#helvet magazine Zermatt | Winter 2018-2019 | EN

living the high life

Zermatt

Zermatt / Winter 2018-2019

The majestic Alps and the ultimate ski experience loom ahead and, under the snow-covered rooftops, time stands still.

Living the high life

HAPPY HEARTS COLLECTION

Elegance is an attitude Mikaela Shiffrin

Bahnhofplatz, Zermatt

Conquest V.H.P.

Tissot T-Touch Solar tactile Zermatt Special Edition.

© THOMAS CRAUWELS

POWERED BY SOLAR ENERGY WITH 20 TACTILE FUNCTIONS INCLUDING ALTIMETER WEATHER FORECAST AND COMPASS.

Tissot boutique: BAHNHOFPLATZ 2 — 3920 ZERMATT

#ThisIsYourTime

T I S S OT WATC H E S . C O M TISSOT, INNOVATORS BY TRADITION

Editorial The Station of Superlatives Just when it seemed like we had to get used to brown winters, the 2017-2018 winter season proved us wrong. Snow still knows how to fall in great, generous quantities, to the extent that it can still cut stations like Zermatt off from the rest of the world.

And in that precious moment of isolation only the falling snowflakes matter.

Time is of no importance as the roar of the outside world is silenced beneath a thick, white glaze that spills like a flood in every direction, as far as the eye can see.

Last winter was extraordinary, and while we can only hope for more of the same this winter, Zermatt does not seem to be worried. Its high altitude shields it from the risks of late snow or early melting. The mountain resort is surrounded by a multitude of Alpine peaks, including 38 that are over 4,000 m, which dip and flow into one another to create an almost otherworldly tapestry- the very incarnation of timeless Switzerland.

Here, far above the damp, lonely valleys is where the magic happens.

The ambiance in this exceptional Alpine setting reflects many past achievements.

Zermatt is not just a (gorgeous) postcard village to be savored from a beautiful balcony lounge chair. It has a long, storied past pieced together by many individuals, from adventurers to farmers, who have had their feet on the ground and their eyes on the mountains for centuries. Every local family here has at least one guide, renowned skier, alpinist, rescue worker, or distinguished athlete amongst their ranks. In some cases they become all-stars, like Andreas Steindl and his all-consuming love for the Matterhorn, racking up achievements with as much modesty as vigor, all in the name of that “intense feeling of being alive.”

Many of these families are the same ones working together to define the future of the village with insightful (and classically Swiss) moderation. Their goal is to preserve Zermatt and its unique car-free atmosphere, maintaining its cherished position on the outskirts of society while also ensuring the village takes its rightful place amongst the luxuries and zeal of the future. Many of these families are also the ones who made the recent inauguration of the Klein Matterhorn T3 tramway possible it’s the highest elevation tramway of its kind (3,883 m), bringing Zermatt ever closer to Italy.

Today, the Matter Valley is much more than an accidental cul-de-sac on one’s journey- Zermatt has become a destination (the destination) in of itself.

Christian Bugnon

Publisher & Editor-in-chief

Contents 16

88

News

Hotel Cervo

Winter 2018-2019

Alpine Style

22

96

A Real Alpine Experience

Matterhorn

Matterhorn Paradise

Tackling the Matterhorn Dream

28

The Omnia Design from Head to Toe 34

Portfolio Sylvia Michel 44

Interview Andreas Biner 48

Nabucco Penthouse Luxury and Indulgence 54

Chalet Aconcagua A Cocoon of Light 64

Haute joaillerie Diamonds Every Which Way 72

Haute horlogerie When Time is of the Essence 78

Interview Xavier Dietlin 80

Verbier – Zermatt via the Haute Route 84

Unplugged The Famous Acoustic Festival

100

Haute Cartography Sculpted From Wood or Ceramic 105

Simon, Martin and Samuel Anthamatten Three Brothers Who Love the Mountains 106

The Zermatterhof Riding in Comfort 110

Riffelhaus 1853 Swiss Attitude 114

Trends Watches 121

Watch Fairs Where the Best Convene 123

Zermatt’s Watch Stores the Bahnhofstrasse 124

The Glacier Express A Legendary Experience 128

Trends Luxury

Editing, administration and advertising CB Communication sàrl I Place de l’Hôtel de Ville 2 – 1110 Morges - Suisse I info@cbcommunication.swiss I www.cbcommunication.swiss I Tel: +41 21 312 41 41, Fax: +41 21 312 41 11 | 30° degrees magazine special issue Editor-in-chief Christian Bugnon: christian@cbcommunication.swiss Assistant Mélissa Hertzeisen: melissa@cbcommunication.swiss Writers (in order of appearance) Daniel Bauchervez, Valérie Perren, Serge Greter, Claude Hervé-Bazin, Nathalie Cobos, Olivier Müller, Sophie Czaplejewicz, Laurent Grabet, Marie de Pimodan-Bugnon, Hadrien Cauvelez, Isabelle Guignet, Christian Bugnon Photographers (in order of appearance) Michael Portmann, The Omnia, Sylvia Michel, Sarah Deriaz, Yves Garneau, Lauffenburger, Gian Giovanoli, Thomas Crauwels, Andeers, Zermatterhof, Mauro Pinterowitsch, Glacier Express Layout District Creative Lab – Sandy Chanel, Camille Deillon, Tania Bétrisey, (AD) Alexandre Henriques, (AD) Christian Bugnon English translation Karen Cooper German translation Sabine Dröschel Photo-offset printing Images 3 Advertising info@cbcommunication.swiss Copyright ©2018 helvet magazine, Unauthorized duplication/copying of all or any part of this magazine is strictly prohibited without the express prior permission of the rightful owners. Cover Wirat Suandee | Next issue: winter 2019-2020 I as part of the same collection, discover the helvet book: Verbier – magazine helvet Verbier | shop at www.helvet.swiss Living the high life!

Hotels

news Winter 2018-2019

Riffelhaus: a legendary

hotel

is table-based and for up to four task with ease as Europe’s highest

people, inclusive of a choice of

(2,548 m) 4-star hotel, located

main course and desert in addi-

on the slopes of Zermatt. A lot

tion to water, Valais wines, local

has changed since the first team

schnapps and (obviously) incredi-

attempting to scale Dufour Peak

ble views for 94 CHF per person.

roped up here… today the Mat-

www.matterhornparadise.ch/fondue

terhorn offers incredible views

Not everyone can hit 165

from the gorgeous wood-cov-

years old and still look this

ered bedrooms and the outdoor

dashing. And yet the iconic

Jacuzzi (there’s also a spa!).

Riffelhaus Hotel manages the

www.riffelhaus.ch

Hotels

22

Summits,

the new

boutique hotel 22 summits- that’s exactly the number of rooms this venue boasts that look down over the village and its beautiful Alpine surroundings. With an inauguration set for Christmas 2018, this 4-star boutique hotel has everything one would need: a breathtaking view of the Matterhorn, modern decor that seamlessly blends clean lines with traditional Alpine wooden panels, bathrooms just as large as the bedrooms, and, to ensure full relaxation, a hip bar and a

Event

The new Matterhorn

glacier

Eating out mance tramway and it uses the

Lift cabin

Up to 2000 people per hour

fondue

can take the 7.5 m per second

Do you enjoy fondue and ski lift

journey (a 9-minute ride in to-

ambiance? If so, you’re in luck-

tal). The extra large windows in

from December to mid-March

latest technologies to ensure

ride

an exceptionally smooth ride.

After three long years of plan-

certain cabins offer the ultimate

you’ll be able to enjoy both

ning and construction, the

in panoramic views, while four

simultaneously with Zermatt

new 3S cableway connecting

of the cabins have been deco-

Bergbahnen. Every Tuesday

Trockener Steg (2,939 m) and

rated in thousands of Swarovski

and Thursday they’ll be offer-

the KleinMatterhorn (3,883 m)

crystals for a truly sparkling

ing a chance to enjoy fondue in

is finally open. This is Europe’s

mountain experience!

the 18:30 cable car heading to-

highest-altitude high-perfor-

www.matterhornparadise.ch

wards Trockener Steg. The meal

large, two-story wellness center. www.22summits.ch

Family

Hotels

Wolli Card, Schönegg, a

for kids Relais & Châteaux the “open sesame”

In Zermatt, children under the

free (Gornergrat train included)

in Zermatt

thanks to the Wolli Card! The

Schönegg is the first establish-

card is free but only available

ment in Zermatt to become part of

to families spending at least one

the esteemed Relais & Châteaux

night in Zermatt. The card also

network. Connected to the vil-

covers the children’s additional

lage center by elevator, this venue

costs for overnight stays in a va-

promises exceptional face-to-face

riety of hotels and apartments.

meetings with Zermatt’s most fa-

This is the first year that the

mous icon: the Matterhorn. This

Wolli Card can be acquired

exceptional mountain can be sa-

(very easily) online.

age of nine can use the lifts for

Ski area

company also transports goods

Ski passes

(for the Unplugged Festival, for

vored from the restaurant, the ter-

pricing

to Zermatt) and the region’s air-

www.matterhornparadise.ch/

race, or from many of the venue’s

Starting this winter, the price

French-speaking Switzerland.

wollicard

48 bedrooms. The rooms inside

of ski passes will be calculated

www.3535.ch

the Petit Chalet (separated from

based on frequency of use at the

the main building) are remarka-

time of purchase and the season

ble for their chalet-like ambiance

(three seasons have been de-

that’s simultaneously both cozy

fined: low, medium and high).

and contemporary. The feeling is

The goal is to spread out the

completed by an abundance of old

number of visitors across the

wood with modern elements and

entire season and attract addi-

an exceptionally enjoyable spa.

tional visitors with lower prices

www.schonegg.ch

during off-peak periods. Online

Ski area

Rewards for loyal

skiers

Buying a season pass in Zer-

Activities

Air Zermatt:

move to dynamic

example) and provides transfers to and from Täsch (the gateway ports. It even offers a door-todoor service for the residents of

Eating out

Resto

1818

5% off and additional discounts

Eat&Drink

may be offered for booking far

Tucked into a hidden alley off

in advance, in addition to baby,

Bahnhofstrasse, just a few steps

child and youth discounts that

away from the church, lies the

reservations enjoy an additional

matt certainly has its perks:

the sky’s the limit

in addition to unlimited slope

The helicopter company Air

are also still available.

restaurant 1818 Eat&Drink.

and Gornergrat train access,

Zermatt was originally found-

www.matterhornparadise.ch

Housed inside an old patina

one also receives 500 francs

ed half a century ago as a rescue

worth of vouchers. Included

service for mountaineers in dis-

in the package are: two guest

tress. 35,000 rescues later, there

pass tickets, one “First Track”

is no doubt that the company is a

access pass to ski before the

world leader and one of the most

slopes officially open, 10%

experienced in the field. But Air

off at the Zermatt Bergbahnen

Zermatt also offers recreational

for Zermatt

boutique and at the Matterhorn

activities like flyovers (one can

Zermatt is happily a car-free

with high temperature BBQ be-

Glacier Paradise restaurant, and

see 38 of the peaks over 4,000

place, but how do you get around

ing their specialty (along with

two passes to ski the 3-Valleys

m around Zermatt), chauffeur

when you’re weighed down with

a few Mediterranean dishes for

(Courchevel - Val Thorens -

services, heli-ski drop-offs, and

bags or you don’t feel up to

those few resistant diners). 1818

Méribel) and Mount Ruapehu

even gourmet happy hours and

walking? Taxi Christophe has

is open for the season from De-

(in New Zealand!).

food tours at the area’s highest

the answer, thanks to its elec-

cember 20, 2018 - April 6, 2019,

www.matterhornparadise.ch/

altitude restaurants.

tric vehicles, which glide silent-

every night except Monday.

webshop

www.air-zermatt.ch

ly along the resort’s streets. The

www.1818zermatt.ch

Mobility

Taxis

chalet, this venue is true to its Alpine roots- authentic local dishes are served directly in the iron pan, beneath a low roof, facing a bar with cow skin stools. Local dishes here echo the authenticity of the venue,

17

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Alpinism

Eating out

New Matterhorn

The eternal

records

Zum See

ascension Andreas Steindl should be proud.

