of Rolex auctions, a crescendo was the USD 17.8 million sale of the Rolex “Paul Newman” Daytona at Phillips in 2017. It set a high benchmark for vintage Rolex collecting. Now, Phillips has orchestrated another stunning performance by selling another vintage Daytona owned by the late actor, a ref. 6263 “Big Red,” for USD 5.48 million, including fees. This horological treasure was gifted by Newman to his daughter Clea in 2008, bearing an engraving from his wife, although somewhat less clear, that reads “Drive slowly, Joanne.” While this ‘Big Red’ Daytona fetched less than its predecessor, it claimed the title of the third most valuable Rolex sold at auction. With Newman purportedly wearing it for 25 years, this watch has witnessed some of Hollywood’s most iconic moments. It remained in the family until Clea, in the spirit of her father’s charitable causes, allowed its sale.

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Rolex GMT-Master II Ice – USD 5.5 million

Enter the dazzling Rolex GMT-Master II Ice, a product that bewitched both watch enthusiasts and auction-goers with its staggering USD 5.5 million price tag. This timepiece boasts a white gold case adorned with a stunning 30 carats of brilliant-cut diamonds, extending even to the dial and bracelet. Its design and opulence make it a true statement piece, showcasing Rolex’s exceptional ability to blend high-end craftsmanship with sheer extravagance.

The Bao Dai Rolex – USD 5.1 million

The saga of the Bao Dai Rolex is one cherished by watch aficionados. In 1954, the final emperor of Vietnam, Bao Dai, walked into a local Rolex boutique during a Geneva convention and requested to be shown the rarest Rolex ever made. Presented before him was a reference 6062 in yellow gold, boasting a black dial adorned with diamond indices.

While two other 6062s with diamond dials exist, the unique five-diamond layout of the Bao Dai renders it utterly one-of-a-kind. Initially sold by the family in 2002 for $235,000, it became one of the most expensive Rolex watches sold at auction, when it fetched USD 5.1 million at auction in Geneva in 2017. Bao Dai, whose full name is Nguyễn Phúc Vĩnh Thụy, was the 13th and final emperor of the Nguyen Dynasty. He assumed the title Bao Dai, meaning “Keeper of Greatness,” when he ascended the throne in 1925 at the tender age of 12.

Cosmograph Daytona Ref. 6263 ‘The Legend’ – USD 4.1 million

In the Rolex pantheon, the Cosmograph Daytona ref. 6263 ‘The Legend’ stands as a testament to its legendary status. Auctioned in 2017 for USD 4.1 million, it was, at the time, the second-highest price ever paid for a Rolex, trailing only the Bao Dai. Today, it still maintains its legendary aura. As one of merely three Paul Newman Daytonas housed in a yellow gold oyster case, this arresting wristwatch is among the rarest Rolexes on the market, believed to be one of the earliest examples of iconic 6263 references.

Cosmograph Platinum Zenith Daytona Ref. 16516 – USD 3.2 million

The next name on our list of Rolex extravagance also ranks among the most recognisable. This Platinum Zenith Daytona boasts a mesmerising dark blue lapis lazuli hardstone dial, a true rarity, if not entirely unique. Presented at auction for the first time in Hong Kong in 2020 by Sotheby’s, it fetched a staggering USD 3.2 million, effortlessly earning its place in the Rolex hall of fame.

Rolex Antimagnetique Ref 4113 – USD 2.5 million

The Rolex Antimagnetique ref 4113 is a piece of watchmaking history with a special place in collectors’ hearts. Crafted from stainless steel, this Rolex produced in 1942 remains the only split-seconds chronograph Rolex ever made, never offered for public sale. Just 12 of these 44mm marvels were created by Rolex and gifted to various renowned racing teams and their drivers, including Ettore Bugatti. With its split-seconds chronograph complication, the Antimagnetique ref 4113 allowed users to measure two separate events concurrently, a feature highly coveted by racing enthusiasts and professionals.

Its rarity is further accentuated by its stainless steel construction, in stark contrast to the precious metals typically used in luxury watches of that era. Though ownership histories of specific Antimagnetique ref 4113 watches can be elusive, one of these treasures was sold at a Phillips auction in Geneva in 2016 for nearly USD 2.5 million, setting a new record for the most expensive Rolex watches sold at auction at the time. The buyer’s identity remains a closely guarded secret.

