Durrah issue 27

volume 07 Issue 03 SPRING 2015

BD 3.5 Sr 35 DHS 35 KD 2.5 US$ 10

Haute Joaillerie, place Vend么me since 1906

MODA MALL +973 17 13 11 22 www.vancleefarpels.com

Majestic Cadeau ImpÊrial Earrings, two exceptional pear-shaped D Internally Flawless diamonds – 43.14 cts.

Mystery Set rubies and diamonds.

THERE ARE EXCEPTIONS TO EVERY RULE.

ROYAL OAK DIAMOND SET IN PINK GOLD.

Moda Mall: 17534444 Al-Aali Mall: 17581444 Seef Mall: 17587888 Ritz- Carlton Hotel: 17580123 City Centre: 17179009 www.asiajewellers.com

Moda Mall: 17534444 Al-Aali Mall: 17581444 Seef Mall: 17587888 Ritz- Carlton Hotel: 17580123 City Centre: 17179009 www.asiajewellers.com

LIVE YOUR

PASSION

runabout moonphase riva FROM CHF 0’000.tribute to gentlemen’s wooden sports boats of the roaring 20s. Frederique Constant proudly supports the riva historical society.

more information on www.frederique-constant.com

Photography: Ali Al Riffai

010

Contents Editorial Editor in Chief Khalid Ahmed Juman Features Editor Laura Templeton Editorial Assistant Ahmed Khunji Art Art Director Geir C. Erdal Marketing and Sales Media Sales Director Hussain Al Zaimoor Production Production Support Thomas Kuttiyil IT support Digital Manager Hussain Al Anjawi Published by PO Box 10013, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain T. +973 77022222 F. +973 77022221

Volume 07 Issue 03 Spring 2015 012 First Impression Word from Durrah’s Editor-in-Chief

014 Breaking Boundaries The debut of ArtBahrain

086 Boutique Sanctuaries Two new boutiques open their doors

volume 07 Issue 03 SPRING 2015

BD 3.5 Sr 35 DHS 35 KD 2.5 US$ 10

090 Golden Moments Gulf Air Bahrain GP from 2004 to 2014

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

020 The Home of Motorsport CE of BIC, Shaikh Salman bin Isa Al Khalifa

028 Catching the Light The Dubai Moving Image Museum

034 An Easter Tradition Fabergé Easter eggse

040 The Poetry of Time Van Cleef & Arpels exhibition

044 Solar Adventure The new watch from Omega

048 Driven by Innovation Luxury timepieces for men

054 Orchestration of Time Luxury timepieces for women

060 Dramatic Drawing Interview with artist Christine Allison

066 A Horological History Patek Philippe Museum

070 Enriching Bahrain Bin Faqeeh Real Estate Investment Company

074 Admirable Artistry Artist Sami Gharbi

080 Unique Sparkle Baume & Mercier’s Promesse collection

082 Functional Fashion Interview with designer Eskandar

094 Miniature Masterpieces

CMY

K

Mini models from Patrick Richard

098 The Mother City Travelling to Cape Town

104 Chalet Chic Chalet Lumière from The Hideaways Club

108 Deluxe Discoveries

Cover Image 2015 Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix

The best international hotel destinations

124 Sanctuaries of Satisfaction Renowned spas across the globe

132 A Feast for the Senses Fine dining around the world

146 Prestigious Inheritance Recipes from Chef Benoît Violier

158 Prancing Icons GT Ferraris through the ages

DURRAH is a quarterly premium lifestyle magazine published by Miracle Publishing. Reproduction in whole or part is strictly prohibited. No part of this publication or any other part of the contents thereof may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form without the permission of the publisher in writing. While every effort has been made towards factual correctness, the publisher accepts no responsibility for errors of omission or statements made within the publication. The publisher also rejects any claims arising from any action, which a company or individual may take upon the basis of content contained therein. The opinions and views contained in this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher.

164 Extravagance Unleashed The latest luxury automobiles

174 Must Haves for Men Luxury wish list for men

178 Must Haves for Women Luxury wish list for women

ISSN 2210-1322

182 Choreographer of Letters Nja Mahdaoui: Jafr, the Alchemy of Signs

186 Final Pearl F1 Bahrain Grand Prix and ArtBahrain

www.durrah.bh e.mail: info@durrah.bh T. +973 77022222

054 020

066

034 074

014 086

104

090

060 094

182

158

012

Welcome

First Impression A word from the editor-in-chief

T

his issue we are proud to celebrate, as under the patronage of Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka Bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa, Wife of the King of Bahrain and President of Supreme Council for Women, the Kingdom of Bahrain makes history as it hosts ArtBahrain for the very first time. ArtBahrain will shine the spotlight on local talent, as well as providing the ultimate platform for international artists to share their work within the Kingdom, delivering the message of ‘one canvas, one world, one Bahrain’. Durrah is honoured to be part of this ground-breaking art fair, and we will be displaying our own pavilion at the event, showcasing a selection of luxury brands. With an abundance of art and creativity, you won’t want to miss this incredible display of talent from all corners of the globe.

One of the most exciting and highly anticipated events on the Bahrain calendar, the annual Formula 1 Gulf Air Grand Prix 2015 takes off again this April.

We have an exclusive interview with Shaikh Salman

bin Isa Al Khalifa, the Chief Executive of Bahrain International Circuit – fondly known as ‘The Home of Motorsport in the Middle East’. Shaikh Salman shares with us his insights on what we can expect from this year’s Formula 1 event, which promises to be bigger and better than ever. After more than a decade of success, Shaikh Salman’s work and contribution towards BIC has been vital in launching it as one of Bahrain’s most impressive venues. The prestige of BIC is unquestionable, and it is internationally renowned as one of the best destinations for hosting motorsport events each year.

We continue the F1 excitement with a look back at some golden moments from the 2004 to 2014 races in Bahrain; from Michael Schumacher’s victory at the track’s debut; to last year’s first ever night race, which proved to be a spectacular success.

One can only imagine the incredible history making moments that will take place at this year’s event!

As you can see the months ahead will prove to

be a colourful, exciting and moving time in Bahrain, as the nation comes together to celebrate.

You’ll find plenty more in this issue to keep you inspired, with the usual hand picked selection of the greatest dining, hotel and spa destinations, the most talented artists, designers and entrepreneurs, the latest luxury must haves, and much, much more.

Khalid Ahmed Juman Editor in Chief

014

Masterpiece

Under the patronage of Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka Bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa, Wife of the King of Bahrain and President of Supreme Council for Women, the Kingdom of Bahrain will host ArtBahrain, the first international art fair later this year, drawing artists of all styles from corners of the globe to showcase a plethora of skill and talent.

Breaking Boundaries

A

rtBahrain, which takes place for the first time this year, aims to provide the Kingdom of Bahrain with the ultimate platform for global artists to exhibit their work, while shining the spotlight on local talent waiting to emerge.

Held under the patronage of Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka Bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa, Wife of the King of Bahrain, this event will also provide local art aficionados of all backgrounds an unparalleled opportunity to engage their artistic senses and interact with numerous inspirational masters of the art world.

ArtBahrain endeavours to showcase a plethora of talent, diverse in form, from classic acrylic to sculpture, digital photography to new age installation.

The event will feature forums and discussion panels in a bid to enlighten recent art collectors, while encouraging art enthusiasts to engage with artists in order to understand more about what styles and techniques appeal to them.

ArtBahrain aspires to shed light on how art should be perceived, without a sense of intimidation. It also aims to broaden the scope of art buyers, by creating potential for universal art appreciation, rather than to classify and segregate.

Visitors can also expect a range of interactive activities and skill-enhancing workshops throughout ArtBahrain, which will be housed in a dedicated Art Lounge, conceptualised by Art Select. They will be encouraged to attend these activities in a bid to find their own comfort zone in the art realm.

Books, supplies, and other art materials will also be available in the Art Lounge, completing the desired visiting experience of the event.

Durrah magazine, a pioneer in expressing luxury in all aspects of life, will have its own pavilion showcasing a selection of luxury brands. This ties in with ArtBahrain’s ambition to make art an accessible luxury that traverses boundaries.

016

Masterpiece

Meanwhile, artisan food and beverages will be available at the aptly named Art Café.

ArtBahrain will strive to deliver the message of ‘one canvas, one world, one Bahrain’. The Kingdom will have its own dedicated pavilion where all local artists can exhibit their work and draw focus from its international counterparts to the unique style on display. A guest pavilion is set to be announced soon.

Art Select is the art consultant for the event.

The rest of the Art Team includes Pico Bahrain (Event Design and Production), Durrah (Luxury Magazine), Miracle (Branding Consultant), Curzon PR and the Guild (Art Public Relations and Marketing).

“Bahrain may be smaller than other Gulf countries, but there are more qualitative buyers,” says Ms. Kanika Subberwal, technical advisor and consultant for the event.

02 02 02 03

04

“It is a pleasure to again help bring colour and evoke emotions to the people of Bahrain. As we start with the first of the Art Bahrain festivals to help support and develop local artists and events, to take it from a blank canvas and reveal Bahrain’s own masterpiece to behold”

“It is a pleasure to again help bring colour and evoke emotions to the people of Bahrain. As we hold the first of the ArtBahrain festivals to help support and develop local artists and events, we take it from a blank canvas and reveal Bahrain’s own masterpiece to behold,” says Mr Khalid A. Juman, Co-Founder of ArtBahrain.

ArtBahrain aspires to carve its own niche from other prominent international art fairs such as Art Dubai and Art Basel, by bringing what the world has to offer in artwork to local enthusiasts, while giving a chance to local talent to showcase their work to international visitors.

Bahrain’s art scene is on the rise with several arts and culture fairs taking place in the Kingdom on an annual basis. 2014 was declared “Our Year of Art” and Manama was chosen as Arab Capital of Tourism in 2013.

05

01 Private art collections will be on display, with paintings by world famous artists 02 Portrait of Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa 03 A number of Bahraini artists will be participating in the event, with their work featuring in the Bahraini art pavilion 04 Galleries across five continents will be displaying art from their private collectionse 05 Ms. Kanika Subberwal, technical advisor and consultant for the event

018

Masterpiece

06

07

06 Artists from the Arab world shall be participating individually and through Arab collaborations 07 Calligraphy among other styles of art will be at ArtBahrain, by calligraphers from many countries

www.etro.com

020

Up Close and Personal

Bahrain International Circuit was first conceived in 2004, as an integral part of the objective of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme Commander. During this time Shaikh Salman bin Isa Al Khalifa has vitally contributed to the circuit’s great success, working in various roles and stepping up as Chief Executive in 2010. Shaikh Salman now speaks with Durrah about the history of BIC, and the upcoming annual Grand Prix, which is renowned as one of the most friendly, atmospheric and exciting events of the season.

The Home of Motorsport

A

after completing his higher education and earning a degree in Applied Management at National American University in Denver, Colorado, Shaikh Salman bin Isa Al Khalifa began his career working within the Bahraini Government in the Civil Service Bureau. He completed two years in this position, gaining valuable experience and knowledge in the business arena while also specialising in Bahraini Law. This work experience gave Shaikh Salman the necessary understanding and skills to successfully fulfil his next governmental posting at the General Organisation of Youth and Sport (GOYS), where the shape of his future career was defined.

Whilst Bahrain International Circuit was still on the drawing board, Shaikh Salman was invited to create and head a new role in GOYS, relating to the rapidly growing local motorsport interest found in the Kingdom. Being an avid racer himself, Shaikh Salman was also named the Vice-President of the Bahrain Motor Federation, where he was tasked to set up various local racing clubs.

022

Up Close and Personal

Combined with the rapidly developing Bahrain International Circuit and his own expertise in the motorsport industry, Shaikh Salman was at the centre of the creation of the Kingdom of Bahrain’s ability to provide an international platform for regional and international racing.

In 2004, following the inaugural Formula One Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix, Shaikh Salman took his first official role at BIC as Head of Governmental Affairs.

Shortly afterwards, Public Relations and Marketing was added to his responsibilities, and as Director of PR and Governmental Affairs, he took an active role in how the circuit fulfilled its role within Bahrain’s community, as well as maximising the positive impressions of Bahrain for the many visiting international guests and media each year.

With BIC going from strength to strength in 2007 to 2008, recognition for the contribution made by Shaikh Salman was seen in his promotion to the role of Chief Operating Officer for Bahrain International Circuit.

Acting as the main point of reference for the BIC’s

01 BIC’s iconic Sakhir Tower shines brilliantly at night, seen here from the BIC Paddock 02 An aerial shot of the BIC facility 03 The distinct canopies of the Main Grandstand lit up at night 04 The number 3 car of Red Bull Racing – Daniel Ricciardo 05 Exterior of the Sakhir Tower at night

02

heads of department, Shaikh Salman was able to address the hands-on management of the BIC in partnership with then Chief Executive Officer, Martin Whitaker.

Having played an integral role in the development and running of many aspects of Bahrain International Circuit since its inception in 2004, Shaikh Salman took on the position of Acting Chief Executive officer following the departure of Martin Whitaker in 2009.

In October of 2010, BIC Chairman of the Board Zayed R. Al Zayani announced Shaikh Salman bin Isa Al Khalifa as BIC Chief Executive.

Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) is a state-of-theart, ultra-modern motor racing facility that hosts the very best of international motorsport each year.

The circuit offers all sorts of activities and experiences related to motoring, both on and off a racetrack, and each is catered exclusively to the desires of BIC’s guests. Its long list of offerings grows each year, and now even more so with the popularity of BIC’s globally renowned Bahrain International Karting Circuit.

While BIC is a pioneer in regional motor racing,

its contributions to the Kingdom of Bahrain and the wider Gulf region go beyond the sport. Its status as “The Home of Motorsport in the Middle East” is unquestioned, and its prestige extends beyond the fact that it is one of the world’s most highly soughtafter racetracks.

The circuit has sparked the Kingdom’s development into a regional hub of international trade and tourism, and while acting as a catalyst, BIC has become the gateway that links Bahrain to the rest of the world.

BIC epitomises what it means to be world-class, and because of this it is a favourite destination of local and international companies to conduct their business.

BIC regularly hosts VIPs and dignitaries from both Bahrain and overseas, global conferences and important meetings, and a wide variety of social and charitable occasions. With the much-awaited Formula 1 event to take off again this April, it’s no surprise that BIC has earned the distinction of being “the circuit that never sleeps”. www.bahraingp.com

03 04

05

024

Up Close and Personal

The Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) is a state-of-the-art, ultra-modern motor racing facility that hosts the very best of international motorsport each year

Interview with Shaikh Salman bin Isa Al Khalifa The much anticipated Formula 1 takes place this April. What surprises can we expect this year?

Each year we try to put together a package of racing and entertainment that is better than what we had offered the year before. Having said that, we have also realised that each year is special in its own right.

Last year, we had a spectacular weekend with our first ever night race – that was simply stunning – and with the celebrations of our 10th anniversary, it made it even more special.

We hope to emulate or even surpass the success of 2014 with this year’s race, and we are certain there will be unique characteristics that will set it apart from the rest.

How much preparation has gone into setting up for the event?

We have been preparing for the past several months now and still have quite a way to go before April.

This is our busiest time of the year, but we are well prepared for this and we have been expecting this, and we know that now is our time to shine.

When do you think we will see a Bahraini driver taking part in the Formula 1?

It may take quite a while before we see a Bahraini driver taking part in Formula 1. There is a long way for a driver to go before reaching the top flight, and then there are only a few seats each year for drivers to fill.

There are hundreds of racers in Europe who all aspire to be in Formula 1, then another hundred in the Americas and another hundred in Asia. Compared to all those other continents, motorsport is still young in Bahrain and the rest of the Middle East, and we have a long way to go before making our own rich history in racing.

I am sure we will get there one day. Bahrain is, after all, the pioneer here in the Gulf, and we now have the infrastructure for a young racer to grow. It’s now a matter of finding the right talent and getting him or her the right support.

06

06 BIC Chief Executive Shaikh Salman bin Isa Al Khalifa 07-08 Sections of the track during the 2014 Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix

07 08

As arguably the biggest event on the Bahrain calendar, what do you think makes the Grand Prix so iconic?

It’s just a massive event in itself – the logistics of it, the people involved, etc. The huge number of teams, the media, the fans, it’s a huge undertaking to organise.

To add to that, Formula One in itself is so huge, it’s the pinnacle of international motorsport.

Bringing it to Bahrain makes it even bigger as it is undoubtedly the biggest occasion in the Kingdom each year.

Everyone comes together, everyone is dedicated, and everyone is passionate about getting the job right and showcasing the Kingdom of Bahrain to the rest of the world in the best possible way.

To what extent does the Formula 1 contribute positively to the Bahraini economy?

Formula 1 injects hundreds of millions of dollars into the Bahraini economy each year. This is both through direct and indirect impact.

2014 was a very good year for us: our F1 ticket revenues went up 29% compared to 2013 and we also welcomed a record crowd of 31,000 fans on Race Day. We also had a 150% increase in our international visitors.

All these factors helped inject revenue into the Bahrain economy.

Last year was the first time the BIC hosted a night race. How did this compare to the day race?

The night race was absolutely spectacular. Visually, it was a brilliant sight to see, with everything from the track floodlights to all the additional lighting across the desert setting, etc.

Compared to the day race, the lighting was definitely more stunning and having the race at night was definitely much cooler.

The later start time also had a positive effect on the

026

Up Close and Personal

09

attendance on race day, as we welcomed a record crowd of 31,000 fans. During the three-day Grand Prix weekend, BIC had the pleasure of hosting 85,000 race-goers. This is a healthy number and we hope that it just continues to grow each and every year.

10

What have been some of the highlights for you, over the past ten years as CE of the Bahrain International Circuit?

I have been in charge of BIC since December of 2009, but I’ve been involved in one way or another from the very start, so there are many highlights for me.

The highlights that definitely stand out are the first race in 2004, the 60th anniversary of Formula One in 2010, and of course our 10th anniversary race and first night race last year.

Apart from Formula 1, what are some other events the BIC is hosting this year?

Yes, with regards to international events, we have already hosted a pair of private tests for international teams in different championships.

Then, in early April, we will have our GP2 testing, and then after that we have the Grand Prix.

Then, in late November, we will be hosting the final round of the 2015 FIA World Endurance Championship, so that’s going to be another great spectacle.

What hopes and plans do you have for the future of BIC? We are working hard to establish BIC as a sustainable business in its own right.

Then, as a motor racing track, we hope to be the best place to grow grassroots racing.

We also would like to have a complete package of all kinds of motoring experiences here – the one place you go to for every kind of motor racing thrills.

09 The podium ceremony of the 2014 Formula One Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix 10 Crowds watch on from the Main Grandstand 11 Formula 1’s teams busy with the pre-race grid walk

11

028

Up Close and Personal

Akram Miknas is recognised as one of the most powerful people in Media, Marketing and Advertising in the Middle East. Chairman and founder of Promoseven Holdings, a major business conglomerate in the Gulf, Miknas is one of the pillars of modern marketing communications.

With a number of incredible business achievements throughout his career, Miknas is also an avid collector of antiques and objects d’art. Since childhood he has been interested in photography, and after 40 years of nurturing his passion for the image, Miknas has launched the spectacular one-of-a-kind Museum of Moving Image in Dubai.

Catching the Light

T

hroughout his illustrious career, Akram Miknas has established a reputation as one of the most powerful people in Media, Marketing and Advertising, and his business extends to areas of real estate development, communications and hospitality. He has won several awards for his efforts and been recognised internationally for his incredible achievements.

After choosing advertising and marketing communications as his primary area of business, Miknas became more and more interested in the development and history of image-capture and subsequently the movement of images as it developed through the centuries.

Over the past few decades, he has diligently and passionately collected artefacts that document the entire progression of the moving image, from it’s development to the innovations which ultimately gave rise to the technology that put motion to image as we are accustomed to seeing today.

030

Up Close and Personal

02

From this, the concept of the Moving Image Museum was born, not only out of Miknas’ true love for the craft, but more out of his desire to share this important piece of history with the greater public.

Dubai, the ultimate city of life, was the natural choice to host the Museum, and its growing Art Culture is the perfect backdrop for the historical journey of one of the most important forms of expression – the moving image.

Under the esteemed guidance and visionary leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai has grown into a bustling and inspiring metropolis, which the unique Museum will certainly add to.

The Dubai Moving Image Museum is the only one of its kind in the world, housing the private collections of Miknas, which he has accumulated over twenty-five years. All items in the museum are original, dating back from the 1730s to the twentieth century.

The museum is unique not only in its subject

matter and location, but in the overall experience. It exhibits more than 300 unique artefacts presented for the first time in Middle East, Asia and Africa. This rare and unique collection covers the entire development of visual entertainment, from the earliest days of shadows theatres to the invention of 3D and cinema. The museum offers visitors an interactive experience, where children and adults can make a magical journey into the past.

It is divided into four areas, taking visitors through the chronological development of visual entertainment – from manipulating shadow to more technical advances leading to the birth of cinema.

The purpose of the museum is to share with audiences the progression of the moving image, and hopes to inspire and educate the region with an exciting part of history. www.dubaimovingimagemuseum.com

01 Portrait of Akram Miknas at his museum 02 The Shadows Theatre section inside the museum 03 Among the first expressions of imagery was the use of Shadows Theatres 04 This Kaiserpanorama is a 3D entertaining device with twelve viewing stations 05 By simply looking through this small hole, the viewer enters a world of magical discovery

03 04

05

032

Up Close and Personal 06 The Arab scientist Alhazen invented the Camera Obscura during the 11th century 07 Professional Magic Lanterns from the 19th century

Dubai, the ultimate city of life, was the natural choice to host the Museum, and its growing Art Culture is the perfect backdrop for the historical journey of one of the most important forms of expression – the moving image.

Interview with Akram Miknas You are recognised as one of the Most Powerful Person in Media, Marketing and Advertising in the Middle East. Can you tell us about the journey to reach such a prestigious position?

I believe I have been able to demonstrate the continuous ability to change and boost both strategy and the tools of our business continuity to evolve.

Which area of business do you see yourself further expanding or developing in the future?

Ever since the beginning of my career, I realized that in every aspect of this business one has to be curious and continuously searching for innovation and creativity. What was a good solution yesterday, we can be absolutely confident won’t work today.

You are known as being an avid collector.

When did you start collecting, and what attracted you to these particular items?

Since my early youth and when I finished my high school, my father asked me what I would like to get as a gift of appreciation for my successful graduation.

What I wanted was an old branch lantern he had at home, and since then I have always admired beautiful work of our ancestors to date.

The idea for the museum only became vivid in my mind when I realised that so many of my items simply don’t exist anywhere else, and while I was discussing my collection with specialists, museum directors and auction houses, I realised that my collection represents well and truly the known history to man of the moving image.

What do you hope that the museum will achieve culturally through its opening?

I stopped exploring electricity because I felt that it was easily found and accessible, and this part of the history has been fulfilled by many museums like the Hollywood museum, New York museum, finest photographic museum etc. I am very happy to say that we have more than 18,000 students visiting the Dubai Moving Image Museum already. For the new digital child, they found the museum fascinating and many of them have written about it and discussed their experience as being unique.

The focus of the Dubai Moving Image Museum is visual entertainment and cinema. Why did you choose Dubai rather than Hollywood as the location?

I have chosen Dubai because the head office of my marketing communication group is in Dubai and because I can still be close to the collection without thousands of miles.

The one-of-a-kind Dubai Moving Image Museum is where your collections are housed. When did you first get the idea to open this museum?

How long did it take you to build the collection for the museum?

As I studied my business, I became more focused and keen to keep collecting antiques relating to the image and the moving image. As for the general interest, it was always beauty in motion, which included watches, clocks, automaton (automatic toys) etc.

The first item I bought without realising that I was going to collect for a museum, was in 1985. Some of my favourite pieces on display are panorama view, Ponti metamorphosis and Keizer panorama 3D viewer, my passion for life.

06 07

IM P ERIA LE

034

Jewellery

All it took was a single glittering Easter egg, crafted in 1885, for Fabergé to win the hearts of the Russian royal family. From this came an annual tradition: every Easter, Fabergé created for the royal family an opulent, jewel-encrusted masterwork. Visitors now have the chance to see nine of these incredibly rare eggs in person (as well as a selection of nonimperial Fabergé eggs), at the Fabergé Museum.

An Easter Tradition

I

n 1885, Tsar Alexander III commissioned the creation of a Fabergé Easter egg as a gift for his wife, the Empress Maria Fyodorovna, nee Princess Dagmar of Denmark. It wasn’t by chance that the Emperor commissioned Peter Carl Fabergé to make the egg, since the latter’s works had impressed the tsarist couple during their visit to the All-Russian Art and Industrial Exhibition in 1882 in Moscow. But this was no ordinary, rainbow-coloured number. The jewelled Hen Egg opened to reveal a brilliant, gilded yolk, within which was hidden a tiny, perfect hen and a ruby pendant.

From the birth of this little chick came a new annual tradition, and every Easter Fabergé would craft a breath-taking and bejewelled egg for the Russian royal family, each with its own hidden surprise. This most extravagant of Easter traditions continued right up until 1917, when the Russian Revolution unseated the royal family, closed the Fabergé workshops, and made ornamental eggs a no-go.

Despite difficulties with violent coups, Fabergé history is deeply entwined with the imperial city of St. Petersburg. It was here that Gustav Fabergé (of French Huguenot origins) arrived in the 1830s, and where the jewellery making magic began. A master goldsmith himself, Gustav founded the House of Fabergé in 1842 in a basement on Bolshaya Morskaya Ulitsa, just a short stumble from the Winter Palace.

While Gustav was the man who made Fabergé history, it was his son, Carl, who first dreamed up the egg. Abroad for training, Carl returned to St. Petersburg in 1872, and within a few short years the headquarters had moved to a new, swanky location down the road, which is still standing today. The House of Fabergé’s reputation was on the rise, and with their penchant for all things sparkly, it quickly gained the attention and admiration of the Russian court.

All told, the House of Fabergé produced 50 imperial eggs, as well as many more glittering pieces,

036

Jewellery

02

The core of the museum’s exhibits are the works of the Carl Fabergé jewellery firm, The House of Fabergé, acquired by Viktor Vekselberg. which were the frosting of choice for the wealthy St. Petersburg elite. After the chaos of the Russian Revolution, seven of the eggs were lost to history, while the rest were sold or otherwise scattered around the world. But today, visitors to St. Petersburg can now see nine of these incredibly rare eggs and a selection of non-imperial Fabergé eggs at the Fabergé Museum.