One doesn’t end up at Max and

On August 27th, this Alpine guide set a new record for the ascent of the Matterhorn leaving from the Place de l’église, beating the previous four-hour record with a time of 3 hours, 59 minutes and 52 seconds. The occasion also marked

news

cuisine of Greti Mennig’s restaurant by

Eating out

Myoko, enjoy Japanese

mistake. Zum See is located below Furi in a charming XVII

hall, bar, ski room, pool, and

century chalet with an enor-

conference rooms have all been

mous panoramic terrace at 1,766

majorly renovated for an updat-

m. The keys to its success are

ed chic new look. A gym, kid’s

the fresh, local products that

club and smoking lounge have

make exceptional Valais dishes

all been added, and the restau-

him beating his own personal re-

in the heart of the Alps

cord time between the Hörnlihütte

Raclette certainly has its quali-

and that only occasionally stray

rant selection has been expand-

and the summit (1 hour, 45 min-

ties, but sometimes one craves

into other more cosmopolitan,

ed to include fine fondues and

utes and 37 seconds), a record

something else entirely...

Mediterranean influences. The

regional specialties, wood-oven

that would be beaten once again

Thankfully, Zermatt has a few

restaurant is open daily for the

stone plate pizza, ceviche and

just two weeks later when he was

delightfully exotic offerings.

winter season from mid-Decem-

American-style BBQ.

accompanied by Italian François

Of these, the restaurant Myoko,

ber to mid-April, from 12:00 to

www.schweizerhofzermatt.ch

Cazzanelli. Their goal was to

inside the Mont Cervin Palace,

17:00.

climb the Matterhorn in one day

offers up some of the best Jap-

www.zumsee.ch

via its four ridges (Hörnli, Furgg,

anese culinary experiences on a

Zmutt and Lion) and they did it in

silver platter: sushi and sashimi

a record time of 16 hours and 4

on the ground floor and “grill

minutes. Only two other alpinists

acrobatics” on the first floor,

in history have already achieved

where one sits directly around a

this feat in 1992… but it took them

teppanyaki grill and watches the

The Schweizerhof hotel is one

royal

23 hours and 30 minutes. Andreas

culinary acrobatics of the chefs

of Zermatt’s most historic estab-

Built for the owners of the fa-

Steindl knows the Matterhorn like

(trained in Japan) at work. Here

lishments and will be reopen-

mous high-altitude restaurant

the back of his hand: he’s climbed

everything is fresh and the ele-

ing its doors on December 21st

Zum See, this chalet near the

it now 93 times (and the first time

gant decor extends the journey.

following eight months of con-

town center contains four high-

was with his parents when he was

Bon voyage!

struction. Its 95 suites and bed-

end apartments. Each apart-

14 years old!).

www.montcervinpalace.ch

rooms, reception and entrance

ment takes up an entire floor

Hotels

Reinventing the Schweizerhof hotel

Hotels

Chalet Altesse :

and they are all contemporary in design with clean lines and an abundance of natural light. The ground floor apartment boasts a large terrace with a garden and views of the Matterhorn, while the upper floors each have exceptional balcony views, and the top floor penthouse enjoys a cathedral living room. All apartments have access to a heated ski room and a wellness space (with a sauna and steam room), along with croissants and bread that are delivered fresh every morning. www.altesse.ch

19

Sport

news

Zermatters, the mountain

Epicurean happy hour:

rendez-vous with

the Matterhorn at the Zermatterhof

ganic and seasonal products with a focus on vegan and vegetarian

unites

options) and the Le Gourmand

In the interest of more-effective

but with the added touch of being

joint promotion, the Mountain

fast and on-the-go).

Guides’ Office and the Zermatt

www.continental-zermatt.ch

Ski School have joined forces un-

www.brasserieuno.com

der a new name: the “Zermatters.”

www.legourmand-zermatt.ch

The concept unites a vast array of

Après-ski

brewery (which features local, or-

expertise under one roof, including some 180 passionate guides and teachers that touch every mountain domain- from climbing to skiing, mountain biking, hiking, snow-shoeing and even ice climbing. May the games begin! www.zermatters.ch

snack bar (also with a focus on fresh, high-quality, local products,

Cinema

Movie

night at

Vernissage

Eating out

The timeless

Vrony In the Alpine fields of Findeln

at 2,100 m, the restaurant Chez Vrony is a local favorite for many Zermatt residents. It’s cherished for its incredible panoramic views, which overlook the Matterhorn from the terrace, and its gourmet cuisine that comes mostly from local-

Le Vernissage is a sort of gate-

ly-grown organic produce and

Zermatt

way between worlds, designed

exclusively Alpine-grass-fed

by Zermatt architect and artist

cattle. All-time menu favorites

Heinz Julen to be a movie theat-

include the house special vian-

er, lounge bar, night club and art

de séchée (dried meat) and the

an abundance of

gallery in one. Here the latest

Vrony Burger.

choice

blockbusters rub shoulders with

www.chezvrony.ch

Zermatt’s gastronomy scene is re-

who was taught to use a camera

that’s not what really makes this

markably impressive- no less than

by none other than Walt Disney

experience unique- that’s what

17 of its restaurant are recognized

himself. One can even dine be-

happens in the Lusi brewery’s

by Gault&Millau for a total of 242

fore the movie with the “Cine

terrace lounge, one of Zermatt’s

points! But there is delicious food

Dinner” package for 85 francs.

most beautiful venues, lit up at

for any budget here, as proven

The classics Menschen am Mat-

Swiss outfitter Mammut was

night by candlelight. The ambi-

by the opening of three new af-

terhorn and Whymper’s Weg auf’s

founded in Argovie in 1862, just

ance (and the view of the Mat-

fordable restaurant options: the

Matterhorn show on Tuesdays

three years before the first as-

terhorn) is exceptional.

Japanese restaurant Shogun (with

and Thursdays at 18:00.

cent of the Matterhorn, and has

www.zermatterhof.ch

a largely Japanese staff), the Uno

www.backstagehotel.ch

now become the official sup-

While the children can enjoy a homemade lemonade or a mango smoothie, the adults can sip champagne and wine, enjoy a cocktail, or sample a tarte flambée and the many other delicious tapas. One can even enjoy high English tea, with all the fixings fit for a queen. But

Eating out

Restaurants:

local films from the 1950s by Julen Sr., a ski instructor and guide

Partnerships

Mammut partners

with the ski and

alpinism schools

plier of the Mountain Guides’ Office and the Zermatt Ski School (recently united under the shared moniker “Zermatters”). These major players in Swiss mountain life have joined forces, which means the group’s 400 guides and ski monitors will all be equipped with Eiger Extreme products for the 20192020 winter season. www.zermatters.ch www.mammut.com

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A Real Alpine Experience Matterhorn Paradise Text: Daniel Bauchervez / Photos: Michael Portmann

23

The lowest part of the area is at an altitude of 1,620 m, while the highest part- Europe’s highest ski lift on Gobba di Rollin- is at 3,899 m. Named the “Best Ski Resort” in 2014 and 2016 (and in second place for 2018), Zermatt is by far the most famous ski resort on the continent. Here’s why.

Firstly, there’s the village, cherished for its authenticity and serenity, the absence of cars, and the high quality of its facilities. There’s the iconic Matterhorn, which reigns over this corner of the valley like a queen, surrounded by the largest concentration of high summits in the Alps: no fewer than 38 different peaks here reach over 4,000 m.

Then, there’s the Matterhorn ski paradise: 145 slopes for all levels crisscross the 360 km ski domain between Switzerland and Italy, of which three quarters are glaciers or are covered by snow cannons in case of light snow. It’s difficult to experience it all in a single day, so one must choose: sections of Rothorn, Gornergrat, the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise (which makes the Theodul Glacier accessible, even for summer skiing), or perhaps the sun-kissed, southern-facing Italian slopes near Breuil-Cervinia or Valtournenche…

Either way, one has 146 hectares of packed snow available, made up of 23% blue level slopes, 68% red, and 9% black, not to mention a snowpark and Wolli Park for kids in Sunnegga (complete with a magic carpet).

It also matters how you get there. Zermatt is known for its newly-renovated, high-class infrastructure (where one rarely has to wait in line). The brand new T3 cable car connecting Trockener Steg (2,939 m) and the Klein Matterhorn (3,883 m) allows double the amount of riders to make the journey starting this winter season. It’s an impressive installation that moves quickly and smoothly across only three pillars-

Skiing amongst 30 of the highest Alpine summits is great; skiing at the base of the Matterhorn is even better.

BE SMART - BOOK ONLINE!

Ski to your heart’s content on up to 360 kilometres of slopes against an astounding alpine backdrop between Zermatt and Breuil-Cervinia. Visit matterhornparadise.ch for the easy way to book your day’s skiing in Zermatt and avoid the queue on the piste. As a web shop customer, you will also be rewarded with a 5% online discount and have guaranteed access to the best price for your ski pass.

Here one can ski on-piste or off to enjoy the sensation of free riding- just make sure to be in shape and well-equipped for the experience.

an exceptional feat of engineering that also offers riders extraordinary views. While Zermatt embraces new technology, it also remains true to its origins as embodied by the Gornergrat cog train, inaugurated in 1898 and still running strong today. The ride offers 33 minutes of joy with nonstop views of the Matterhorn and the long, frozen Gorner Glacier- the second longest glacier in the country at 12.2 km.

So Swiss.

And of course, there’s the legendary ski runs. First on the list is the run that connects the Klein Matterhorn to the heart of Zermatt: it’s 25 km of non-stop skiing and 2,263 m of altitude change. On the way, one can expect breathtaking views of the Matterhorn, notably from the Sandiger Boden slope (n°63) or the Matterhorn slope (n°69), which run close to the mountain. For the more experienced, the Pista Nera del Cervino (n°59) at the base of the southern mountain face offers a guaranteed thrill, with some passages on a 65° angle. Another accessible highlight is the “First Track” pass between Trockener Steg and Furi, offered all season long every Wednesday and Friday starting at 7:40, before the slopes open to the general public. It’s the best way to feel alone among the mountains. www.matterhornparadise.ch 27

The Omnia Design from Head to Toe Text: ValĂŠrie Perren / Photos: The Omnia

29

1

Previous page: High above Zermatt in the shadow of the Matterhorn, is the Omnia, twice elected Leading Boutique Hotel in Switzerland at the World Travel Awards.

1. The restaurant’s fireplace embodies simplicity and is built into an ultra-modern granite wall.

2. This double room features a Japanese ceder bathtub beneath a skylight.

3. Every space inside the Omnia is bespoke and designed with intention.

As a contemporary refuge that looks down over the snow-covered rooftops of Zermatt, the Omnia Hotel seems to float above the heart of the village on a hill surrounded by pine trees. Its unique panoramic location is paired with unrivalled tranquility. Nothing is left to be desired at the Omnia, as its Latin-based name (which means “everything”) implies perfectly. So it should come as no surprise that this luxurious establishment was crowned (for the second time in 2018) by the World Travel Awards as Switzerland’s Leading Boutique Hotel.

The Omnia is perched on a natural pedestal that provides panoramic views of Zermatt and the surrounding mountains from the terrace, while one pampers oneself to the fullest (draped in faux-fur blankets, of course). Push open the doors and what do you see? It may be a lobby or it may be a library… or perhaps it’s a bit of both. Either way

3

2

31

1. The wellness center’s large pool overlooks incredible views and the Jacuzzi on the open terrace.

2. From left to right: Michelle Janitschke, Tony Rudolph, Rebecca Kalbermatten, Tamara Brunner, Hauke Pohl, Christian Eckert (Managing Director), Julia Hartung, Ana Patricia Ferreira Pinto, Cornelia Brändli, Markus Rösch.

1

2

one thing is certain: hours can easily fly by here before the crackling fireplace. The interior decor of granite and leather, in shades of oak, taupe, grey and black, creates a sensual aesthetic where nothing was left to chance. Every material, every element, and every detail come together in an alchemy that is the very essence of the space.

