Global Citizen 59

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2021

BUSINESS

50 DAYS TO TRANSFORM 5 MILLION LIVES A NEW ERA OF SPACE EXPLORATION

LIFESTYLE

EXPO 2020 UNITES MILLIONS

SAUDI ARABIA'S UNTOUCHED BEAUTY THE WONDERS OF JAPAN

HOROLOGY

HUBLOT X BERLUTI BIG BANG

PANERAI CELEBRATES THE UAE'S GOLDEN JUBILEE

AUTOMOTIVE 100 YEARS OF MERCEDES-MAYBACH LUCID AIR DREAM EDITION

DANIEL CRAIG SHAKEN & STIRRED

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E X P E R I E N C E

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E X T R A O R D I N A R Y

Welcome to Trump International Golf Club, Dubai Located in the heart of DAMAC Hills, Trump International Golf Club, Dubai brings links-style golf inspired by the game’s homeland of Scotland. Magnificent golf blended with culinary excellence and well-equipped leisure facilities creates an elegant lifestyle oasis in the United Arab Emirates for members and guests, alike.

Our stunning property boasts an exquisite 18-hole championship links-style golf course and a PAR 3 floodlit 9-hole course designed by world-renowned and 2016 Olympic golf course architect, Gil Hanse. Featuring state-of-the-art facilities, Trump International Dubai is home to the Trump Dubai Golf Performance Academy with air-conditioned indoor swing studios that offer virtual golf and SAM Puttlab technologies, a one-of-a-kind double sided LED floodlit TrackMan driving range, and immaculate short game area with practice facilities.

Complementing the extraordinary golf course and world-class golf facilities, the crescent-shaped 30,000 square foot clubhouse with its arching curves and soaring light-filled spaces provides the finest amenities, such as a chic Italian restaurant, luxurious sports bar and cigar lounge, a beautiful infinity swimming pool, a well-equipped fitness center and an expansive golf pro shop offering exclusive apparel brands in golfing and lifestyle accessories.

Visit Trump International Golf Club, Dubai to experience championship golf and a luxurious golfing lifestyle.

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People who see challenges differently, see the world differently.

A world where healthcare workers are better equipped to treat patients. Where energy is more sustainable and can power more lives. And where faraway places feel closer with flight that’s more fuel-efficient.

Because seeing a smarter, healthier, cleaner world isn’t something that’s far in the future.

It’s the world we’re building now.

CONTENTS 20 COVER STORY

54 BUSINESS

Daniel Craig brings style and grit to life on screen and off

24 BUSINESS

A glittering line-up of stars helped welcome the world to Expo 2020 Dubai

26 BUSINESS

Inspiration4 completes the world’s first allcivilian orbital mission to space

30 BUSINESS

An exclusive interview with Chopard’s CoPresident and Artistic Director, Caroline Scheufele

36 BUSINESS

44 BUSINESS

Powered by LG Electronics, the Dubai Cares Pavilion embraces the latest information display technologies and robotics

46 BUSINESS

The Reach Campaign’s 50-day campaign aims to protect 5 million people from river blindness and lymphatic filariasis in vulnerable communities

48 BUSINESS

The long-awaited Ocean Photography Awards and Female Fifty Fathoms winners revealed

Dr. Gizelle Baker, VP of Global Scientific Engagement at Philip Morris International, shares insights on the science behind smoke-free products

40 BUSINESS

50 BUSINESS

Now in its fourth generation, Mouawad’s heritage spans more than a century of creations and traditions in masterful jewellery design and watchmaking

Q&A with Saif Ali Al Shehhi, Group Executive Director of Happiness & Positivity and Supply Management at National Bonds

Anna Skigin, Founder and CEO of Frank Porter, a Dubai-based Airbnb Management company, discusses property values in the wake of the pandemic and Expo 2020

56 BUSINESS

Creative Director Sara Cavazza Facchini blends heritage with a sense of timeless style

58 BUSINESS

Erika Doyle, founder of Drink Dry, the UAE’s first nonalcoholic beverage marketplace, is on a mission to create an outlet for the sober (and sober-curious)

60 BUSINESS

An interview with Sara Chemmaa, Founder and CEO of Citron, a Dubai-based brand that creates and supplies innovative mealtime products to families

64 BUSINESS

100 years on—why Mercedes-Maybach is the pinnacle of luxury and creative empowerment