Credit for collecting the objects is due in part to American magnate Malcolm Forbes, who gathered an impressive number over the course of his lifelong egg hunt. After his death, they were sold in turn to Russian billionaire Viktor Vekeselberg, who unveiled the collection at the Fabergé Museum in late 2013.

Hidden within the recently refurbished Shuvalov Palace, the museum displays the original Hen Egg that launched the extravagant Easter tradition and a number of others, including paintings, jewellery, objets de fantaisie, and works by other court jewellers.

The official opening of the first privately owned Fabergé Museum took place in St. Petersburg on November 19, 2013, and the collection contained

about 4,000 works of decorative-applied and fine arts, including gold and silver items, paintings, porcelain, and bronze. The collection, amassed over the course of ten years, continues to grow within the spectacular Shuvalov Palace, which was restored by the Link of Times Cultural and Historical Foundation.

The core of the museum’s exhibits are the works of the Carl Fabergé jewellery firm, The House of Fabergé, acquired by Viktor Vekselberg. The jewellery masterpieces, part of which were sold by the Soviet Government in the 1920s and 1930s, were returned to Russia, which became the beginning of repatriation of national artistic heritage.

The Fabergé Museum collection is one of the very best in the world in terms of the size, typological diversity, and extremely high quality of the art works it contains. It includes works of all the various directions in the creative work of the great jeweller: rare objets de fantaisie, decorative jewellery, accessories, precious fancy goods, mantle clocks with the widest palette of guilloche enamels, and silver items made in the original

03

01 Lilies of the Valley Egg, 1898 02 Some of the artwork on display inside the Exhibition Room 03 The Fabergé Pearl Egg, 2015. Courtesy of Fabergé 04 Valuable exhibits protected in glass 05 Cockerel Easter Egg Clock, 1990

04

05

Russian style. Along with works made by the House of Fabergé, the museum collection also includes works done by Fabergé’s contemporaries, such as the Imperial Court Suppliers I. Khlebnikov, P. Ovchinnikov, and I. Sazikov. These and other famous Russian jewellers made precious icon settings. The Fabergé Museum’s collection of church utensils and items of personal piety fill the Gothic Room of the Shuvalov Palace. Experts of the Link of Times Foundation managed to amass a unique collection of works of the famous Russian painter on enamel Feodor Rückert, who had no equals in Russia. The Shuvalov Palace halls are decorated with paintings of well-known Russian and European painters, such as K. Makovsky, G. Semiradsky, I. Aivazovsky, K. Bryullov, A. Kharlamov, K. Korovin, L. Valtat, H. Martin, and A. Renoir.

However, the peak of the creative abilities of the House of Fabergé is represented by the Imperial Easter Eggs displayed in the Blue Room of the Shuvalov Palace. These art works are testimony to the talent and craftsmanship of Russian jewellers, stonecutters,

enamellers, and artists.

B. de Simon built the three-piece Blue Room to a design for the reconstruction of the façade of the Vorontsov mansion in 1844. In 1859, R. B. Bernhard cut two holes into the room from the new Grand Staircase. Stunningly rich and diverse in its decoration, this room, according to some, was made together with the participation of one of the most famous architects of Nicholas’ time — A. I. Stackenschneider. The blue silk with a large silver design on the walls, which gave the room its name, along with an abundance of gilt moulding, beautiful paintings in oval and round frames on the border to the ceiling, the white marble fireplace, and mirrors provide dignified surroundings for one of the most valuable parts of the collection — the Fabergé Easter Eggs.

The Fabergé Museum collection has nine Imperial Easter Eggs with surprises made to the order of the last of the Romanovs — the Emperors Alexander III and Nicholas II. This collection is the best in the world in terms of its number of large Easter Eggs made

038

Jewellery

by House of Fabergé: there are 14 Fabergé eggs altogether in the Blue Room, as well as a miniature picture frame in the form of a heart — the surprise from the lost egg of 1897. The Fabergé Museum’s collection is also significant because it includes the very first Imperial egg, the Hen Egg, given on Easter in 1885, and the last Imperial Easter Egg — the Order of St. George Egg, made during the years of World War I. The House of Fabergé created 50 imperial eggs altogether. Each one of them took a year’s worth of work, starting just after Easter, and was barely finished

by Holy Week a year later, after which Carl Fabergé personally delivered each new Easter masterpiece to the Tsar.

Fabergé created precious Easter gifts both for the Russian imperial family and for members of titled families and the world’s industrial elite. For example, Fabergé created a luxurious Easter egg clock in 1902 for Consuelo, Duchess of Marlborough, who was a representative of the Vanderbilt clan of American tycoons. Seven Easter eggs were made by the House of Fabergé for Varvara Petrovna Bazanova (wife of Alexander Kelch) in the Kelch cycle from 1898 to 1904. Bazanova came from a very wealthy family of Moscow merchants, owning gold mines and a railway construction and shipping company. These Easter gifts are no less spectacular or complex than the Easter Eggs made for the Tsar’s family.

The Imperial Easter Egg masterpieces, which

belonged to the last of the Romanov Tsars, are displayed in the central living room of the palace.

The Hen Egg was the first in the famous series of 50 Imperial Easter Eggs made by the House of Fabergé for the last two Russian Tsars between 1885 and 1916.

The origin of the multi-part surprise of the Easter Egg in the form of a chicken is connected to the beginning of the XVIII century. Three very similar Easter souvenirs are known, which were allegedly executed in Paris in the 1720s by a single craftsman. These are an egg from the treasury of the Museum of Art History in Vienna, a golden egg with an enamel yolk that was held in the State Collection in Dresden until 1924, and an egg belonging to Duchess Wilhelmina, now kept at the Rosenborg Castle. It’s thought that the last egg, which was seen by Alexander III and the Empress Maria Fyodorovna at an art and industry exhibition in Copenhagen in 1879, served as a source of inspiration for Fabergé.

Fabergé made 50 eggs over four decades of the most turbulent times for the Russian Empire, but these luxurious and magnificent jewels remained untouched by these historical events. Today, the remaining 42 Fabergé Easter Eggs are beautiful memento mori of a fallen empire, nine of which are reason alone to visit the new Fabergé museum in St Petersburg, their homeland.

06

www.fabergemuseum.ru

07

06 Coronation Easter Egg, 1897 07 Renaissance Easter-Egg Jewellery-Box, 1894 08 Close-up of the Cockerel Egg, 1990

08

THE STRIKING NEW

NX

EVOKING LUXURY

INTRODUCING THE All-NEW 2015 LEXUS NX TURBO The Lexus NX combines design, intuitive technology and the 1st potent Turbocharged 2.0 liter Engine to take on whatever urban adventure comes your way. The 235HP engine roars in a harmonious pairing of style and creativity, embodying progressive luxury.

Lexus Showroom - Sitra 17 737 773 www.lexus.com.bh

Trade-in Facility & Test Drive Available

040

Jewellery

Van Cleef & Arpels celebrated its unique style in High Watchmaking through the Poetry of Time exhibition at the prestigious Dubai Mall. Friends of the Maison gathered in February to discover the French High Jewellery brand’s expression of watchmaking through a series of dreamlike timepieces. Beyond their technical prowess, these intricate mechanisms offer precious moments of emotion.

The Poetry of Time

01

F

or the third year, Van Cleef and Arpels have shared its timeless and distinctive style with an exclusive exhibition for friends and fans, taking place at the Dubai Mall in February.

Titled the Poetry of Time, Van Cleef & Arpels turned its gaze to the heavens and gave pride of place to a captivating chapter in its watchmaking history: Poetic Astronomy. From the cycles of the Sun and the Moon to the wonders of a starry night and the dreamlike patterns of the constellations, the marvels of the universe have inspired creations that combine the poetry of the spheres with the measurement of time. Evoked in the Maison’s Jewellery and High Jewellery pieces, the theme of stars and the cosmos spread to Watchmaking in 2008 with the Lady Arpels Jour Nuit timepiece.

Through this watch, Van Cleef & Arpels paid homage to the emotions instilled by the dazzling spectacle of the heavens. The aventurine glass dial is animated with two complimentary elements: the Sun and the Moon, turning on a 24-hour cycle. The automatic mechanical movement, equipped with a 24-hour module developed exclusively for the Maison, allows the scenery to evolve over the course of a day, like a story brought to life.

01 Zodiac Aquarius watch 02 Lady Arpels Papillon Extraordinaire Malachite watch

02

042

Jewellery

Today, the Maison reveals new stories of luck and elegance, enriching its unique imagination. The Midnight Planétarium Poetic Complications watch took centrestage at the exhibition. With this timepiece, the Maison achieved its dream of reducing the scale of the heavens to the dimensions of a wristwatch. Drawing inspiration from the historic tradition of planetariums, it provides a miniature representation of the movement of six planets around the sun and their position at any given time.

Earth and Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter and Saturn – all visible from Earth with the naked eye – are set in motion thanks to a self-winding mechanical movement of great complexity. Telling the time is a simple question of observing the shooting star, a cherished motif for the Maison. A star is also engraved on the glass, offering a mean of commemorating one’s own lucky day in the universe, when the Earth is placed exactly under the star as a sign of good luck.

In the 1950s, Van Cleef & Arpels devoted a collection to the signs of the Zodiac, and these yellow gold medallions were worn as precious talismans. Renewing this tradition of lucky jewellery, the Maison presented the Lady Arpels Zodiac set – twelve limited editions depicting the signs of the Western Zodiac: Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius and Pisces. Various craft skills combined to evoke the different signs and instil the dials with life and sparkle. A specific engraving corresponds to

04

each element – Earth, Water, Air and Fire – and adorns the background. The latter is then covered with a layer of translucent coloured enamel – green, dark blue, light blue or red – to produce subtle plays of light. Sculpted hard stones and set gold complete the scene.

Another highlight of the exhibition was the From the Earth to the Moon Midnight timepiece, which fulfils a childhood dream – the conquest of space in an extraordinary journey to the stars.

Seeking inspiration from the novel From the Earth to the Moon by Jules Verne, it features a complex mechanical retrograde movement, where a star and a rocket have replaced the classical hands, showing the time passing by.

In this celebration of the Poetry of Time, the Maison also showcased some of its watchmaking icons.

Created in 1935, the Cadenas watch marks the birth of one of the Maison’s most emblematic pieces.

A symbol of sentimental attachment in the image of its clasp, it is said to have been inspired – like the Zip necklace – by the Duchess of Windsor. In 2015, Van Cleef & Arpels revealed a new treasure trove of Cadenas watches – true icons among the jewels of the Maison. Remaining faithful to the original bold lines, they combine an improved clasp and an enlarged dial, for better time readability.

The collection now features a range of 9 variations – like so many facets of a single, distinctive personality.

05

03

06

03 Midnight Planetarium watch 04 Lady Arpels Jour Nuit watch 05 Lady Arpels Heures Filantes watch 06 Lady Arpels Pont des amoureux paved bracelet 07 De la Terre à la Lune watch 08 Midnight Nuit Boréale watch 09 Constellations Aquila watch 10 Midnight Nuit Australe watch

www.vancleefarpels.com

07

08

The Cadenas watch with a double snake chain bracelet celebrates the design of the historic model, expressing a refined, jewel-like elegance. It is also available in diamond set versions: with serti neige style setting illuminating the upper surface of the case, or the case, clasp and dial.

Designed by Pierre Arpels in 1949, the watch that bears his name epitomises Van Cleef & Arpels’ vision of masculine elegance. Since 2012, the Maison has reinterpreted this icon of watchmaking and today enriches the collection with a new model that reflects Pierre Arpels’ way of life: the Pierre Arpels Heure d’ici & Heure d’ailleurs watch. Offering a poetic interpretation of travel, this first Pierre Arpels complicated timepiece welcomes a dual time movement, distinguished by its double jumping hour and minute retrograde display. With a dial that combines the precision of watchmaking with the delicacy of calligraphy, this creation celebrates both real and imaginary journeys.

“Van Cleef & Arpels has been recognised for its expertise and excellence of its savoir-faire since its inception. Through Poetic Astronomy, the Maison continues to bring enchantment to life, revealing a dreamlike perspective on the passage of time,” says Alban Belloir, Van Cleef & Arpels Managing Director Middle East and India.

Collections are available in Van Cleef and Arpels boutique in Moda Mall.

09

10

044

Watches

Crafted from lightweight grade 2 titanium, the 45 mm brushed case features a blue ceramic bezel coated with white Super-LumiNova

Omega has always been driven by its pioneering spirit: six lunar landings; the first divers’ watch; the world’s only certified marine chronometer wristwatch. No watch company in the world holds more records for accuracy. Now, Omega shows support for the Solar Impulse project with their new Speedmaster Skywalker X-33 Solar Impulse Limited Edition. The ESA-qualified timepiece commemorates Omega’s pioneering spirit and its relationship with the Solar Impulse mission.

Solar Adventure

S

olar Impulse is the only airplane of perpetual endurance, able to fly day and night on solar power, without a drop of fuel. Just in time for the Swiss model’s long awaited round-the-world journey, Omega proudly unveils their latest addition to its legendary Speedmaster family: the Speedmaster Skywalker X-33 Solar Impulse Limited Edition.

More than a remarkable timepiece, the Speedmaster Skywalker X-33 Solar Impulse Limited Edition is a celebration of a project whose ambitious aim is to circle the globe in an airplane powered only by solar energy, making a bold statement about viable alternatives to non-renewable energy.

Crafted from lightweight grade 2 titanium, the 45 mm brushed case features a blue ceramic bezel coated with white Super-LumiNova. The blue and green dial, with its white transferred indexes and Super-LumiNova-coated hour markers, has a central opening allowing the wearer to read the liquid

crystal display digital elements (grey on a black background) such as the hour, minute and seconds of up to three different time zones, three alarms, chronograph and countdown functions, and a perpetual calendar with day, date, month, year and week number indications.

Skeletonised black and white hour and minute hands are coated with Super-LumiNova, which emits a green light. The black and green central seconds hand is clearly visible. The hands can be disengaged to allow clear reading of the digital display.

The Omega Speedmaster Skywalker X-33 Solar Impulse Limited Edition is powered by the multifunctional quartz chronograph movement, Omega calibre 5619, with a thermo-compensated integrated circuit. In addition to its analogue and digital displays, this timepiece has two functions that will prove useful for the pilots: mission elapsed time (MET) and phase elapsed time (PET).

046

Watches

The grade 2 titanium outer case-back is secured with eight screws and is stamped with the Solar Impulse “Around the World” patch and engraved with the name of the timepiece as well as the words “Tested and Qualified by ESA” (the European Space Agency).

Affirming its reliability, precision and ability to withstand challenging environments, this new X-33 model has been tested and qualified by the ESA, and was developed under an ESA patent license based on an invention by ESA astronaut Jean-François Clervoy.

Presented on a blue and green-bordered polyamide ‘NATO’ strap, the timepiece will be produced in an edition limited to 1,924 pieces. The number honours the year that the first round-the-world flight took place; members of the United States Army Air Service flew around the world from 4 April to 28 September 1924.

Omega is proud of their legacy as a world leader in sports timekeeping and their commitment to innovation in the field. These achievements are products of the drive and spirit that has made Omega one of the world’s leading watchmakers. www.omegawatches.com/planet-omega/social/solarimpulse-project

03

04

02

01 Skeletonised black and white hour and minute hands are coated with Super-LumiNova 02 Presented on a blue and green-bordered polyamide ‘NATO’ strap 03 The Solar Impulse is powered only by solar energy 04 The X-33 watch is a celebration of the Solar Impulse’s around the world project

048

Watches

With complexity and mechanical refinements this selection of the finest timepieces for men underline skilled craftsmanship at the very highest level. The world’s top watch manufacturers have succeeded in creating models to delight all connoisseurs who value traditional watchmaking artistry combined with optimum functionality, presented in a classic yet impressive exterior.

Driven by Innovation Concord C1 Chronograph Deep blue indexes and hands glow mystically from the depths of a black carbon fibre dial. Topped by a carbon fibre bezel and flanked by black ceramics on the pushers and crown, a black PVD-finished titanium case is offset by blue topstitching on a black rubberized calf leather strap. This is the latest edition of the C1 chronograph – a new chapter in the handsome symphony that made its predecessors iconic.

Like its recent siblings, the new C1 is slimmer, larger and leaner than the original C1, while retaining the unmistakable DNA of the line and its brand heritage.

Pared down to a svelte 15.10mm in depth, the larger 47 mm case is crafted in light-as-air grade 5 Titanium.

The C1’s ingenious new refinements blend artfully with its signature octagonal bezel and chronograph

counters, and applied ‘C’ logo curled around the date window. The result is a re-envisioned, modern design that masterfully ensures the new C1 Chronograph’s place among the 21st century’s league of top watch contenders.

Powered by a mechanical, self-winding movement with snailed bevel rotor, vertical Côtes de Genève and 48-hour power reserve, the new Concord C1 is protected by a 2mm thick sapphire crystal with anti-reflective treatment. The dial sports a 30-minute counter at 12 o’clock, 12-hour counter at 6 o’clock, small seconds subdial at 9 o’clock, date window at 3 o’clock and a centremounted chronograph sweep seconds hand. www.concord.ch

050

Watches

IWC Schaffhausen, Portugieser Annual Calendar In 2015, the Year of the Portugieser, IWC’s newly developed annual calendar closes the gap between the perpetual calendar and the simple date display.

The new 52850 calibre has two barrels that keep the new function supplied with ample energy and still have enough left for a 7-day power reserve.

Located at 12 o’clock on the dial, IWC’s annual calendar shows the month, date and day in three separate, semi- circular windows. The switching mechanism automatically takes into account the differing lengths of individual months.

In order to free up as much space as possible for the date display, the designers replaced the indices from 11 to 1 o’clock, with the three display discs.

With its voluminous 44.2-millimetre case, grooved bezel, classic railway-track-style chapter ring, slim feuille hands and almost unchanged Arabic numerals, the Portugieser Annual Calendar very closely resembles the original Portugieser of 1939, a veritable design icon.

The timepiece is available in 18-carat red gold with a silver-plated dial or in stainless steel with a silver-plated or midnight blue dial. The fine sun-pattern finish on the blue dial reflects incident light dynamically in a myriad of directions.

Overall, it took watch designers almost 5 years to develop the annual calendar, giving IWC Schaffhausen yet another demonstration of its ability to innovate. www.iwc.com

Ulysse Nardin, Hannibal Minute Repeater Considered one of the world’s greatest military commanders, the great Carthaginian general Hannibal Barca was the ultimate strategist. During the Second Punic War, Hannibal achieved a remarkable feat; crossing the Pyrenees and Alps with an army of soldiers and his secret weapon – elephants, taking triumphant victory in Italy.

Ulysse Nardin depicts this monumental journey in the Hannibal Minute Repeater. Presented worldwide as a limited edition of 30, the timepiece is crafted from platinum and genuine granite from the Alps.

The dial, set within a platinum case depicts Hannibal straddling his horse, in swift action with one of his loyal elephants and regiment of warriors by his side. These Jaquemarts are hand-carved from 18-carat white gold and are mounted on granite sourced from the very mountain chain Hannibal and his brigade crossed in the third century B.C. The Hannibal Minute Repeater has four gongs, sounding off on the hour when the repeater is activated, and synchronized with the Jaquemarts on the dial, telling the narrative of Hannibal and his eminent achievement.

Water-resistant to 30 meters, its movement is a calibre UN-78 one-minute tourbillon, integrated and visible on the dial. www.ulysse-nardin.com

Carl F. Bucherer, Manero Tourbillon Limited Edition For the first time, Swiss Manufacturer brand Carl F. Bucherer presents the Manero Tourbillon Limited Edition, combining the classic elegance of the Manero range with the masterpiece of the tourbillon.

An opening in the dial at 6 o’clock provides a view of this fascinating mechanism and the filigree delicacy of the complication makes it a centrepiece of the highest quality.

In addition to the tourbillon, further special features have been integrated. From the centre, the date is indicated by a hand, so it may be read clearly at a glance. Another feature is the robust 70-hour power reserve. Remaining energy can be read via the power reserve indication at 9 o’clock, and the 24-hour indication at 12 o’clock provides an additional refinement on the dial.

In spite of the large number of functions and indications, Carl F. Bucherer has ensured optimum clarity of the dial. A challenge that the designers fulfilled with strikingly positioned wedge-shaped hour markers, letters and numerals typical of Carl F. Bucherer, and the tapering hours and minutes hands, giving the traditional complication of the tourbillon a contemporary interpretation. This elegant, luxurious look is skilfully continued in the case, which is made of fine rose gold.

The high level of exclusivity of the Manero Tourbillon Limited Edition is ensured by the strictly limited edition, with only 188 of these prestigious timepieces available worldwide. www.carl-f-bucherer.com

052

Watches

Roger Dubuis, Excalibur Spider Skeleton Double Flying Tourbillon Having pioneered and perfected the art of crafting contemporary skeleton calibres, Manufacture Roger Dubuis steps things up yet another notch for 2015, by introducing its aptly named Excalibur Spider concept, with fresh expressions of its decidedly different interpretations.

The calibres themselves feature the instantly recognisable star shape that are the natural signature of Roger Dubuis’ unique skeleton movements. Moreover, several tips of the star point to hour-markers, once again highlighting an exceptional ability to combine original and visually appealing design effects with clarity, readability and functionality.

As the only Manufacture to offer a Skeleton Double Flying Tourbillon, Manufacture Roger Dubuis was ideally equipped to shift into an even higher gear. This is an appropriate way of describing its decision to skeletonise

all key aspects of the iconic model, channelling the raw power of a race car equipped with a state-of-the-art engine and amazing bodywork.

Creating powerful contrasts with the titanium and black DLC-titanium case, a variety of fiery red aluminium elements on the inner bezel ring, crown and case band highlight the strong, sporty impact that is further reinforced by a variety of colour strap options. The standout RD01SQ movement powering this 188-piece limited-edition model is displayed to stunning advantage within this multi- level construction composed of case, flange and movement. The resulting 3D effects are reminiscent of contemporary cityscapes – just as one would expect from the specialist of technical and architectural mechanics. www.rogerdubuis.com

Ralph Lauren, Automotive Skeleton Ralph Lauren presents a stunning range of new additions to his timepiece collections for 2015, continuing his unique passion for the combination of mechanics and design that defines fine watchmaking.

The new RL Automotive Skeleton features the calibre RL1967, the first open-worked, hand-wound mechanical movement Ralph Lauren has ever presented. The depth of the movement is accentuated with a black finish on the plate and bridges, which offers a subtle contrast to the black finish on the stainless steel shot- blasted case. The letters “RL” at 12 o’clock, on a circular element slightly offset from the mainspring barrel, are a proud statement of creative integrity. The steel and brass elements of the gear train, as well as the large balance oscillating at 18,000 vph and the sword-shaped, black oxidized hands coated with beige Super-LumiNova® further enrich the visual experience. The composition is framed by a lustrous amboyna burl bezel.

Amboyna burl, which must be expertly cut and finished to expose its richly detailed swirling grain patterns, has a long history of use in luxury automotive interiors. It forms a strong bridge between the automotive and horological worlds, and highlights the RL Automotive Skeleton as a true celebration of Ralph Lauren’s love of beautiful machines. www.ralphlaurenwatches.com

054

Watches

Orchestration of Time Durrah’s Spring selection of timepieces for women are an assortment of the highest-quality manufacture movements, handcrafted with the finest materials and techniques. Style is not sacrificed for substance, and class meets contemporary chic in each of these exquisite models.

Chopard, Haute Joaillerie Hedgehog Timepiece The Chopard Haute Joaillerie ateliers have created a masterpiece: an all-diamond ‘secret’ watch with the dial hidden beneath a dazzling hedgehog encrusted with moonstone spikes. This magical timepiece embodies the latest chapter in Chopard’s poetic exploration of the fabled Animal World.

The creation of this Hedgehog watch stems from the expert, patient and inventive hands of the Chopard artisans. The stylised hedgehog is set with moonstones, illuminated by diamonds that are set according to a unique technique. Cut into delicate spikes of varying heights by the lapidaries of the Haute Joaillerie ateliers, the extremely delicate moonstones required the dexterity, expertise and talent of the gifted artisans to create the spherical

body of the hedgehog with its ample volume.

The head, set fully in diamonds, is embellished with two sapphires, giving it a strikingly radiant gaze. Meanwhile, its mischievous snout set with brown sapphires hides a well-guarded secret – touching it transforms this piece of jewellery into a watch. A dedicated mechanism governs the opening of the hedgehog in the middle of its back and reveals a tiny, baby hedgehog holding a watch dial in its paws. Entirely set with diamonds, the interior of the watch reveals all the splendour of an objet d’art, rendered even more precious by its secret nature. www.chopard.com/watches

056

Watches

Chaumet, Hortensia Watches Master of naturalism, Chaumet has celebrated nature in movement for over 200 years. Today, the Maison explores the myriad subtleties of the hydrangea flower, offering a living interpretation of time, with a new creative complication.

The new Hortensia watches by Chaumet combine jewellery and watchmaking savoir-faire. Four precious watches play their part in this performance, with elegance and modernity.

This model features a radiant and delicate halo of diamonds, bringing a convex bouquet to life. Using inlay technique, a hydrangea is surrounded by two floral corollas, highlighting the exquisite details of its petals. The dial is white seawater mother of pearl marquetry, worked with 2 corollas around the central flower to cerate the hydrangea décor, inlaid in a crown of 121 brilliant cut diamonds. The strap is brown brushed canvas satin, with an 18K yellow gold pin buckle, set with 19 brilliant cut diamonds.

Going beyond the traditional, this exceptional technical feat reveals a stylized and touching ode to nature, celebrating the art of jewellers, engravers, stone setters, hard stone sculptors and enamellers.

Time is unveiled in a magical pageant, powered by mechanical movement born of the finest Swiss watchmaking tradition. www.chaumet.com

Ulysse Nardin, Marine Chronometer Manufacture Ladies Being famous for creating some of the world’s most stunning watches, Ulysse Nardin blends the art of watchmaking with beauty. They are one of the most innovative watch companies in the world and the new Ulysse Nardin Marine Chronometer Manufacture Ladies is proof. The new Marine Chronometer comes in two different variations targeting the lady collector. These pieces have a touch of flair with the addition of a diamond bezel.