The Omnia’s design also reflects an authentic cultural dialogue. New York City-based architect Ali Tayar (who passed away in 2016) created the space to be a happy union between an American-style mountain lodge and a (very) classically minimalist Alpine chalet. Even if the chosen materials have their roots in Valais traditions, the interior space here is largely defined by a modern American aesthetic. Most of the interior’s furniture was specially designed by the architect for the hotel, embracing an elegantly demure style that’s reminiscent of Mies van der Rohe’s Bauhaus influence or the modular constructions of USM (a family-owned Swiss company, founded in Munisenges (BE) in 1885, whose iconic contemporary designs are still on display in New York City’s Museum of Modern Art). Like any timelessly great Swiss product, these designs are known for a quality, precision, and reliability that elegantly combines with refined materials and clean, uncluttered lines — all fundamental values that make up the Omnia identity.

Numbers cannot do the space justice: 18 rooms (ranging from 24 to 45m2) and 12 suites (70-110 m2) each assume their own unique personality and disposition. Every room has a different size and layout. Some revolve around an open fireplace, while for others the star is the kitchen, the private sauna, an all-glass bathroom that faces the mountains, or a balcony that embraces the Matterhorn.

The restaurant goes by the same name as the hotel and champions the local spirit of stone walls and a roaring, open fireplace, complete with its neatly-piled wood reserves always within arm’s reach. The restaurant’s French-trained chef, Hauke Pohl, is known for his contemporary cuisine that features both regional and cosmopolitan accents, along with seasonally-inspired menus.

And where does one even begin when it comes to wellness?

The Finnish sauna, Turkish baths, and the caldarium all represent the best of the world’s wellness options present at the Omnia. The long pool seems to spill out onto the mountains, overlooking the panoramic terrace through immense windows that also shelter a secret... anyone looking for fresh air needs only dive beneath the divider to find themselves surrounded by the mountains with the Matterhorn as company for a dip in the Jacuzzi. www.the-omnia.com

33

Sylvia Michel Portfolio Text: ValĂŠrie Perren / Photos: Sylvia Michel

Pages 34-35: Good things come to those who wait. Emerging here for just a brief moment in the cloudy sky, the Matterhorn glows in the sunset’s orange light.

One more example of when patience paid off: this opening in the orange sky only lasted 20Â seconds, before closing over the mountain peaks once again.

37

The first sun’s rays illuminate the east side of the Matterhorn, while Zermatt seems to still slumber in the shadows of the valley below.

39

Anticipating the angle, light, distance and crop is good... being ready to capture the unforeseeable (like this magic moment) is even better.

This Spring, Sylvia Michel filmed a video of her dog (Rasta) in the Zermatt valley surrounded by dandelion fields and the magnificent Alpine landscape. When she posted the clip on her Instagram channel, captioned “A white dog walking in paradise,” who would have guessed the video would go viral? Today it has over 50 million views and was even featured on USA Today’s YouTube channel.

At 45-years-old, Michel is much more than an Instagram celebrity. In 2018, she won the Swiss National Award at the world’s biggest photography competition: the Sony World Photography Awards. Her winning photo was taken at night and is entitled “Erleuchtet.” The photo features a solitary, illuminated, snow-covered pine tree, timidly poised beneath a starry Alpine sky. “As someone who’s entirely self-taught, I often doubted my own photography skills. Winning a prize as coveted as this was a sort of blessing; it really helped reinforce the fact that I’m on the right path.”

Many Irons in the Fire Sylvia Michel started taking pictures as a young teenager. “They’re nothing like what I shoot today,” she specifies. “Everything was analogue back then. I had a simple

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* Zenith, le futur de l’horlogerie suisse

DEF Y EL PRIMERO 21

Z E N I T H , T H E F U T U R E O F S W I S S W AT C H M A K I N G *

w w w . z e n i t h - w a t c h e s . c o m

Every season here is different.

This luminous photo of the Matterhorn was taken in the middle of summer (August 2017), one day after 10 cm of unexpected snow.

point-and-shoot camera and knew very little.” As time passed Michel’s career took center stage. She had her professional start in hospitality, she mixed music in bars and clubs, and then she worked for a Swiss radio station for fifteen years. Her weekends were spent planning music for weddings where she began taking pictures of flowers, the bridal party, and their guests. Little by little, photography became more of a focal point in her life. That’s when she decided to take the leap: she rented a studio, bought some professional equipment and made the transition to fulltime wedding and portrait photographer.

The Beauty of the Mountains Michel’s transition into photography would continue with the help of a dog- that famous white dog that was featured in her viral Instagram video. Rasta loves the snow and Michel would accompany him for long walks, going ever higher into the mountains… until they won her over. “When I’m on a mountain summit looking down over the entire valley below, I am simply happy. It’s an intense moment of pure joy.”

Michel goes on these adventures with her camera on hand, as her favorite shots are almost always spontaneous. “When the fog or the clouds roll in, you have to act quickly. When nature gives you that chance to capture her magic, you have to be ready. There have been moments where I’ve been so moved by nature’s incredible performance that it’s brought tears to my eyes.” So what inspires her most? Taking dramatic, out-of-the-ordinary photos that reveal nature’s beauty to people who would not normally notice it. She hopes her photos invite spectators to stay for just a moment and take it all in.

The Magic of the Night Her first visit to Zermatt was a revelation. She was fascinated by the Matterhorn and it inspired her to begin experimenting with nighttime photography. Michel was so intrigued by the mountain, she found herself waking up in the middle of the night to simply stare at it… and then attempt to immortalize it. “I paced my balcony like a tiger in a cage,” she said, “trying to capture the Matterhorn with my camera. But I didn’t have the right lens and I knew nothing about what exposure I should be using.”

Today, Sylvia Michel’s nighttime photography isn’t improvised at all. Once she’s locked down a very specific idea, Michel anticipates her shooting angle in advance, plans out the necessary equipment, and chooses her moment in accordance with the weather and the seasons. “Photos of the Milky Way are rarely spontaneous. Nothing can be left to chance. To get them just right, you need to wait for a new moon, ideally between March and October, when the sky is its most beautiful,” she confirms.

Sylvia Michel is fascinated by the night’s silence and the profound peace that comes with it, particularly in places that are bustling with activity during the day. “Stelli Lake for example, is completely swarmed with visitors during the day but is just as beautiful at night. The funny thing is that capturing that moment is a paradox- every photo I take makes other people want to have that experience and take their own version of that same photo.” And yet for now, Sylvia Michel is still one step ahead of the crowds. She finds her passion in that “in-between”- that moment of calm that’s sparked by the magic of simple existence. www.michelphotography.ch 43

Andreas Biner “We need to tackle the challenges of the future together” Text: Valérie Perren / Photo: Sarah Deriaz

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ONE OF THE THREE PLACES TO STAY IN ZERMATT.* * Sorry, for not mentioning the other two.

zermatterhof.ch

The Zermatt Civic Community reported positive business results at its last general assembly.

President Andreas Biner, who is also President and Managing Director of Matterhorn Group Management SA, discusses the reasons behind that success and presents his vision for the future of tourism in Zermatt.

What do the names Biner, Julen, Taugwalder and Aufdenblatten all have in common? They are all names of wellknown families that are long-term residents in Zermatt.

They are also a key part of the Zermatt Civic Community, which currently counts around 1500 members in its ranks.

Ever since tourism first began at the base of the Matterhorn, the local Civic Community has played a decisive role in shaping the town’s development. In addition to being involved in the logging industry, the group also holds shares in a variety of local tourism companies, notably Zermatt Bergbahnen SA, of which the group is the main shareholder.

Yet the primary focus of the group is still the successful operation of more than a dozen hotels and restaurants that are part of the Matterhorn Group. The Matterhorn Group boasts some 33 million francs in annual sales revenue and employs 350 people, making it one of the most important employers in the region and one of the largest tourism service providers in Zermatt. In 2017, the hotels and restaurants in the Civic Community’s portfolio alone were responsible for 11% of the city’s annual sales revenue and saw a cashflow increase of 17.2%.

the Sonntagszeitung’s ranking. Do you think these awards

Mr. Biner, looking at last year, the Matterhorn Group generated 3.3 million francs in annual sales revenue and had a cash-flow of around 800,000 francs. How do you explain this major increase?

An improvement in the overall economy, a slight weakening of the Swiss Franc, and good weather conditions have all had positive effects on our annual results. Internally, there are also two reasons that contribute to this evolution.

Firstly, we are always working to refine and improve our marketing and our sales efforts. The introduction of various digital tools has allowed us to really understand and better exploit our online marketing in new ways. Secondly, we recently acquired the Continental Hotel (a 3-star facility) which boosted our overall accommodation-based revenues.

What do you see for the future of Zermatt?

I believe Zermatt is well positioned right now, but even so, we are being confronted with some serious challenges.

Discounted packages for seaside travel destinations have had an impact on how we can price our own offering. In order to survive and avoid the downward spiral of ever lower prices, our overall offering must be extremely attractive and of the highest quality. At the same time, we need to take into account the fact that people have intrinsically different needs depending on whether they are traveling on their own or with a group - and there’s a risk of losing clients in the first category, especially in the summer, if they don’t feel comfortable staying with us. The solution for Zermatt is to ensure a healthy balance and a coexistence of the two types of visitors. And that requires cooperation between all of the service providers doing business here. The key players in the industry are currently reviewing Zermatt’s approach to all of this. I am confident that all parties are really interested in a viable, long-term solution. We just have to make sure that everyone is on the same page and that we all work together.

The overall quality of services in the area has also improved dramatically. The gastronomy restaurant Prato Borni received 15 points by Gault&Millau, the Rothorn Pizzaria won a Swiss Gastro award, and the Grand Hôtel Zermatterhof is one of the 20 best hotels in Switzerland according to

have anything to do with the big renovations that have taken place here over the past few years?

That’s surely one of the reasons. Over the past 15 years we’ve invested almost 110 million francs in Civic Community hotels and restaurants to ensure we meet the ever-evolving demands of our most stringent guests. At the Grand Hôtel Zermatterhof, which is Zermatt’s flagship 5-star hotel, regular renovations are required to satisfy our client’s expectations. Last year, for example, we invested considerable sums renovating the main entrance hall, the meeting rooms and the back office of the establishment. And to also do our part to contribute towards sustainable environmental practices, we also replaced the Zermatterhof’s oil-based heating system in exchange for a new renewable energy-based system.

That said, top-quality infrastructure is simply not enough to be successful. So in addition to renovations, we’ve also improved the quality of our service. Over the past few years, the Matterhorn Group’s activities have been certified by the ISO 9001:2008 Quality Management System and by the ISO 14001 Environmental Management System.

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Nabucco Penthouse Luxury and Indulgence Text: Serge Greter / Photos: Yves Garneau

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1. Wood, white decor, warmth and light‌ the master suite, with access to a private balcony, is the perfect place to spend a relaxing afternoon with someone special, far from the concerns of the everyday world.

2. The apartment skilfully combines clean lines, wide open spaces, and well-defined areas: the lounge and fireplace here, the office and TV nook there.

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In a quiet neighborhood near the town center, this high-end penthouse takes one’s breath away with the harmony found in the union of its sleek modern lines and traditional materials.

1. Flooding into the bedroom, the sinking afternoon sun highlights the remarkable headboard decorated with an image of the “mountain of mountains”, taken by the owner.

2. The marriage of wood and ethereal whites is echoed throughout the property, as seen here in the bathroom of the master bedroom – accessible from two sides.

3. While the sun plays hide-andseek with the Matterhorn, the discreet lighting arranged under the beams also bathes the room in warm, pleasant light.

The Nabucco Penthouse, named after the Verdi opera, is a place of architectural splendor worthy of La Scala and any great Babylonian King. This luxurious space incorporates only the best of ancient Mesopotamia, while also offering modern upscale conveniences like the elevator that leads directly to the apartment entrance. The doors open to a hallway made of elegant wooden beams that reveal the heart of the space: a vast, cathedral-like living and dining room area, built around a direct view of the majestic Matterhorn.