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CALIBER RM 72-01

RICHARD MILLE BOUTIQUES DUBAI GRAND ATRIUM, THE DUBAI MALL +971 4 339 8666

ABU DHABI THE GALLERIA - AL MARYAH ISLAND +971 2 672 4440

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68 AUTOMOTIVE

The Mercedes-Benz Concept EQG proves it’s ready for the age of e-mobility with an all-electric version of the legendary allterrain model series

70 AUTOMOTIVE

Introducing the Performance and Range versions of Lucid Air Dream Edition

74 AUTOMOTIVE

88 HOROLOGY

Hublot and Berluti share five years of collaboration and an exploration of the shades of grey

89 HOROLOGY

The new Maserati super sports car is a worthy successor to the MC12

Panerai’s Luminor GMT Spirit of the Union celebrates the UAE Golden Jubilee with a limited-edition timepiece

78 AUTOMOTIVE

90 LIFESTYLE

Enhanced off-road proportions meet new features, including trail mapping and Power Station generator

82 AUTOMOTIVE

The stealthy Defender V8 Bond Edition features bespoke touches that honour Land Rover’s long partnership with the James Bond franchise

84 HOROLOGY

Richard Mille welcomes fencing champion Miles Chamley-Watson to the family

86 HOROLOGY

Discover the new Code 11.59 by Audemars Piguet Tourbillon Openworked .

Saudi Arabia's Desert Rock mountain resort will offer stunning vistas and stargazing opportunities on the Kingdom’s west coast

92 LIFESTYLE

Update your wardrobe with Global Citizen’s top picks from the latest collections

96 LIFESTYLE

Louvre Abu Dhabi announces an array of events coinciding with the UAE’s Golden Jubilee

100 LIFESTYLE

Japan is home to an unmatched diversity of breathtaking natural beauty, an intriguing culture, and world-renowned cuisine

106 GADGETS

Our top picks of the latest tech must-haves

108 GADGETS

iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max, push the boundaries of what’s possible in a smartphone

109 GADGETS

Samsung has opened the next chapter in foldable innovation with the new Galaxy Z Fold3 5G

110 GADGETS

Ray-Ban Stories smart eyeglasses and smart sunglasses, with camera and audio, combine legendary Facebook technology and iconic Ray-Ban style

112 GADGETS

87 HOROLOGY

104 LIFESTYLE

TUMI and McLaren add key travel and accessory pieces for the ultimate collection of modern essentials

Inspired by supercars, Italian-based CentrostileDesign has dreamed up what might be the future of boating with the Future-E

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Breguet’s tribute timepiece celebrates the timeless aesthetic and visionary genius of the master watchmaker

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ALPINE EAGLE XL CHRONO The pure yet bold Alpine Eagle XL Chrono is a column-wheel chronograph equipped with a flyback function. Its 44 mm case houses the Chopard 03.05-C chronometer-certified automatic movement, for which three patents have been registered. This exceptional timepiece is made of Lucent Steel A223, an exclusive ultra-resistant metal based on four years of research and development. Proudly handcrafted by our artisans, it represents the expertise and innovation cultivated in our Manufacture.

EDITOR’S LETTER A

s we round out the year with Global Citizen’s Nove m b er / D e c e m b er issue, culture and ingenuity are common threads that are woven throughout the pages. Our cover story features Daniel Craig, following his final portrayal of the iconic 007 (p. 20). In this feature, we reflect on his iteration of James Bond, his longrunning partnership with Omega and its tie to the Bond franchise, and his commitment to philanthropy.

This issue also celebrates the legacy of time-honoured brands.

In commemoration of MercedesMaybach’s 100th anniversary, our exclusive interview sheds light on the enduring heritage of the brand, the craftsmanship that goes into every model, and what the future holds for the celebrated marque (p. 64). In horology, Breguet celebrates its signature anniversary with a tribute timepiece that illustrates the timeless aesthetic and visionary genius of the master watchmaker (p. 87).

This year also marks the UAE’s 50th National Day. Panerai’s Luminor GMT Spirit of the Union salutes the Golden Jubilee with a limited-edition timepiece (p.

89), and be sure to explore the Louvre Abu Dhabi’s array of events that coincide with the golden milestone.

With Expo 2020 officially underway, we look back at the star-studded affair that launched the international exhibition, which brings together 192 countries and showcases the best of art, architecture, science, culture, and more (p. 24).