A stunning timepiece comprised of feminine features and state-of-the-art technology, the new Marine Chronometer Manufacture for women is a force to be reckoned with. Delicate in appearance, with its mother-of-pearl dial, pastel Roman numerals and fluted bezel adorned with diamonds, it is also vigorous in function. The design of these watches is based on chronometers, which were highly precise clocks for ships, where the running seconds were located at 6 o’clock and the power reserve indicator at the 12 o’clock position – hence the name Marine Chronometer.

Powered by the groundbreaking Ulysse Nardin 118 caliber, known for its DIAMonSIL escapement and silicon balance spring, and bearing all the hallmarks of the finest marine instruments, the ladies’ Marine Chronometer Manufacture offers women a wristwatch that is equal part jewelry, equal part extraordinary. www.ulysse-nardin.com

Fendi My Way Special Edition Fendi Timepieces presents the new Fendi My Way watch in a limited edition of 50 numbered pieces with a stunning setting of diamonds on the case and dial, two highly original Fendi fox fur accessories and a personal note signed by Silvia Venturini Fendi.

The elegant round case, exquisitely curved and inspired by the shape of a Roman amphitheater, and the dial are fully set with precious white diamonds totaling approximately 3.06 carats.

The Fendi My Way is accompanied by two exclusive fur accessories, a plume and a collar, and can be worn unadorned on formal occasions, with its plume for a touch of glamour or with the collar for society events and elegant soirées.

For the Fendi My Way special edition plume and collar, Fendi Timepieces uses real Arctic fox, selected for its long, thick and very soft fur, which boasts a myriad of colour variations. The timepiece is available in two sizes. It boasts an elegant white strap to match the plume and the collar, and the Fendi Elite calfskin strap features a grained texture.

Marrying Fendi’s expertise in fur with the Swiss watchmaker’s art and the magic of precious stones, the Fendi My Way Special Edition is the perfect accessory for women who love to combine luxury with bold statements. www.fendi.com

058

Watches

Ralph Lauren 867 Tuxedo The Ralph Lauren 867 collection, named after the iconic New York flagship store at 867 Madison Avenue, reflects the designer’s enduring fascination for the unparalleled splendor of the Art Deco era. Strong abstract geometry and richness of materials continue to make the 867 collection of timepieces some of the most supremely elegant and versatile timepieces in the world.

The Ralph Lauren 867 Tuxedo watch brings a spirit of glamour and celebration to the 867 timepiece collection for women. Reinventing the international sophistication of the 1930s and the classic rectilinear geometry of the Art Deco era, the 867 Tuxedo timepiece achieves a modern and powerful feminine presence. The 18K rose gold case features open, arch-shaped attachments for the strap, creating a gracefully elongated presence on the wrist, while the juxtaposition of black Arabic and Roman numerals on the off-white lacquered dial anchor the timepiece firmly in Deco design language.

Two versions of the 867 Tuxedo timepiece will be offered: a 27.50mm model powered by the hand-wound RL430 movement, created by Piaget for Ralph Lauren, and — for the first time in the collection — a 21.50mm model. This new smaller size will be powered by a Swiss quartz caliber — both decorated with Côtes de Genève. www.ralphlaurenwatches.com

Strong abstract geometry and richness of materials continue to make the 867 collection of timepieces some of the most supremely elegant and versatile timepieces in the world

060

Masterpiece

01

02

01 White Gyr Falcon – Glory.

100cm x 64cm 02 Lanner Falcon – Glory.

100cm x 64cm

Dramatic Drawing

03 White Gyr Falcon – Golden

Air 2. Mixed Media on Canvas, 100cm x 162cm

British artist Christine Allison has a passion for drawing and an intuitive perception in the handling of oil paint and colour. Her rich oil paintings depicting falcons, hawks and other birds of prey capture the sheer power, movement and glorious plumage of the birds, earning her international acclaim. A life-long artist, Christine trained at St. Martin’s School of Art, London, the New York Studio School of Drawing, Painting and Sculpture, USA and Exeter University, Devon. Her work hangs in many private collections and her name has become well known in the UAE, where she held an exhibition ‘Birds of Prey’. Durrah speaks in-depth with the artist to find out more about her incredible artistic journey.

03

062

Masterpiece

04

When did you first develop an interest in art?

I think I was born with an artist’s eye; artists see things with curiosity and I feel I have always noticed shapes, colours, textures, patterns and forms. As a child I would spend my time drawing or making things, painting, colouring, cutting out, sticking. My greatest pleasure would be a new piece of drawing paper, a colouring book or a new set of crayons. I was always drawing or sewing. As a very young girl I had my picture of a ballerina put on the wall at school because I had given the dancer knees!

I remember that drawing even now. I loved the shape of the ballerina’s feet in her ballet shoes. I noticed these little things and would practice drawing them again and again until I got them right.

My maternal grandmother was creative and a very good artist, she taught me to sew when I was only 3 years old, and I remember her carefully showing me how to make a drawing of an eye look ‘alive’ with a little touch of light in the corner. My great grandfather made exquisite drawings and I remember seeing these when I could hardly reach the table, the memory of those drawings touches something very deep inside me.

My own parents were not artistic at all, my father was a marine engineer; very precise and technical but he could make anything. If he didn’t have a particular machine part he would make his own, so he was very practical and creative in his own way. My mother was a homemaker, she cooked delicious food and knitted me beautiful jumpers; she was a warm, lovely person.

I feel I was born being interested in art and I was fortunate to have a loving family who encouraged me.

Some people are born with an interest in numbers or words or physical sports, for me it is creativity. Art is my life-blood, being an artist is what I am here to do.

What drew you to creating art that depicted birds of prey?

Throughout my life different subjects have inspired me at different times; the human figure, the sea, the sky, the

05

environment – mostly natural forms. I am drawn to beauty and power. Five years ago I bought a gift for my husband of a falconry experience day in the New Forest in the South West of England. I joined him as an observer. I fell in love that day with the birds! It was unexpected. I just loved their powerful presence, their attitude, their plumage, their feet, the way they moved and the sheer intensity of their eyes.

I found them both beautiful and powerful, exquisite yet dangerous. I wanted to draw them. I wanted to paint them.

So it was myself, not my husband, who started visiting more birds of prey centres to make sketches and take reference photographs. I had found my new subject or rather I prefer to think it found me. I felt compelled to make images of them then and I still do now five years later.

goodness for all that drawing experience). After graduating I worked in various small studios before becoming Design Assistant to Mervyn Kurlansky, one of the five original partners of Pentagram design. It was a very, very creative place to work; graphic design at its best – intelligent, witty, clean, sharp, beautiful and powerful. I learned so much whilst I was there and met such interesting people. Good design eliminates all that is unnecessary, it is pure, it is poignant, and it touches the essence of a thing. I owe much to that time at Pentagram, I learned transferrable skills invaluable to the painter I would later become.

A move away from London to the South West of England prompted me to pursue a post-graduate teaching qualification at Exeter University in Devon and a move into art education. I then became Head of Art at the prestigious Can you tell us about your experiences English school, Colyton Grammar, where I led an exciting training at prestigious schools in London, art programme for students aged 11 to 18 years old. A New York and Devon? government inspector reported I had created ‘a centre of I spent four years at St. Martin’s School of Art in excellence’, so I hope I have played my part in inspiring the London from 1972 to 1976. The first year was a Foundation next generation of artists. year, where students experiment in all disciplines, Fine I was still juggling being an artist with my teaching Art, Sculpture, Fashion & Textiles, Photography and then career. I loved teaching but in my heart I wanted to be specialise in one area for the following three years. I a full time artist. In 2000 I read an article in the Modern graduated with a Bachelor of Art Honours Degree in Graphic Painters magazine about a ‘drawing marathon’ at The New Design. One of the wonderful aspects of being at St. Martin’s York Studio School of Drawing, Painting & Sculpture. I was is that no matter which discipline you are taking, you are intrigued; drawing was and still is my passion and this article still expected to draw from the life-model throughout your spoke to my heart. Each semester began with a two-week degree course. For some students that would be quite marathon of intensive and innovative drawing. I knew I demanding, but for me it was a joy because I love to draw. had to take part! I negotiated with my school to go to New I also believe good drawing is an invaluable tool to have in York for two weeks in the fall of 2000. It was the most one’s ‘kitbag’ of skills. One learns so much every time you exhausting, challenging and stimulating two weeks I had pick up a pencil and try to create an image of a threeever experienced. It left me hungry for more. The Dean of dimensional human form on a flat two-dimensional piece the school, Graham Nickson, recognized my passion and of paper. I love the intensity of observation required and the honoured me by offering me a scholarship to return to creativity in the interpretation. St. Martin’s was an exciting the New York Studio School for a year of full time, postplace to be in the 1970s, and it was the place to be if you graduate study. I took up his offer in 2001 and so began a were a fashion or sculpture student in particular. London most wonderful year that changed my life. was buzzing, everything was new, modern and exciting.

Not only was, (and still is) New York a great place to Graphic Design was exciting too, we didn’t use be, but the school, the teaching and my fellow students computers then, everything was done by hand (thank were phenomenal. I felt very privileged to be given this

04 The artist with Peregrine Falcon – Desert Sunset.

Mixed Media on Canvas, 113cm x 70cm 05 Lanner Falcon – Golden Icon. Mixed Media on Canvas, 120cm x 150cm 06 New Series Drawing 12.

Charcoal, 78cm x 55cm

07 Golden Eagle – Power.

Acrylic on Canvas, 120cm x 150cm

07 06

time to expand my artistic practice. I was 47 years old and a student again, doing what I loved – drawing and painting every day, unbelievable! The critiques went on late into the evening but every word, every moment, every insight into my work and that of the other students was invaluable. My learning curve was vertical! The days were long and the work intense – I was raw with exhaustion and revelation. At the end there was no going back to teaching. Graham Nickson said, “go home and paint, paint, paint”, and I did. Now I really was a full-time artist, Pandora’s box was well and truly open.

You have said previously that you feel an empathy with the Emirates. Can you tell us more about this?

Yes, I most certainly said this in relation to the birds. The birds came to me almost by accident, but my appreciation and admiration of them is immense.

I am not a falconer, I am not even a true ‘wildlife’ artist, but I am drawn to the subliminal powerful energy the birds exude. The falcon is synonymous with the culture, sport and heritage of the UAE, it is their National symbol, it is also a symbol of power. These beautiful birds are important to the Emirates and they have become important to me.

What is your artistic process like?

My studio is next to my home in the UK, overlooking the sea and harbour of the small town of Lyme Regis in Dorset. I begin each day with a swim in the sea, even in winter (although not when the cold or weather is ridiculously extreme). I then work in my studio every day. Sometimes I get up and work in the small hours of the morning as early as 3am if I feel the need. I get very involved if I have a painting on the go and find it difficult to leave it alone. Fortunately my husband is very tolerant of my nocturnal wanderings!

I work at a big wooden easel, it has to be big as often my paintings are very large, up to six or seven foot

in size. I use drawings and photographs of the birds for my reference material, but my intent is not to slavishly copy. In the absence of the real bird in my studio I do need to study the turn of a head or shape of a wing. My objectives are always to portray the energy and the essence of the bird, that might be its movement or its majesty, whatever I feel needs to be said through drawing and painting.

Currently I am using acrylic paint but I also love oil paint. I like to explore with my materials; I use brushes of all sizes, palette knives, glazes, texture paste, gold leaf, and even sand from the beach. I begin by ‘finding’ my subject on the canvas, I draw with a paint brush, ‘feeling’ its presence on the blank canvas, asking myself ‘where is it, where is the head, how big is it, what does it need to be interesting, exciting, intense?’ Intuitively the answers emerge and so does the painting. Once I know what it is about I am away and I will work continuously until it tells me it is done. I am not afraid to wipe away a day’s work, scrape it off and wash away something I don’t like. Often it is only what is underneath, hidden, or erased that gives a painting its depth.

If the painting needs energy I will sometimes take the canvas out into the garden and almost throw paint at it, it can be a messy business! I call those days my ‘Jackson Pollock’ days. Even though I am making an image of a real thing my work has abstract qualities. My birds and my paintings are contemporary works; I am constantly exploring new ways of working. I like to see good draughtsmanship within a piece, the drawing is important - then for me the excitement is finding a way to make each work unique through the use of interesting brushwork, layering of paint, palette knife work and sometimes the use of other media. Each painting is a story of agony and ecstasy.

Where do you find your sources of inspiration?

I visit bird centres in the UK and in the UAE, I use books and I use the Internet. It is always best if I’ve made an observational sketch or taken a photograph myself and

064

Masterpiece

actually met my subject, but that isn’t always possible.

I was fortunate to be invited to the farm of one of Abu Dhabi’s Royal family to photograph his falcons; I often use those photographs as reference material in my work.

I go to art exhibitions wherever I am and enjoy looking at other artists work whatever their subject matter. The European masters form an intrinsic part of my heritage; Pierro Della Francesca, Titian, Michelangelo, Leonardo Da Vinci, Matisse, Picasso; and British and American modern artists are important to me too. Even the prehistoric cave paintings influence me! I’m always looking to see how the artist has made their mark or used their paint.

I have also been visiting Abu Dhabi and Dubai regularly over the last few years and my awareness of Arabic script and decoration has been stimulated, they are so beautiful.

We should never stop studying.

Who do you think is most attracted to your work?

Interestingly I don’t feel my buyers need to even like birds or be falconers to be attracted to my work. Many falconers would perhaps prefer something more traditional or photographic (but not all).

People are often surprised by my paintings; they can be quite awestruck by the scale and intensity of them.

I feel my work is for those who want a statement piece on their wall, something with that ‘wow’ factor. The subliminal messages of power, beauty and majesty that the birds project are affirmations of positive energy. For example, one businessman bought seven of my paintings for his new suite of offices in Abu Dhabi’s Etihad Towers.

Having a six-foot peregrine falcon or a golden eagle, wings outstretched, painted in strong colours with energetic brush marks hanging over the managing directors desk says something about a company – it projects a feeling of power, confidence and modernity.

A Sheikha in Dubai bought two of my drawings as a gift for her husband to hang on the wall of their beautiful home. She admired the energy and movement in the drawings as well as the particularity of the falcons depicted.

Recently in Abu Dhabi a young Arab gentleman fell in love with one of my more energetic, semi-abstract paintings of a white gyr falcon. He was so excited when he left with it under his arm and a smile on his face, eager to hang it on his wall.

So to answer your question – there is no one type of person who finds my paintings attractive or one type of setting for them. My paintings can hang successfully in a corporate building, in a hotel, a penthouse, a villa or a palace.

08

What direction do you see your work headed in the future?

I feel I will still be working with the birds for the foreseeable future, as I still feel challenged to find new and unique ways to portray them. I can imagine that I might extend my references to other bird species or other creatures; that is always a possibility. The natural world holds many wonders and mysteries. The sea constantly calls me to paint it too. I watch it every day from my studio, but then a bird will pull me back to my easel. The major challenge is always ‘how?’ How can I use my paint, my skills, my hands to make new, exciting, innovative images that will touch my soul and those of my viewers? I am never complacent.

Do you have any upcoming projects or exhibitions?

I am currently negotiating for an exhibition in Dubai for later this year. I would enjoy the challenge of a new hotel or suite of offices to make a series of special sitespecific paintings for; I like working to commission and really getting to know my clients. It would be exciting to be invited to show my work in Bahrain too! www.christineallison.com

09

08 White Gyr Falcon – Swoop From the West. Acrylic on Canvas, 100cm x 100cm 09 White Gyr Falcon – Power.

Acrylic on Canvas

Lower. Sleeker. Faster. Meaner.

The new Continental GT V8 S.

Continental GT V8 S fuel consumption – EU Drive Cycle* in mpg (l/100 km): Urban 18.4 (15.4); Extra Urban 36.7 (7.7); Combined 26.8 (10.6). CO2 Emissions 246 g/km.

EPA Drive Cycle* in USmpg: City driving 15.0; Highway driving 24.0; Combined 18.0.

066

Culture

Inaugurated in Geneva in 2001, the Patek Philippe Museum presents one of the most important and precious timepiece collections ever compiled. As celebrations for the 175th anniversary of the Genevan manufacture continue, all Patek Philippe commemorative watches from 1989 to 2014 are now on display, until April this year.

A Horological History

02

W

ith over 2,000 watches, automata, art objects, and miniature portraits on enamel, the Patek Philippe Museum offers visitors a fantastic journey through the 500-year heritage of watchmaking artistry in Geneva, Switzerland, and Europe. Additionally, it shows a very complete panorama of Patek Philippe watches since the manufacture was established in 1839. Located in a historic building in the middle of Geneva’s Plainpalais district, the museum is deemed the “true temple of watchmaking,” dedicated to the industry’s specialists but also to interested connoisseurs and visitors from all over the world.

As Patek Philippe recently celebrated its 175th anniversary, initial events commemorating the occasion were thoroughly inspiriting and met with enthusiasm. The next anniversary event, lasting for five months from November to April 2015, sees manufacture president Thierry Stern and his father Philippe Stern, both passionate watch lovers, arranging a last showing of the commemorative timepieces at the Patek Philippe Museum in Geneva’s Plainpalais district. For all connoisseurs of high-end watchmaking artistry, this is a unique opportunity to revel in the beauty and perfection of these rare and highly coveted anniversary watches.

068

Culture

In addition to the watches that memorialise the 175th anniversary, the special exhibition at the Patek Philippe Museum will showcase all Patek Philippe commemorative timepieces that were created since the manufacture’s 150th anniversary. Museum visitors will also be invited to learn more about the history and technical aspects of the brand via new interactive presentation technologies.

The Patek Philippe Museum is the manifestation of the unbridled passion of Philippe Stern, the honorary president of the Geneva-based workshops. Mr. Stern was exceptionally successful in evolving the familyowned enterprise and discovered his enthusiasm for collecting watches very early on. In the 1960s, his interest was focused on Patek Philippe watches, especially the complicated timepieces. Around 1980, he broadened his pursuit to include watches that represented horological milestones since the 16th century, and also collected precious Genevan enamels, a world-famous specialty of the city on the Rhône River. In the course of the decades, this is how Philippe Stern assembled one of the most magnificent timepiece collections of our era. But he did not collect these masterpieces of technology and aesthetics for his own enjoyment. He wanted to make these witnesses of extraordinary watchmaking prowess accessible to the general public and proliferate the eminence of Geneva as a cradle of haute horlogerie. And thus, he gradually felt the desire to build a museum for his collection.

An exceptional collection deserves an exceptional sanctuary. In the end, the Patek Philippe Museum was accommodated in a fantastic early 20th century industrial property after it had been tastefully restored. It is located

03 04

01 A display of high-end watchmaking artistry 02 Façade of the Patek Philippe Museum 03 Over 2,000 watches, automata, art objects, and miniature portraits on enamel are on display 04 The museum also accommodates crafts associated with timepieces: engraving, enamelling, gem setting, and so on 05 There is a complete panorama of Patek Philippe watches since 1839 06 Key timepieces trace the proud history of the famous Genevan watch brand

05

at 7 rue des Vieux-Grenadiers in the Plainpalais district of Geneva and looks back on a proud past in watchmaking and related artisanal crafts. It had been built in 1919 and 1920 according to the blueprints of a reputable architect and was subsequently home to gem polishers, jewellers, and the jewellery studios of a famous Genevan watchmaking company. In 1975 it was acquired by Patek Philippe on behalf of Ateliers Réunis, which manufactured watch cases, bracelets, and chains there. After this workshop moved to the new Patek Philippe manufacturing complex in Plan-les-Ouates, the building was temporarily vacant; it was then that Philippe Stern decided to present his collection here. The structure was completely renovated between 1999 and 2001, and a floor was added true to the style of the original architecture. Philippe Stern entrusted his wife Gerdi with the interior design of the four floors, each spanning 700m2, and she endowed them with the warm and sublime ambiance of a private salon.

The opening ceremony finally took place in November 2001, giving the Patek Philippe Museum the opportunity to present its collections in a framework that was befitting of the technical, artistic, aesthetic, historic, and scientific substance of the exhibits.

The Patek Philippe Museum is not devoted to one brand; it is a globally unique venue dedicated to five hundred years of watchmaking artistry. The museum also accommodates the crafts that have always been intimately associated with timepieces: engraving, enamelling, gem setting, and many others.

Accordingly, the museum collections are presented in two sections. The second floor is an anthology of the history of mechanical timepieces from its early beginnings in the 16th century and extending into the

19th century. It includes exceptional treasures such as a drum watch dating back to about 1530-40, and an incredible selection of fancy timepieces from the early 19th century. To a great extent, this antique collection is dedicated to timekeeping instruments produced in Geneva, but it also exhibits many unique pieces from other European workshops. It is rounded out with a department for automata and a stunning collection of miniature enamel portraits that testify to Geneva’s stature in this domain.

The first floor gives visitors an overview of Patek Philippe’s most beautiful creations since 1839, with incomparable masterpieces such as the impressively famous Calibre 89, the world’s most complicated portable timepiece, and precious watches that once belonged to royalty, complicated pocket watches and wristwatches, acclaimed Art Deco models, and many other remarkable accomplishments for which the manufacture can take credit. Overall, some 1,000 timepieces trace the proud history of the famous Genevan watch brand.

The instructive function of the museum comes to the fore particularly on the third floor, which houses a library of more than 8,000 books on watchmaking and related topics. In addition to its permanent collections, the museum also hosts temporary special exhibitions such as the current exhibition of the commemorative timepieces.

This exhibition at the Patek Philippe Museum is a must for everyone who wishes to see the globally acclaimed collection of the Genevan manufacture’s 175th anniversary watches and their legendary predecessors. www.patekmuseum.com

06

The Patek Philippe Museum is the manifestation of the unbridled passion of Philippe Stern, the honorary president of the Genevabased workshops.

04

070

Special Feature

Bin Faqeeh Real Estate Investment Company is a privately held investments company specialising in real estate, which was established in early 2008. The company is primarily engaged in the acquisition, development, and management of real estate investments and works and contributes as an influential part of the national economy, enriching the real estate sector of Bahrain. Durrah has an exclusive chat with Chairman of Bin Faqeeh, Faisal Faqeeh.

Enriching Bahrain

E

stablished in 2008, Bin Faqeeh Real Estate Investment Company officially launched its first projects at the beginning of 2010, and since then has expanded its business significantly, beginning to develop a clear strategy for growth ideas and innovative projects.

The size of the planned projects in the five-year plan placed by the company, which started from July 2009 until December 2014, value over 350 million U.S. dollars.

Bin Faqeeh Real Estate has an ambitious plan to develop its real estate products in a manner to enable them to create real investment opportunities, which are rare at such reasonable prices, while maintaining the standard of quality and luxury that the projects provide.

The company’s primary activities revolve around the development of its own properties to meet its high expectations of quality for long-term holding periods.

With business experience in the Kingdom of Bahrain, Bin Faqeeh’s investment activities are not geographically

limited. Their development portfolio now includes millions worth of projects, and also one of the largest providers of private equity capital to the self-storage industry.

In Busaiteen, the company has two fully constructed projects “La Vida Tower” and “The One”, which were delivered in 2011 and 2012 consequently, and feature a safe and convenient residential opportunity.

In Reef Island, they have “Dar Al Salam Port” which consists of residential buildings, each offering 56 units. The project features luxury apartments with impressive sea views over the Kingdom of Bahrain, overlooking Bahrain Financial Harbour and Bahrain Bay. Construction began on this project in the first quarter of 2012.

In Seef District, Bin Faqeeh Real Estate has four different outstanding projects. “Business Bay” is a commercial tower featuring offices that provide the ideal working atmosphere and environment through the facilities and services available. The location of the building provides it with a unique edge, as it

01 02

overlooks Reef Island and Bahrain Financial Harbour and is situated close to Bahrain City Centre.

“The Breaker” is another project located in Seef District opposite to Bahrain City Centre; a luxury residential building consisting of 35 Floors with a total height of 165 meters. “The Breaker” has been recorded as the highest precast structure tower in the world making it a major landmark in Seef District, and is expected to be completed

by March 2015.

One of the company’s most outstanding projects yet is “The Grand”, which is located next to Business Bay in Seef District. The project consists of everything a family could desire in one place; it includes an in-house cinema, bowling centre, billiard centre and much more, meeting all entertainment and comfort needs.

“The Homes” is Bin Faqeeh Real Estate’s recent project; and consists of modern residential villas with beautiful landscapes located in a private community in Hamala.

“360” is a beautiful residential tower located in Durrat Marina surrounded by breathtaking sea views from all its angles.

“The Treasure” is a first-class residential tower located in Dilmunia Island that is embodied with facilities and amenities to cover all individuals needs.

“The Nest” is an ideal preference for those who seek efficiency apartment or studio flats that are self-contained and secure, located in Sanabis, next to LMRA and Chamber of Commerce & Industry.

“The Forbs” Bin Faqeeh’s latest project yet, consisting of offices located next to The Nest in Sanabis.

In addition to all of the company’s projects, Bin Faqeeh Real Estate will be announcing new projects to be launched in the near future, all located in prime locations in the Kingdom of Bahrain, with beautiful sceneries and embodied with new ideas. www.binfaqeeh.com

072

Special Feature 01 Dar Al Salam Port - Reef Island 02 The Treasure - Dilmunia Island 03 Portrait of Chairman of Bin Faqeeh, Faisal Faqeeh 04 The Forbs

03

Interview with Faisal Bin Faqeeh What is the company philosophy of Bin Faqeeh Real Estate?

Bin Faqeeh always aspires to provide projects as per the market requirements; hence we are targeting three market segments (low, mid, and high income markets). We design our projects based on the desires of the investors, whether it may be low prices or high return on investments.

We believe in what we do and offer and aim to be the leader in Real Estate Development in the Kingdom of Bahrain. Also, we are currently supporting the Ministry of Housing in providing affordable units for Bahrainis.

What do you think has contributed to your success over the years?