Marlon Brando’s ‘Apocalypse Now’ Rolex GMT-Master – USD 1.952 million

Marlon Brando’s ‘Apocalypse Now’ Rolex GMT-Master is an iconic watch that combines both watchmaking and cinema. The specific GMT-Master worn by Brando in the 1979 film Apocalypse Now, where he portrayed Colonel Walter E. Kurtz, was produced in the late 1970s. Its value and allure are heightened by Brando’s modifications, including the removal of the bezel and replacement of the original bracelet with a leather strap.

In 2019, this cinematic treasure was auctioned by Phillips for an impressive USD 1.952 million, with the identity of the buyer remaining a well-guarded secret. This extraordinary price attests to the watch’s historical significance, its connection to a legendary actor, and its status as a highly coveted collector’s piece. Brando gifted the watch to his daughter in 1995, and a portion of the auction proceeds was earmarked for the betterment of underprivileged children.

Eric Clapton’s Rolex Daytona Oyster ‘Albino’ Ref 6263 – USD 1.4 million

The Rolex Daytona Oyster ‘Albino’ ref 6263, owned by the eminent English guitarist and singer Eric Clapton, is one of a select quartet. Distinguished by its silver dial with matching silvered totalizer chronograph sub-dials, this monochromatic masterpiece earned its ‘Albino’ moniker. It stands apart from other Daytona models, exuding an air of elegance and sophistication. Crafted in stainless steel and produced in 1971, Clapton acquired it in the late 90s.

In 2015, this exceptional Rolex was sold at a Phillips auction for a record-breaking USD 1.4 million, establishing new records for both the sale of a Rolex and specifically a Rolex Cosmograph Daytona. The identity of the fortunate buyer remains a closely guarded secret. This sale underscored the watch’s exceptional desirability and collector’s worth, with its unique design, association with the legendary Eric Clapton, and rarity as a vintage Rolex Daytona model solidifying its status as one of the most valuable and sought-after Rolex watches in history.

(Main image: Rolex; Featured image: Phillips Auctions)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Which is the most expensive Rolex sold at auction?

Paul Newman’s Rolex Daytona, which was sold for a staggering amount of USD 17.8 million at Phillips Auction House in New York in 2017.

Which is the most expensive watch in the world? 

Graff Diamonds Hallucination. Worth a whopping USD 55 million and crafted concisely from 110 carats of rare and colourful diamonds, this tops the list of the most expensive watches in the world.

Which Rolex watch does Cristiano Ronaldo own?

He owns the Rolex GMT Master II ‘Ice’.

The post Time After Time: 10 Most Expensive Rolex Watches Sold at Auction appeared first on Prestige Online - HongKong.

Omega chose sunny Sanya as the perfect backdrop to showcase 11 new watches in the Seamaster collection that celebrate its mastery of water resistance.

For the China launch of its Seamaster Summer Blue collection, Omega picked the Sanya Edition hotel and, standing under a cloudless blue sky, gazing out at the multiple lagoons and outdoor pools that surround the property and watching guests – diligently adhering to the blue dress code – saunter by, I can’t help thinking there’s no better place on this side of the world to celebrate summer. 

But don’t let Omega CEO Raynald Aeschlimann catch you calling the new additions to the Seamaster family a capsule collection. 

“I’ve heard that in Hainan it’s always summer,” Aeschlimann says jokingly. “But I don’t want to use the words summer capsule. The whole collection is about celebrating the depths in our collections.”

Summer Blue celebrates the seven most distinguished models in the large Seamaster family with the release of 11 new watches in varying shades of the colour, each corresponding to the watch’s water resistance. Ranging from sky blue to inky indigo, the collection includes Aqua Terra models at 150 metres, the Seamaster 300M, the Planet Ocean 600M and the gargantuan Ploprof – “to have a Seamaster collection without the Ploprof wouldn’t have been right,” quips Aeschlimann – down to the Ultra Deep model inked in the colour of the Mariana Trench. On the caseback of each model is a commemorative engraving of a trident-bearing Poseidon and two seahorses: Omega’s 1956 original and the brand’s current design. 

“What’s new about the design of this new collection is the fact that for the first time – and I’m quite proud of this – we went vertical,” says Aeschlimann. “It’s not a question of making more dials for the collection, but to have a link for the whole collection. The Seamaster means we’re the master of the sea. We were able to show for the first time how deep our collection can go.”

Omega’s precision is unchallenged. The brand’s development of the co-axial escapement, plus its Master Chronometer certification for its watches, are proof of its dedication to precision timekeeping. But Omega has another strength worth shouting about – its record-breaking achievements in water depths. 