This 437 m2 space is one of Zermatt’s most exclusive. It’s the plush and perfect union of mountain tradition and contemporary comfort. The apartment’s floors and accent walls of elegant, upcycled wood contrast beautifully with the modernity of the ceiling’s exposed, white beams. The living room’s proud fireplace is double-sided, allowing those in the kitchen (where a second dining area is located) to also fully enjoy its crackling heat. Tucked into a corner of the main dining area is a charming TV nook, located below two of the bedrooms and furnished with the very latest in audiovisual technology.

A spectacular stairway leads to the inviting second floor, which is dominated by the large master bedroom, its fireplace, ensuite bathroom, and balcony overlooking the Matterhorn. The two additional bedrooms, which share a bathroom, are further complimented by an open office space directly above the TV nook. All rooms boast closets and cupboards that are flush with the walls, giving the entire apartment a sleek, minimal feel that’s practical without disrupting the ethereal harmony intended by its architects.

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Chalet Aconcagua A Cocoon of Light Text: Claude HervĂŠ-Bazin / Photos: Yves Garneau

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Previous page : The lights, curtains, even the rug seem to come to life with the gentle movement of the beams of light that cross the space of their elegant domain – supreme luxury in a room abounding with warm tones.

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1. Dining under the extravagance of Italian chandeliers is rather like preparing for a walk along rooftops bordered with stalactites of ice.

2. While space is often a rarity in the mountains, there is no lack of it here. From the sitting room to the dining room — a feast of endless details.

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1. Shadows and objects combine perfectly to create a sensual space, further softened by the luxurious touch of its fabrics and linens.

2. A (cosy) room. A (vast) balcony.

The Matterhorn. The trilogy of luxury.

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7 Heavens seems like the perfect name for a mountain paradise. Named after the seven most emblematic peaks of the planet, 7 Heavens counts seven ultra high-luxury chalets as part of its offering. Among them is the Chalet Aconcagua, visual proof that architecture can sometimes find itself at the mercy of contemporary needs and artisan know-how.

The true art behind architecture lies in clarity, or as Le Corbusier put it: “To create architecture is to put in order. Put in what order? Function and objects.” The Chalet Aconcagua has been designed with a precision that addresses and then immediately eliminates any conflict that could be present in its build. It’s beautiful, balanced and harmonious. Earthy browns and subtle off-whites echo the ancient wood paneling, while hints of silver accent the linens and luxurious rugs. The palette continues to graciously expand with taupe and the elegant grays of the ceramic tiles, not to mention the stunning accent wall in deep, matte black — a black so deep that light itself seems to take on new dimensions in its presence. Here, light is so much more than a simple necessity, it profoundly shapes the space and brings the many exceptional pieces of art to life, including this fantastic, stalactite-inspired suspension piece from Italy that decorates the dining room.

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EMBRACE CHAOS.

The bed that prepares you for whatever your day has in store.

Be awake for the first time in your life. www.hastens.com VISIT OUR POP-UP-STORE IN ZERMATT BY DESTINATION HOME: HOFMATTSTRASSE 7, 3920 ZERMATT, +41 (0) 27 967 32 62 GSTAAD - SAANEN | DORFSTRASSE 66, 3792 SAANEN, +41 (0) 33 744 20 12, GSTAAD@HASTENSSTORES.COM GENÈVE | RUE DU RHÔNE 65, 1204 GENÈVE, +41 (0) 22 300 08 87, GENEVE@HASTENSSTORES.COM BERN | BUNDESGASSE 20, 3011 BERN, +41 (0) 31 311 24 24, BERN@HASTENSSTORES.COM

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Just mentioning attention to detail feels redundant; every single part of the space is a detail and every single element was purposely chosen. Every window and every wall was part of something bigger, an extremely well-thought-out plan to transform the 550 m2 of chalet space into an escape of cozy opulence. The high-level tech involved is also mind-boggling and just one look at the kitchens is enough to convince any chef trained in a top-class restaurant that this is a place worthy of their talent (they are often part of the in-house team managed by Haute Montagne).

It’s all there: TV room, gym and, of course, the upper-level spa with a large, tiled Jacuzzi and a beautiful jade-colored steam room. In short, the Germany-based Diesigner team did more than succeed in their mission on this one: they may very well have reset the bar on what it means to design and build true luxury alpine chalets. www.7heavens.ch

1. Soak in the dark, steaming hot comfort of this large jacuzzi, and soothe muscles sore from a good day on the slopes. What could be better than that?

2. The wellness space of the Aconcagua chalet combines alpine wood with drapes and metal panels crafted with touches of the Orient. Rest and calm guaranteed.

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OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

THURSDAY 17 JANUARY Registration at sihh.org

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Diamonds every which way Symbolic of the sun in the time of the pharaohs, the diamond, which has been rumoured to ward off evil spirits, is also a powerful symbol of purity and eternity. Its colour, caratage, clarity and cut are all means by which we analyze its beauty objectively. Yet one must admit, the attraction to the diamond comes from somewhere else entirely: one is instinctively drawn to that sparkling circle, an ode to light and perfection. The creations that are featured on the following pages are all embodiments of one’s wildest dreams and craziest emotions.

Text: Nathalie Cobos

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Previous page: Chopard Diamond necklace, Silk Road Collection

Cartier Twisting Light Bracelet, RĂŠsonances Collection

This exceptional necklace by Chopard is an homage to grace and movement, brought to life by stunning heart-shaped diamonds. Delicate and fashioned with the greatest care, this precious adornment drapes one’s collarbones like infinite poetry, with spectacular results.

Two triangular diamonds face off, aimed towards the sky, reflecting their brilliance against one another and the bracelet’s accompanying interior diamonds. Energy runs from stone to stone in the heart of this transparent beauty. Subtle gestures and movements bring it to life as it follows rhythm and fluidity. Bordering on sacred geometry, this striking piece is sure to please.

Bulgari Yellow diamond and diamond necklace Like a cascade of light, these diamonds stream elegantly towards their sumptuous pearshaped, yellow diamond centerpiece. This piece is an example of true master craftsmanship and rare creativity, where the light of every stone embraces the other in a series of infinite reflections.

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Previous page: Messika Shards of Mirror necklace, Once Upon a Time collection This sculptural piece of light evokes a frozen lake shattered into a thousand pieces. The diamonds on this necklace have an air of ethereal symmetry, never once touching one another. The design is a beautiful example of Valérie Messika’s work, as she constantly reinterprets and reimagines the boundaries of the Snow Queen’s universe.

Adler Diwali earrings As a highlight on the Indian calendar, Diwali is a celebration of light and the new year, associated with the God Vishnu and his wife, Lakshmi. Adler has captured their brilliance with this collection and diffused it into the universe through a thousand smaller sparks, like a scattering of embers in the night. Here, diamonds and white gold dance in celebration of femininity.

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Right hand page: Van cleef Moon ring, The Secret collection

Chanel Eternal necklace, L’Esprit du Lion Collection

Inspired by the moon and its eternal cycles, this ring represents desire in every form of metamorphosis. In a game of intriguing hide and seek, diamonds and onyx representing light and dark, take turns dominating the face of this piece through an ingenious rotating mechanism.

The lion has always been a preferred source of inspiration and an emblem for Gabrielle Chanel. In this case, the lion acts as the beacon for a multitude of diamond and white gold chains that each have their own unique design. The necklace toys with disorder, ultimately coming together in a way that is bold, unexpected, and yet very enchanting.

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When time is of the essence With designs that are an ode to the purity of diamonds, today’s watchmakers flirt on the edge of timelessness. And while the clock’s hands may inevitably turn, time itself has nearly been forgotten. Here, the focus is on beauty. Here, in the end, it doesn’t matter what time it is, as long as it is treasured.

Text: Nathalie Cobos

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Previous page: Van Cleef & Arpels Emerald Cadenas Watch The Van Cleef & Arpels Cadenas watch was first created in 1953 and has since become an icon. Bold and timelessly avantgarde, it features a distinctive design with harmonious curves.

This jeweled timepiece is disguised as a bracelet of precious stones, with an angled dial that allows one to read the time with the utmost discretion.

Chanel Yachting Day watch-necklace, Flying Cloud collection Is it a watch worn around one’s neck or a necklace that thinks it’s a watch? Playing on our understanding of these basic principles, Chanel’s watch-necklace transcends the constraints of traditional definitions. Feminine cultured pearls and timeless diamonds bring this piece to life, giving it an ethereal quality of the utmost elegance.

Bulgari Diva’s Dream Watch Beauty may never be captured, but it can (occasionally) be tamed. This unique piece features a motif originally inspired by the mosaics of the Caracalla Baths, reminiscent of the peacock. In tribute to this magnificently cheeky bird, fan-shaped diamonds encircle the watch face and trickle brilliantly down the bracelet.

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Graff High Jewelry secret watch At first glance, one could never tell this bracelet actually harbours a watch. The diamonds, which seem to be placed haphazardly, are actually set with utmost precision: the diamond cover can be slid open seamlessly via a hidden mechanism, allowing access to the hidden watch within. The perfect combination of elegance and technical sophistication.

Chopard L’Heure du Diamant watch This singular design is a vibrant homage to the opal and all its mysteries. Iridescent and flamboyant, the opal has fascinated for centuries. Encased here in a discreetly elegant oval watch face, the opal shines in all its glory, accented by a flamboyant paving of diamonds that truly make this piece exceptional.

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Xavier Dietlin Rock’n’roll Altitude Text: Olivier Müller / Photo: Lauffenburger

Xavier Dietlin has revolutionized what it means to sell watches. His magical shop windows have seduced practically every single Swiss Made watch brand with their playful and interactive experiences. We take a look at the man behind the artist, who always enjoys a visit to Zermatt to unwind.

Any artisan work requires heart and Xavier Dietlin left his in Zermatt. This man, who’s very attached to this ski town, can look back as he approaches his 50th birthday and realize he has left his mark on the Swiss watch industry. Not as a watch designer; Swiss Made watchmaking has more than enough talent in that area. Where Xavier Dietlin excels is in bringing those designs to light, in every sense of the word.

Dietlin has been tapped by Hublot, Omega, Blancpain, Audemars Piguet, Breguet, F.P. Journe, and dozens of others. His storefront windows exist in a world of their own.

“When I took over my father’s business 20 years ago, I realized that everyone was fighting to do the exact same thing: dead window displays, glass cages that blocked all visual and tactile contact with the product. In my own way, I tried to change that.”

Former Pro Footballer His approach is elegant and decidedly modern. Xavier Dietlin specializes in using a vast array of technology (from interactive windows and video, to holograms, 3D imagery, and virtual reality) to make the glass cage disappear and let emotions take center stage.

This approach applies to the artist as much as it does to the man behind the art. As a former professional footballer for Servette FC and for Sion, Dietlin is an eternal athlete who goes after the best in life with a predatory smile. Overflowing with passion he devours his work, reinventing his creations and himself all the time, wherever he goes. His time in Zermatt is no exception to this rule and he’s been coming here for the past ten years. “I feel so warmly welcomed here; it surprises me every time. There’s a profound sense of hospitality, a feeling that the village has managed to preserve its spirit and develop in harmony with its rising tourism. It’s the only place in the world where millionaires and farmers walk past each other on the street and eat at the same tables, on a daily basis. At Chez Vrony, or Chez Heini, I really feel at home.”

100% Swiss Made If Xavier Dietlin loves Zermatt so much, it’s also because he sees it as an embodiment of Swiss quality - quality for which he has become a distinguished ambassador. “This place feels like it unifies luxury and authenticity. The materials used here are authentically local, they’re not importedeverything was built on-site with local expertise. It’s the very definition of Swiss Made.”

Here in Zermatt, Dietlin compliments his working regimin with his passion for skiing and hiking. In between two of the most important watch industry trade shows (SIHH in January and Baselworld in March), he and his family relocate to Zermatt to take advantage of February’s snows, and then return again late April for the end of the season. “It’s a magical time when everyone can relax and when it feels like you have the slopes all to yourself!” says Dietlin, with a twinkle in his eye.