There are many factors that contributed to our success over the years, which can be briefly summarised in keeping low margins on our projects, being able to maintain reasonable pricings to offer our clients, always aiming to deliver the best by providing luxury finishes, delivering our projects on time, increasing the faith of clients in us by providing them with reports on a monthly basis, and providing projects in prime locations within the Kingdom of Bahrain (Reef Island, Dilmunia, Durrat Marina, Seef District and many more).

What do you consider your greatest responsibilities as Chairman of Bin Faqeeh Real Estate?

My greatest responsibility and concern is to satisfy our existing and potential clients. We do so by offering quality projects, delivering them on time, and maintaining longterm relationships with our clients by providing them with the extra services and benefits.

How do you recognise a property which has a potential investment opportunity?

We mainly focus on prime locations with beautiful sea views and sceneries, as well as different islands such as Reef Island, Dilmunia and Durrat Marina.

How do you maintain the standard of quality and luxury that your company is well known for?

We always thrive in providing high end projects entwined with luxury finishes to please our clients. We therefore base our prices accordingly after conducting all the necessary studies and research and determining the costs involved.

What have been some of your proudest moments?

My proudest moment can be summarised in the success of a challenging project, as well as witnessing the excitement and satisfaction of our clients when handing over the units.

Can you tell us about some of your upcoming projects?

We shall be announcing outstanding projects in the most desirable areas within the Kingdom of Bahrain soon, which shall have beautiful sea views and sceneries.

Where do you see the company headed over the next five to ten years?

Bin Faqeeh is aiming to be considered the leader in Real Estate Development in the Kingdom of Bahrain within the next five years. We are also thriving in expanding our projects to the neighbouring countries such as Saudi Arabia and Turkey. In addition, in the next five years we hope to reach our target of providing 5,000 units, which currently reached to 1,300 units.

04

05 The Homes 06 360 - Durrat Marina 07 The Grand 08 The Breaker

The company’s primary activities revolve around the development of its own properties to meet its high expectations of quality for long-term holding periods

05

06 07

08

074

Masterpiece 01 Generation 02 Elan

Admirable Artistry Tunisian born Sami Gharbi is an artist of many impressive talents.

With a primary focus on calligraphy, Sami’s creative abilities expand to the role of painter, musician, songwriter, manager, designer, teacher, and ambassador for the Y-Peer Education Network, an International youth network created by the United Nations Population Fund, which fights against AIDS. Sami speaks to Durrah about his creative life, what inspires him, and how he hopes to bring pride to his Arab and Muslim community.

01

02

You are gifted across a range of creative disciplines. In what field did you begin your pursuits?

Since my childhood, I have always attracted attention by my artistic qualities. In school I was a rather average pupil, but in the field of art I was always the best. I loved writing and especially Arabic calligraphy, an artistic field in which I find myself today.

In a lot of your work you fuse creative elements together, for example music provides a complimentary backdrop to your calligraphy artwork. How do you pair the two?

In addition to calligraphy, I am a professional musician.

I’m the bass player and the lyricist of the most famous world-music band in Tunisia, “GARBY’S Brothers”, which I launched with my two brothers in the year 2000. I am also the manager and spokesperson of the band, so it’s normal for me to combine my skills in music and visual art in a same context. I find this an asset that I try to exploit in the right direction.

How has your background or upbringing influenced your work?

I have always loved reading and art, I lived with the books and at the library. I read a lot in Arabic and French and in addition, I had a wonderful childhood full of joy, colour and light, with lots of family warmth, all of which was experienced on the edge of the sea. I believe that all

076

Masterpiece

those items created in me a fertile artistic imagination, not to mention that I was educated on the pride of my Arab and Muslim backgrounds.

Do you have a favourite medium of work that you feel most connected with?

As an artist I’m always looking for new mediums, new perspectives and new horizons; each medium has its own charm and its own requirements.

What was it that encouraged you to pursue your creative dreams?

Since I reached my forty years, I felt that I have no time to lose. I realised that art is my life, and my happiness and my pride too, so I dove into intensive work. I work a lot and I do a lot of research to refine my work. The Internet has helped me a lot, and since I started posting my artworks on the web I was amazed at the reaction of many people across the world that are interested in my art. As well as this, I cannot deny the role of my dear wife who encouraged me a lot in my artistic approach.

Which area of your life do you think is most reflected in your work?

I think that literature and the hard life that I had after the death of my father have some influence on some aspect of my work.

How has Africa influenced and inspired you?

I not only live in Africa, but in the northernmost point of the continent, the city of Bizerte, which is the extreme

north of Africa. My city is a peninsula surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea. In the south is the largest desert in the world, between my African brothers and me. On the other north side of the sea, there are my European neighbours, and to my right and my left there’s my Maghreb brothers.

I always felt that I live in a region with many advantages, and that is culturally rich and in harmony with many other cultures. It is quite obvious that living in a place like this does expand the inspiration of an artist.

Your work is quite bold and defined in its production. Dark contrasts with light to make the images almost jump out from the page. How do you achieve this effect?

Besides calligraphy I am also a painter and draftsman, I like the 3D style. We can get the 3D effect in an artwork by mastering a technique of shadows and lights. I wanted to combine this effect with Arabic calligraphy, to show that the art of calligraphy is flexible and that the Arabic letter can be an artistic tool with which we can achieve the most beautiful work.

In other artworks you create a sense of depth, so that words look like pictures.

Is there any meaning behind this?

When I start doing an artwork I do not want to be restricted by the size of the medium; I want to swim in a deep environment that has no borders no constraints and no limits, I want to be free. To create a work of art is freedom, and to be free we must be brave. I want to venture into the depths to find out what I want deep in myself.

03

04 05

03 Paix 04 The artist, Sami Gharbi 05 Ouloum 06 Khidaa

06

078

Masterpiece 07 Liar

As a songwriter, do you write music about anything in particular?

08 Hilla

I’ve always been convinced that the art is a universal language that only takes its full meaning when it’s actually defending and promoting a cause. Usually I write songs about causes such as injustice, human indifference, social and health-related topics.

09 Sow

Which artists or people do you look up to?

I admire artists who have a purpose in life, a clear vision of what they want, an ardour in their work, and who respect their art and their identity. This is equivalent for all people of all disciplines.

What is your opinion on the calligraphy art scene in the GCC countries?

I noticed that in the GCC there’s much richer artistic and cultural activity than in the Maghreb. We can see this through the large number of cultural and artistic events, festivals and exhibitions – Katara Cultural Village in Qatar is an example.

You do admirable work as the Y-Peer Education Network Ambassador and also as a teacher. What can you tell us about your philanthropic pursuits?

With my brothers and as world-music band “GARBY’S brothers”, we started quickly being engaged in various social and health-related topics such as road accidents and

especially HIV/AIDS prevention.

We have demonstrated an important commitment to contribute to the HIV/AIDS prevention efforts among young people through our participation in dedicated concerts such as ‘The One World Beat Festival 2003’ and ‘Artistes En Choeur, Unis Contre le SIDA’ in 2005 and 2006 organized by the Tunisian Association Against STDs and AIDS. We became the Y-PEER Ambassadors for Tunisia in 2007 and have participated in several events (concerts, campaigns, International AIDS Conference held in Vienna in 2010, Egypt, Dubai, Jordan, etc.) as well as communicating prevention messages during our TV or radio appearances and interviews.

As a teacher I am increasingly asked to provide Arabic calligraphy courses in schools and universities to revive the desire of this art that represents our pride as Arabs and Muslims.

Where do you see yourself in five years and what do you hope to achieve in the future?

I am determined to continue my artistic path to arrive at success, despite the degrading situation in my country and despite the obstacles and difficulties. My goal is to leave an artistic imprint after leaving this world.

I intend to work hard so that in five years inshallah I will be an international renowned artist, and a pride for my country and my Arab and Muslim community. www.calligraphy-samigharbi.com

07 08

09

080

Special Feature

Unique Sparkle Illustrious Swiss watchmakers, Baume & Mercier, lent their collection to the renowned Doha Jewellery and Watches exhibition that took place between the 24th and 28th of February. Held at the Qatar National Convention Centre, the eminent event distinguishes itself from other exhibitions as the chosen venue for international product launches in the world of jewellery and watch design and manufacturing.

01 The exterior of the Baume & Mercier stand 02 Al Zain display area 03 Inside the Qatar National Convention Centre 04 Al Fardan Jewellery at the Doha Jewellery and Watches exhibition

F

ounded in 1830, the Swiss Maison d’Horlogerie Baume & Mercier has had a proud track record of producing watches that consistently embody an ideal of excellence and affordable luxury for everyday living. Today, the brand’s five key collections include the elegant Clifton collection that features an urban character, the classically feminine Linea for women, the sporty-elegant Capeland for men, the timeless Hampton for both men and women, and the Classima, perfect for all occasions. Building on its watchmaking heritage and the commitment of a visionary family, Baume & Mercier maintains this spirit where attention to every detail goes beyond the manufacture of watches. After almost two centuries of existence, the Swiss watchmaker has forged the image of a company whose name evokes absolute elegance and affordable luxury. This is probably why its horological creations, that have always reflected the values of its rich heritage, go so perfectly with the special moments in life.

This year, the 2015 Doha Jewellery and Watches exhibition was lit up as Baume & Mercier showcased timepieces from their delicate Promesse collection. The

classic and precious line is one that strongly conveys the brand’s commitment to celebrating priceless moments.

Baume & Mercier’s presence at the event was made even more special as the watchmaker celebrates a longstanding partnership with Qatar’s leading luxury retailers, the Al Fardan Group.

Baume & Mercier used this perfect platform to highlight two exceptional pieces from their Promesse collection.

The first was an emblematic timepiece from the Promesse 30 & 34 MM Auto line, Reference 10183. The beautifully balanced model features an aesthetic approach in which the round shape is underscored by the oval bezel, further magnified in by the two-tone steel combined with red gold-capped steel, interpretation of the 30 mm case and the polished/satin-finished bracelet. This timepiece is pervaded by a sense of refinement extending to even the smallest details. Available with a silver-coloured dial illuminated by a ‘drapé guilloché’ decor, this Promesse timepiece beats to the rhythm of a traditional mechanical self-winding movement visible through the transparent case-back. A piece of watchmaking jewellery that is

01

02

03

04

understated yet vividly present on the wrist, this watch features a design inspired by the infinity sign to ensure the endless celebration of life’s special moments.

The other timepiece that delighted visitors was from the Promesse 34 MM Quartz collection; reference 10166. Dressed in black for a jewellery watch combining elegance and sophistication, this Promesse model in a 34 mm diameter steel case is lit up by the fire of 61 sparkling diamonds. The oval bezel, enhanced by the deep reflections of genuine black mother-of-pearl, lends a subtle, delicate dimension to the piece. This iconic watch featuring a black dial with a ‘drapé guilloché’ décor punctuated by Roman numerals and diamond-set indexes, is worn on an imposing glossy black alligator strap secured by a traditional pin buckle.

Dedicated to creating and celebrating life’s precious moments, Baume & Mercier ensured that, yet again, they made a memorable appearance at the Doha Jewellery and Watches exhibition. www.baume-et-mercier.com

082

Fashion

Functional Fashion Born to an English mother and a Persian father, from an early age designer Eskandar was aware of the different traditional clothing of many countries. This awareness was reflected in his unique designs, and after establishing the eskandar label in 1992, today the brand has international success and flagship stores in the world’s fashion capitals. Durrah speaks with the designer about his brand aesthetic and latest collection.

01

02

01 Inside the Eskandar store in Bahrain 02 The designer designs every element inside his stores 03 Eskandar

E

skandar was raised in Tehran, the capital of Iran, when the city was fast emerging as one of the cosmopolitan capitals of the world. He travelled frequently to both Europe and the Far East with his parents, giving him great insight into very different cultures, not only from a fashion perspective, but also from a lifestyle point of view.

This life experience was the major influence of his collections, and Eskandar has taken many of the traditional shapes and made them wearable today.

His label consists of clothes that are not governed by ‘trends’, but by function and tradition, and layers that can be removed or added as temperatures rise and fall. Using natural and noble fabrics, the eskandar collections are a synthesis of culture and tradition with a modern twist.

For two years the designer’s pieces were wholly knit based, with tailoring added in 1995.

Luxurious and elegant knitwear is still the basis of the eskandar look and has created a loyal and dedicated international clientele.

Currently, the eskandar brand is sold in over fifty locations worldwide. In addition to this, eskandar has five retail stores in London, Paris, New York, Los Angeles and Chicago and is available within leading

Currently, the eskandar brand is sold in over fifty locations worldwide

global market department stores, including Bergdorf Goodman, Neiman Marcus and Nordstrom in the USA, Holt Renfrew in Canada, Liberty and Harrods in London, and Saks Fifth Avenue in the UAE and Kazakhstan.

For his latest collection, Eskandar has showcased new silhouettes and textiles in vibrant colours using traditional methods, while adding a modern twist. Japanese and Spanish Tile Design ‘Shibori’ (ancient tie-dyed fabric methods) are key for this season in linen three quarter sleeve neck tunics, co-ordinated with cropped lightweight trousers and accessorised with Brazilian seed necklaces.

New shapes include the must have double pointed sides style – a fuller A-line shape with long side slits in lightweight linen, ombre stripes and gauze linen check. Draped scarves complete the look in co-ordinating patterns.

From day to evening wear are the elegant exclusively created oriental floral printed silks in a signature loose bateau neck dress and kimono shape. Bright tomato reds, purple, and fuchsia bring a splash of colour to eskandar’s easy and dressy separates in mid-weight silk crepe, chiffon devore and silk sateen knits.

The latest season from eskandar consists of a range of truly collectable pieces. www.eskandar.com

084

Fashion

03

From day to evening ware are the elegant exclusively created oriental floral printed silks in a signature loose bateau neck dress and kimono shape

Interview with the designer What is your brand philosophy?

I have always stayed true to myself and always do things in a way that reflects my personal feelings and my personal ideals. I think this is reflected in the clothing too.

What is of the highest importance to me is the level of service we offer and the relationship that I build and have with suppliers, clients and customers alike. I have no set philosophy for my brand except that I always do what feels right and correct, and I always have to feel comfortable with the way business is being done. I guess I have a rather old fashioned way of running the business and the brand but it really works for me.

You focus a lot on comfort and functionality in your designs. How do you make these fashionable?

I have never tried to be fashionable or follow trends. I prefer to work from the feeling that comes from inside and trust that the people that have been wearing my clothes for over 20 years continue to like what I do. Comfort is important, but for me the most important thing is to be respectful to the fabric I am using. I use and adapt a lot of traditional shapes that have been around for centuries. I study a diverse cross section of cultures and clothing from different countries, and adapt and reinterpret them to make them wearable today. I think people are drawn to shapes that are somehow familiar, especially if they are luxurious and comfortable at the same time.

You incorporate your aesthetics into the interior of your stores and design these yourself. How do you think this influences the shopping experience?

My stores are designed completely by me. I design everything from the floors, the walls, the fixtures, all the way to the kitchen areas and the bathrooms and even the stockrooms! My objective

has always been that everything the customer sees, should be a reflection of my lifestyle and me. I choose every piece of furniture (that we also sell in the shops) as well as all the home ware pieces, the jewellery and the cookbooks for the bookshops. My home actually feels very much like my own flagship stores. Because of this, each shop is unique and gives the customer a different shopping experience. And of course in this day and age where so many brands have shops that look similar to each other, it’s quite unique to find a brand that goes against the trend as I do. I think this really appeals to the customer, as each of my shops is very unique.

Your background is quite diverse, with an English mother and Persian father. How do these two cultures reflect in your work?

I was brought up in Iran many years ago and travelled extensively with my parents. I was strongly influenced by the traditional costumes of different areas and these have played a very strong part from the beginning. I think the strongest influences manifest themselves in different ways. From my father I picked up the financial strength and a strong sense of business and numbers, and from my mother I picked up the flair for fashion. She was and still is a very fashionable and elegant lady.

What was the main inspiration behind your latest collection?

I sometimes feel after so many years of designing I have done everything. However I somehow manage to continue to move forward. This latest collection was inspired more by shape, flow and colour than anything else. I brought colour back in abundance in both the daywear and the dressier pieces. And I added some new shapes that work perfectly for this region. My geometric prints draw on Iznik tile designs and my floral prints are inspired by hand painted

floral paintings.

Of course the influence of different cultures can still be seen very strongly and this season I introduced many styles that are hand tie dyed using the ancient and traditional art of ‘shibori’ tie dying. These are made in Japan for me and each piece is unique because of the hand dying element.

What are your favourite materials and fabrics to work with and why?

Cashmere is always the winner for me! I love it and use it everywhere. I have a very strong knitwear collection and I am known for my cashmere sweaters. Using cashmere in knitwear and in fabric creates a material that is soft and has an amazing flow. It really suits my fluid shapes.

Silk is another fabric that I use a lot and again it has a great movement and really adds a dimension to my clothes.

Any natural fabric works for me but it needs to feel right and be spun and woven just exactly. I use a lot of linen in the summer too but I have it washed heavily so that the fibres break down a bit. This again gives the fabric softness and movement. Silk and linen are my two best performing fabrics in this region.

How would you describe the taste of customers in the GCC compared to the rest of the world?

I think taste is very individual and not specific to an area. And really I’m not the kind of person who differentiates between so called good or bad taste. I think individuality is great. I many not like something, but who I am to say if it is right or wrong. The GCC customers are world travellers and often highly educated and they know what they want. The most important difference is that many of them dress in a way that is respectful to their culture and my clothes allow them to do that. The volume, length and flow of my pieces seem to be perfect for the GCC customer.

086

Architecture

After much anticipation, two Swiss luxury watchmakers have opened their doors to new boutiques in London and Dubai. IWC Schaffhausen debuts their first UK store located in Mayfair in London, and Ulysse Nardin impresses with their biggest boutique yet, located in the prestigious Dubai Mall. Durrah delves further into the opening of these two landmark destinations.

Boutique Sanctuaries

IWC Schaffhausen, London The Swiss luxury watch manufacturer IWC Schaffhausen has opened its first UK boutique in London, located at 138 New Bond Street. Following a four-month build, the twostorey and 90 square metre site was ready to welcome its first customers just in time for the last weekend of Christmas shopping.

“An IWC boutique in London has been a key focus of the brand for some time now and we’re delighted to finally be able to offer our customers a destination where they can choose from the best selection of IWC timepieces in the UK,” explains IWC CEO Georges Kern. “The retail concept we’ve created not only reflects our unique identity but offers an exceptional customer experience. We are looking forward to welcoming our guests at this marvellous location and inviting them to experience IWC’s philosophy of engineering excellence combined with brand values such as craftsmanship, style and innovation.”

“The new London boutique features a unique design concept; one which has been implemented in the UK first and allows our customers a dedicated brand experience, truly reflective of IWC,” affirms IWC’s UK Brand Director Simon Chambers.

The new design concept allows for complete adaptability to the local architectural context, and whilst the product presentation and furniture will be globally consistent, the spatial environment can be adapted to the unique architectural style of a building. In keeping with its Art Deco exterior, the new Bond Street boutique features Art Deco elements throughout, making it entirely unique to other IWC boutiques. IWC’s signature monochrome colours will

01

01 The monochrome colour scheme features piano-finished Macassar wood, polished stainless steel, Carrara marble and luxurious carpets

02

02 The second floor of the boutique offers a members club lounge experience 03 The new Bond Street boutique features Art Deco elements throughout

03

be augmented by piano-finished Macassar wood, polished stainless steel, Carrara marble and luxurious carpets.

With two floors of dedicated retail space, the new boutique will offer the most exceptional collection of IWC timepieces available in the UK, including a special edition Big Pilot’s Watch Perpetual Calendar in stainless steel, manufactured exclusively for the IWC London boutique.

The Portofino Midsize, IWC’s newly launched diamondset collection, will also be available in its entirety. The new boutique features an all-new lighting concept by renowned French lighting designers ‘Ponctuelle’, ensuring all timepieces displayed are perfectly lit.

The dedicated and highly qualified retail team will not only be on hand to advise customers on their choice of watch, but also to provide guidance on the city. In addition, an IWC watchmaker has been positioned on the first floor, offering maintenance advice and servicing. For those looking for a more bespoke service, the boutique team will also offer VIP retail and private consultation.

The second floor of the boutique offers a members club ‘lounge’ experience, with a warming fireplace and a bespoke drinks menu. The idea is to offer customers a home away from home and an escape from the bustling streets of central London.

Finally, customers will be offered a unique digital experience, with digital screens positioned around the store, allowing a deeper insight into the fascinating world of luxury watches. www.iwc.com

088

Architecture 04 The boutique sprawls across a large 240 square metres 05 The store features a special section with a dedicated watchmaker on hand 06 The design pays tribute to Ulysse Nardin’s nautical history 07 The Dubai Mall boutique is the brand’s largest in the world

04 05

Ulysse Nardin, Dubai

06

07

Swiss luxury watch manufacture Ulysse Nardin and its exclusive retail partner in Dubai, Bin Hendi Enterprises, marked a new chapter as they officially opened the doors to the brand’s largest boutique in the world at the Dubai Mall. Partners for over two decades, Bin Hendi Enterprises and Ulysse Nardin inaugurated the new boutique in the presence of guests of honour, President of Bin Hendi Enterprises, Mr. Mohi-Din Bin Hendi and CEO of Ulysse Nardin, Mr. Patrik P. Hoffmann who officiated the milestone event. Spanning 240 square metres, the launch of Ulysse Nardin’s biggest boutique was held subsequent to the brand setting up its office in Dubai. Another highlight heralding the launch was the exhibition held at the Dubai Mall showcasing Ulysse Nardin’s exceptional musical marvel, the ‘Vivaldi’ watch in a first preview before it makes its official debut at forthcoming watch fair, Basel World 2015 in March.

Speaking on the occasion, Patrik Hoffman said, “We are thrilled to be opening Ulysse Nardin’s biggest boutique in the world with our esteemed and longstanding partners, the Bin Hendi Group. Dubai is one of the most prime retail destinations in the world and the perfect dwelling for Ulysse Nardin’s biggest boutique thus also reinforcing the importance of Dubai and the Middle East market and patrons to the brand.”

In true Ulysse Nardin style and elegance, the boutique opening witnessed the attendance of select media and VIP guests from the region. Known to do things differently and tastefully, Ulysse Nardin paid tribute to its nautical history by hosting a rope unknotting in lieu of the usual ribbon cutting. After the official inauguration was completed, guests were treated to some elegant edibles as a violinist regaled them with delicate tunes. They were then escorted to the exhibition that took place at the Grand Atrium of the Dubai Mall. Here, a stand held the delightful and revolutionary Vivaldi timepiece, serial # 1 out of 99, and other innovative pieces, offering visitors information and exclusive glimpses into the world of Ulysse Nardin.

The brand delighted high horology enthusiasts with the new ‘Vivaldi’ watch. Best known for his violin concertos, Four Seasons, famed Baroque composer Vivaldi’s brilliance is bestowed on the limited edition of 99 pieces crafted from 18-karat rose gold 5N. Based on the Ulysse Nardin caliber 690 using silicium technology, the timekeeper is easy to operate and its muse is a classical music box.

Committed to its patrons, Ulysse Nardin’s biggest boutique also features a dedicated section and specialized watchmaker who provides effectual after sales services to Ulysse Nardin’s customers whenever required. As guests feasted their eyes on Ulysse Nardin’s pioneering blend of innovation and beauty at the recent boutique launch and exhibition, it is evident that the brand is all set to enrich its rich history and mark many more milestones in the coming years. www.ulysse-nardin.com

090

B

Special Feature

ahrainis have always been petrol-heads through and through, and this was metastasized when it was announced that plans for the Middle East’s very first GP circuit was about to be built in Bahrain. Headed under the vision of His Royal Highness the Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme Commander, Shaikh Salman Bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the circuit broke ground in December 2002, and with it ushered in a new era for Bahrain and the GCC motorsport community.

Designed by renowned German architect Hermann Tilke, Bahrain International Circuit or BIC, cost approximately 56.2 million Bahraini Dinars or US$150 million. The track has been highly acclaimed by both circuit bosses and Formula One drivers, owing to the high level of grip the surface offers. This is due to the fact that the 5.412 kilometre Grand Prix track was laid using Greywacke Aggregate that was shipped to Bahrain from England.

As far as records go, the BIC was completed from Rock to Race in a year and a half, when on March 17th 2004, the ‘keys’ to the BIC were handed over to His Majesty King Hamad Bin Isa Al Khalifa.

Golden Moments The Kingdom of Bahrain has come a long way in the past decade.

Headed under the vision of His Royal Highness the Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme Commander, Shaikh Salman Bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Bahrain International Circuit was built in 2002, and with it more than a decade of memorable moments. In celebration of the upcoming F1 in Bahrain, Durrah looks at a rundown of the Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix from 2004 to 2014.

01

02

092

Special Feature

The track has been highly acclaimed by both circuit bosses and Formula One drivers, owing to the high level of grip the surface offers

03

Durrah looks at the Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix from 2004 to 2014 The 2004 Gulf Air Bahrain GP Bahrain’s inaugural GP – the first Formula 1 race in the Middle East. Pressure was high, on the organizers and the country as a whole. But the country came together in miraculous fashion, hosting a properly successful race and bagging the prestigious “Best Organized Grand Prix” award by the FIA. Michael Schumacher cruised to an unchallenged victory at the inaugural Bahrain Grand Prix, teammate Rubens Barrichello taking second for Ferrari one-two domination.

The 2005 Gulf Air Bahrain GP Bahrain was now beginning to find its groove as far as hosting an international sporting event was concerned.

The first ever GP had been executed so well, that now the pressure was to one-up the event and begin building on that success.

The race afternoon at the Bahrain GP in 2005 saw some of the highest ever track temperature of 56 degree Celsius ever recorded at a Grand Prix. Fernando Alonso won the 2005 Bahrain Grand Prix as he saw off Michael Schumacher with a carefree wave of his magic wand.

The 2006 Gulf Air Bahrain GP Fernando Alonso won the Bahrain Grand Prix, which was really not a big surprise. Right behind him at the finish was Michael Schumacher’s Ferrari and that was a surprise given the team’s pre-season performance. Things were not helped by the way in which the weather changed backwards and forwards in the course of the weekend.

The 2007 Gulf Air Bahrain GP With Michael Schumacher gone, the expectation was to go into an era of Fernando Alonso and Kimi Raikkonen.