In 2019, Omega’s first Ultra Deep prototypes made history when they reached the deepest place on Earth: 10,935 metres below sea level in the Mariana Trench. But that’s not enough: the brand then took the technology and went into production for the Seamaster Ultra Deep 6000m. “Our duty is not just to make a record but to create a watch that fits and feels comfortable on the wrist,” says Aeschlimann. To celebrate this incredible legacy of the depths, he wants people to wear his watches.

To pay tribute to this record-breaking dive, Omega has hidden an Easter egg. The pattern on the lacquer-finished dial is an exact representation of Challenger Deep, the deepest point of the Mariana Trench. But, more playfully, Omega has placed a secret message on the dial, revealed only when a UV light is shone on top. “Omega was here,” it says, pointing towards the world-record dive and showing the Western, Central and Eastern pools. 

Omega loves crazy ideas, I put to Aeschlimann, who smiles and nods in agreement. “But on the other side we also need some kind of coherence,” he cautions. “The colour coding of the depths was an incredible idea that linked the collection and it wasn’t something we needed to invent. The Ultra Deep was special indeed, and we could be playful because of the dark dial. But if we have too many crazy ideas then the concept gets a bit lost. For me, it’s very important to know what we’re celebrating today.”

And what the brand is celebrating is its know-how in water resistance. About finding a fun and cool way to visualise and celebrate the depths, from 150 to 300, 600 and, deep down in the abyss, 6,000 metres. 

The post Master of the Sea: Omega Celebrates Depth with the Seamaster Summer Blue appeared first on Prestige Online - HongKong.

Autumn is incoming, and fall/winter collections are rolling in. Emporio Armani has always stayed on the cusp of the latest trends and this season, with elegant and structured looks coming back in style, it looks like elevated classical designs in watches are here to stay.

For autumn and the holiday season, Emporio Armani is playing with updated textures, colours and platings in a few new takes on the women’s watch collections. New styles feature clean lines and mother-of-pearl dials on robust steel cases that are plated in rose-gold for an added luxurious feel.

One new model includes an elegant moon-phase display on a two-toned case and bracelet, while the other offers a small opening on the dial that reveals a glimpse at the automatic movement underneath.

And for a bold yet refined touch, Emporio Armani is also introducing a black ceramic watch to its collection. The bold black dial and bracelet is further elevated with pavé stones around the bezel and hour markers.

The collection is further enhanced by an array of jewellery accessories including delicate pieces with a donut hoop design, a heart design and of course, the signature eagle logo design.

You can discover more about the Emporio Armani fall/winter 2023 collection here.

You can shop the Emporio Armani collection in the locations listed below.

EMPORIO ARMANI Watch & Jewellery                     

HARBOUR CITY STORE
Shop 3305A, Gateway Arcade, 21 Canton Road, Tsim Sha Tsui      

NEW TOWN PLAZA STORE
Shop A349, Level 3, Phase 3, New Town Plaza, Shatin       

SOGO CWB STORE
Shop B16, B1/F, Sogo Department Store, 555 Hennessy Road, Causeway Bay        

VENETIAN STORE
Shop 516, L3, Bridge Street, Shoppes at Venetian, Macao              

VENETIAN STORE
Shop 738, L3, Market Street, Shoppes at Venetian, Macao             

NEW YAOHAN STORE
Shop 8, 3/F, Avenida Doutor Mário Soares n °90, Praia Grande     

WatchStation International                         

LANDMARK NORTH
Shop No.215 on Level 2, Landmark North, Sheung Shui   

VENETIAN KIOSK
K46, L3, Bridge Street, Shoppes at Venetian, Macau         

NY8 NEW YAOHAN STORE
Shop 03.03B, 2/F, Grand Lisboa Palace Resort, Rua do Tiro, Cotal 

TIME + STYLE

LCX KIOSK
Kiosk K14, LCX, Level 3, Ocean Terminal, Harbour City. Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong 

NEW YAOHAN STORE
Shop 9, 3/F, Avenida Doutor Mário Soares n °90, Praia Grande    

The post Emporio Armani Releases New Watch Styles in its Ladies Collection appeared first on Prestige Online - HongKong.

Only a few stories captivate watch enthusiasts more than the sudden reappearance of a legendary timepiece. This time, it’s the resurrection of a true gem: John Lennon’s elusive Patek Philippe Ref. 2499 Perpetual Calendar Chronograph. The horology world has long awaited its return, and the mystery surrounding its disappearance has finally been unravelled. We’ve got all the details that will get you ticking.