Looking back at the Matterhorn In summer, this untireable wanderer enjoys a moment he describes as “completely disorienting” when the snow finally recedes and the pastures spring to life. This same sentiment is a constant source of inspiration in his work: a neverending drive to go beyond the beaten path, to tap into experiences that fall far beyond the world of watchmaking or even window decorating, as a way to constantly better himself and reinvigorate his craft.

Someday soon, he’ll be off on a new adventure. Exactly which adventure remains to be seen but his direction is clear: the heart of it will always be Swiss Made, as innovative as it is authentic. Xavier Dietlin is on his way up and no matter how far into the future he may get, he understands the timeless value of remembering where one came from. “It’s like in Zermatt: every morning here, people turn back for one last look at the Matterhorn before they start skiing or hiking.”

Like a majestic unchanging beacon from our past that propels us with confidence towards our future.

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Verbier – Zermatt via the Haute Route Text: Claude Hervé-Bazin / Photos: Yves Garneau

Charming Swiss Hospitality

20 STEPS FROM SUNNEGGA NATIONALZERMATT.C H

MATTERSTRASSE 39 - 3920 ZERMATT - +41 27 966 99 66 - INFO@HOTELNATIONALZERMATT.CH

It’s difficult to not be distracted by the Combins or Mont Blanc’s massif as one makes the climb towards Rosablanche (3,336 m), as seen here from below the Col de Momin.

It’s as winter ends and early spring begins that one sets out on this mythical journey. As part of the full Haute Route ski tour, which goes from Chamonix to Zermatt, this section linking Verbier and Zermatt is a 4-5 day journey flush with incredible mountain views.

While the biennial Patrouille des Glaciers follows this route from Zermatt to Verbier, more often than not this trail is taken in the opposite direction. Why? To save the best for last and finish with the breathtaking views that come with the 4,000 m inner mountains that surround Zermatt.

The beginning of the route is rather easy: using a set of climbing skins, one heads towards the Col de La Chaux (2,940 m), with Mont Fort just above (3,330 m) and the Bec des Rosses (3,223 m) just ahead. A short descent is next, followed by a beautiful sun-kissed climb in the cotton-white, over ridges and flat zones until arriving at Rosablanche (3,336 m). Towards the south lie the Grands Combins in all their glory and, in the far-off distance, Mont Blanc. All one has to do now is ski down the Glacier de Prafleuri towards its cabane (mountain hut) at 2,662 m, where hot showers await.

Day two begins with a climb towards the Col des Roux (2,804 m) and a rather long, inconvenient crossing over the eastern slope of the Sâle towards the Pleureur, always heading in the direction of the southern side of Lake Dix (which may be difficult to recognize if it’s still under winter’s snow). From there, a large rocky overhanging leads narrowly into the Pas du Chat. It takes 4-5 hours to reach the Dix Hut from here, giving one plenty of time to soak in the spectacular views of the north face of Mont Blanc de Cheillon (3,870 m), which towers above the Val des Dix. The next day’s long, steep climb towards Pigne d’Arolla (3,790 m) is broken up by an icy passage requiring cram-

pons and roping up at La Serpentine. The reward is not far off and the summit offers unobstructed views of the entire Haute Route passage, from Chamonix to Zermatt, from Mont Blanc to the Matterhorn. While soaking in the views, true Haute Route regulars may find their minds already drifting towards the rösti that awaits them at the Vignettes Hut. Day four is dismal. Strong winds brutally drive the sleet into any bit of exposed skin with a biting sting. The climb to Col de l’Évêque (3,386 m) feels never-ending and the descent over the Arolla glacier feels more dangerous than amusing. The final leg towards the Bertol Hut includes a dishearteningly steep climb (nearly 800 meters in altitude change), and an obligatory climb over long metal ladders that are drilled into the rocks themselves… ugh.

And yet the last part of the journey boasts incredible views, making it worth the struggle, especially when good weather returns. The exceptional lookout reveals the Tête Blanche (3,710 m) at the Italian border, Dent Blanche (4,357 m) to the northeast, Dent d’Hérens (4,174 m) ahead, and the Matterhorn (4,478 m) in the distance. The five-hour descent down the northern slopes towards Zermatt takes one between serac tops and suspended glaciers- a journey that feels almost too short given the unparalleled beauty of the view.

On a technical level, the trail is designed for skiers in good physical condition who are able to travel four to five hours at medium speed (at around 300 m in positive altitude change per hour). Verbier and Zermatt mountain guides organize guided expeditions of the route that usually include equipment, along with room and board in the huts along the way. www.zermatters.ch (Zermatt mountain guides) www.cabanedesdix.com www.cabanedesvignettes.ch www.bertol.ch www.slf.ch (avalanche updates) 83

Unplugged Festival Text: Sophie Czaplejewicz

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The world is watching #SWATCHTHIS

Unplugged. Acoustic. Without an amp. Without a computer. From April 9-13, the famous acoustic festival Unplugged returns to Zermatt, offering intimate musical sessions in a high-altitude setting. It’s a return to music’s most basic form, in the heart of the mountains.

The very concept of acoustic music implies a sort of quest for purity, a desire to get back to the very raw, very real root of music without technology. Zermatt itself echoes this credo in many ways. The village is surrounded by 38 mountain summits over 4,000 meters high, creating a unique setting for the festival’s 14 stages that are scattered from the village all the way up to the Gandegghütte mountain cabin at 3,030 meters (also the headquarters for the Ronnie Scott’s All Stars, a iconic local jazz band).

The main concerts in the village take place on the festival’s Marquee Stage, located between the tennis court and the Sportpavillon, near the Taste Village (the best place for food during the five-day event), at the Alex Hotel or at the Winkelmatten Chapel. Add to that a slew of new talent stages (accessible at no additional charge for Unplugged Festival Pass holders) that are scattered around the village near the Vernissage Hotel, the Mont Cervin Palace, the Cervo Hotel and the Chalet Hotel Schönegg. Additional stages are located inside the Sunnegga funicular station (at 2,288 meters) and at Blue Lounge (at 2,600 meters), which offers both spectators and musicians an exceptional view of the Matterhorn from its large terrace. A truly unique setting for an exceptionally intimate musical moment…

Previous page: German singer-songwriter Max Prosa performs on stage at the Taste Village.

Photo: Mauro Pinterowitsch

Antiheld, a Stuttgart-based band that was part of the “newcomer” category, performs here on the Cervo stage.

Photo: Thilo Larsson

And yet the event is not without its challenges. It can be very cold and the weather is often capricious. For musicians, stage fright here takes on a whole new meaning. While certain artists have been performing acoustically all their lives, other musicians find the idea of performing without any studio support to be absolutely terrifying. Only the most confident musician would even dare take the risk.

Today, Zermatt Unplugged counts around 200 volunteers as part of its task force responsible for transportation, setup and takedown of some 140 tons of material. It also counts around 30,000 faithful festival-goers, who return year after year, in testament to the quality of the infrastructure, the intimacy of the performances and the exceptional festival setting.

The festival will be celebrating it’s 12th edition in 2019 from April 9-13, the week before Easter weekend. The full program incorporates some 80 concerts, which will be announced on December 12th, a few days before advanceticket sales (December 17 th) and general ticket sales (December 19th). An experience not to be missed! www.zermatt-unplugged.ch

Hotel Cervo Alpine Style Text: Claude HervĂŠ-Bazin / Photos: Gian Giovanoli

Previous Page: Puro restaurant’s seasonal fare earned it a well-deserved 14 out of 20 from Gault&Mllau.

The Overlook Lodge boasts modern fireplaces, Scandinavian design, and large yet cozy rooms that feature fun retro touches.

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As one of only two Design Hotels in Zermatt, the Cervo is the flagship facility for its local family owners who embody the essence of Valais tradition. Here, the intention is all about seamlessly blending that beloved chalet ambiance with a bold, contemporary spirit.

Daniel F. Lauber, the man behind the 5-star Cervo, the Overlook Lodge, and the Puro and Ferdinand restaurants, modestly introduces himself as “Director and Huntsman.” Truth is, he is a dynamic entrepreneur with deep local roots who shares the reigns with his ex-wife Seraina. In all of his projects, the same three ingredients take center stage: refined luxury, the Matterhorn, and the sublime surrounding mountains.

The Cervo’s story began two decades ago, high above the village, surrounded by forests and the Matterhorn, which is in full view from the property’s large terrace. The main chalet and reception area welcomes a small hamlet of six other chalets around it, for a grand total of 36 rooms and suites, ranging in size from 22-86 m2, with the addition of one exceptionally large suite- the largest in Zermatt- that’s 240 m2. Each chalet has its own spa, which means there’s no waiting in line here, as is the case at many other establishments.

The chalet ambiance is welcoming; it’s the exact opposite of the feeling that comes from staying in a large, anonymous chain hotel. Here the atmosphere is shaped by a cocktail of local materials (notably stone, wood, and felt) that are complimented by a collection of vintage mountain memorabilia (like old skis and hunting trophies). The rooms evoke this same spirit (some even come with their own Alpine-style fireplace), yet are also adapted to meet contemporary expectations of comfort.

The consistency in decor and welcoming ambiance extend to the restaurant Puro, which was given a 14 by the esteemed Gault&Millau. Here large glasses clink together, while deep plates and wooden boards colonize the tables in a ballet of flavors inspired by fresh, local ingredients- Alpine cheeses, beef filet and Swiss game, chanterelles and wild garlic, Valais apricots and mountain-style bread. The dishes are reserved yet precise, sought-after but not convoluted, confidently Swiss with subtle hints of transalpine influences. Ferdinand offers a slightly more casual ambiance, with its fondues, raclettes, and a variety of BBQ hot and cold meat dishes that exemplify both its Alpine ambiance and its hip urban influences. The slogan says it all: 100 % pure, made in Switzerland.

The latest addition to the family is the Overlook Lodge, which from a mere 300 m away shares the same stunning view of the village and the Matterhorn. This large chalet, with its impressive bay windows, is made up of five panoramic apartments, complete with a balcony and ranging in size from 51-152 m2 depending on whether one takes the studio or the penthouse.

Here wide open spaces rule, with light wood, iridescent grays and taupe. The color palette is beautifully complimented by the Scandinavian-type vibes with a hint of retro- from the pastel blue dial telephone, to the schoolhouse coat rack or the portable Marshall speaker that looks like it came from the 1950s (yet has full Bluetooth capabilities)… in short, it’s a playful yet discreet throwback to former times, which still offers all of the expected modern conveniences (including a heated ski room, access to the neighboring spa, and a full concierge service). www.cervo.ch www.overlook.swiss

The red checkered prints of the lounge, complimented by the impressively large hunting trophy, and the blue checkered prints in the bedrooms, give the Cervo Hotel a few fun touches to its clean modern lines.

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Living the high life

Matterhorn Tackling the Matterhorn Dream Text: Laurent Grabet / Photos: Thomas Crauwels

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- © Sémaphore - Rider : Sam Favret.

LIMITLESS VISION

XXL GOGGLES

PHOTOCHROMIC

The oversize panoramic lens offers maximum angle of vision.

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Skydome expands vision for the ultimate in backcountry freeride! The adjustable structure perfectly adapts to the face guaranteeing 125g of pure comfort. REACTIV photochromic technology immediately adapts the lens to the prevailing light for the best possible vision in every weather.

Eye-catching Skydome means total freedom for riders.

PHOTOCHROMIC

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PHOTOCHROMIC / ANTI FOG

PHOTOCHROMIC

ANTI FOG

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PHOTOCHROMIC / ANTI FOG

The classic route to summit the Matterhorn (4,478 m) is via the northeastern-facing Hörnli ridge, starting from the Hörnli cabane.

The Matterhorn is one of the world’s most famous and most beautiful mountains. It’s also one of the most deadly. helvet takes you along for a climb that was undertaken this summer by a team of international alpinists.

Every summer, between late June and late September, some 2,500 alpinists try to scale the Matterhorn. About 40% of them will pass via the Hörnli Ridge, the route of the first ascent and the most frequented of the four classic routes that reaches the summit. This past July 7th, an international group of 26 alpinists got up at 3:45 am and attempted tackle the Hörnligrat. They came from all corners of the globe: Switzerland and France, yes, but also Brazil, Argentina, Australia and Hungary.