The 2007 season saw the pendulum swinging backwards and forwards between McLaren and Ferrari. In Melbourne it was Raikkonen who was on top; in Malaysia it was Alonso.

And then in Bahrain Felipe Massa was the man on the top step of the podium. But the star turn of the season was the

man who had yet to win a race, yet was equal on points to the big guns in the World Championship: Lewis Hamilton. In Bahrain Lewis chased down Felipe Massa in the closing laps of the race and left Alonso, double World Champion and former wunderkind, in the dust.

The 2008 Gulf Air Bahrain GP The roles of certain drivers became confused in Bahrain, with under-pressure Ferrari man Felipe Massa somehow avoiding ruining his or anyone else’s race to triumph, while Lewis Hamilton rounded off an insipid weekend by colliding with Fernando Alonso’s Renault on the second lap. The race was won by Felipe Massa for Ferrari. Kimi Räikkönen was second in the other Ferrari, and BMW Sauber driver Robert Kubica was third.

The 2009 Gulf Air Bahrain GP 2009 saw the emergence of Sebastian Vettel and the addition of KERS. The race was won by Jenson Button driving for Brawn after starting from fourth on the grid.

Sebastian Vettel finished second for Red Bull and Jarno Trulli finished third for Toyota. McLaren’s Lewis Hamilton drove to a season’s best fourth position, followed by the second Brawn of Rubens Barrichello.

The 2010 Gulf Air Bahrain GP The 2010 season started off in what could turn out to be the most unpredictable season ever, but Alonso made his Ferrari debut in grand style by finishing first while Massa making a comeback after a very serious injury followed him to the second place in what was a Ferrari one-two after nearly 2 years. Michael Schumacher made his comeback after three years and showed no sign of rust as he managed a sixth place and crucially finished ahead of the reigning World Champion Button.

The 2012 Gulf Air Bahrain GP Sebastian Vettel finished first at the Bahrain GP – the first win for Red Bull – with team mate Mark

Webber finishing fourth. The Red Bulls leapt off the line, with Webber briefly challenging for second.

Rosberg went backwards and Raikkonen muscled his way through past him and Alonso. Schumacher made up several places in the first two laps from 22nd, having taken a five-place penalty for a gearbox change. The big winner was Grosjean who took on Webber early, Alonso following him through.

The 2013 Gulf Air Bahrain GP For the second time in 2013, victory for Sebastian Vettel came on a day when his arch-rival Fernando Alonso suffered a poor race. The Ferrari driver’s race was ruined when his DRS jammed open five laps into the grand prix. As Alonso slipped back into the back the two Lotus drivers used their superior race pace to join Vettel on the podium.

The 2014 Gulf Air Bahrain GP The historic 10-year anniversary of the first Grand Prix in the Middle East saw a wave of change sweep the Bahrain GP in the form of a flood lit race.

This was going to be Bahrain’s first-ever night race and the only night race on the 2014 GP calendar.

Magically, the Bahrain GP turned out to be one of the most action-packed races of the entire season and securing its place in motoring racing history. Several things fell into place to make the 2014 Bahrain Grand Prix a classic. Hamilton’s second win in a row was a gem of a drive – an unlikely victory snatched from teammate Rosberg, who was clearly quicker on the day. The two drivers who first paired up at TeamMBM.com in 2000 drove as if they were back in their karts again. There was action throughout the field, but this fair and hard-fought battle for victory between two teammates was what made the 900th world championship race one to remember. www.bahraingp.com

04

06

05

07

01 Bahrain International Circuit’s Grand Prix track lit up 02 Fireworks light up the night sky as the race comes to and end 03 A section of the Main Grandstand 04 Off-track entertainment at BIC’s Formula One Village vending area 05 One of the racing cars in action 06 More entertainers keep crowds amused 07 Teams gather at the BIC Paddock after the race

094

Special Feature

Miniature Masterpieces Patrick Richard has specialised in the creation of various three dimensional miniature scenes since founding his company La Ruée vers l’Art in 1988. Each of the stunning pieces is 100% handcrafted in his studio, located near the impressionist art painters’ village Barbizon, in France. There are no two similar artworks, therefore each one is truly unique, numbered and signed

by Patrick Richard, and comes with a certificate of authenticity.

A

fter six years studying a Bachelor of Fine Arts, first in Paris, then in San Francisco, Patrick Richard began to work as a designer just after his graduation. Beside his job, Patrick Richard’s favourite hobby was building miniature scenes, which he would frame for decorating his home.

When visiting him and seeing his art productions, Patrick’s friends encouraged him to set up his own company and start selling his intricate and beautiful miniature art works to the public. This is how La Ruée vers l’Art began.

The company is based on producing, manufacturing and selling decorative items called ‘art shadow boxes’, ‘dioramas’ or ‘three-dimensional assemblages’, which are organised around a particular theme. These include vintage car garages, aircrafts, motorcycles, and classic or racing cars, such as those from Formula 1. A range of hobbies and professions are also depicted. Numerous small pieces and elements of decoration complete the models, creating an atmosphere specific to each work.

Each piece is 100% handcrafted in France, nearby the well know impressionist art painters’ village Barbizon. All of the miniature scenes by Patrick Richard are handmade to order, with meticulous attention to detail and will never be exactly the same as another, one even if similar in appearance. Each of the models comes with a certificate of authenticity, is numbered and signed by the designer.

The miniature, patiently detailed and original art work features realism, excellent quality finishing and a final touch of humour, which make this artwork a perfect and unique personalised gift. All of the pieces can be either hung or displayed standing between shelves of furniture.

In addition to its permanent regular catalogue, La Ruée vers l’Art also offers artworks to trade companies, and to private customers a specific service of personalisation.

Delivery time is around 4 weeks, depending on how many pieces are requested at the time of order. www.larueeverslart.fr/en

096

Special Feature 01 24 Heures du Mans 02 A miniature Ferrari art shadow box 03 Patrick Richard at work 04 No two artworks are the same 05 An intricate Lamborghini scene 06 Numerous small pieces and decorations complete the models

02

Interview with Patrick Richard How did you first get into building miniature models?

I began art as a pastime, when I was recovering from an illness. When my health returned, it was accompanied by a new vocation and distinctive art.

How similar are the miniature models to full size versions?

03

What I can say is that it’s partly realistic and partly humoristic. What exact percentage of each I cannot say, it depends on each individual art box.

How long does it take you to complete each piece?

Depends on what piece I am working on. It can take anywhere from seven to eight hours, to up to two days, or even more.

Where do you source the materials for the miniature cars? Everywhere!

Have any of the F1 drivers ever purchased one of your pieces?

Yes, directly purchased or were offered the art box.

04

05

Each of the models comes with a certificate of authenticity, is numbered and signed by the designer

06

098

Travel

Cape Town is one of the world’s most naturally beautiful and authentic cities; a dramatic meeting place between the famous Table Mountain and the vast expanses of surrounding ocean at the Southern tip of Africa.

Known fondly as ‘The Mother City’, find out why you should book your next holiday to this iconic destination.

The Mother City

S

unshine, vast skies, Blue-Flag beaches, excellent food, world-class accommodation and a diverse melting pot of people all add up to give Cape Town an allure that will not disappoint.

The city has a sophisticated urban infrastructure, and offers diverse attractions from awe-inspiring natural sightseeing and interesting cultural tours, theatre and events, to excellent fine dining, exclusive sports and unique shopping finds. Visitors to the city will have a plethora of activities to choose from, such as taking a trip through the grape vineyards in a vintage Rolls Royce or a sidecar motorcycle, or flying over the Peninsula in a helicopter for a breath-taking bird’s eye view. Shop for diamonds, visit The Gold of Africa Museum, or get the adrenalin racing with a sortie in an ex-military jet.

Golf, polo, horse-riding on the beach, chartered yacht cruises, vintage car rentals and private catered dinners are all a part of Cape Town’s charm for those who wish to see, taste and experience the best.

As for dining, Cape Town has some of the best.

Top local restaurants are often the playground of well-travelled chefs keen to source abundant fresh ingredients and play with a contemporary infusion of gourmet styles that reflect the inspired Capetonian culinary culture.

With so much to do, a stay in Cape Town should be as long as possible. There are numerous accommodation establishments that offer a variety of accommodation options; from serviced villas, uniquely and proudly local designed boutique hotels to the six star One & Only Hotel in the cosmopolitan V&A Waterfront. Whether guests prefer traditional or cutting edge, quiet or buzzing, Cape Town has plenty of range when it comes to ensuring a stay is comfortable and unforgettable.

English is widely spoken and is the language of commerce and business, making Cape Town the ideal location for business and conferencing events. The Cape Town International Convention Centre offers centralised facilities for large-scale expos, conferences and events. The surrounding infrastructure ensures convenient accommodation and breakaway facilities.

Private transport is easily arranged, roads are excellent and Cape Town International Airport is just 20 minutes from the City Centre.

The climate of Cape Town is very pleasant and moderate, but is still warm and dry enough to allow a rewarding outdoor lifestyle nearly all year round.

Health and wellness is very important to Capetonians and wellness centres, health clubs, spas and cosmetic facilities are of an international standard. Excellent

100

Travel

minor and emergency private medical treatment is also assured, leaving no wonder that VIPs flock to Cape Town for their makeovers.

For those holding strong foreign currency, Cape Town is a veritable destination, whilst offering real value for money experiences to domestic and local visitors as well. High standards of service and attention are inspired by the talent of local creatives; from artists to decorators, performers to poets and clever entrepreneurs who give Cape Town an authentic aesthetic all of its own.

An excellent place to people-watch and shop, it’s just as easy to find spaces for serene relaxation and contemplation.

The design experience of Cape Town is a quintessential facet to any visit. From exploring the abundant street art and clever recycle-wares to the bespoke and interesting art, furniture, street art, fashion, clothing, pop-up bars and restaurants – design is key to unlocking the Mother City. The art scene is edgy, inventive, self-searching – and often

– beautifully unexpected.

A real game-changer for Cape Town will be the 2016 completion of the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (MOCAA). The extraordinary architecture

by Thomas Heatherwick will reimagine the city’s waterfront area, connecting it to the central city through a cultural precinct. Zeitz’s collection, under the curatorship of Mark Coetzee, will be definitive in telling the contemporary art story for the African continent.

Cape Town’s World Design Capital status was won based on the city’s emerging use of design-led thinking, but with the 2014 title year now behind it, Cape Town is showing her true colours with dozens of projects, events and experiences still in the making.

Cape Town’s annual events calendar is now crammed with creative events – some of which launched in the World Design Capital year. From the everyday unexpected discoveries, to the extraordinary cultural adventures that are unfolding, guests should tune in to Cape Town’s on-going design evolution.

The Cape is also intricately connected to Muslim

01 View across the V&A Waterfront 02 A City Sightseeing Red Bus at Groot Constantia 03 Scenic views at Groot Constantia

From the everyday unexpected discoveries, to the extraordinary cultural adventures that are unfolding, guests should tune in to Cape Town’s on-going design evolution

02

03

history. Amongst the stories is that of Prince Abdullah Kadi Abu Salaam of Tidore, Indonesia, who was exiled to Cape Town in 1767. He wrote a copy of the Qur’an from memory during his incarceration, and the volume is still preserved in Cape Town.

This and many other connections makes Cape Town an ideal leisure destination, offering a wide variety of top Halaal restaurants, accommodation and activities catering for families that abide by these religious and lifestyle practices.

“Cape Town has never been more ready to host those travellers in search for a remarkable and authentic lifestyle experience,” comments Cape Town Tourism CEO, Mariëtte du-Toit Helmbold, “our hospitality infrastructure and new luxury hotels are world-class and combined with Cape Town’s natural beauty, the Mother City offers an authentic experience which is something that money simply cannot buy.”

04 Lion’s Head from above 05 The Cable Car climbing up Table Mountain 06 One of the many vineyard estates

www.capetown.travel

04 05

102

Travel

An excellent place to people-watch and shop, it’s just as easy to find spaces for serene relaxation and contemplation

06

104

Travel

Chalet Chic

A traditional ski chalet located in a peaceful hamlet in the village of Morzine in France, Chalet Lumiere is one of the wonderful destinations on offer by the exclusive and award-winning Hideaways Club.

Just 10 minutes from the ski lifts, this Alpine retreat enjoys easy access to the spectacular ski slopes, shopping and restaurants of the local area.

01

T

he picturesque Chalet Lumière enjoys an ideal location, set in a peaceful enclave just outside the busy resort of Morzine, and is a mere ten minutes from ski lifts. The beautiful property cleverly combines the authenticity of a traditional Alpine home with all the modern conveniences of a luxury ski chalet. Simply put, Chalet Lumière offers chalet chic at its very best.

This 5-bedroom chalet with en-suite facilities is well equipped to accommodate up to 10 guests. One end of the open-plan, wood-panelled living area is dominated by a large stone fireplace, above which hangs a wooden carving of an Ibex. The cushions on the plump sofa have ski motifs, while the chairs are appropriately upholstered in jolly Alpine check. The lovely pebble coffee tables and the chrome floor lamps add a contemporary touch.

At the other end of the living area is a large dining table, with superb views across the valley to the mountains that make up the Portes du Soleil ski region beyond. A selection of well-chosen decorative 02

01 Traditional Apline features adorn the Chalet 02 The open-plan, wood-panelled living area

accessories, from stone-base lamps to quirky framed photographs, are scattered throughout the room.

Upstairs, each of the cosy bedrooms feels like a luxurious mountain ‘hut’, with sloping ceilings, pale wood floors and walls. Beds are piled high with snowy linen and Alpine-themed scatter cushions.

An added bonus is the chalet’s outside space, from the alfresco seating area to the luxurious outdoor hot tub. Nothing beats warm bubbles after a day on the slopes – unless it’s watching the sun come up from Chalet Lumiere’s spacious balcony, or relaxing by a roaring fire with a cup of tea and a large slice of homemade cake.

The surrounding unspoilt Savoyard village Montriond, is in the Haute-Savoie area of the French Alps. With its pretty church, tree-lined square, and traditional Alpine architecture, many believe it’s the most attractive village in the region. Around an hour’s

106

Travel 03 Wood for the large stone fireplace 04 The outdoor alfresco seating area 05 The dining room has superb views across the valley to the mountains 06 Well chosen accessories from stone-base lamps to quirky framed photographs, are scattered throughout 07 Cosy bedrooms feel like luxurious mountain ‘huts’, with sloping ceilings, pale wood floors and walls

drive from Geneva, Montriond has easy access to the Portes du Soleil ski region via the neighbouring resort of Morzine. Morzine, in turn, is linked in with the resorts of Avoriaz and Les Gets. All of which means skiing here is as varied as can be, with easy slopes for beginners and children, and other slopes suitable for all the various levels of expertise and confidence.

There’s no doubt that Montriond, a quieter alternative to vibrant Morzine, makes the perfect base for the largest ski region in Europe.

With a number of restaurants around the Morzine area, there are plenty of gourmet options to choose from. One of the highlights is L’Atelier; a refined, Alpine-chic restaurant in Morzine’s Hotel Le Samoyède, which offers a twist on local favourites based on fresh ingredients: lobster and ginger ravioli is just one of the delicious specialities. L’Etale is another spot not to be missed, the typical Haute Savoie restaurant is located in a great position by the Pleney lift. Go for the Savoyard fondue or the outstanding raclette. The Local Concierge is able to make any further recommendations and also

03

04

05

06

book a table on guests’ behalf.

Along with skiing, there are plenty other activities to take part in during a stay at Chalet Lumière. Night sledging is hugely popular, where participants take the cable car to the top of the Pleney to be kitted out with sledges and headlamps before setting off down steep, tree-lined slopes with the lights of Morzine twinkling below. Plunging into the frozen waters of Lake Montriond for Ice Diving is a magical experience.

Temperatures are typically between 4°C and 0°C, but correct gear is provided as well as professional supervision. Horse-drawn skiing is another incredible activity, which is assisted by a qualified professional from Morzine’s riding school. This ancient mode of transport, known as ski joëring, involves being pulled by a horse at a walk, trot or gallop.

Whatever your choice, you can be guaranteed a stay at Chalet Lumière with The Hideaways Club will be an unforgettable experience. www.thehideawaysclub.com

07

108

Travel and Leisure

Deluxe Discoveries

Created in response to the needs of affluent travellers seeking style, comfort, luxury and personalised service, this selection of hotels creates an exquisite and refreshing experience. Each hotel remains an elegant and timeless destination, offering guests an unforgettable experience.

Hôtel Plaza Athénée, Paris 2014 marked the beginning of a new era for the Hôtel Plaza Athénée, with a renovation that not only embraces the past 100 years of the hotel, but looks to the future combining the classic with the contemporary. The new refurbishments make the hotel the epitome of Parisian luxury, with spectacular views of the Eiffel Tower.

When entering the lobby, guests will be instantly immersed by haute couture. Floral displays add to the welcoming atmosphere and are changed every week.

New bronze, marble and brushed oak furnishings have been designed, along with wood panelling on the walls. The beautifully designed mosaic floor is adorned with a rug inspired by a crystalline motif, which echoes the large chandelier.

Guests will discover the hotel’s subtly updated Parisian interiors and beautiful new event rooms, inspired by haute couture, including the beautiful new ballroom.

Rooms offer luxurious comfort, overlooking either the Eiffel Tower or the charming courtyard with its signature

110

Travel and Leisure

02 01 Eiffel Signature Suite.

Image by Eric Laignel 02 Relais Plaza.

Image by Eric Laignel 03 Prestige Suite.

Image by Eric Laignel 04 Salon Haute Couture.

Image by Eric Laignel 05 Prestige Junior Suite.

Image by Eric Laignel 06 La Cour Jardin – garden covered hotel exterior.

Image by Frédéric Ducout

03

04

red awnings, perfect for al fresco summer dining and in winter features its own ice rink.

Alain Ducasse, world-renowned multiple Michelinstarred chef, oversees all the hotel kitchens. In his Alain Ducasse au Plaza Athénée restaurant, guests can experience a new culinary concept amidst a stunning ceiling of crystal. In contrast, the listed Art Deco Le Relais Plaza is a chic and ever-popular Parisian brasserie, which hosts popular jazz nights.

To indulge in total serenity, Europe’s only Dior Institute is another hotel highlight, offering exclusive spa treatments in a stylish setting including a specialist manicure and pedicure area.

For the restoration of some of the guestrooms and suites, the Hotel chose Marie-José Pommereau, who has been responsible for decorating the rooms for the last 14 years. The Hotel now has 154 rooms and 54 suites, having created an additional 14 rooms including eight suites and six guestrooms. Marie-José Pommereau chose a range of warm tones for the walls including peony, sun- infused yellow and silver as well as using materials such as damask, embroideries and plain silks from top couture houses to adorn the windows, armchairs and beds. www.dorchestercollection.com/paris/hotel-plaza-athenee

05

Alain Ducasse, world-renowned multiple Michelin-starred chef, oversees all the hotel kitchens

06

112

Travel and Leisure

07

09

08

10

Dusit Thani, Abu Dhabi Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi, comprising 402 luxurious guest rooms and suites as well as 131 deluxe serviced apartments, features a wealth of unique facilities that provide the discerning business traveller with a perfect destination.

Strategically located in the new business and government district, the Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi is 10 minute drive from the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, 20 minutes from Abu Dhabi International Airport and only a few minutes away from other city landmarks and major corporate headquarters.

The 37-storey ‘glass tower’ property has spacious rooms and apartments comprising of a mix of Thai influences and modern lifestyle, featuring well-designed furniture and the latest technology. This includes interactive LED TV with satellite channels, Wi-Fi and a high-speed internet connection, working desk, electronic safe, individually controlled air conditioning, direct dial phone with voice mail, tea and coffee making facilities, mini bar and hair dryer.

The Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi has also been developed with the rapidly growing Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) market in mind. The hotel offers a spacious Conference Centre with a variety of function

rooms, including a 785 square meter ballroom that can facilitate all types of events, conferences, exhibitions or social functions that can host up to 2,000 guests.

The innovative design of the pre-function area with its impressive ‘Skydome’, the elegance and convenience of each function room together with state-of-the-art facilities and attentive service make Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi the perfect venue at which to host a memorable event.

The hotel also boasts a broad selection of dining outlets, with a variety of international cuisine served in both casual and elegant environments. Authentic Thai food is served at Dusit International’s Thai flagship ‘Benjarong Restaurant’. In addition, the recreational facilities at the Dusit Thani include DFiT, a fully equipped fitness centre and urban sanctuary treatments at Namm Spa. “Our wide range of leisure facilities, complemented by the strategic location close to many of the city’s major attractions such as the Abu Dhabi Corniche, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and Abu Dhabi Golf Club, is a perfect fit that embraces the expectations of today’s affluent business traveller,” said Kamal Chaoui, General Manager of Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi. www.dusit.com/dusitthani/abudhabi

11 07 The Namm Spa lounge area 08 Royal Suite Bedroom 09 The Sky Dome during the day 10 Urban Kitchen dining area 11 Royal Suite dining room

114

Travel and Leisure

12

13

14

15

In its reincarnation, this iconic London landmark now features 160 contemporary guestrooms, including 49 suites and six signature suites

Hotel Café Royal, London

12 Dome Suite – terrace at Dusk 13 Tudor Suite – living Room 14 Oscar Suite living room 15 Regent Suite – bedroom

True to its original glamorous spirit, Café Royal has reopened as a luxury hotel in the heart of central London. Paying homage to the history of the building, grand historic areas have been sensitively restored and a selection of restaurants, bars, and events spaces are a tribute to the rich heritage of excellent hospitality and dining.

In its reincarnation, this iconic London landmark now features 160 contemporary guestrooms, including 49 suites and six signature suites.

Continuing its celebrated legacy, Hotel Café Royal continues to takes guests on a culinary journey. At the heart of the hotel, the Ten Room offers British informal all-day dining while the Green Bar is the perfect place to relax and unwind at the end of the day. The Oscar Wilde Room (formerly the iconic Grill Room, established 1865) – the jewel of Hotel Café Royal – has been exquisitely restored to its original Louis XVI décor. Now the place to enjoy afternoon tea and a light menu, the Oscar Wilde Room is also complemented by live entertainment on select evenings. The Café, on Regent Street, revives the European tradition of café culture.

To complete the full experience, the Akasha

16 Domino Restaurant

16

Holistic Wellbeing Centre is an urban retreat spanning over 1,200 square metres. Akasha is leading a new concept of wellbeing, featuring a state-of-theart-gym, large lap pool, Watsu pool, sauna and Hammam/steam room. It offers a range of signature treatments, which marry innovative Western practices with ancient Eastern traditions.

Hotel Café Royal, originally the preferred haunt of intellects and creatives through the ages, continues its celebrated legacy as the place for great minds to discuss great ideas. Offering meetings and events ranging from a discreet business dinner to an exclusive residential conference, each venue seamlessly blends the grandeur of Hotel Café Royal with modern technology and comfort. From the beautifully restored Pompadour Suite, rich with historical detail, to the cutting-edge boardroom – all boast natural daylight and are equipped with the latest technology, including complimentary Wi-Fi, full AV support and triple-glazing with acoustic doors for whisper-quiet sound proofing. www.hotelcaferoyal.com

116

Travel and Leisure

The Meydan Hotel, Dubai Unlike many other 5-star properties in Dubai, The Meydan Hotel is truly a destination hotel. Enjoying an enviable setting at the heart of Dubai’s horseracing venue, the hotel perfectly harmonizes the needs of leisure and business travellers, families and even UAE residents looking for a truly relaxing stay-cation.

Encompassed in a state of the art urban complex with a colossal Grandstand and racing track, The Meydan is home to the prestigious Dubai World Cup (the World’s richest horserace), tennis academy, and the only Dubai city ‘pay & play’ fully floodlit nine-hole golf course.

Translated as “meeting place”, guests soon discover The Meydan offers exactly that, and is where the pulsating vibe of the horse racing calendar meets the calmness and tranquillity of a desert retreat year-round. Surrounded by lush greenery and desert sands, the property is conveniently located on Al Meydan Road – an oasis of serenity contrasted by city silhouettes.

Designed in the shape of a wave in motion with a luminous green glass façade, The Meydan Hotel boasts spectacular views, substantial spaces and an abundance of natural light filling the hotel by day. By night the panoramic glass elevators light up the grand lobby with an 11-floor high glass atrium.

The opulence of Arabic architecture is effortlessly complemented with cutting edge modern designs, incorporating dark leather and golden colour finishes creating soothing vibes throughout public areas.

The layout of the lobby also features purpose-built private corners with seating arrangements complementing “the meeting point” concept of the hotel.

Deluxe rooms and suites have ample space, stateof-the-art amenities, and magnificent views of the main racing track. The discerning business travellers will benefit from the property’s ‘Executive Floor’ concept with dedicated rooms and exclusive benefits.

In addition flexible event space including a 450sqm ballroom and purpose-built Meydan Grand Stand with an overwhelming 16,300sqm space provides unrivalled possibilities for events and meetings.

The destination experience is complemented by seven food & beverage outlets ranging from casual to fine dining, and extensive recreational and leisure facilities include a rooftop infinity swimming pool and the signature Meydan Beach Club with complimentary access for hotel guests.

Horse riding, golf, tennis and other outdoor activities are all available at the property. www.meydanhotels.com/meydan

17 Prime Restaurant

17

18

18 The Leisure Pool 19 Presidential Suite bedroom 20 Guests at Shiba Restaurant

19

20

118

Travel and Leisure 21 Terrazza Restaurant 22 Bedroom of the Montenapoleone Suite 23 The relaxed Café Baglioni 24 Entrance of the hotel

All suites, like the Art Déco, are beautifully decorated with precious materials made by expert craftsmen, such as silks in warm tones and lacquered furniture 21 22

Carlton Hotel Baglioni, Milan Set at the crossroads of culture, fashion and design, Carlton Hotel Baglioni is the only hotel in Milan that boasts a pedestrian entrance from Via della Spiga, the most glamorous street in the city. The hotel opened in 1962 in a place where the waters of the inner circle of the Navigli canals once flowed near an old mill, and now is just a stone’s throw away from Milan’s prestigious boutiques, the Duomo, the Teatro alla Scala and the financial district.

Carlton Hotel Baglioni is perfect for travellers in search of a stylish, yet welcoming atmosphere.