Here’s everything we know about John Lennon’s elusive Patek Philippe watch

John Lennon’s Patek Philippe watch surfaces after years

Phillips executive Arthur Touchot, a notable figure in the world of watches, broke the thrilling news on his Instagram – John Lennon’s Patek Philippe has been found! Naturally, the revelation rapidly sent ripples through the industry, marking the end of a decades-long quest to locate Lennon’s remarkable piece of history.

The tale of vanished timepieces is a recurring theme in the world of collectible watches. There are those like the Speedmaster worn by Buzz Aldrin during the historic moon landing and Pablo Picasso’s JLC Triple Calendar, which remain shrouded in mystery, their whereabouts unknown. Yet, on the flip side, there are stories of rediscovered watches, such as Marlon Brando’s Rolex GMT Master from Apocalypse Now and Paul Newman’s Rolex Daytona Ref. 6239, which shattered records when it sold for a staggering USD 17.7 million in 2017.

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As John Lennon’s Patek Philippe Ref. 2499 emerges from the shadows, the watch is once again in the spotlight. This iconic timepiece was a gift from his wife, Yoko Ono, on the occasion of his 40th birthday, a mere two months before his tragic assassination in 1980. Lennon’s connection to the watch is enigmatic, with only two known photographs of the Beatles legend wearing it. Shortly after his untimely death, the watch mysteriously vanished, leaving behind unanswered questions that would persist for over four decades.

John Lennon’s Patek Philippe Perpetual Calendar Chronograph Ref. 2499 is as rare as it gets

The Patek Philippe Perpetual Calendar Chronograph Ref. 2499 stands as one of the world’s most iconic, coveted, and precious timepieces. Its rarity is evident, with fewer than 400 units crafted during its illustrious 35-year production run starting from 1950 – that’s an average of nine pieces per year.

A perpetual calendar chronograph, designed to outshine Ringo’s “standard” contemporaries, boasts three sub dials. These sub dials include a 30-minute register paired with leap year indications, a date display coupled with moon-phase tracking, and a 12-hour register featuring constant seconds. Additionally, it features apertures to display both the day of the week and the month.

Who has Lennon’s Patek Philippe Perpetual Calendar Chronograph Ref. 2499?

While Arthur Touchot’s Instagram announcement may seem like breaking news, it appears that the Patek Philippe 2499 was discovered years prior, shrouded in secrecy due to a protracted legal battle. The watch now rests in the hands of lawyers representing an Italian collector. This collector had acquired the Patek Philippe from a now-defunct German auction house for a sum of CHF 600,000, which equates to approximately $672,000.

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The unravelling of this mystery dates back to 2014 when the Italian collector sought to trace the watch’s provenance. This led to a chain of events that initiated contact with Yoko Ono and set off a legal battle over the watch’s ownership. It was believed that the timepiece had been stolen by Ono’s former driver many years ago. However, the collector argued that Ono hadn’t reported the watch stolen and failed to act within three years of the theft, as required by the law in New York state, where she lives, the documents show. In June, a Geneva court ruled that Yoko Ono is the rightful owner of the Patek Philippe Ref. 2499. According to official court documents, the collector has appealed the ruling.

At present, the watch is under the custody of legal representatives.

John Lennon’s Patek Philippe is one of the most valuable timepieces in the world

As this remarkable story continues to develop, the watch world remains on tenterhooks, eagerly awaiting the final resolution of this intriguing legal and horological saga. John Lennon’s Patek Philippe Ref. 2499, with its extraordinary history and cultural significance, has the potential to command an astronomical price at auction, making it one of the most coveted and valuable timepieces in the world.

To put this into perspective, let’s consider that a yellow gold Patek Philippe ‘Asprey’ Perpetual Calendar Chronograph Ref. 2499 was sold at Sotheby’s in 2018 for a staggering 3,915,000 CHF. In the same year, Christie’s auctioned off another yellow gold Patek Philippe Ref. 2499 for an impressive 3,234,905 CHF. Now, just think about all the potential attached to the timepiece once worn by the iconic Lennon. Phew!

What is Lennon’s Patek Philippe worth at auction?

Yoko Ono’s legal team estimated the watch’s value at 4 million francs, which translates to around $4.5 million, as per the court documents. Nevertheless, experts believe that given the watch’s association with the iconic singer, its true value could potentially far exceed this estimate. “The provenance, obviously, but also the mystery around the piece is a key element,” Montagne said.

“This is undoubtedly one of the most-sought-after watches which the watch world has been hoping to see. Lennon’s Patek would likely fetch between 5 million francs and 10 million francs if it were to come to auction,” said Marc Montagne, author of the book “Invest in Watches: The Art of Watch Collecting.”