600 Deaths in 153 Years This route features an almost-vertical wall of rock, located directly behind the cabane. Most of the climbers already notice it the night before, examining it with a glance that’s half-distracted, half-evocative. This mountain is responsible for over 600 deaths. It’s one of the deadliest mountains in the world, as a multitude of metal plaques drilled into the gneiss along the way will attest. Luckily, the majority of climbers today know it’s best to hire a guide, as trying to find the path in a maze of unstable boulders on your own is practically a lost cause (and can possibly be deadly).

For our ascent, the mercury drops to – 2°C and a sea of clouds seems to separate the world below from this exceptionally icy universe; a world of its own. The Alpine procession moves forward slowly as the sun finally makes an appearance on the horizon, illuminating the thousands of glaciers that pepper the surrounding landscape. One cannot help but be humbled; the feeling of smallness is overwhelming here in the face of such immensity.

(sometimes there are over 130 people trying to climb at the same time!), this morning’s progress is made difficult by abundant snow that obliges climbers to put on their crampons much earlier than usual. After almost three hours of upward trekking, roped together, the Solvay cabane finally appears. At 4,003 meters, this 20m2 shanty sits perched on the edge of a cliff, like a security guard with a watchful eye over all those who attempt to pass. Safety is of utmost concern and, as a rule of thumb, local guides will turn back with any client who cannot reach the cabane within three hours.

After pausing to take in the breathtaking panorama it’s time to continue. Thick, hemp robes permeate the most difficult parts of the route (a modern day luxury that Whymper and his team were not able to enjoy when they first climbed the Matterhorn on July 14th, 1865). Permanent metal pins, drilled into the rock, provide checkpoints for rope safety along the way, relieving guides who would otherwise have to improvise or “sling a horn.”

A Long and Dangerous Descent Altitude accentuates all things, fatigue being no exception.

On the way up the going is slow, one’s breath is shallow and one’s muscles burn painfully. The last 150 meters require leaving the ridge and heading straight for the summit along the snowy slope of the north face. It was near here that Géraldine Fasnacht made history in 2014 for being the first to base jump in a wing suit off the Matterhorn. Just a few steps from the top, an almost-eerie statue of Saint Bernard, patron saint of alpinists, welcomes weary adventurers. Less than a minute later, one is at the summit with a magnificent 360° view, 4,478 meters above the world below. Now is the time to hug, high-five and take photos, all hands raised in victory.

This is what it means to “take the path less travelled by.”

Another five to six hours of descent await already-weary climbers before they arrive back where they started, 1,200 meters below. Only then can the dream of climbing the famous Matterhorn finally (and fully) come true.

No Traffic, Lots of Snow There are few volunteers for this morning’s ascent. While this does mean the usual morning traffic is not an issue

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Haute Cartography Text: Marie de Pimodan-Bugnon / Photos: Andeers

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AMERICAN SPIRIT K H A K I AV I AT I O N X - W I N D A U T O M AT I C S W I S S M A D E LIMITED EDITION

SWISS PRECISION

Previous page : Close-up of the limited edition map of Valais, micro-milled with a precision of 28 microns.

This maple wood map of Valais is 84.1 x 59.4 cm (A1 format).

Micro-milling this beauty required some 3,000 km of toolpath!

Sculpted out of wood or ceramic, the A1-size Spitzwerk maps are phenomenally exact reproductions of Switzerland, micro-milled with a precision of 22 or 28 μm. This is highly-technical prowess transformed into creative art.

a precision of 22 microns on a surface that was 84.1 cm x 59.4 cm (A1 format). Three years of trial and error to create a patented, digital manufacturing process that meets Spitzwerk’s high standards for maps of Switzerland and Valais, with other regions to follow.

In Another Dimension We all remember the treasure maps of our childhood and the world map posters that decorated our elementary school classrooms. “I’ve always been passionate about cartography,” says Spitzwork Founder, Patrick Pestalozzi. “A map shows where we’ve been and where we’re going. It offers a plethora of information and gives us an entirely new perspective of our current location and our surroundings. One can spend hours pouring over a map, diving into every nook and becoming familiar with every cranny.”

The truth is, Spitzwerk maps are a total paradigm shift.

Forget everything you know about those maps from your childhood, those maps that display territories with some vague colors and a general idea of precision. This threeyear old company, founded in Switzerland’s Watch Valley in upper Jura, relies on the latest technologies to bring mapmaking back into the realm of the decorative arts. Their mantra: large-scale extreme precision.

The Art of Details Spitzwerk was born out of the union between Patrick Pestalozzi, a Swiss-American entrepreneur, and Éric Marguet, an Engineer. “I was visiting the University of Saint-Imier for an entirely different project, when I stumbled upon a tiny, incredibly-detailed map of Switzerland made out of brass,” recalls Patrick Pestalozzi. “I asked Éric if it would be possible to recreate his work out of wood and on a bigger scale and he liked the challenge. That’s how it all began.” Their idea seemed so simple... but art is often difficult and extremely complicated. It would take them three years to complete the research and development needed to bring their idea to life. Three years to fine-tune the necessary approach to recreate a map of Switzerland with

The numbers speak wonders about the technical know-how on display in every Spitzwerk creation: eight weeks of nonstop work, day and night (the equivalent of 4,273 km of toolpath for a map of Switzerland). “Our algorithms transform geospatial data and allow us to reproduce landscapes with far greater detail in wood or ceramic than one could ever get on a computer screen,” explains Pestalozzi.

Creation of the Valais map, which has a precision of 28 microns, requires a reduced fabrication time of “only” six weeks… “Our maps are not simple engravings; they’re decorative objects of extreme precision that are only possible with the very latest technology.”

Indeed, many of the details are imperceptible to the naked eye, but if one looks closely… Here, a gorge. A bit further, a glacial tongue. There, an unexpected summit. Anyone who is passionate about the mountains, loves maps or simply appreciates beautiful creations, will find that these maps reveal a wealth of details and treasures upon examination (even more so if one uses a magnifying glass). One can get lost for hours in the topographies of our maps,” says Pestalozzi. “I remember a mountain guide looking at one and being able to name at least forty peaks!” These stunning objects are the perfect union of large surface space and infinitely small details, sculpted in maple or beech wood, or molded in ceramic. Spitzwerk maps are the modern day successors of Switzerland’s original mapmaking tradition, which started with Dufour in the middle of the 19th century.

While getting lost in these rocky peaks and valleys, one feels invited into the very heart of Swiss territory – a world of such beauty that it feels like another dimension. www.spitzwerk.ch 103

The shortest way between two points is a straight line.

The most beautiful way is a succession of curves.

718 Boxster models.

Now at Centre Porsche Lausanne.

Centre Porsche Lausanne Route de Bussigny 38 1023 Crissier 1 TĂŠl. +41 (0)21 552 39 11 www.porsche-lausanne.ch

Simon, Martin and Samuel Anthamatten Three Brothers Who Love the Mountains Text: Laurent Grabet

Born in Zermatt, these three brothers are highlytrained mountain guides who each express their love for the mountains in a different (albeit spectacular) way. We take a look at these exceptional siblings and learn more about their passions.

Anthamatten may be a familiar name in these parts, but Simon, Martin and Samuel are surely some of the most famous Anthamattens in the country. The three brothers (aged 35, 34, and 32 respectively) share an incredibly strong love for the mountains. While all three are trained as professional mountain guides, they each bring their mountain-inspired passions to life in different ways.

Fireballs of Energy Simon, the eldest brother, is a highly-accomplished alpinist who was the climbing partner and rope companion for the late Ueli Steck. Together the two men took home the 2009 Piolet d’Or for their alpine-style ascent of the north face of Nepal’s Tengkangpoche (6,487 m). They were the first to accomplish the task, which was especially difficult because of a 1,700 m wall.

Martin, the middle brother known for his high-endurance, works as a border guard and is specialized in ski-alpinism and trail-running. A few of his many awards include winning the Patrouille des Glaciers in 2010, winning second place in 2018 (in 5 hours and 45 minutes), and a double win at the Matterhorn Ultraks 46K (including one victory this past August). He spends the vast majority of his time staying fit at high altitudes, always searching for freedom as he pushes the boundaries of his own limits. This season he’s concentrating on the Villars (VD) World Championships and the Mezzalama Trophy, which in his words “requires a lot of energy but also recharges me.”

Samuel, the youngest brother with nerves of steel, is the most well-recognized of the three thanks to his participation

in the highly-publicized Freeride World Tour. He took home second place overall the very first time he participated in 2011. He is also known for having blazed a new trail, the “Anthamatten-Route,” up the north face of the Matterhorn with his brother Simon that same year. He has now ascended the Matterhorn over 40 times and climbed peaks around the world, always looking for the next mountain adventure.

Shared Passion The three brothers have loved the mountains ever since they were children. “We were always outside running, hiking or climbing,” says Martin. By the time they were 11 and 14-years old respectively, Samuel and Simon had already summited Breithorn (4,164 m), the first of many races to 4,000 meters or higher.

Surprisingly, the boys’ parents are not obsessed with the mountains- in fact they often worry about their wildly adventurous sons. Their father works as a structural engineering draftsman and their mother is a stay-at-home mom, and their love for the mountains only goes so far as the regular Sunday family hike. So far, Simon appears to be the only one showing signs of calming down. After a period of focusing on his career as a guide, he now dedicates himself to mountain rescue, and has been working as a helicopter pilot at Air Zermatt since last January. “When we have to go out there and find someone who’s in trouble on the mountain, we know why we have to give it our all,” Simon explains. “Climbing a mountain for the simple pleasure of it is much less logical.”

At the end of the day, all three brothers embody a sort of awe and righteousness that surely makes the mountains proud.

“Mountains are not like people; they are systematically honest,” says Samuel. “If you make a wrong decision you’ll know right away. You can’t trick the mountains.” www.anthamattens.ch

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The Zermatterhof Riding in Comfort Text: Hadrien Cauvelez / Photos: Zermatterhof

One of the best ways to get to the Hotel Zermatterhof is to travel in high style aboard the hotel’s historic horse-drawn carriage (or sled in winter months), which can be arranged as transportation for guests arriving at the train station. But these are no ordinary horses and they benefit from very special treatment.

“Slow and steady wins the race,” they say, and the Grand Hotel Zermatterhof has embraced this proverb wholeheartedly. Its four horses used to pull the hotel’s horse-drawn carriage or sled are named Manuela, Cypria, Conversano and Favory, and they are treated to a level of comfort that rivals the best 5-star establishments. In return for their loyal service, these horses enjoy large, luxurious stables, built in 2013 in Winkelmatten (1 km from the hotel). The luminous stables include easy, seasonal access to the local pastures, heated drinking troughs and a wash station that nearly resembles a spa, complete with

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If there had to be only one Tonda MĂŠtrographe

Manufactured entirely in Switzerland parmigiani.com

The Zermatterhof Hotel built special 5-star stables for the four horses that assure the hotel’s carriage and sled services for guests.

a solarium. “It serves a double purpose,” says Ivan Buschor, who manages the stables. “On the one hand it helps dry the horses in winter after they’ve been washed, which helps keep them from getting sick, and it also helps their muscles relax.”

Buschor, a former member of the Knie circus, knows how to pamper his patrons, adding “they’re also fed premium food and each have their own harness.”

Guests staying at the hotel often come visit these 5-star stables to say hello to the hotel’s four, fine grey-speckled Lipizzaners.

Some will even go so far as to help with brushing down the horses or cleaning the stables, a calming experience according to the hotel’s website, which assures one that “a half hour of horse petting is, by the way, far more relaxing than any yoga session.” Much less tiring too!

Horse-drawn carriage or sled rides are possible any season and any day of the week for hotel clients. Yet in order to assure the health and wellbeing of the horses, they generally only work every other day.