Sumptuously decorated with authentic antique furniture, marble mosaics and stylish drapes, the hotel attracts guests with its sophisticated and elegant ambience. The Carlton Hotel Baglioni is also distinguished by its impeccable service.

The hotel has 87 elegant rooms and suites, personalised with unique Italian furnishing combining classic and contemporary style. Grand Deluxe Rooms have been designed according to a modern concept of connecting spaces and harmonious colour contrasts. All suites, like the Art Déco, are beautifully decorated with precious materials made by expert craftsmen, such as silks in warm tones and lacquered furniture. The top suite is the Montenapoleone Terrace, created to

offer guests every comfort, with a large private terrace overlooking Via della Spiga.

Inside the hotel there is the historic city restaurant Il Baretto al Baglioni, one of the favourite meeting places for international politicians, journalists, fashion stylists and VIPs. The restaurant serves light Milanese food and Mediterranean dishes; delicious salads, Milanese cutlet, sautéed risottos and other delights. Caffè Baglioni offers a wide range of drinks, appetizers and light food that can be enjoyed in a warm and inviting atmosphere, or “al fresco” on the Giardino Baglioni. A well-known stopover for those working in Milan, Caffè Baglioni is the ideal place for small meeting and toplevel appointments.

The boutique, located in the Hotel, is the brainchild of Maddalena Grassi Polito who, with passion and expertise, developed a project designed to showcase fashion designers, whose fine workmanship and high quality materials are not influenced by mass-market trends.

The hotel has a large meeting room and 2 breakout rooms for small business meetings. Spiga Terrace and Baglioni Terrace are new modern and stylish verandas, the perfect location for private parties and receptions. www.baglionihotels.com/Milan

23 24

120

Travel and Leisure

25 26

27

25 The pool area 26 Living room of the Grand Terrace Suite 27 Bedroom of the Grand Terrace Suite 28 Living room of the Peninsula Suite

The Peninsula, Bangkok Developed as one of the finest hotels in Thailand, The Peninsula Bangkok’s riverside location inspired its wave-shaped design, which offers panoramic views from every guest room. The hotel adds a distinctive architectural statement to the Bangkok skyline and guarantees luxurious comfort, sophisticated facilities, extraordinary dining options and the legendary Peninsula service.

Located on the banks of the scenic Chao Phraya River in Thonburi close to the Sathorn Bridge and adjacent to the Saphan Taksin BTS Station, The Peninsula Bangkok is within easy access from the business and shopping districts of the city. It is also close to several of the city’s famous attractions and just 45 minutes away from Suvarnabhumi Airport.

The Peninsula Bangkok has 370 luxurious and spacious guest rooms and suites, which are furnished in a magnificent classical style, including the 364 square metre Peninsula Suite, four Theme Suites and 60 onebedroom suites. Each guest room and suite is equipped with an electronic system that allows guests to control guest room features with just a touch of a button.

The Peninsula Bangkok offers 706 square metres of

28

versatile meeting and event space, providing flexibility for every type of event from intimate meetings to lavish galas.

The Sakuntala Ballroom is an exceptional setting for both private parties and business events. The ballroom features an ornately adorned teak lattice ceiling and exquisite crystal chandeliers. It can accommodate up to 600 guests in a variety of configurations. For small events and meetings, the ballroom can be divided into separate sections. There are also six additional function rooms and a business centre, which has one private boardroom.

Dining highlights include Mei Jang, an award winning Chinese restaurant serving fine Cantonese cuisine created by a resident Chinese chef and served in a serene and elegant setting. Thiptara is located on the banks of Chao Phraya River and under a majestic banyan tree, offers authentic Thai home-style food in a tropical garden setting. Other dining options are included throughout the hotel, offering the finest quality of food and service, with something for everyone. www.peninsula.com/bangkok

Luxury Living in Durrat Marina • Villas • Apartments • Marina • Shops and Cafés

+973 77282800

124

Spas

01

01 The impressive Spa exterior 02 The lantern corridor

Travel may open your eyes, but nothing awakens the senses like a world-class pampering experience at a leading spa. Forget the worries of the world and step into luxury, at one of these spectacular locations.

Sanctuaries of Satisfaction

The Peninsula Spa, Bangkok Offering a deeply personalised spa experience like nowhere else in Bangkok, The Peninsula Spa forms part of the hotel’s three-storey Thai-colonial building, adjacent to The Fitness Centre. The 1,774 square metre Spa features fourteen treatment rooms and four suites – two Private Spa Suites and two River Private Spa Suites, a Tea Lounge and Relaxation Rooms, creating a full-service oasis in the heart of the city that is a spa destination in itself.

The Peninsula Hotels has created exclusive treatments and products tailored for Peninsula guests, and ESPAbranded products are the product line used in The Peninsula Spa. The treatments draw upon Eastern and Western wellness and relaxation philosophies, emphasising a back-to-basics approach with authentic treatments delivered by highly trained therapists.

The Peninsula Spa therapists set a new benchmark for Bangkok spas in terms of skill, training and quality treatments, as no other spa has a team of therapists who undergo such an intensive, comprehensive and lengthy training programme. They must be fully qualified before joining The Peninsula Spa, and must then attend an intensive 10-week training covering product knowledge, treatment training and spa concepts.

02

126

Spas

The Peninsula Spa was designed by Henry Leung of Chada Siembieda Leung Ltd. Fusing traditional Thai elements with a contemporary flair featuring uniquely designed silk fabric, hand-craft decoration, aged wood and red bricks.

To ensure an environment of tranquillity, all treatment rooms have been designed to minimise sound and competing scents from other rooms and even the air-conditioning systems are isolated to minimise any potential distractions.

The Spa has specially created a selection of “Peninsula Ceremonies”, outstanding signature body treatments that uniquely reflect a fusion of Thai, Ayurvedic and European therapies.

To round off the whole experience, guests can enjoy the hotel’s three-tiered outdoor swimming pool in the private Thai pavilions and Fitness Centre facilities including a sauna, a steam room, and hot and cold jacuzzis. bangkok.peninsula.com/en/spa-wellness

Fusing traditional Thai elements with a contemporary flair featuring uniquely designed silk fabric, hand-craft decoration, aged wood and red bricks 04 03

05

03 The relaxation lounge 04 The Spa reception 05 One of the fourteen Treatment Rooms 06 One of the Private Spa Suites

06

128

Spas

The new design of the Spa area has created an oasis in the heart of the fashion district, dedicated to relaxation and the overall wellbeing of guests

Spiga 8 Spa Natura Bissé, Milan Spiga 8 Spa Natura Bissé is a true urban oasis located in the Carlton Hotel Baglioni in the bustling city centre.

The name is a tribute to the wonderful location having its own entrance at 8, Via della Spiga, the most fashionable street in Milan. Opened to both hotel guests and external clients, the Spa tailors both beauty and wellness experiences to guests’ individual needs, using international brands, including Natura Bissé and the latest technologies such as NuFACE. The recent collaboration between Luxury Lab Cosmetics and the Carlton Hotel Baglioni has brought the Spa back to life. The new era of Spiga 8 Spa started with innovative beauty treatments managed by Luxury Lab Cosmetics, an established company that selects, promotes and distributes luxury skincare brands. The new design of the Spa area has created an oasis in the heart of the fashion district, dedicated to relaxation and the overall wellbeing of guests. The level of service keeps up with the Carlton Hotel Baglioni, something that has made it famous

all over the world.

Spiga 8 Spa gives guests the opportunity to escape their daily routine and relax without being too far from their social and work lives. The therapists and guests work together to choose a treatment that most suits their needs, taking into account their preferences and lifestyle.

Natura Bissé, an internationally renowned brand, is used at Spiga 8 Spa in a variety of treatments to target the needs of all the guests. Guests are also able to buy their products, which offer effective formulas, for their own personal use at home.

Thanks to Baglioni Hotels Collection’s strong international network, the Spa is also able to offer avantgarde services and brands, such as anti-aging treatments

by NuFACE, a US brand that has just been launched in Italy by Luxury Lab Cosmetics. www.baglionihotels.com/category/carlton-hotelbaglioni-milan

07 The new design of the Spiga 8 Spa 08 A true urban oasis 09 Natura BissĂŠ products are on offer

08

07

09

130

Spas

So Spa, Sofitel Dubai Discover a captivating blend of splendour and tranquillity on the East Crescent of Dubai’s extraordinary Palm Jumeirah Island. Unfolding leisurely along the sandy shore, Sofitel The Palm offers stunning organic architecture and sophisticated design along with an irresistible, mellow tropical spirit. Located at the hotel is the So Spa; a perfect mix of elegance and ease, to soothe both mind and body.

Guests are able to work out in the state-of-theart So Fit gym, where a personal coach can offer tips to improve personal routine, then afterwards can relax in the sauna or steam room. Visitors will receive unforgettable pampering at the So Spa, which is located across twenty-eight graceful rooms, including four outdoor cabanas for couples. Candles, natural light and the subtle scent of lavender create an instantly relaxing feeling, and the Spa offers personalised experiences combining Polynesian traditions with high-quality beauty products by Hei Poa, Anne Semonin, Voya and Thémaé. Rejuvenating Thai and Aryuvedic massages, Vichy showers, the finest in French beauty treatments, a marvellous ‘Experience’ seawater pool, and separate his and hers hair salons are also provided. Outside, an exclusive infinity pool is located, which gives the illusion of spilling into the Arabian Gulf.

While relaxing at the So Spa, children have the option of being left at The Palm Kid’s Club – a paradise for children, offering fun and games and their own specially conceived restaurant. www.sofitel-dubai-thepalm.com/en/so-spa.html

10 11

10 The men’s plunge pool with green wall 11 The women’s relaxation area with green wall 12 The So Fit gym areas 13 The main pool area

12 13

132

Dining

Alain Ducasse, Plaza Athénée Paris After several months of refurbishing, the Plaza Athénée hotel has reopened its doors, and with it, Alain Ducasse’s restaurant. Ducasse tells a personal and radical story, continuing the work he began twentyfive years ago. He represents the naturalness cuisine, inspired by the fish-vegetables-cereals trilogy, with the help of his chef of Romain Meder. Healthier and more natural, more respectful of the Planet, it delivers a free and nearly instinctive interpretation of Haute Cuisine, revealing the produces’ original flavour, from the noble to the humble, and all exceptional.

September to October is the season for line caught sea bass or gilthead sea bream, oysters and shrimp. Then in winter comes yellow pollack, sole, catfish, and grey sea bream. In springtime, the John Dory and black mullet, and finally, summertime brings mackerel, Brittany lobster, turbot and red mullet. The natural cuisine suggested by Alain Ducasse in his Plaza Athénée restaurant plays with contrasts and harmonies, going from discovery to discovery.

A Feast for the Senses It is the responsibility of the creators of the world’s finest food to transform taste, something fleeting and intangible, into a visible and lasting experience. A visit to one of these restaurants does just that, combining ambience, service, and excellent food into an experience that will satisfy all the senses.

134

Dining

02

03

01 Stunning interior of the restaurant.

Image by Pierre Monetta 02 Alain Ducasse and Romain Meder.

Image by Pierre Monetta 03 All is softness of curves, materials and contents.

Image by Pierre Monetta 04 Citron nicois et algues kombu a l estragon.

Image by Pierre Monetta 05 Chocolat et cafe de notre, manufacture sarrasin torrefie.

Image by Pierre Monetta 06 Legumes des jardins du Chateau de Versailles noisettes pillees.

Image by Pierre Monetta

The dining room is a gem- designed by Patrick Jouin and Sanjit Manku – where all is softness of curves, materials and contents. Everywhere inspires wonder, through the remarkable quality of the pieces created with an absolute attention to every detail, a formidable representation of the craftsman’s expertise.

On the table, shapes from yesterday and today are joined in perfect unison. Precious materials cohabitate with the simpler objects in a collection of unique creations designed by Pierre Tachon or Shinichiro Ogata, by Rina Menardi, Gérard Crociani or Tina Frey. Cutlery created in the 1970s by Roger Tallon is exclusively re-edited for the restaurant, and pieces discovered by Alain Ducasse himself at flea markets are also on display. www.alain-ducasse.com/en/restaurant/alainducasse-au-plaza-athénée

The natural cuisine suggested by Alain Ducasse in his Plaza Athénée restaurant plays with contrasts and harmonies, going from discovery to discovery

05

04

06

136

Dining

07 Vibrant reds and sleek blacks create a dramatic interior 08 A large tandoor oven in sleek granite provides the centrepiece to the room 09 The menu offers fresh interpretations of traditional Indian style

Rasoi by Vineet, Mandarin Oriental Geneva The Mandarin Oriental’s outstanding restaurants and cool contemporary lounges have made a significant contribution to Geneva’s dining scene. One of these in particular, is Rasoi by Vineet, the master cuisine of contemporary India.

As the first fine dining restaurant in Geneva, Rasoi by Vineet offers a delectable one-Michelin starred journey into the world of modern Indian food. Created by renowned Chef Vineet Bhatia, Rasoi by Vineet is a sister to Rasoi in London, Bhatia’s first and most famous restaurant. Inspired by traditional Indian cookery, Bhatia uses his imagination to blend flavours and textures in a uniquely modern way.

To complement the innovative cuisine, is an equally imaginative backdrop. Offering a fresh interpretation of traditional Indian style, the décor uses vibrant reds and sleek blacks to create a dramatic interior. A large tandoor

07

10 Bhatia uses his imagination to blend flavours in a uniquely modern way

oven finished in sleek granite provides the stunning centrepiece to the room.

Born in Mumbai, Bhatia’s influences have been based on the traditions of Indian life and family. His almost military style training at the Oberoi School of Hotel Management in New Delhi, mixed with the one unquestionable Bhatia ingredient, ‘passion’, created some of the most innovative and outstanding Indian cuisine of the century. His light and imaginative dishes display a clever balance between innovation and an immense respect for the history of Indian cooking.

Recognised by food critics, fellow chefs and devoted customers alike, Chef Bhatia was awarded his first Michelin star in 201, the first Indian ChefRestaurateur to do so in 102 years. www.mandarinoriental.com/geneva/fine-dining/ rasoi-by-vinee

Born in Mumbai, Bhatia’s influences have been based on the traditions of Indian life and family

08

09

10

138

Dining

11

12

13 14

8 Restaurant, Four Seasons Hotel Cairo

11 The inviting and atmospheric interior 12 Every dish follows a “fresh is best” policy 13 A selection of the extensive dumpling menu 14 Shrimp and crab dumplings

As guests are greeted and escorted to the dining space of 8 Restaurant, they realise they have embarked upon a special culinary journey. The welcome is genuinely warm; the surroundings are atmospheric; the menu is stimulating; and the overall ambiance feels creatively composed.

8 Restaurant is Egypt’s finest Chinese dining experience, and located, at the Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at Nile Plaza. Modern ‘Hong Kong chic’ is married with China’s famed cuisine. The hallmark of novel Chinese cuisine is the emphasis the Chefs place on preserving the natural flavour of each carefully selected ingredient. Every component follows a “fresh is best” policy, and two large aquariums – home to live lobsters and various varieties of fish – can be found in the 8 kitchen.

The talented Chinese Chefs present an extensive selection of menu items, including many varieties of steamed and fried dim sum. Translating to “touch the heart,”’ dim sum is a Chinese favourite. Highlights of 8’s

dim sum menu are the shrimp and crab dumpling with black caviar, and steamed Chiuchow-style dumplings with spicy vegetarian sauce. Every Friday, Chefs present their artistic dim sum buffet in an interactive chef-guest experience, to enjoy a dim sum brunch with family and friends, sipping Chinese tea and feasting on a wonderful assortment of dishes.

The novel Chinese dishes often include fresh fish, prawns, shrimps, scallops, lobster and crab. There are many abalone dishes to choose from, including braised abalone and chicken in oyster sauce. BBQ Peking duck is another of 8’s specialties. Like 8, the artistic presentation is reflected in every dish. Guests’ whole being is drawn into this invigorating dining experience.

Guests can also decide how private they wish their dining experience to be. The main hall leads off to five Nile-side semi private dining rooms, perfect for groups, romantic couples, or business guests. www.fourseasons.com/caironp/dining/restaurants/8

140

Dining 15 Layout is modelled on the traditional Moorish architecture of North Africa, Spain and Portugal

15

18

16 The kitchen is under the supervision of Yannick AllĂŠno 17 Dishes feature sublime Moroccan flavours 18 The restaurant is symmetrical and classical with local craftmanship

16 17

La Grande Table Marocaine is a place synonymous with sublime Moroccan flavours, that are served in a sophisticated, refined and sumptuous ambiance, combined with expertise and an undeniable know-how

08

La Grande Table Marocaine, Royal Mansour Marrakech The cuisine of Marrakech is one of the most diverse in the world. In keeping up with the exemplary standards throughout Royal Mansour, a tantalising array of restaurants and bars are offered, under the supervision of Yannick Alléno, the famous Michelin starred Parisian chef.

La Grande Table Marocaine is a place synonymous with sublime Moroccan flavours, that are served in a sophisticated, refined and sumptuous ambiance, combined with expertise and an undeniable knowhow. Yannick Alléno tells us: “The objective was clear, it was to turn the ‘La Grande Table Marocaine’ into the best gastronomic source in the country, renowned primarily for its elaborate traditional Moroccan dishes, and securing the country’s best and evolving culinary image. For that we have made it our mission to give the Moroccan cuisine, already great by itself, a new dimension. The strategy behind the menu was based on traditional Moroccan cuisine and ingredients while

continuing to update these time- honoured and conventional dishes and to upgrade them with an innovative contemporary twist. We were to re-codify and divert raw materials as well as local recipes into complex and sophisticated formulas”.

In a dialogue between art and tradition, the marriage of culinary daring and time-honoured recipes leads to unforgettable and nuanced results.

Modelled on the traditional Moorish architecture of North Africa, Spain and Portugal, the layout of the restaurant is symmetrical and classical in form.

The interior features a breath-taking combination of local craftsmanship: shiny smooth ‘tadelakt’ lime plaster, ‘zellige’ ornamental ceramic tile-work, and geometrically carved woods and moulded plasterwork. www.royalmansour.com/#/en/les-grandes-tables/ grande-table-marocaine

142

Dining

La Chaudanne, Morzine With one of the best reputations for its restaurant in the French town Morzine, La Chaudanne is definitely worth a visit. The charming menu features a range of local specialties, from French-Modern cuisine.

La Chaudanne first originated in the 1970s built as a barn, however in 1979 construction work was undertaken to transform the space into a cosy restaurant. In 2010 to cater to popular demand, the owners Thierry and Veronica completely renovated and enlarged the property, giving it the look and feel it now portrays. La Chaudanne now features modern clean lines, but still keeps with the traditional Savoyard style.

The wooden interior exudes warmth and comfort, and the dining style is relaxed and laid back, which is perfectly in tune with the menu items on offer. As the

13

years have passed, the restaurant has proven itself popular amongst tourists and locals alike.

La Chaudanne is open every day for dinner from Monday to Friday, and for lunch and dinner the weekends throughout the four seasons. Popular menu items include Cured meat and warm potatoes, served with a small fondue of Abondance cheese and salad; Roasted duck breast with candied orange sauce; Scallops with ginger, coconut and candied lemon; and Choux pastry stuffed with chestnut cream for dessert.

La Chaudanne’s warm and welcoming interior and extensive and heart-warming menu will keep guests coming back for more. www.lachaudanne-morzine.com/en

20

21

19 The cosy Savoyard style interior 20 The menu features a range of local specialities 21 Smoked salmon and cream cheese plate 22 The wooden interior exudes warmth and comfort

19

22

The wooden interior exudes warmth and comfort, and the dining style is relaxed and laid back, which is perfectly in tune with the menu items on offer

144

Dining

23

24

23 Chocolate tiramisu dessert 24 The modern and lengthy indoor seating area 25 Beautiful Italian décor on display

Fiamma Restaurant, Sofitel Zallaq Sea & Spa Manama Nestled away from the city, Fiamma Restaurant at the Sofitel Zallaq Sea & Spa is a gem in a worthy setting, offering deliciously palatable Italian Cuisine.

With a fine-dining atmosphere and beautiful décor, guests can pamper themselves with fantastic dining and friendly service for an evening filled with cherished memories.

Fiamma Restaurant boasts a pleasant atmosphere complete with Italian Décor and views of the surrounding hotel gardens. Diners have the option of sitting inside or on the terrace overlooking the pool and sea. Inside the restaurant an authentic pizza oven helps to create some of the genuine and tasty meals, wafting the smell of hot pizza to the table.

Fiamma reels off as a fine dining pit stop for a warm-hearted slice of Italian cuisine. Guests love the rustic feel that Fiamma offers; edgy wooden flooring

coupled with soft lighting, complemented by elegant pillars and cosy seating. The setup has an open kitchen that gives an insight into the culinary heart of the restaurant, where guests can interact with the Chef and let him know exactly how they want their dish to be prepared.

Popular menu items change seasonally, and have included items such as Angus tenderloin tartare with Sicilian citrus and celery, Veal Osso Buco, Beef Carpaccio and Penne Alfredo. Fresh ingredients, homemade pasta and an antipasti bar also await diners.

Each Monday, Fiamma Restaurant offers “The Serata Italiana”; a plentiful Italian buffet. The spread has a massive choice of indulgence; name it and you have it! www.sofitel.com

Inside the restaurant an authentic pizza oven helps to create some of the genuine and tasty meals, wafting the smell of hot pizza to the table

25

146

Bon Appétit

Prestigious Inheritance

In 2012 Chef Benoît Violier took over the 3 star Restaurant Hôtel de Ville de Crissier, whose distinguished aura is known throughout the world. The Swiss establishment was completely revised in perfect accordance with Chef Violier’s cooking values, enriching diners’ lives with a new sensorial experience. Benoît Violier exclusively shares with Durrah one of his famous recipes.

148

Bon Appétit

01 Chef Benoit Violier at work 02 Hotel de Ville 03-04 Salles de restaurant

02

P

eople come from around the world to discover Restaurant Hôtel de Ville de Crissier and have a chance to dine at the respectable institution.

Historically a family run auberge, the restaurant made its conversion and entered the closed circle of high society establishments in the 1960s, thanks to Frédy Girardet – a local boy, who timidly followed his father’s footsteps into the restaurant business. After developing the kitchen and dining room techniques – including the famous art of decoupage – Girardet went on to conquer the world of gastronomy. Finally in 1986 he was recognised as the “meilleur chef du monde” (world’s best chef) and in 1990 the “cuisinier du siècle” (cook of the century).

In 1980 the young Philippe Rochat was employed in the renowned restaurant’s kitchens, and after gaining Frédy Giradet’s trust he was promoted to “chef de cuisine” in 1989. Over thirty years, Rochat ensured the continued existence of the restaurant’s savoir-faire that it is so famous for, with energy and commitment, pursuing his predecessor’s work while adding his own personality to it. In 1998 the restaurant earned the

coveted 3 stars from the famous “Red Guide”, only two years after it was taken over.

It was Philippe Rochat who largely contributed to the kind of chef and man that Benoît Violier has become, encouraging him to go forward with his new project, leaving the keys to the restaurant to Benoît on April 1st 2012.

To imagine only the cooking of the finished dish was a philosophy far too restrictive for Benoît Violier.

The need to overtake the dish and transcend the notion of pleasure through each sense is something that has always been upmost in the Chef’s mind.

Benoît operates with accuracy and delicacy after years of training under the guidance of some of the world’s greatest chefs. He has surrounded himself with a network of real professionals, with whom he shares the desire to visualise ahead of the finished dish.

Architects, designers, decorators, artists; everyone gets as close to the Chef’s identity as possible, by taking time to discover the man and his kitchen.

The dish being the result of a long planned process, one must come back to basics to define Benoît Violier’s

04

way of cooking and his vision. No movement can be accomplished without an engine, and Benoît’s engine is his passion. The flame was born during his teenage years when he was a Charente Maritimer. Year after year, he looks after the Restaurant Hôtel de Ville de Crissier, trying to bring out it’s essence without tarnishing it, and keep with it as much dexterity as possible.

Succeeding the great internationally renowned Swiss chefs such as Frédy Giradet and Philippe Rochat meant keeping the “fundamentals” on the menu, which includes the mythic dishes such as “l’oeufs à l’italienne with white Alba truffles”, “Pink Nantaise duck in Brouilly juice” and “Passion fruit soufflé” which are almost written in stone. Even so the classic gests and techniques are brought into a new realm by Benoît Violier’s creativity and signature. The Chef’s ideas rest on a new menu, exclusively using rare products each season and subliming the principal element with another, resulting in an epicurean dish.

03

www.restaurantcrissier.com

150

Bon Appétit

Cardoons with black truffle Ingredients for the mass Serves 4 • 100g cardoons simply boiled and cut in small cubes • 10g peeled black truffle, cut in small cubes • 5g minced shallot • 4cl poultry broth • 3dl cream • 10g butter • Salt and pepper to taste Ingredients for the fine poultry stuffing • 20g skinned poultry breast • 20g cream • 10g egg white Ingredients for the black truffle sauce • 50g butter • 10g minced shallots • 15g chopped black truffle • 10cl poultry broth • 2dl black truffle juice • 2dl cream • Salt, pepper and Tabasco to taste Ingredients for finishing • 100g simply boiled cardoons • 40g black truffle • 10g julienne of celeriac • Hazelnut oil • Fleur de sel, 4 peppercorns mixed and finely crushed • Chervil

Method for the fine poultry stuffing 1. Use a food processor to mix the poultry breast.

2. Add the cream and the egg whites, stir together and sieve.

Method for the mass 1. In a saute pan, sweat the shallot and the minced black truffle in a little butter. Season with salt and pepper.

2. Deglaze with the poultry broth and reduce it by a quarter.

3. Pour the cream and reduce it by half. The consistency should be syrupy. Set aside.

4. In a frying pan, cook the small cubes of cardoons to dry them. Add them to the mass, stir together and reserve in the fridge.

5. Once cold, incorporate 40g of fine poultry stuffing.

Method for the black truffle sauce 1. Lightly fry the shallot and the chopped black truffle in a little butter. Season with salt and pepper.

2. Deglaze with the poultry broth and reduce the liquid by a quarter.

3. Add the truffle juice and cook for 3 minutes.

4. Pour the cream and cook for 3 more minutes.

5. Add the butter and mix it with a hand-mixer.

6. Correct the seasoning with salt, pepper and Tabasco.

Method for finishing 1. Butter 4 inox square moulds of 8cm wide and line them with strips of cardoons.