While the legal battle rages on, one can only imagine the ultimate fate of this iconic piece.

(Main and featureds image: Patek Magazine)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

What watch did John Lennon wear?

John Lennon proudly owned a unique and rare Patek Philippe reference 2499.

What is the successor of Patek 2499?

The Patek Philippe reference 3970 is part of the legendary family of Patek Philippe perpetual calendar chronographs. It is the successor to the cherished reference 2499 with its origin beginning in 1986.

How much is Eric Clapton’s Patek Philippe watch worth?

$3.6 million

The post John Lennon’s Lost Patek Philippe Watch Has Resurfaced After Four Decades appeared first on Prestige Online - HongKong.

Prestige heads to the Montreux Jazz Festival with Audemars Piguet to learn about their utmost commitment to preserving and celebrating sound. 

An invitation from Audemars Piguet to jet off to Swiss lakeside town of Montreux for a weekend of jazz seems like a pretty snazzy proposition. The Montreux Jazz Festival attracts some of the biggest names in the industry and, though jazz remains in its name and is at its core, the festival embraces a wide range of music: this year alone saw performances by Bob Dylan, Lionel Richie and Seal, alongside Lil Nas X, Sam Smith, Iggy Pop and more.

If we’re unsure why music is so important to Audemars Piguet, the watchmaker is making every plan to rectify that during our visit. But before Montreux and the festival, we’re taking a detour to the Jura mountains and the village of Le Brassus in the Vallée de Joux. It’s in this cradle of watchmaking that our journey really began.

We’re staying at the Hôtel des Horlogers, conveniently located right next to the Audemars Piguet headquarters, manufacture and museum. Designed by Bjarke Ingels and opened in June last year, the property stands on the site of the old Hôtel De France, a haunt of watchmakers since 1857, who’d come there from all over the Vallée de Joux to showcase and ship their watches to Geneva. Like its predecessor, the Hôtel des Horlogers is the watchmakers’ hotel and not just AP’s, through which everyone who’s central to the valley’s history – and watchmaking in particular – pass at some point. 

The French windows in my bedroom open directly on to the green fields at the back of the hotel and, staring out at the vast expanse, I’m struck by just how quiet it is out here – until the silence is broken by a peal of church bells that jolt me out of my reverie and remind me of our scheduled visit to the AP Museum, where a tour arranged especially for us will demonstrate just how integral music has been to Audemars Piguet since the watchmaking house’s early days. Indeed, one of the first pieces we’re shown is a ring by Daniel Piguet, dating from around 1800, that when activated shows two automatons playing a music box. 

Striking mechanisms, according to AP’s archives, have long been at the manufacture’s heart. Half of the 1,625 timepieces, pendant and pocket watches produced by the company between 1882 and 1892 featured a chiming mechanism, many of which we glimpsed at the museum. The tour also proves to be a lesson in chiming watches; we have the delightful opportunity of hearing the various melodies sounded out by some of AP’s greatest creations, from minute repeaters, which strike the hours, quarters and minutes on demand, to the Grande Sonnerie, which in addition to striking as a traditional repeater also automatically sounds the hours and each quarter hour. 

In 1994, Audemars Piguet launched its first Grande Sonnerie wristwatch, and in 2015, following eight years of research and development in collaboration with the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne (EPFL), the brand introduced its patented Supersonnerie technology, presented in the Royal Oak Concept Supersonnerie with an entirely redeveloped case construction that prevents sound absorption and boosts amplification. I remember that launch well, when Olivier Audemars, the great-grandson of the co-founder, introduced the concept watch to Hong Kong during Art Basel. While explaining its mechanisms, he held the watch some distance away from me, and yet, over the chatter and the din of the art fair, I could hear the crystal-clear tinkling resonating from the watch. 

The sound of a repeater watch is both magic and a science. Fine-tuning a repeater is no small feat, as every minute detail affects whether the timepiece will produce a good sound or not.  Such considerations include the distance between the gongs and the hammer, the shape of the gongs themselves, the materials they’re made from and how they’re tempered, where the hammers strike, how hard the hammers strike, the shape and composition of the case itself … the list goes on. 

From mastering striking watches, Audemars Piguet’s ties to music have expanded beyond watchmaking and into the broader cultural landscape. Behind the move was CEO François-Henry Bennahmias, who orchestrated ground-breaking collaborations with contemporary legends in the music world. In 2005, Audemars Piguet revealed its collaboration with Jay-Z that included a specially designed watch for the rapper’s 10th anniversary in the business. In 2009, the manufacture teamed up with Quincy Jones on his Project Q initiative, helping the artist and producer raise awareness about young people’s need for self-expression. In 2022, the brand launched the Royal Oak Offshore Music Edition, which though lacking a striking mechanism celebrates music with an entirely new aesthetic. Its Tapisserie dial has been re-interpreted with a graphic-equaliser, while the crown guards are finished to resemble the fader controls of a mixing console. This year, the brand has unveiled a 37mm black ceramic version with brightly coloured interchangeable rubber straps.