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Riffelhaus 1853 Swiss Attitude Text: Claude HervĂŠ-Bazin

Don’t try to find it on a map of Zermatt- Hotel Riffelhaus is high in the mountains. To get there, one takes the red train from Gornergrat Bahn, the highest cog railway in Europe. It’s a 23-minute surreal journey alongside the Matterhorn.

Some Swiss hotels are steeped in legend. Riffelhaus dates back to 1853, when three Zermatt locals, encouraged by the town priest and the beginnings of alpinism, set out to build an 18-bed guest house in the midst of the mountains, 2,582 m above sea level. The Gornergrat train didn’t exist then- all the materials had to be lugged up on men’s backs or by workhorses. Two years later, the Riffelhaus saw a team of climbers, led by Englishman Charles Hudson, set out to claim Switzerland’s highest peak, the Dufourspitze (4,635 m). And so the legend was born.

Hotel Riffelhaus has had the same owners since 1862 and has been renovated many times over the years, with the most recent refurbishment taking place in 2014. Today, the Riffelhaus boasts a pared-down yet inviting design featuring light pine in the bedrooms (with views of the Matterhorn), stone bathrooms, wellness facilities (sauna, steam room, relaxation room), a lounge and a welcoming après-ski bar. The setting embodies remote comfort in all of its glory.

However, the Riffelhaus is more than just a good bed for the night... It’s a great base, acting as one’s own HQ in the heart of the Alps. One can slip on one’s skis at the doorstep and not take them off until returning in the evening after a day of adventure. Families enjoy going up to the Gornergrat (3,090 m) to ski gently down the blue or red runs, while more advanced skiers can head over to the Stockhorn for an exhilarating free ride run over mogul fields. Others may prefer to settle down with a good book, sign up for a torch-lit descent, or careen down the sled runs at Rotenboden. Then when night comes, all that remains is silence; the stars, the moon and the soft sigh of the wind. A return to nature. www.riffelhaus.ch www.gornergratbahn.ch

watches

Patek Philippe Ladies First Chronograph Ref. 7150 Ladies, prepare to be charmed!

This manually-wound chronograph features an elegant rose-gold case and a stunning bezel set with 72 diamonds- an eye-catching statement piece to say the least! Its silvery opaline dial has a 30-minute timer at three o’clock and a second hand indicator at nine o’clock, giving this watch a subtle sporty touch to compliment its vintage feminine accents. www.patek.com On sale at Schindler’s jewellery store – Zermatt.

Zenith Defy El Primero 21 Blue

Vacheron Constantin Fiftysix

Parmigiani Toric Hemispheres Retrograde

Hamilton Khaki Field Mechanical

This ingenious, impactful watch

by Zenith certainly knows how to seduce! There’s one escapement for the watch (36,000 VpH - 5 Hz) and one that’s ten times faster for the chronograph (360,000 VpH - 50Hz).

Its brushed titanic 44 mm case is complimented by a starred second hand, while the hour and minute hands are rhodium-plated, faceted and coated with SuperLuminova luminescence. Three strap options are available: titanium, blue rubber or black rubber. www.zenith-watches.com On sale at Schindler’s jewellery store – Zermatt.

The Vacheron Constantin Fiftysix is a timepiece that blends vintage and new, with the combination of its classic dial and the daring case inspired by the Maltese cross-shaped emblem.

Available with a variety of movements that range from simple to complicated, this 40 mm timepiece is resolutely modern and refined, evoking the relaxed chic look of an earlier iconic model dating from 1956 (hence where the name comes from). www.vacheron-constantin.com On sale at Schindler’s jewellery store – Zermatt.

This timepiece is made for globe trotters. Its brilliant mechanical movements are hidden behind a clean, easy-to-read watch face that displays the time in two different places simultaneously through individual displays.

Each time zone is complimented by a day-night indicator while the dial’s main hands indicate the date. Some models even feature alternating gadroons and knurling, a distinctive feature that was inspired by the structure of Doric columns. www.parmigiani.com On sale at Schindler’s jewellery store – Zermatt.

This limited edition watch is sure to make a statement! At 50 mm, this supersized timepiece features new Super- LumiNova ® technology, which allows the dial’s numbers to glow twice as long without a light source recharge. Inspired by the military, this watch is available with a grey-green or a black colored dial and comes with a rugged leather strap. www.hamiltonwatch.com

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watches

2. Longines Record

1. Cartier Santos Loved by dandies everywhere, this timepiece has been around for over a century and has never stopped evolving. Originally created for a pilot, this watch features a self-winding mechanical movement and an iconic square face that’s elegant, chic and easy-to-read. The watch’s newest feature is the “QuickSwitch” interchangeability system, which enables one to switch the bracelet from leather to steel in mere seconds.

The steel bracelet also allows the wearer to add or remove links on their own as part of the “SmartLink” resizing system. www.cartier.com On sale at the Bucherer store in Zermatt.

To celebrate 185 years as a company, this Saint Imier-based brand released a beautiful watch that’s elegantly timeless and seductive with its classic chic design. This self-winding watch features a chronometer certified by the COSC and is available with multiple dial color schemes, from opalescent mother-of-pearl to black lacquer. Finally we have a watch with multiple personalities- Arabic or roman numerals, optional diamond settings, delicate silver-polished or blued steel hands, along with straps in either metal or leather. Take your pick! www.longines.com On sale at the Bucherer store in Zermatt.

3. Tudor Black Bay Fifty-Eight The Black Bay line is one of Tudor’s most iconic. It has stayed true to its 1950s diving roots, despite a multitude of variants that have been released since. The 2018 version is perhaps the closest to its origins by way of its reduced diameter (39 mm) and the thickness of the dial. The lines of the bezel and the crown are refined and elegantly sporty. Add to that a COSC certified chronometer and you find yourself with a timepiece that hits the nail on the head, as much because of its history as because of its beautiful design. www.tudorwatch.com On sale at the Bucherer store in Zermatt.

4. IWC Schaffhausen Big Pilot’s Watch Edition “Le Petit Prince” This famous pilot’s watch pays homage to Antoine de Saint-Exupéry with the union of technical complexity and sweet poetry. Its generous 46.2 mm diameter display indicates the remaining power reserve at three o’clock, the date at six o’clock, and includes the seconds in the middle (an essential for any watch used for flying).

Its soft-iron inner case shields it against the influence of magnetic fields and the backside of the watch features an engraving of the little prince with his cape and sword. Ready to travel the skies? www.iwc.com On sale at the Bucherer store in Zermatt.

5. Carl F. Bucherer Manero Flyback One of the watch industry’s hidden gems, the Manero Flyback is an ingenious timepiece that harbors a sophisticated movement. Its distinct flyback function enables the user to record consecutive times with the shortest possible interval between them. The chronograph hands fly back to zero, while the movement continues to run in the background. This sporty watch is available in seven different versions, each as beautiful as the next. Off to the races! www.carl-f-bucherer.com On sale at the Bucherer store in Zermatt.

6. Chopard Happy Sport Medium The Happy Sport timepiece is the joyous result of the union between femininity and mechanical watchmaking. This 36 mm small-format watch elegantly blends a rose-gold case with precious diamonds. Seven free stones dance across the gray brushed guilloché dial, symbols of freedom that graciously trace the movement of one’s wrist. Top that off with a silver brushed fabric strap and you have yourself a chic-yetsporty look that’s both a pleasure to look at and a pleasure to wear. www.chopard.com On sale at the Bucherer store in Zermatt.

7. Jaeger-Lecoultre Rendez-Vous Night & Day Medium This timepiece embodies historic romanticism with timeless, elegant curves that are an ode to femininity itself. As a tribute to Jaeger-LeCoultre’s first wrist-watches for women, the Rendez-vous Night & Day is both a device for keeping track of time and a precious jewel, with its rose gold case, diamond-set bezel and gorgeous leather bracelet. It has 38 hours of battery reserves, a day/night indicator at six o’clock, and a movement that runs on 28,800 vibrations/hour. www.jaeger-lecoultre.com On sale at the Bucherer store in Zermatt.

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3. F.P. Journe Centigraphe Souverain

1. IWC Tribute to Pallweber Edition “150 Years” This stand-alone piece is not included in any existing collection and was specifically created for the 150th Anniversary of the IWC brand. It is a cleanly-designed throwback to the Pallweber pocket watch created in 1884, with the same display as the original design that features the hours and minutes in large numerals on ultra precise rotating discs. This watch is available in three combinations that are each highly limited-editions. www.iwc.com On sale at Schindler’s jewellery store – Zermatt.

2. Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe Quantième Annuel The Fifty Fathoms was one of the world’s first modern diving watches, and the Bathyscaphe features an annual calendar for the first time ever, while still remaining true to the brand’s DNA of clear readability and robust movements. Indications for the day of the week, date, and month are shown in three separate windows (at two, three and four o’clock, respectively) on a meteor gray dial that’s accented by a black ceramic unidirectional rotating bezel with Liquidmetal ® markings. The 43 mm satin-finished steel case is fitted with a sail-canvas strap. www.blancpain.com On sale at Schindler’s jewellery store – Zermatt.

Doctorate degree required!

This F.P. Journe watch features a hand-wound mechanical movement that shows elapsed times from a 100th of a second to 10 minutes, visible on three individual dials that each have a time scale in red and a tachometer scale in black. The ultimate in complexity, the tachometer scales convert time units for 1 kilometer into speeds ranging from 6 km/h (walking pace) to 36,000 km/h… faster than the escape velocity of a rocket going into low-level orbit! www.fpjourne.com On sale at Schindler’s jewellery store – Zermatt.

4. Ulysse Nardin Diver Deep Dive This new sporty watch takes one on a deep dive with impressive water resistance of up to 1,000 meters. This extremely distinguished watch has got bite, with 15 hammerhead sharks that adorn the dial (plus a bright red one on the dial counter and another stamped on the caseback). It is powered by an in-house caliber UN-320 that has a patented silicium lever and escape wheel configuration. Limited to only 300 units, this is a piece one can really sink one’s teeth into! www.ulysse-nardin.com On sale at Schindler’s jewellery store – Zermatt.

5. Panerai Luminor California 8 Days DLC – 44 mm This resolutely masculine Luminor combines new design with several of the most characteristic Panerai ingredients – the California dial, the titanium 44 mm case in matte anthracite that’s coated in DLC, and a power reserve of eight days.

Waterproof up to 300 meters, this sporty timepiece pushes boundaries with a mix of Arabic and Roman numerals, complimented by oxidized metallic blue hands and a supple natural leather cuff strap. www.panerai.com On sale at Schindler’s jewellery store – Zermatt.

6. Piaget Possession Piaget’s philosophy is as simple as it is brilliant: always look on the bright side of life. This Jura-based brand makes staying bright a breeze with this luxury women’s watch that takes inspiration from the Possession line’s iconic turning rings.

This watch features a playful combination of rose-gold and diamonds on a rotating bezel that surrounds a silvered dial.

Color variations are available in vivid green (malachite), diabolical red (carnelian), sky blue (turquoise) or intense violet (lapis lazuli). www.piaget.com On sale at Schindler’s jewellery store – Zermatt.

7. TAG Heuer Formula 1 Ladies Sporty and glamorous at the same time, the newest edition of the Formula 1 Lady is designed for women who like to set their own pace when it comes to adventure and beauty. Most models have a smaller diameter (32, 35 or 37 mm) that’s simultaneously elegant and practical on the wrist. There are options for every palette: a fully black, sunray brushed blue, white or silver dial face, optional diamond settings, and interchangeable straps that make going from one look to the next absolutely seamlessa single click is all it takes! www.tagheuer.com On sale at Schindler’s jewellery store – Zermatt.

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MARCH 21 ïš» 26 W W W. B AS E LW O R L D . C O M

Watch Fairs Where the best convene Text: Isabelle Guignet

Every year, professionals and connoisseurs of fine jewelry and watches come together on two key occasions: the Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie in Geneva, in January, and Baselworld in Basel, in March. These two highly prestigious Swiss events define annual trends and are absolute essentials for anyone in the industry.