2. Dispose the cardoon mass, cover with wrap film and steam them for 8 minutes (90째C).

3. Heat the cubes of cardoons and black truffle with a bit of butter in a non-stick frying pan and season them with salt and pepper.

4. Arrange the cubes on the cooked mass and add the julienne of celeriac as well as some slices of truffle on top, harmoniously.

5. Finish with an ounce of hazelnut oil, fleur de sel, pepper and some chervil sprigs.

6. Display on a plate, take off the moulds and pour the hot sauce all around the preparation.

152

Bon Appétit

Fillet of Turbot gently cooked with violet artichokes Ingredients for the turbot Serves 4 • 1 400g skinned turbot fillet • 1cl olive oil • 60g butter • 1 lime • 1 lemon • 1 orange • 1 chiselled shallot • 5g thyme leaves • Fleur de sel, 4 peppercorns mixed and finely crushed Ingredients for the artichoke sauce • 8 small cooked artichokes • 1 chiselled shallot • 1 crushed garlic clove • 3dl fish stock • 1 small bunch of thyme • 1dl cream • Salt, pepper, Tabasco, olive oil and lemon juice to taste Ingredients for finishing • 8 small cooked artichokes, chopped into segments • 1 peeled tomato, chopped into small dices • 1 onion, finely diced • Thyme leaves, olive oil

Method for the artichoke sauce 1. Roughly chop the artichokes.

2. In a sauté pan, lightly fry the shallots in a bit of olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.

3. Add the garlic, the artichokes and the thyme and fry again.

4. Add the fish stock and cook simmer for 8 more minutes.

5. Remove the bunch of thyme and add the cream and mix. Correct the seasoning with salt, pepper, Tabasco and a dash of lemon juice.

Method for the turbot 1. Cut the fillet into 4 pieces of approximately 100g each.

2. In a non-stick frying pan, heat the butter with a bit of olive oil, the shallot, the thyme and the orange, lemon and lime zest. Season with fleur de sel and pepper.

3. Place the turbot steaks and cook on each side for 2 minutes. Do not forget to baste the steaks with the melted butter. The inside temperature should be 35°C. 4. Remove the steaks and place them on a grate to drain. Season with fleur de sel and peppercorns.

5. Right before serving, sprinkle some finely grated lime zest and glaze with a dash of olive oil.

6. Remove the grease of the pan and stir fry the artichoke segments, the onion dices, the tomato and season with some thyme leaves, salt and pepper.

Method for finishing 1. Arrange the turbot steaks in the centre of the plates.

2. Place the artichoke segments on top of the fish and pour the hot sauce all around.

154

Bon Appétit

Mint/chocolate Guanaja ‘croquant’ Ingredients for the chocolate Serves 6 • 100g dark chocolate • 100g white chocolate Ingredients for the chocolate shortbread • 100g butter • 2g salt • 2g liquid vanilla essence • 1 egg • 20g hazelnut powder • 160g flour • 10g cocoae Ingredients for the dark ganache (70%) • 215g dark chocolate (70%) • 190g cream (35% fat) • 45g 30°B syrup (50% sugar/50% water) • 40g butter Ingredients for the fresh mint crémeux • 300g cream (35% fat) • 200g white chocolate • 10g spearmint syrup • 50g fresh mint Ingredients for the mint sorbet • 500g water • 50g iced mint syrup • 200g 30°B syrup • 100g fresh mint • 40g glucose • 20g Jet 31 Ingredients for the chocolate sauce • 50g water • 50g 30°B syrup • 15g glucose • 10g cocoa powder (100%) • 20g dark chocolate Method for the chocolate 1. Spread the melted dark chocolate on a plastic paper.

2. Use a ruler to draw rectangles of 2.5cm by 8cm.

3. Store in the fridge in between 2 trays.

4. Repeat the process with the white chocolate.

Method for the chocolate shortbread 1. Make a ‘sablage’: rub the butter with the flour with the tips of your finger until sand texture and add the other ingredients little by little. Curl up in a ball and set aside in the fridge.

2. Use a rolling pin to spread the shortbread and bake for 12 minutes (180°C).

3. After 6 minutes of cooking, draw rectangles of 2.5cm by 8cm and finish to bake. Store in a closed box in a dry place.

Method for the dark ganache (70%) 1. Heat the cream with the syrup. Pour half of it on the chocolate and start the emulsion. Add the rest of the cream and smoothen the ganache.

2. Once lukewarm, add the previously diced butter and finish kneading the ganache with a spatula.

3. Spread it on a tray (the ganache must be 5mm thick) and leave it to set in the fridge.

4. Use a heated knife to draw rectangles of 2.5cm by 8cm. Store in a cool place.

Method for the fresh mint crémeux 1. Heat the cream with the syrup and add the fresh mint. Infuse for 10 minutes.

2. Pour it over the chopped white chocolate. Knead the ganache with a spatula and set cool.

3. Whisk it right before serving and fill a piping bag with the crémeux.

Method for the mint sorbet 1. Heat the water and the syrups.

2. Add the fresh mint and infuse, covered, for 10 minutes.

3. Strain through a chinois and add all other ingredients. Mix and churn.

Method for the chocolate sauce 1. Boil the water, the syrup and the glucose together.

2. Add the cocoa powder and the chocolate. Boil for 2 minutes and mix.

3. Strain through a chinois and fill a pipette. Store in a cool place.

Method for finishing 1. Place a rectangle of ganache onto a slice of shortbread.

2. Add a rectangle of dark chocolate and a layer of mint crémeux.

3. Place a rectangle of white chocolate and add a layer of crémeux in a spiral.

4. Place another rectangle of dark chocolate on top and finish with 3 small quenelles of mint sorbet.

5. Decorate with some dots of chocolate all around.

DELIVERING F1 TO THE WORLD. ®

Only the most international company in the world can provide logistics for the most international motorsport event. As the Official Logistics Partner of F1®, our role in helping to ensure each and every Grand Prix runs smoothly, starts long before the race begins and continues well after it’s finished. www.dhl.com/f1

The F1 FORMULA 1 logo, F1, FORMULA 1, FIA FORMULA ONE WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP, GRAND PRIX and related marks are trade marks of Formula One Licensing BV, a Formula One group company. All rights reserved.

158

Special Feature

Perhaps the best attribute of any dossier relating to Ferrari is that the name needs no introduction. Ferrari is unequivocally, the best sports car manufacturer on the planet. The brand name is synonymous with good taste, flamboyance, wealth and perhaps most importantly – a passion for racing. Other than the infamous stripped-out race cars for the road, Ferrari have also built some of the finest Grand Touring automobiles that money can buy. This article takes a quick look at some of the most famous of those GT Ferraris from the 1950s till date.

Prancing Icons

Ferrari 250 GTO (1962-1964; 39 produced) Thank Jaguar for the birth of the 250 GTO. In March 1961, the E-Type made its debut at the Geneva Motor Show, and likely the most agitated person in the house was Ferrari’s influential sales manager Girolamo Gardini.

“When he returned to Maranello,” recalls the GTO’s ‘father’, engineer Giotto Bizzarrini, “he was going around the factory, telling anyone who would listen, ‘[Jaguar] is going to beat us with its new GT. We have to make something!’”

Enzo Ferrari responded by putting Bizzarrini in charge of developing a car to better the E-Type. He ordered the fiery, talented engineer to handpick a small group of men from outside the normal Ferrari circles to build the car in complete secrecy. Bizzarrini started with the 250 SWB, another model he helped develop, and lightened and reinforced the chassis. He then moved the engine behind the front axle for better weight distribution. The team gave the 2953cc V-12 a major massage, fitting Testa Rossa heads, larger valves, and six double-barrel Weber carburettors. Power output now equalled 300 horses, and a five-speed transmission replaced the SWB’s four-speed.

No sooner had the Bizzarrini-led group’s several months of intense labour paid off with a successful test session at Monza, where the prototype proved considerably faster

than the SWB, than the engineer became embroiled in an infamous walkout: In the fall of 1961, he and a number of other department heads left in protest from Ferrari, leaving 20-something engineer Mauro Forghieri and stalwart Ferrari coachbuilder Sergio Scaglietti to finish Bizzarrini’s project. Forghieri and Scaglietti & Co., working 24/7, put the 250 GTO on a crash development program. Testing continued until the last minute before the car participated in the season’s second race, the 12 Hours of Sebring, in Florida. There, the lone GTO finished second overall behind a Ferrari Testa Rossa. With that, the new car’s legend was off and running.

250 GT Berlinetta SWB (1959-1961; 176 produced) One of the most notable GT cars of its time, the 1959 250 GT Berlinetta SWB used a short wheelbase for better handling. Of the 176 examples built, both steel and aluminium bodies were used in various road (“lusso”) and racing trims. Engine output ranged from 237 hp to 276 hp.

Development of the 250 GT SWB Berlinetta was handled

by Giotto Bizzarrini, Carlo Chiti, and young Mauro Forghieri, the same team that later produced the 250 GTO. Disc brakes were a first on a Ferrari GT, and the combination of low weight, high power, and well-sorted suspension made

160

Special Feature

In 2004, Sports Car International named the 275 GTB/4 number seven on the list of Top Sports Cars of the 1960s.

02

it competitive. It was unveiled at the Paris Motor Show in October and quickly began selling and racing. The SWB Berlinetta won Ferrari the GT class of the 1961 Constructor’s Championship. In 2004, Sports Car International placed the 250 GT SWB seventh on a list of Top Sports Cars of the 1960s, and Motor Trend Classic placed it fifth on a list of the ten “Greatest Ferraris of all time”.

275 GTB/4 (1966-1968; 280 produced) Introduced at the Paris Motor Show in October 1966, the 275 GTB/4 (or 4-cam) was a substantially updated car; built by Scaglietti, it featured new bodywork and was the first Ferrari to not be offered with wire wheels. Power came from a substantially reworked Colombo V12, still with two valves per cylinder but now with a four-cam engine and six carburettors as standard. In a departure from previous Ferrari designs, the valve angle was reduced three degrees to 54° for a more-compact head. The dual camshafts also allowed the valves to be aligned “correctly” (perpendicular to the camshaft) instead of offset as in the SOHC Ferraris. It was a dry-sump design with a huge 17 qt (16 L) capacity. The transaxle was also redesigned. A

torque tube connected the engine and transmission, rather than allowing them to float free on the body as before.

This improved handling, noise, and vibration. Porsche synchronizers were also fitted for improved shifting and reliability. The 275 GTB/4 could hit 266 km/h with its 300 hp power output. 280 4-cam versions were produced through 1968.

In 2004, Sports Car International named the 275 GTB/4 number seven on the list of Top Sports Cars of the 1960s.

365 GTB/4 & GTS/4 Daytona (1968-1974; 1406 units produced – 1284 coupes, 122 spiders) In the mid to late 1960s, the automotive world was rightfully abuzz over Lamborghini’s avant-garde Miura. It made its debut in 1966, put the mid-engine configuration on the map, and took the automotive world’s eyes off Ferrari in the process. Everyone surmised that Enzo would have to respond with a mid-engine missile of his own if he wanted to beat Lamborghini’s gauntlet. Wrong. The 365 GTB/4 Daytona bowed at 1968’s Paris Motor Show, and with one swipe Ferrari showed that the front-engine configuration was far from dead. The Daytona moniker

01 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO 02 1964 Ferrari 275 GTB 03 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO 04 1957 Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa 05 1948 166MM Barchetta Touring

03 04

05

came from Ferrari’s 1-2-3 sweep at the track of the same name in 1967. The car’s specs spoke for themselves: a 4.4-liter V-12 packing four overhead cams, six downdraft dual-throat Weber carburettors, and 352 real horsepower at 7500 rpm. Suspension was independent front and rear, and the brakes were vented discs. The Spider version, revealed in 1969, went on sale in the second half of 1970. Together, Ferrari sold almost twice as many Daytonas (1406 total) as Lamborghini did Miuras. Fittingly, the model’s last hurrah came at the racetrack for which it’s named. In 1979, five years after it went out of production, an aged, out-paced, and allegedly over-the-hill GTB/4 placed second overall at the 24 Hours of Daytona. Against newer, pure racing models, it made up for its 10-plus-year-old design, with grit and tons of heart--traits every Daytona has always possessed in spades.

456 & 456M (1992-2003; 3,289 built including variations) The Pininfarina-designed original 456 was available in GT and (from 1996) GTA forms. The difference in name signifies the transmission: the former has a six-speed

manual and the latter has a four-speed automatic. This was only the fourth automatic transmission ever offered

by Ferrari. The 5.5 L (5474 cc) 65° V12 engine was derived from the Dino V6 rather than the more conventional 60° V12s used in the 412 and Daytona. It produced 436 hp with 4 valves per cylinder and Bosch’s Motronic M2.7 engine management. It could push the 1690 kg car and four passengers to 302 km/h making it the world’s fastest production four-seater. Acceleration to 100 km/h was just 5.2 seconds, with a 13.4 second quarter-mile time. At the time of its development it was the most powerful road car ever developed by Ferrari (aside from the F40). The name 456 is derived from the fact that each cylinder displaces 456 cubic centimetres. This was the last Ferrari to use this naming convention. Despite its supercar performance, the 456 has a relatively unstressed engine, which has proven to be a very reliable unit. The chassis is a tubular steel space-frame construction with a one-piece composite bonnet and body panels of aluminium. The body panels are welded to the chassis by using a special “sandwich filler” called feran that, when laid between, allows steel and aluminium to be welded.

The Modificata 456M appeared in 1998. Many changes were made to improve aerodynamics and cooling, and the interior. The 456 has a smaller grille with fog lights outside the grille. The 456 also had hood-mounted air scoops, which can be seen removed on the 456M. The undercarriage spoiler on the 456M is fixed, where the older 456 had a motorized spoiler that began its deployment above 105 km/h (65 mph). Power remained unchanged on the Modificata at 436 hp. Approximately 3,289 of all versions were built. These consisted of the following versions: 456 GT: 1,548; 456 GTA: 403; 456M GT: 688; 456M GTA: 650.

550 Maranello (1996-2001; 3,083 units produced) It shared its platform and 5.5 L (5474 cc) engine with the 2+2 456 but was positioned as the company’s highest-end model. The car used a transaxle layout, with the 6-speed manual gearbox located at the back, in-line with the driven wheels. The model number refers to total engine displacement (5.5 litres) and the model name of Maranello refers to the town where the Ferrari headquarters are located.

162

Special Feature

07 06 F12 Berlinetta top 07 F12 Berlinetta front

06

In the 550, the engine is moved ahead of the cabin, and its 12 cylinders are arranged in a vee. The flat-12 was replaced because it needed a complete redesign to meet approaching emissions regulations, and because a V-12 can deliver a bigger punch from smaller external dimensions. The resulting packaging benefits include shorter overall length, a more accessible and spacious cabin, a more orthodox driving position (additionally helped by a roofline that’s 5.4 inches higher than the Testarossa’s), a less obstructed outward view, and better noise insulation.

The engine was also relocated, according to Chief Engineer Amadeo Felisa, because Ferrari didn’t want another TR, but a car that’s easier to drive. Although it isn’t a 2+2 like the 456, the 550 looks like it could be. There’s cabin space behind the 550’s two front seats, but it’s given over to a high-carpeted shelf that will accommodate two golf bags rather than two people. The 5.5 L V12 engine won the ‘over 4 litre’ class of the International Engine of the Year award for 2000 and 2001. EVO magazine awarded the Ferrari 550 Maranello the award ‘Best Sports car of the 1990s’.

575M Maranello (2002-2006; 2056 produced) Launched in 2002, it is essentially an updated 550 Maranello featuring minor styling changes from Pininfarina.

Updates from the 550 included a renewed interior, but with substantial improvements mechanically, including bigger brake discs, a larger and more powerful engine, a different weight distribution, refined aerodynamics and

fluid-dynamics and an adaptive suspension set-up (the four independent suspensions are also controlled by the gearbox, to minimize pitch throughout the 200-milliseconds shift time). Two six-speed transmissions were available, a conventional manual gearbox and, for the first time on a Ferrari V12, Magneti Marelli’s semi-automatic ‘F1’ gearbox.

The Maranello is now a genuine 200-mph car, with a factory-estimated 0–100 km/h time of 4.2 seconds, but none of its controls requires much force, and the brake response at low speeds seemed even more sensitive than necessary. Ferrari’s chief test driver, Dario Benuzzi, said that the 575M is as fast around the Fiorano track as the much more extreme 360 Modena. For 2005, the company developed a new GTC handling package and Superamerica version (a limited run of 559 retractable hardtop variants of the coupe); along with raising the power from 508 hp to 533 hp. 2056 575M’s were produced.

599GTB Fiorano/599GTO (2006-2012) Styled by Pininfarina under the direction of Ferrari’s Frank Stephenson, the 599GTB debuted at the Geneva Motor Show in February 2006. It is named for its total engine displacement (5999 cc), Gran Turismo Berlinetta nature, and the Fiorano Circuit test track used by Ferrari.

The 599GTB Fiorano presents a dazzling set of numbers. In doing so, Ferrari had produced a sporting GT with the potential to outperform many even more exclusive machines.

In theory, it is possible to trace the 599’s heritage to the very first front-engined Ferrari road car, but in truth its lineage begins with the legendary 250 GT SWB and Lusso of the 1960s. Fast, dramatic machines with impossibly long bonnets continued as Ferrari flagships through the 275GTB and Daytona until the company chose a midengined format for its range-topping 12-cylinder road cars from the mid-1970s to the late 1990s. The 550 Maranello signalled the return of the big V12 Ferrari with a long bonnet and nothing behind the driver but luggage and 100 litres of unleaded. Ferrari has used much more advanced underpinnings for the 599 than with its 550 and 575M predecessors. The tubular steel chassis of those cars has been replaced by an all aluminium chassis to bring vastly improved stiffness and reduced mass. The fuel tank sat within a longer wheelbase, bringing a lower polar moment of inertia and centre of gravity.

The Enzo’s 5999cc V12 was reformatted for this GT application and the following numbers were settled upon: 612bhp at 7600rpm and 448lb ft of torque at 5600rpm. In the context of a 1690kg claimed kerb weight, which gives the 599 a power-to-weight ratio of 362bhp per tonne, so far beyond the 291 offered by its predecessor that you could rightly conclude that this new car occupies an entirely new category. The 599 is available with a paddleshift gearbox, using the latest super-fast shift software. In the fastest setting, just 100 milliseconds elapse between clutch disengaging and fully engaging the next gear. The

08 F12 Berlinetta side

599 has significant under-body aerodynamic aids, which bring a claimed 160kg of down force at 186mph. The car uses magnetorheological semi-active dampers, so-called because when a magnetic field is applied to the liquid within the damper reservoir, its viscosity changes almost instantly. This function, along with the gearshift speed and the traction and stability control parameters, is controlled by a button on the steering wheel.

On 8 April 2010, Ferrari announced official details of the 599 GTO. The car is a road-going version of the 599XX and Ferrari says that the 599 GTO is their fastest road car ever, able to lap the Fiorano test circuit in 1 minute 24 seconds, one second faster than the Enzo Ferrari. Its engine produced 661 bhp at 8250 rpm, with 460 lbft of torque at 6500 rpm. Ferrari claims the 599 GTO could reach 100 km/h in less than 3.3 seconds and onto a top speed of over 335 km/h. At 1,605 kilograms (3,538 lb), the 599 GTO weighs almost 100 kg less than the standard GTB. Production is limited to 599 cars.

Ferrari has given only two other models the GTO designation: the 1962 250 GTO and the 1984 288 GTO. Unlike the previous GTOs however, the 599 GTO was not designed for homologation in any racing series.

09 F12 interior

08 09

The F12berlinetta was named ‘The Supercar of the Year 2012’ by Top Gear

F12/F60 America (2012-present) The F12berlinetta, debuted at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show, replaces the 599 series grand tourers. The naturally aspirated V12 engine in the F12berlinetta has won the International Engine of the Year Awards 2013 in the Best Performance category and Best Engine above 4.0 litres.

The F12berlinetta was named ‘The Supercar of the Year 2012’ by Top Gear. In 2014 it was awarded the XXIII Premio Compasso d’oro ADI. Accepting the award was Ferrari’s Senior Vice President of Design, Flavio Manzoni. Power comes from a front-mounted 6.3-liter V-12, mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and rearwheel drive. Even with 730 horsepower, the F12berlinetta is designed to be one of Ferrari’s more comfortable cars, making it surprisingly manageable on a day-to-day basis.

Ferrari reports that the F12berlinetta is capable of lapping the Fiorano test circuit in 1 minute, 23 seconds; three seconds slower than LaFerrari, a full second faster than the 599 GTO, two seconds faster than the Enzo, two seconds faster than the 458 Italia, two seconds faster than the430 Scuderia and three and a half seconds faster than the 599 GTB. The body of the F12berlinetta is designed by the Ferrari Styling Centre and Pininfarina, and shares some styling elements with other recent Ferrari models. This includes a front grille similar to the FF and headlights shared with the FF and 458 Italia. The interior, based on the FF, features new “Frau leather” upholstery with aluminium, Alutex, and carbon fibre trim, and has increased luggage space compared to the 599.

Ferrari F60 America: The F60 America is a derivative of F12, built to celebrate 60 years of Ferrari in North America. It comes as an open top, with a slightly different front fascia and a white stripe on a blue paintjob. Only ten of these V12-powered vehicles will be built, each featuring an asymmetrical cabin design with red trim for the driver’s area and black for the passenger, American flag detailing in the centre of the backrests of both seats, and classic blue and white North American Racing Team livery. As of November 2014, all ten F60 Americas have been purchased. www.ferrari.com

164

Automotive

Evoking Luxury When automotive design is elevated to an art and innovative technology combines with exceptional performance, it redefines the driving experience. This season Durrah looks at car manufactures whose uncompromising inspiration deliver a selection of the best of the best in luxury cars.

166

Automotive

02

03

Lexus All New Turbocharged NX 200t Having pioneered the luxury-utility crossover category more than a decade ago with the original midsized RX 300, Lexus is now poised to disrupt the SUV segment once again with the all-new NX 200t – the brand’s maiden entry into the growing compact crossover segment. Inspired by performance vehicles, the turbocharged NX combines the expertise of racers within the engineering team and the impeccable touch of Lexus luxury through an exciting and sporty design to set a new benchmark in the automotive world.

From inception to reality, the NX was substantially influenced by the LF-NX concept vehicles, which were introduced in hybrid form at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show, and later at the Tokyo Motor Show, powered by an all-new turbo drive train. The NX was developed as a refined and stylish compact luxury utility vehicle. According to NX chief engineer Takeaki Kato, “Luxury is epitomised by small but important details.” He further added that the NX symbolises the new direction of the brand to provide design-driven, driver-rewarding vehicles underpinned by Lexus’ advanced engineering and dynamic, efficient powertrains.

For its first-ever turbocharged gasoline engine, Lexus created all-new engine architecture. The new Lexus NX 200t has an innovative turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol engine, four-cylinder port and direct-injection turbo engine that uses an advanced valve control system to switch between Atkinson cycle and Otto cycle operation to optimise performance. The six-speed automatic transmission features new torque-demand control logic, which calculates required engine torque and maximizes it, delivering quick response to acceleration and exhilarating feel with fuel efficiency. The Drive Mode Select dial on the centre console lets the NX 200t driver tailor the vehicle’s responses and driving feel to suit driving conditions or just the driver’s mood.

The NX exterior has been designed to provide a feeling

of agility not usually associated with an SUV, while also being suitable for urban use. It embodies an aggressive form that makes its functionality and higher performance evident at a glance. The striking angles and smoothly flowing contours of the NX 200t lend it a distinct visual appeal. The front fascia integrates Lexus’ signature spindle grille, innovative LED headlamps, fog lamps, and daytime running lamps. The new compact crossover embraces a sculpted look with bold front and rear wheel arches that house 18-inch wheels. Examples of attention to detail in the NX include welcoming LED illuminated exterior door handles, advanced overhead console touch switches that operate smoothly and other innovations that will set new standards for future Lexus models.

Stepping into the NX 200t will feel like stepping into a sports car. The cabin design combines structural elements with luxurious yet functional materials and textures. The centre console is the undeniable focal point, framed by bold silver-coloured architectural elements and featuring kneepads on both sides. Leather-wrapped metal over high contrast metallic colours provides visual depth. The NX 200t dashboard and console continue the Lexus concept of display and operational zones. The seats, inspired by sports car design, coddle driver and passenger, as you would expect from a Lexus.

The NX 200t features numerous firsts in a Lexus, including keyhole-less outside door handle; power reclining and power folding 60:40 split rear seat; cylinder head with integrated exhaust manifold, a Wireless Charging Tray for compatible phones and devices; the new Lexus Remote Touch Interface (RTI) with a touch pad and a Pre-Load Differential to control differential torque. The Lexus NX 200t is also available with a colour head-up display which projects a range of frequently checked information on the lower windshield glass in the driver’s line of sight, including

vehicle speed, tachometer, audio system, navigation system and more. The Lexus NX 200t is also available with a Mark Levinson premium surround sound system, which features a 12-channel amplifier to drive 14 ultra-high efficiency speakers that generate outstanding output with concert hall-quality sound.

The Lexus NX 200t comes with a comprehensive suite of active and passive safety features. The Panoramic View Monitor, introduced into a Lexus vehicle for the first time, helps the driver avoid other vehicles and pedestrians approaching from the sides. This system combines video from four cameras mounted to the front and rear sides of the vehicle, offering a view of everything happening around the car, including blind spots. Also offered on the NX 200t is the Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), and the Lane Departure Alert that warns the driver when it determines that the vehicle is about to veer from a traffic lane.

The F SPORT variant promises a special driving experience with its aggressive looks such as a grille that’s even bolder than on the standard model. The L-mesh black grille integrates with a metallic coated lower bumper moulding, and black side mirrors match the grille. Exclusive wheels, cabin styling and trim, and bolstered sports seats add to the F SPORT repertoire in the NX 200t.

The NX 200t F SPORT is also available exclusively with a Multi Information Display, which heightens the driving experience by displaying a G sensor with steering angle, accelerator opening and brake hydraulic pressure bars in addition to a turbo boost meter with oil temperature and pressure gauges.