And then, of course, in 2019, Audemars Piguet became the global partner of the Montreux Jazz Festival.

To get a sense of the festival’s history, the following day, we leave Le Brassus to find ourselves high on the hills at Claude Nobs Chalets, with sweeping views down towards Lake Geneva and Montreux itself. It’s here that we learn about the music extravaganza’s origins and the extraordinary feats of its late founder, Claude Nobs, whose singular vision was to record the best jazz ensembles from around the world in live concerts in the late 1960s. The visionary’s love for both the sleepy Swiss lakeside resort and jazz turned Montreux into one of the biggest and most unmissable music events of the century. Moreover, as a result of Nobs’ foresight almost half a century’s music has been recorded – more than 20,000 musicians have played at Montreux with over 11,000 hours of live music meticulously preserved and digitised by the Claud Nobs Foundation and EPFL. 

Recognising its importance, Audemars Piguet began supporting the Montreux Jazz Digital Project in 2010; three years later, the archives were inscribed on the Unesco Memory of the World Register. 

A visit to Claude Nobs Chalets is a rare treat and a real privilege. Nobs’ former residence has become a living shrine to his many obsessions, not only vinyl records and musical instruments, but also model trains and planes, and vintage arcade machines. The memorabilia-filled residence is testament to how important Nobs was to some of the most famous musicians of our time. Freddie Mercury gave him his piano, which stands in the basement. A toy phone autographed by Sheryl Crow takes a prime space on his work desk. Paintings and artworks by David Bowie dot the stairwells and his bedroom walls. 

A few steps away from the main house is the smaller, but no less important, Le Picotin, which houses all the Montreux Jazz Festival archives. The magic lies in the attic, whose beams hide an array of speakers and microphones that pick up sound and bounces it back as though you’re standing on the Festival’s main stage in the Auditorium Stravinski. We climb the stairs to Herbie Hancock and Lang Lang’s electrifying piano duet of George Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue. Then, in a change of pace, we’re treated to David Bowie performing “Life on Mars”, and, as a finale, Prince delivering “Purple Rain”. It’s as if we’re there. We ask for an encore and are treated to Pharrell’s light-hearted and catchy “Happy”.   

We’re told Sam Smith initially had reservations about being recorded at Montreux, but changed his mind after visiting Claude Nobs Chalets. We would too. Artists and musicians are known to sequester themselves at the remote Chalets for inspiration and recording. In 1971, Deep Purple was recording at Montreux as Frank Zappa was performing a set at the Montreux Casino, when a fan set off a flare that burned down the venue. The British band, seeing Lake Geneva covered in smoke, penned “Smoke on the Water”, with lyrics that go, “They burned down the gambling house/ It died with an awful sound/ Funky Claude was running in and out/ He was pulling kids out the ground now.”

If the hotel in Le Brassus was where the best watchmakers of the day would hang out, then Claude Nobs Chalet was where the world’s most celebrated musicians collided. Quincy Jones and Phil Collins have entertained there. Shania Twain stayed there in 2020. 

Just think, the first festival in 1967 saw artists such as Miles Davies, Keith Jarrett, Nina Simone and Ella Fitzgerald perform over three days in the Montreux Casino. It was so successful that by the 1970s the festival had branched out to accommodate blues and rock. Today it spans two weeks, attracts more than 250,000 people from around the world and takes over the entire town. 

The various stages are scattered around Lake Geneva and food and drink vendors line the sidewalks, serving everything from hot dogs to raclette to asado. We explore the three-storey Lake House and sip champagne in AP’s exclusive lounge, before heading over to watch our first act of the evening, the talented Brazilian singer Roberta Sá, who earned a Latin Grammy nomination for Best New Artist in 2008. Her performance demonstrates the exceptional acoustics of the Auditorium Stravinksi, the festival’s largest stage, whose intimate and personal setting has led several artists to rethink their sets. The resulting freedom to experiment new sound has made the live concerts at Montreux Jazz Festival that much more special. Following Roberta Sá, the legendary Gilberto Gil comes on to play. The 81-year-old is known for his experimental style, with music ranging from jazz, reggae and rock, to political and funk. Later, we head over to the Montreux Jazz Lab, where the energy is on a different level. The smaller venue attracts a decidedly younger crowd and is featuring the Worakls Orchetra, a rising French DJ and electronic musician who gets the room moving with his pumped-up beats. 