Who better than the industry professionals, collectors and aficionados of fine, luxury watches to countdown the days until the doors open for 2019’s first major industry trade show? Geneva is first on the annual calendar with its January SIHH taking the stage just a few months before Basel’s traditional show-stopper in March. Trends for 2019 will already take shape in Geneva, powered by each brand’s never-ending quest for creativity and reinvention. Perhaps not all that glitters is gold, but in Switzerland, and especially at these events, the glitter is certainly out and on display in the most beautiful of settings.

Geneva’s 29th annual Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie will take place over four back-to-back days (January 14-17) with extended hours for this edition. The traditional Friday public grand opening will be moved to Thursday this year and complimented by an evening event. It’s a chance to rub shoulders with the best of the watch industry while discovering the newest mechanical innovations and a wide array of incessant activities. One of the most significant new changes is the LAB, which will present the latest technological and digital advancements from brands on display accompanied by start-up developments from within the industry. 18 leading luxury brands will be represented along with 17 independent creators that are part of the Carré des Horlogers.

SIHH has undergone constant evolution over the past three years, shifting deeper into the realms of relationship-building and networking. More than the rigidly-beautiful boutique display of the past, the salon wants to be seen today as a communications platform and an immersive experience, as much for the journalists as for the collectors and visitors.

The goal is stay relevant, to remain one of the penultimate luxury watch-making events on the industry’s calendar, and the 2019 edition of the event is expecting around 25,000 visitors- a new record.

A few weeks after SIHH, Basel becomes the epicenter of the watch-making world. The 101st BaselWorld will feature unveilings of the latest designs from all the biggest watch and jewelry brands. So what will make waves in 2019? What great innovation will fascinate the crowds? Brands on display at this annual fair will each have a chance to answer that question for themselves when they reveal their latest timepieces.

The event is also undergoing a transformation as it adapts to the times. The fair says it will be unveiling an attractive new communications platform for brands and the public. Without revealing too many details, it has been called “a new way of thinking” by the event’s latest Director, Michel Loris-Melikoff. Come experience the event for yourself and join the greatest luxury watch and jewelry brands, independent creators, gemologists and a host of other industry providers for the 2019 edition of BaselWorld. One thing is for certain: the event is sure to offer a taste of the finest beauty, elegance and innovation in the industry.

Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie Geneva, January 14 - 17, 2019 www.sihh.org Baselworld Basel, March 21 - 26, 2019 www.baselworld.com 121

TRIBUTE TO BLUE Bucherer has gathered some of the world’s most refined watches under one prestigious roof since 1888. Together with our partners in time, we are introducing the Bucherer BLUE EDITIONS. This collaboration has opened doors to new levels of creativity and originality. Discover exclusive timepieces in blue: an inspired colour for watches that are truly unique.

Available exclusively in Bucherer stores

BUCHERER.COM

Zermatt’s Watch Stores Among Zermatt’s many prestigious streets, the Bahnhofstrasse has set itself apart as a high-profile showcase for the country’s leading timepiece brands.

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At no. on the Bahnhofplatz Long live Wega www.wega-zermatt.ch Highlighting both Swiss and European luxury, this large store includes entire areas dedicated to watches, jewelry, Swiss Army knives, and leather goods. The boutique features timepieces from brands such as Oris, Maurice Lacroix, and Frédéric Constant, along with handbags

by Bally and Longchamp, and extravagantly glamorous jewels

by Gucci and Swarovski. May the shopping games begin.

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At no. on the Bahnhofplatz Tissot takes on Zermatt www.tissotwatches.com Tissot was an important partner in the 2015 celebrations marking the 150th anniversary of the first Matterhorn ascent. The brand continues to reinforce its presence in Zermatt with the opening of this resolutely modern boutique, which includes one of the brand’s iconic watchshaped windows and features a Zermatt special-edition of the innovative T-Touch Solar.

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Hublot in residence www.hublot.com

Haute Horlogerie Schindler www.schindler-zermatt.ch To celebrate its 40th anniversary in 2018, the brand with the Matterhorn logo gave its flagship store a full makeover, complete with cream-colored armchairs and a roaring fireplace. Some 15 leading watch brands are sold here along with prestigious jewelry from brands like Chopard, Schoeffel, and Utopia. Across the street at #14, is an additional space dedicated to Tag Heuer and Zenith.

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The invincible Bucherer www.bucherer.com Famous for its collection of blue watches co-designed with the very best timepiece brands, this Lucerne-based company just refurbished its Zermatt boutique last year. As one of the 35 European Bucherer stores, this store includes a brand new Rolex boutique with a special Alpine charm (at no. 4), the result of a 100-year partnership between the companies.

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The Breitling loft boutique www.breitling.com The Solothurn-based Breitling brand has rewritten the book on shop design with their latest boutique in Zermatt. Gone are the traditional visuals connected to aviation. This store is largely logo-free with clean lines, light-colored wood and a loft-like airiness that make it a first of its kind, highlighting just how much the brand has to offer.

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A space for Patek www.patek.com

Opened in 2016, the Zermatt store for this Nyon-based company is inside an actual chalet.

It matches the town’s spirit perfectly, with its warm blend of understated elegance, wood, and black ceramic. The space even includes a wine-tasting cellar (carnotzet)- the best place to discover the Big Bang Zermatt timepiece and its engraved Matterhorn at 9 o’clock.

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Omega www.omegawatches.com The Zermatt Omega Shop opened late 2016 with special guest singer Bastian Baker at its inauguration. Located at the base of the Walliserhof Hotel, the shop is built out of upcycled zebra-like wood and features luxurious leather couches and a long modern fireplace. So, how long have you wanted to own a Speedmaster or a Seamaster?

Synonymous with ultra highquality watchmaking, Genevabased Patek Philippe now boasts a boutique that does justice to its beautiful creations, made with such precision and craftsmanship that they are nothing short of works of art.

Also available in store is original jewelry by the German brand Wellendorff.

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The Glacier Express A Legendary Experience Text: Daniel Bauchervez / Photos: Glacier Express

Twice a day, the Glacier Express winds across winter’s pure white landscape like a bright red ribbon- a journey that’s an ode to Switzerland.

It’s the most famous of all the Alpine trains.

Cherished by international visitors, the Glacier Express runs between St. Moritz and Zermatt, two of Switzerland’s most emblematic ski stations. The journey crosses three cantons over 7 hours and 50 minutes, taking travelers through the breathtaking countryside on an authentically Swiss odyssey.

It’s “the slowest express train in the world” according to its slogan, a cherished fact among riders. The journey goes through the local valleys in a series of wide banking turns, climbing the valley walls amid great pine trees, continuing up the hillsides through the Alpine pastures, plunging into the valley’s gorges, and crossing icy glacial waters via a series of small, sleepy villages (many of which seem frozen in time).

The route includes 91 tunnels and 291 bridges of all sizes (averaging one bridge per kilometer). There’s no doubt about it: the Glacier Express is not your average commuter train.

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Switzerland is a warm and inviting place, its mountains a source of inspiration, and the contemporary architecture of its most beautiful resorts a unique nexus between the past and the future. helvet has published its first book, marking the start of a new collection. Our destination is Verbier and a 288-page journey through stunning images. The essence of the Val de Bagnes and its breathtaking winter and summer landscapes occupy 88 pages and provide the backdrop to the region’s most sublime chalets, the subject of the remaining 200.

Be among the first to receive a copy in the comfort of your own home! Available to order now at www.helvet.swiss/shop

All of the Glacier Express train cars have panoramic windows that ensure exceptional views for every rider.

St. Moritz, 9:15 am. The train station faces the steel-blue St. Moritz Lake, which spreads out along the base of the Upper Engadin mountains. To the right, the larch forests and the naked summit of Muottas Muragl (2,453 meters) complete the panoramic view of the station through the train’s large bay windows. The train moves slowly forward, out of the Inn River’s valley and into the Albula River’s valley. This leg of the journey takes riders across 55 bridges, through 39 tunnels (some which spiral around themselves) and up a slope of 7°, a true tribute to the Golden Era of train travel.

Further along, past Filisur, the steep cliffs eventually give way to reveal Landwasser and its railway viaduct, which carries travelers across the water over six arch spans that are 65 meters high. The viaduct is a signature structure that helped classify the Albula Railway (which operates the Glacier Express) as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The rest of the journey is no less exceptional. The train winds through northern Grisons through Ruinaulta, known for its white cliffs that shoot 350 meters up into the air and which give the area its (appropriate) nickname: the “Grand Canyon” of Switzerland. Only the train, hikers and bikers can pass through here, before reaching the Oberlap Pass at 2,033 meters, the highest point on this railway journey.

The passage feels almost airy, then one hits Andermatt, the Furka Base Tunnel, and then the Goms region (where many Eastern Valais specialties hail from), before coming up under the Great Aletsch Glacier that clings to mountains above.

In Visp, the Glacier Express branches one last time, leaving the Rhône Valley as it makes its gentle ascent towards Zermatt. From a distance, the valley’s straight “V” shape

is hidden behind snow-covered mountain tops. But no matter how hard one looks, the elusive Matterhorn will remain out of view until one has actually arrived in the station and exited the train.

To take full advantage of the itinerary, one can split it into a two-day journey (with an overnight in Andermatt) aboard the Glacier Pullman Express. This adventure is almost like traveling through time, as one rides in authentic vintage Pullman wagons (pulled by an actual Crocodile locomotive) that date from the 1930s, complete with a piano bar and a vintage restaurant car with large, gold embossed booths… very à la Orient Express. www.glacierexpress.ch/en www.rhb.ch/en/world-of-railway-experiences/steamnostalgic-rides/glacier-pullman-express

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trends 1. Klybeck Y As the first creation by designer and carpenter Baptiste Ducommun, this innovative coat stand attracted a lot of attention to this young company when it won the prestigious Interior Innovation Award in 2015. www.klybeck.net 2. Trauffer Wooden Cow This Solothurn-based company has been making wooden toys since 1938. Their most famous toy is their spotted cow- it’s FSC certified, 100% made by hand in Switzerland, and loved by children everywhere. For sale at the Zermatt Wega shop. www.trauffer-holzspielwaren.ch 3. Fuchs Bakery Matterhörnli Fuchs bakery has been delighting gourmet palettes in Zermatt for more than half a century.

Their specialty is a Matterhorn shaped chocolate, stuffed with nougat or marzipan, which is made of the best ingredients available. www.fuchs-zermatt.ch 4. Søren Henrichsen Hansruedi Both traditional and modern, this Swiss cuckoo clock chimes every hour but uses a light sensor to mute the sound during the night so as not to disturb your sleep. Each piece is unique, handmade in Geneva, and numbered. www.sorenhenrichsen.com 5. Louis Vuitton Christopher GM Backpack Spacious and practical, this new Christopher GM Backpack by Louis Vuitton is made of soft, snow-white fur and classic monogrammed fabric. www.louisvuitton.com

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1. Klybeck YY Is it a coat hanger or a decorative object? Both! This reinvented, modern hunting trophy was designed by Swiss designer and carpenter Baptiste Ducommun. Make it your own and choose from two kinds of wood and three different fabric combinations. www.klybeck.net 2. Zermatt Bier Matterhorn Zermatt is certainly not short on attractions: it has a world-renowned village, the Matterhorn, and since 2015… its very own beer. The Matterhorn beer is fruity-sweet, reddish-colored, unfiltered and unpasteurized. It is also brewed and bottled in the station itself.

Cheers to that! www.zermattbier.ch 3. Victorinox Wine Master

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The best wines deserve the best tools. The Wine Master has an extra long corkscrew with five coils to prevent cork breakage, plus a combination two-step lever for uncorking with a bottle opener, a wavy-edged beak blade foil cutter, and a large locking blade that’s perfect for cutting cheese. www.victorinox.com 4. Tissot Lady Heart Flower This beautiful, unique watch features a cut out in the shape of the Tissot family crest flower on the dial. Lady Heart’s interior disc rotates over the course of a week, revealing a different color on the dial every day as the disc completes its rotation. www.tissotwatches.com

B O U T I Q U E Z E R M AT T Bahnhofstrasse 27

BIG BANG CHRONOGRAPH ZERMATT STEEL