The All New Lexus NX is now available at the Lexus Showroom in Sitra, starting from BD 18,800. www.lexus.com.bh

01 The NX was developed as a refined and stylish compact luxury utility vehicle 02 Lexus’ first Panoramic View Monitor shows video from four cameras around the car 03 The cabin combines structural elements with luxurious yet functional materials and textures 04 The NX 200t dashboard continues the Lexus concept of display and operational zones 05 The centre console is framed by bold silver-coloured architectural elements and features kneepads on both sides

04 05

168

Automotive 06 The new model features unmistakable Lamborghini super sports car DNA 07 The launch colour is the specially developed Rosso Bia, with black Alcantara in the interior 08 Every single detail has been optimised to achieve the lowest possible weight

07 06

05

08

Lamborghini Aventador LP 750-4 Superveloce With increased power, lower weight, improved aerodynamics and innovative technologies, the Lamborghini Aventador LP 750-4 Superveloce is the most pure incarnation of a Lamborghini to date. The new model features unmistakable Lamborghini super sports car DNA, dynamic superiority and exceptional driving precision.

A focus on weight reduction while incorporating innovative technologies has resulted in the most sportsoriented, fastest and most emotional series production Lamborghini ever. The weight has been further reduced by 50 kg through enhanced lightweight engineering including significant use of carbon fibre. The naturally aspirated V12 engine’s power is increased to 552 kW/750 hp. This results in a power-to-weight-ratio of 2,03 kg/hp. The Superveloce accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 2.8 seconds and powers on to reach a top speed of more than 350 km/h.

“The new Aventador Superveloce continues the Lamborghini tradition of SV models, pushing the boundaries in terms of performance and pure driving emotion,” says Stephan Winkelmann, President and CEO of Automobili Lamborghini. “The original Aventador was presented four years ago, and the Superveloce pays homage to its passionate owners, as well as the fan community, whose enthusiasm has resulted in the biggest commercial success ever of a Lamborghini V12 super sports car. In the Superveloce Lamborghini’s expertise in lightweight engineering is clearly evident.

With technological features which, combined with design, quality standards and craftsmanship, the Superveloce results in the most exclusive, pure and emotional production model in the history of our brand.”

Every single detail of the Aventador Superveloce has been optimized to achieve the lowest possible weight, whilst including new technologies to enhance dynamics and the driving experience. The Aventador’s carbon fibre monocoque with lightweight aluminium frames is being serially produced for the Superveloce. Together with other carbon fibre components such as new door panels and new rockers and fenders in SMC superlight, it provides low weight with maximum rigidity. Also in carbon fibre are the new rear wing, and the fixed air intakes.

Introduced on the Aventador, Lamborghini’s pushrod suspension system incorporates adaptive Magneto Rheological Suspension (MRS) on the Superveloce, responding immediately to road conditions and driving style: wheel damping is adjusted individually during

cornering, largely suppressing body roll and making the steering and handling even more responsive. The adaptive damping also counteracts brake diving.

Also new is the electromechanical Lamborghini Dynamic Steering (LDS), which variably adapts the steering ratio to road speed and to the dynamic mode selected.

Specially tuned for the Superveloce, it ensures even greater stability at high speed, while making it significantly easier to maneuver at low speed.

The Superveloce’s lightweight forged rims in matt black measure 20 inches at the front and 21 inches at the rear and are optionally equipped with central locking mounts, as in motorsport. The standard-fit Pirelli P Zero Corsa sports tires ensure maximum grip, with Carbon Ceramic Brakes as standard.

The 6.5 litre naturally aspirated V12 engine in the Lamborghini Aventador has been redesigned for the Superveloce and equipped with a completely new lightweight exhaust system. Improving the engine responsiveness of the original Aventador, maximum power output now reaches 552 kW at 8,400 rpm.

The design of the Lamborghini Aventador LP 7504 Superveloce embodies aggressive power alongside technical superiority. In creating the Superveloce, from the very beginning the aerodynamic engineers worked closely with the designers of Lamborghini Centro Stile with the objective of ensuring an optimum aerodynamic balance.

The most obvious new element is a large racingstyle rear wing, which improves aerodynamic efficiency and generates additional down force. It can be manually adjusted to three different positions to suit a driving style.

The front end of the car has been redesigned completely: a more ‘open’ view, with the forwardstretched line of the front skirt and two front wings - one in black carbon fibre and one in the car’s colour generating significant down force in the front of the car.

This improves handling and stability, gives even more precise turn-in at high speeds.

The launch colour of the Lamborghini Aventador LP 750-4 is the specially developed Rosso Bia, with black Alcantara in the interior. Five further colours are available with owners able to specify their cars to their own individual tastes, with virtually unlimited options under Lamborghini’s Ad Personam personalization program. www.lamborghini.com

170

Automotive

Bentley Limited Edition Continental Range Bentley has introduced a special limited edition Continental Concours Series and Concours Series Black. This series offers a high-value visual pack proposition alongside the Mulliner Driving Specification, adding a contemporary theme to match both luxury (GT and GT V8) and sporting (GT V8 S) positioning. The featured derivatives are: Continental GT: Concours Series In the new Continental Concours Series, the quintessential grand tourer gains a new, more exquisite expression of craftsmanship and luxury.

In a cabin that already enjoys an 80% covering of hand-upholstered hide, it can be hard to envision any enhancements. But the Mulliner Driving Specification brings many, including drilled alloy pedals, a knurled gear shifter and Bentley diamond quilting on the seats and door panels.

The Concours Series takes things further, adding contrast stitching to the interior, steering wheel and diamond quilting and an embroidered ‘Concours Series’ emblem to each headrest – words you’ll also see etched into the treadplates as you step inside.

The name ‘Concours’ derives from ‘Concours d’Elegance’, the elite competitions that celebrate automotive perfection, where the judges examine every component.

Which is why the jewel fuel and oil filler caps matter as much as the silver ‘Concours Series’ wing badges

and polished 21” propeller wheels with contrasting Beluga gloss centre caps, on this truly striking GT. In the Concours Series, the ultimate 21st Century grand tourer has been imbued with the spirit of the world’s most timeless classic cars.

Continental GT V8: Concours Series Concours d’Elegance are the ultimate car contests, in which only perfection is rewarded. And so, with the launch of the Concours Series, the Continental GT V8 reaches its luxurious zenith. This is a grand tourer for those who love to drive – and especially for those who love to drive in style.

The exterior offers the first clue that this is no normal Continental. Silver ‘Concours Series’ wing badges and a bright chrome front grille complement the 21” 6-spoke polished wheels, each one with a black centre cap. Inside, the Concours Series takes the Mulliner Driving Specification and pushes it even further. The diamond quilted hides, a much-loved Mulliner trademark, are embellished further with contrast stitching, as is the overall interior and handstitched steering wheel. Every headrest sees the addition of a hand-embroidered ‘Concours Series’ logo. And when it comes to the metalwork, the drilled alloy foot pedals and knurled gear shifter line up alongside ‘Concours Series’ emblems on the tread-plates.

For those who expect their cars to exhilarate, the letters ‘V8’ have always stood for something special. And when

09 The diamond quilted hides are embellished further with contrast stitching

10

10 Concours series emblems on the headrests, distinguish the uniqueness of the series 11 The glossy front end of the Continental GT 09

surrounded by handcrafted luxury like this, there’s simply nowhere better to enjoy the sights, sounds and sensory thrill of the open road.

Continental GT V8 S: Concours Series Black Inspiration reveals its dark side in the Continental GT V8 S Concours Series Black. For the serious driver, it represents nothing short of automotive perfection. It includes the Mulliner Driving Specification alongside several new details seen only on the V8 S. Contrast stitching is applied to the Mulliner diamond quilting along with the overall interior and hand stitched steering wheel, while ‘Concours Series’ embroidery is prominently stitched into the headrests.

Outside the car, the Beluga gloss black lower body styling of the standard GT V8 S is complemented by 21” 7-spoke Elegant ‘Black by Mulliner’ wheels, black exterior lower bright-ware and dark tint front and rear lamps. A new exterior finish, Volcanic Black, is new to the series. Together, these expressions of Concours Black craftsmanship stand for much more than pure luxury.

They represent the styling of performance.

There are many ways to configure a bespoke grand tourer, but this is luxury of a different kind. This is luxury with attitude. This is Concours Series Black. www.bentleymotors.com

The name ‘Concours’ derives from ‘Concours d’Elegance’, the elite competitions that celebrate automotive perfection, where the judges examine every component.

11

172

Automotive

12 13

12 The Phantom drophead coupés’ brushed steel perfectly complements an exclusively developed Maggiore Blue colour scheme 13 Only the finest contemporary materials – never used before on a Rolls- Royce – furnish the Waterspeed collection 14 The limited collection displays the pinnacle of bespoke artistry provided by Rolls-Royce 15 The superior record-breaking Rolls-Royce R-Type engine

14 15

Rolls-Royce Waterspeed Phantom Drophead Coupé One of only 35 Rolls-Royce Bespoke Waterspeed Phantom Drophead Coupés produced in the world has arrived in The Kingdom of Bahrain. The exceptional car, which is part of a limited collection, celebrates the historic act of daring and endeavour of Sir Malcom Campbell, an English racing motorist and motoring journalist, which broke the waterspeed record over seventy years ago.

The eye-catchingly beautiful Waterspeed Collection pays homage to this momentous achievement that not only captured the world’s attention, but also reaffirmed the Rolls-Royce R-Type engines’ record-breaking superiority after triumphs on land and in the air. On 1st September 1937, Sir Campbell headed out onto the calm blue waters of Lake Maggiore on the Swiss-Italian frontier to set the world waterspeed record of 126.32 mph in a Rolls-Roycepowered Bluebird K3 hydroplane boat.

Commenting on the Bespoke Waterspeed Collection and its arrival in Bahrain, Mr. Paul Yates, General Manager of Euro Motors said: “Since the announcement of the collection earlier this year, the Waterspeed has been eagerly awaited by our discerning clientele. The limited collection displays the pinnacle of Bespoke artistry provided by the Rolls-Royce Motor Cars marque and is a perfect match for our customers seeking ultra-luxury automotive

excellence. The unique vehicle has exceeded expectations, beautifully combining automotive innovation with the ultimate craftsmanship, producing an unmistakable, timeless masterpiece.”

The Collection was officially launched in May at the world-renowned Concorso D’Elegenza at Villa D’Este, on the shores of Lake Como, one of Italy’s world-famous lakes and directly adjacent to Lake Maggiore where Campbell famously established his legend.

Showcasing the very best of the Rolls-Royce Bespoke programme, the Phantom Drophead Coupé Waterspeed Collection features a number of exquisitely designed and crafted personalised features. Taking inspiration from Sir Campbell’s record-breaking watercraft, only the finest contemporary materials – never used before on a RollsRoyce – furnish the Waterspeed Collection.

Taking further creativity from the setting of the historic moment, the Phantom Drophead Coupés’ brushed steel perfectly complements an exclusively developed Maggiore Blue colour scheme. Handcrafted wood inlays further reinforce this outstanding heritage as it evokes the sense of a boat effortlessly gliding through water at pace. www.rolls-roycemotorcars.com

174

Must Have

My Wish List The latest and most exclusive luxury items for men

Ciclotte Tonino Lamborghini Ciclotte is an innovative exercise bike designed and made in Italy, which combines idea, form and technology to rethink the traditional aesthetic and functional values of an exercise bike. The rider’s posture, the minimalist design and the appeal of the materials have been used to evoke the sensations of a road race. The creative passion for design and technology that characterize the Tonino Lamborghini brand has inspired the new Ciclotte Tonino Lamborghini, featuring the iconic “bull” symbol and the brand colours and shield. Tonino Lamborghini incarnates the power of the ‘Made in Italy’ style worldwide, and the model is characterized by a carbon and steel frame, carbon fibre adjustable handlebar and display and handlebar grip-bands in a striking red colour. www.ciclotte.com

Gold Swimwear, Vilebrequin For over 40 years, Vilebrequin has been the renowned expert in men’s swimwear. Now, the Saint Tropez brand pushes the limits of its expertise with a unique range embroidered with 24-karat gold thread. Both designs – the ‘Dancing Golden Turtles’ and the ‘Ring of Golden Turtles ’ – pay homage to the sea. The brand’s symbolic turtles stitched in gold swim against the navy seascape background of Vilebrequin’s iconic Moorea model. Delicately embroidered in Italy, their shells catch the light, transforming a classic beachwear product into a sun collector’s jewel. The cord tips, made from 22-karat gold, present the final touch of elegance and ultimate sophistication. These exclusive pieces are delivered with a Piana Clerico Gold Thread certificate of authenticity and are made to measure. us.vilebrequin.com

Maserati Fragranza D’Ambiente, Dr. Vranjes A unique Fragrance, destined to become the symbol of excellence, the Maserati Fragranza D’Ambiente contains an amazing symphony of notes combining Maserati’s power and Dr. Vranjes’ elegance. A sophisticated treasure chest, the ‘Duomo’ bottle was inspired by the Dome of Santa Maria del Fiore in Florence, and is decorated with the special colour Maserati Blue.

The silver labels are made using prestigious silkscreen embossed stitching, which reflects the luxurious interior finishes of Maserati. The sublime and enchanting fragrance comes elegantly wrapped in a precious casket, which reflects the rare Italian style and craftsmanship and is available online and in selected department stores around the world. www.maseratistore.com

176

Must Have

LT12 Racket, Lacoste After having invented the polo shirt and the tennis-ball machine, René Lacoste decided to patent two racket models that would revolutionize the world of tennis. Three years of research were necessary for the development of this unique object. By combining craftsmanship and sophisticated manufacturing, Lacoste managed a technical prowess by assembling two completely opposite materials: the LT12 is 70% wood and 30% graphite. Three types of woods were combined with the aeronautical material High Modulus Graphite. Entirely made by a French craftsman based in Albertville, each racket takes five hours to produce and will be exclusively available in Mall of the Emirates and Dubai Mall starting April. www.lacoste.com

The King of Pearl, Robert Wan and S.T. Dupont Robert Wan, the largest producer of Tahitian pearls in the world, and the famous French Maison S.T. Dupont, have joined creative forces with the help of renowned jewellery designer Mathieu Tournaire to realize two beautiful limited edition collections, The King of Pearl – Exclusive Edition and the King of Pearl – Prestige Edition. Inspired by the “God of the sea”, Poseidon, these extraordinary collections pay tribute to the beauty of mother of pearl and celebrate the black pearl. The Prestige lighter in yellow gold finishes is finely decorated with sculpted elements such as a delicate mermaid and a crown on its back. A black mother of pearl cabochon cut adorns the lighter’s front. www.st-dupont.com www.robertwan.com

Gloves, Loewe Men’s Fall Winter 2015 Building on last season’s take on normality, Loewe Men’s Fall Winter 2015 collection reveals different facets of the evolving identity introduced with Anderson’s debut collection for the house. A precise edit of essential pieces offers an advanced interpretation of menswear that is youthful, functional and aware, in a collection defined by lightness, innovation and materiality. Marine, saffron and yellow accentuate a muted spectrum of natural shades, from mustard and cognac to chocolate and rust to forest green. Inspired by outerwear with a domestic sensibility and a character that stays the same through constant change, Loewe creates wearable fashion that is both universal and hyper-specific, never precious, and always, fundamentally modern. www.loewe.com

TUMI 1975 Capsule Collection TUMI is proud to celebrate 40 years of design excellence and outstanding product innovation with a collection aptly titled ‘1975’. This exclusive new commemorative collection embodies the meticulous craftsmanship, technical innovation and functional superiority that TUMI is renowned for, paying homage to 1975, its founding year. Designed in America for Global Citizens everywhere, this American-made, limited-edition collection is crafted from natural full grain American cowhide leather, inspired by the variety TUMI imported from South America in the early years and TUMI‘s signature ballistic nylon. Collection styles include an International Carry-On, Slim Brief, Rucksack Backpack and Square Duffel. Each style bears a special limited edition embossed number. www.tumi.com

178

Must Have

My Wish List The latest and most exclusive luxury items for women

Albondoqiya Hangbag, FEATHERS The Emirati brand FEATHERS presents a new elegant collection of handbags for women titled ‘Albondoqiya’, the old name of Venice in Arabic. The Albondoqiya collection is inspired by a handbag, which was designed by Italian inventor, architect, and painter Leonardo da Vinci in 1497, but was never produced in his lifetime. FEATHERS re-introduce the bag today in a modern and elegant look for luxury lovers. The bag is available in 3 different colours: black, chocolate brown and peach. All pieces from the collection are made in UAE using genuine calf leather. www.feathers-fashion.com

Self-Adhesive Jewellery, Marbella Paris Marbella Paris is a highly trend-sensitive brand that offers the Art of Jewellery in a new way, with sophisticated selfadhesive jewels for adorning the body. Summer Tattoo, French Tattoo and Golden Tattoo are Marbella signature collections that renew the art of henna and Eastern beauty secrets, showing the infinite creativity of the Maison.

In the city or on the beach, hidden or unveiled, in the sunlight or under a starry sky, for one season or all year round, Marbella repositionable tattoos promise a beautiful metamorphosis. The delight of wearing this self-adhesive jewellery and the freedom of switching it at a whim represents a new French touch. www.marbellaparis.fr/en

Year of the Goat, Clarisonic Aria The promise of transformed skin is delivered every day through the customisable, state-of-the art sonic cleansing power of the Clarisonic Aria. The sleek, aerodynamic design of the Aria is now uniquely printed with the state of the art design processing – ensuring the handle is as pristine and beautiful as the beautiful and healthy skin it creates. Clarisonic’s Year of the Goat design is as luxurious as it is premium, celebrating the prosperous 8th animal of the zodiac to symbolise good fortune all year round. The Cleansing kit includes an Aria device, a matching charger, sample refreshing gel cleanser and a sensitive brush head that work together to beautifully transform skin. www.clarisonic.com

180

Must Have

C.O.A.C.H Collection The bright neon lights of New York City and Coney Island were the inspiration behind Stuart Vevers’ latest C.O.A.C.H Collection. Injecting fun, optimism and an original technical glow into the winter season, this limited edition collection takes the spirit of authentic Coach, with its rich saddlecoloured leather, and explodes it with a playful riff on neon.

‘Bubbled’ hardware is coated in neon rubber with neon binding and neon trims, creating a surprising juxtaposition with Coach’s signature, natural saddle-coloured leather, on a family of downtown bags and accessories, including for the first time a leather-and-neon-trimmed C.O.A.C.H bicycle. www.coach.com

Ruby Limited Edition, Savelli Having created the first luxury smartphones designed especially for women, Savelli makes one-of-a-kind pieces of handcrafted high jewellery. Exceptional in every detail, the Savelli collection is highly recognizable by its unique and elegant signature design. The Swiss brand has now launched a Ruby Limited Edition, pursuing its collaboration with Gemfields, the world’s leading coloured gemstones company. It will be the first time Savelli uses these magnificent precious stones in the gem-settings of its luxurious smartphones. The Ruby Limited Edition is a perfect demonstration of the Geneva-based Maison’s savoir-faire and luxury craftsmanship. www.savelli-geneve.com

Renata Collection, Al Huzaifa Al Huzaifa, one of Dubai oldest furniture showrooms, adds contemporary new designs to its luxury fashion range. Established in 1976, Al Huzaifa Furniture offers exciting collections across diverse genres. Each piece is sculptured with passion and the insight that’s refined over three decades of defining luxury furniture couture in the region. The new Renata collection for lamps and lights is sure to create those truly illuminating moments. The sheer metal lamps, with gold and silver plated, add aesthetic richness to the room. The fabric used on the lamps is picked from the company’s beautiful collection of contemporary colours and patterns. www.alhuzaifa.com

182

Book Review

Tunisian master calligrapher Nja Mahdaoui is one of the most prolific contemporary artists of the Arab world, celebrated as a choreographer of letters and explorer of signs. Launching March 2015, ‘Nja Mahdaoui: Jafr, the Alchemy of Signs’ is the first comprehensive monograph of his 50-year career.

Choreographer of Letters

B

orn in 1937 in Tunisia, visual artist Nja Mahdaoui is one of the countries leading artists and a notable Arab contemporary artist. He graduated from the Academy of Arts of Santa Andrea in Rome and the Ecole du Louvre (Department of Oriental Antiquities) in 1967, and pursued his academic training in Paris, at the Cite Internationale des Arts, on a scholarship from the Tunisian Government.

Mahdaoui’s work inspired by Arabic calligraphy is remarkably innovative, as the aesthetic dimension of his letters brings forth a sense of the poetic and highly rhythmic – arresting viewers with its rich abstracts compositions. Famous for his meticulous work in ink on parchment, Mahdaoui stresses the visual impact of his compositions, devoid of actual textual meaning, which he refers to as ‘calligrams’ or ‘graphemes’.

Thus, the concept beyond the works reveal how the ideas are conveyed creatively through the artist

choice of materials and medium: Canvas, vellum, papyrus, arches paper, silkscreen print, book, poster, design, sculpture, aluminium, brass, melamine, drum, textile, embroidery, tapestry, ceramic, wood, jewellery, stained steel glass, architecture and planes.

This March the artist’s first comprehensive monograph of his work, titled Nja Mahdaoui: Jafr, the Alchemy of Signs, is released, published by SKIRA Editore and edited by Molka Mahdaoui.

The book presents every phase of Nja Mahdaoui’s artistic journey – from his early works to his intricate calligrams in ink on various mediums. It also features his work in architecture, graphic design, and his collaborations with dancers and musicians for live performances, with poets and novelists for artist’s books, and with fashion designers.

The foreword for the book is by Rose Issa; curator, writer and producer who has championed visual art

01

02

Famous for his meticulous work in ink on parchment, Mahdaoui stresses the visual impact of his compositions, devoid of actual textual meaning, which he refers to as ‘calligrams’ or ‘graphemes’

184

Book Review

and film from the Arab world and Iran for nearly 30 years. She has introduced several Middle Eastern and Arab artists to Western audiences for the first time.

An introduction is given by British curator Dr. Venetia Porter, who is responsible for the collection of Islamic art, in particular of the Arab World and Turkey, as well as developing the collection of the modern and contemporary art of the Middle East.

Essays included are by Professor Martina Corgnati; Italian art historian, curator, critic and academic, whose curatorial practice included contemporary practices and artists from the Middle East in the past decade; and Professor Charbel Dagher, Lebanese poet, writer, academic and art critic of contemporary Arab and Islamic art.

Art critic and writer, Normand Biron interviews Nja Mahdaoui in the book. Biron is also President of AICA (Association of International Art critics) in Canada and has received numerous awards for his

interviews, essays and books.

Finally, a Q&A contribution is made by Myrna Ayad, who is the editor of Canvas, one of the most successful publications on contemporary art and culture in the Arab world.

Nja has been jury member and honour guest at many international events including Sharjah and Tehran biennales, and the UNESCO Arts Prize, and has received a number of distinctions and international awards. He has participated in numerous exhibitions worldwide including Word into Art at the British Museum, The Brush dances & the Ink Signs at the Hermitage Museum, and Perspectives: Arab & Iranian modern masters at the Saatchi Gallery.

His works can be found in many private and public collections such as the British Museum, the Smithsonian Museum, and the Museum of Modern Arab Art, Qatar. www.nja-mahdaoui.com

03 02

04

05

01 Madar, 2013. Mixed media on linen canvas, 200cm x 300cm 02 Cover of Nja Mahdaoui: Jafr, The Alchemy of Signs 03 The artist at work 04 Calligram on Parchment, 2011.

Indian ink, gold and acrylic on parchment, 85cm x 85cm 05 Maqam Essafa, 2011. Bronze sculpture coated with gold leaf, height: 85cm x width: 78cm x depth 60cm

186

Final Pearl

Final Pearl

Bahrain Formula 1 Grand Prix 2015 ArtBahrain

T U he Sakhir Bahrain International Circuit will host the 4th Formula 1 of the season before the race heads to Europe and Barcelona in Spain for to open the European championship.

Fans attending the 2015 Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix will not only get to enjoy the pinnacle of motorsport, but also plenty of other top international racing categories and world-class off-the-track entertainment. The event boasts a great variety of entertainment with plenty of networking and indulgence opportunities.

As the ‘Home of Motorsports in the Middle East’, the Bahrain International Circuit is an exciting venue for all kinds of racing championships, non-competitive racing and vehicle testing. It is also a unique and prestigious venue for corporate events, conferences and exhibitions. The circuit is known for its landmark VIP corporate viewing tower and it also offers first class hospitality suites, the Formula 1 Paddock Club, the Gulf Air Club, Grandstands and spectator areas for over 70,000 people.

With loads of high-octane racing and plenty of fun at the country’s most happening event, get your tickets to the 2015 Formula One Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix now. The event takes place April 17-18-19 at the Bahrain International Circuit in Sakhir. www.bahraingp.com

nder the patronage of Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka Bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa, Wife of the King of Bahrain and President of Supreme Council for Women, the Kingdom of Bahrain is hosting the first international ArtBahrain this year.

ArtBahrain aims to provide the Kingdom’s ultimate platform for global artists to exhibit their work while shining the spotlight on local talent waiting to emerge. The event will feature forums and discussion panels in a bid to enlighten recent art collectors, while encouraging art enthusiasts to engage with artists in order to understand more about what styles and techniques appeal to them.

Durrah magazine, a pioneer in expressing luxury in all aspects of life, will have its own pavilion showcasing a selection of luxury brands. Art Select is the art consultant for the event, and the rest of the Art Team includes; Pico Bahrain (Event Design and Production), Durrah (Luxury Magazine), Miracle (Branding Consultant), Curzon PR and the Guild (Art Public Relations and Marketing).

ArtBahrain will strive to deliver the message of ‘one canvas, one world, one Bahrain’. The Kingdom will have its own dedicated pavilion where all local artists can exhibit their work and draw focus from its international counterparts to the unique style on display.

Wealth Management Department

Investment Solutions That Refine Your Assets

Wealth Management Your Strategic Investment Partner For more information contact: Tel +973 77000500

NICOLE KIDMAN’S CHOICE

OMEGA Boutiques: Moda Mall (Sheraton Complex) Tel: 17537753 Bahrain City Centre Tel: 17100135