Audemars Piguet has also found an active role with the big names pulled in by the festival each year. Last year, the manufacture introduced the Audemars Piguet Parallel programme, wherein the brand stages a series of intimate concerts in addition to the festival’s official line-up, with selected artists performing in a unique concert set-up and a contest that offers members of the public a chance to attend free-of-charge. This year’s artists include Turkish DJ Carlita, British band Metronomy and Berlin collective Keinemusik.

Sadly we miss the grand finale by Mark Ronson. The long-term AP brand ambassador joined Montreux in 2022 as part of the APXMUSIC programme, when he starred in Syncing Sounds, a three-episode series showcasing the making of “Too Much” with rising R&B artist Lucky Daye. This year, he’s back for a second chapter of Syncing Sounds, plus a new role as curator for the festival’s closing concert, where he plays alongside a group of artists and close friends.

And so, at Montreux Jazz Festival, the legacy of Claude Nobs lives on, as does that of Audemars Piguet in the Vallée du Joux, with its striking complications. Both with one eye to the past and the other to the future, celebrating the magic of sound. 

The post The Beat Goes On: Audemars Piguet and the Montreux Jazz Festival’s Sound Alliance appeared first on Prestige Online - HongKong.

These watches are real treasures for the collectors who are willing to spend a huge cheque. Here are the most expensive watches ever sold at an auction.

There are several factors that contribute to the price of a watch. The materials used and the craftsmanship required are certainly key components, as watches that are adorned with delicate diamonds are deemed to be higher in value.

However, most of the time, what’s most valuable is the exclusivity and the story behind each model. This is the case with John Lennon’s Patek Philippe 2499 Perpetual Calendar Chronograph, which was gifted to him by his wife Yoko Ono on his 40th birthday. The timepiece was stolen after Lennon’s death but has now resurfaced, currently in the possession of the lawyers of an Italian watch collector. Because of its original owner and the history behind the timepiece, it is one of the most valuable watches in the world, expected to be sold at auction at at least $4.5 million.

Like Lennon’s Patek Philippe, these watches have background and stories that catch the watch collector’s interest. A lot of them are actually one-of-a-kind. Here are the 7 most expensive watches ever auctioned.

[Hero and featured image credit: Christie’s]

7 Most Expensive Watches Ever Sold at an Auction

Patek Philippe Stainless Steel Ref. 5016A-010

Although this model was produced for a period time from 1993 to 2011, this particular stainless steel timepiece was crafted for the Only Watch 2015 auction by revisiting its own predecessor. This beautiful watch has a minute repeater, a tourbillon mechanism, a perpetual calendar and a retrograde date. The blue dial made of grand-feu enamel has never existed before on this reference.

Price: $7.3 million approx. at Phillips

Patek Philippe Dual-Crown Worldtime Ref. 2523 Eurasia

This beautiful Worldtime with a Eurasia map in the centre was produced in a time when crossing time zones was not so common back in 1955, making it one of the only three known watches with the Eurasia map on the dial. Nowadays, this extraordinary timepiece, which has also been kept in beautiful condition, was praised with a soaring auction price in 2021 as a true work of art.

Price: $7.7 million approx. at Phillips

Patek Philippe Gobbi Milan “Heures Universelles” Ref. 2523

Struck by a cerulean blue enamel dial, this stunning design is the only known watch that features the signature of both Patek Philippe and Gobbi, an Italian jewellery and watch retailer. This Worldtimer has an 18K rose gold case and dual crowns; one of the seven World Time 2523 movements.

Price: $9 million approx. at Christie’s

Patek Philippe Prince Mohammed Tewlik A. Toussou Ref. 1518

This Patek Philippe model, with the combination of pink dial and yellow gold case, was exclusively produced for only 14 pieces in the world. To elevate the exclusivity, this particular timepiece was bought and owned by Prince Mohammed Tewfik A. of Egypt. It is yet another example of a timepiece that was once owned by the royalty.

Price: $9.6 million approx. at Sotheby’s

Patek Philippe Stainless Steel Ref. 1518

This exceptional Patek Philippe Stainless Steel is one of the four watches that was crafted in stainless steel. In other words, it is a super rare creation that was inherently released in the middle of the World War II. With the world’s very first perpetual calendar function, Valjoux watch movement, and eye-catching design, it is the wristwatch that influenced the later models of Patek Philippe even until today.

Price: $11.1 million approx. at Phillips

Patek Philippe Henry Graves Supercomplication

Once the most complicated watches in the world, the Patek Philippe Henry Graves Supercomplication boasts over 24 distinct complications. The number may seem common, but given that it was produced in the year 1933 for American collector Henry Graves Jr., the model is an innovation. This gold pocket watch features Westminster chimes, perpetual calendar, sunrise and sunset time, and quite amazingly, a celestial map of New York from the perspective of Graves’s own apartment. The watch was sold for about $11 million in a 1999 auction before breaking its own record at Sotheby’s 2014 auction.

Price: $24 million approx. at Sotheby’s

Patek Philippe Grandmaster Chime Ref. 6300A-010

The model that tops as the most expensive watch in the world belongs to the Patek Philippe Grandmaster Chime collection. The Grandmaster Chime was first launched in 2014, but this no-ordinary watch is the only of its kind that is crafted in stainless steel not metal, and is the most complex watch that the brand has ever made. It has 20 complications, amongst them are an acoustic alarm, a date repeater, a moon phase display, and a perpetual calendar. It was sold at the Only Watch 2019 auction.

Price: $31.2 million approx. at Christie’s

The post The Most Expensive Watches Ever Sold at an Auction appeared first on Prestige Online - HongKong.

The world of horology is always ever-evolving and experimenting, and the latest kind of timepiece to hit the world of time watches is ring watches. Ring watches are a distinctive and stylish subset of the watch industry, blending both the worlds of horology and jewellery. They are prized for their craftsmanship, aesthetics, and uniqueness, making them an appealing choice for those looking to make a fashion statement or own a collectable piece of history.

These kinds of watches are crafted with attention to detail and often feature intricate designs, precious metals (such as gold or platinum), gemstones (like diamonds, sapphires, or emeralds), and enamel work. Their small size allows for intricate and artistic embellishments.

The best bit is that ring watches are often chosen for their novelty and as conversation pieces, rather than for practical timekeeping. Reading the time on this kind of timepiece may require a slight adjustment compared to a traditional wristwatch, but it’s all part of the charm!

What are ring watches?

Ring watches are a type of timepiece that can be worn on the finger like a ring. They combine the functionality of a watch with the aesthetic appeal of a piece of jewellery.

They typically feature a small watch face embedded into a ring, allowing the wearer to conveniently check the time without needing to wear a traditional wristwatch. These watches often come in various designs and materials, catering to different styles and preferences.

Why are these timepieces trending?

Recently, Fossil launched watch rings in a stainless steel model with gold, silver and copper tones. It comes with a built-in sound watch and a dial that looks like one of the company’s iconic wristwatches. The brand also collaborated with Barbie on a floral version last month.

Casio too gave its nod to the trend by launching its G-Shock ring watches that are only currently available in Japan. Even, contemporary jewellery brands such as M Jewelers from New York, feature a pinky-shaped watch ring that looks a lot like an old-school Casio.

Not only that but TikTok too is behind watch rings going viral. Many content creators are promoting the secondhand luxury watch market.

This has brought a whole new generation of vintage watch aficionados into the fold. With over 150 million searches for ‘luxury second-hand watches’ on TikTok alone, they are bringing what used to be a closed world to the masses.

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How to style these watches?

The accessory dates all the way back to 18th-century European fashion. It’s a timepiece that was mostly seen in men’s wardrobes at the time.

Like the trench watch or pendant watch, it’s long since gone out of fashion. However, in the late 1800s and early 1900s, heritage brands such as Rolex and Patek Phillipe also started to release their own ring watches.

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It’s the antique look combined with the androgynous style that makes this kind of timepiece even more versatile. Let it be your standout timepiece.

We suggest ditching your bracelets and other rings in order to make the watch stand out. And if it is golden and has diamonds encrusted, we suggest you wear it with an LBD and let your digits do the talking. Or simply match your manicure with the dial of your watch. How cool is that! Isn’t it?

Try your hands at this understated rose gold option that can be paired with a dainty pink finger ring. Check out the link here.

For those looking to invest, this vintage Jaeger-Le Coultre Watch Ring will be a lovely addition. What makes this vintage timepiece a great collectable is that the dial is cream-coloured and the hour markers are gold. While the hands are gold and the dial has a circular face. It has all the original components including the dial, crown, and hands. It is made of a 9ct Yellow Gold Case with a Plain Gold Split Shank. Get your hands on this watch ring here.

(Main and feature image: montrevintage_/ Instagram)