Our travels take us to Saudi Arabia’s west coast to explore the scenic vistas of the Desert Rock mountain resort (p. 90). We then embark on a breath-taking journey through Japan, rich with diversity, natural beauty, and stunning cuisine that make it a worthy addition to your bucket list (p. 100).

Enjoy the read!

Andrea Antal

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GLOBAL CITIZEN EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Andrea Antal COPY EDITOR Sameer Denzi ART DIRECTOR Omarr Khattab CONTRIBUTORS Teresa Esmezyan www.global-citizen.com www.issuu.com/global-citizen www.facebook.com/GlobalCitizenMag www.instagram.com/GlobalCitizenMagazine MEDIA REPRESENTATIVE Fierce International Dubai Internet City Business Central Tower A - Office 2803 T: +971 4 421 5455 - F: +971 4 421 0208 tarek@fierce-international.com

FIERCE INTERNATIONAL FZ LLC PUBLISHER Dubai Internet City Business Central Tower A - Office 2803 T: +971 4 421 5455 - F: +971 4 421 0208 Copyright 2020 Fierce International. All rights reserved.

Neither this publication nor any part of it may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the permission of Fierce International. Where opinion is expressed it is that of the author and does not necessarily reflect the editorial views of the publisher or Global Citizen. All information in Global Citizen is checked and verified to the best of the publisher’s ability, however the publisher cannot be held responsible for any mistake or omission enclosed in the publication.

Under the patronage of Her Highness Sheikha Latifa Bint Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Chairperson of Dubai Culture & Arts Authority

24TH - 28TH NOVEMBER 2021 www.dubaiwatchweek.com

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COVER STORY

20 NOV / DEC 2021

COVER STORY

SHAK EN AND STIRR ED

Daniel Craig brings style and grit to life on screen and off

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aniel Craig's iconic role as James Bond has made him one of the world's most prominent actors—and a truly global superstar. As well as sharing 007’s essence of style, poise, and adventure, he has also famously worn Omega watches through all of his five spy films. In fact, 2020 marked 25 years since James Bond first wore an OMEGA watch and, truth be told, there are few collaborations that come close to being as successful and authentic.

An avid collector of timepieces and one of the brand’s most notable ambassadors, Craig worked closely with Omega and the James Bond filmmakers to develop the Omega Seamaster Diver 300M 007 Edition, which is crafted with Grade 2 Titanium for the 42 mm case. The watch can be worn with a titanium mesh bracelet, with its innovative adjustable buckle, or on a striped NATO strap in tropical brown, grey and beige, with 007 engraved on the loop. The watch is particularly robust yet light—perfect for an undercover agent. “We decided that a lightweight watch would be key for a military man like 007,” said Craig.

Craig made Bond history with 2006's Casino Royale, reinvigorating the long-running film franchise with his modern take on the super spy, described by one critic as "a noble thug." Casino Royale became the highest-grossing Bond film to date, earning almost $600 million worldwide. Craig returned as 007 in the next installment, 2008's Quantum of Solace, a hit that was more modest in terms of its critical reception and box-office performance. But 2012 saw the return of Bond in a major way with Skyfall, making more than $1.1 billion internationally and setting earning records in various territories. The next Bond adventure, Spectre, was released in autumn 2015.. In the UK, Spectre set the record in the UK for being the country's highest grossing film within seven days of release (the previous record holder was Skyfall). Reflecting on the role, Craig commented, “The idea of regretting not doing this seemed insane to me. Sitting in the corner at a bar at age 60, saying: 'I could've been Bond. Buy me a drink.' That's the saddest place I could be. At least now at 60 I can say: 'I was Bond. Now buy me a drink.'”

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COVER STORY

While Craig has officially drawn the curtain on his final Bond role in No Time To Die, which was released worldwide last month, the actor has no plans to slow down anytime soon. A sequel to his 2019 film, Knives Out is already in post-production, with a third installment recently announced.

He also has two other film projects in the works, as well as a starring role in the Broadway production of Macbeth, which will begin previews in March 2022. He is also committed to several philanthropic endeavours.

Craig has promoted a number of human rights causes throughout his career, such as HIV/AIDS discrimination, bullying, violence against women, and disadvantaged youth.

He has also promoted campaigns to support disaster relief efforts, to fight against poverty and homelessness, and he has spoken out on conservation and the environment.

In 2015, he was designated as the United Nations Global Advocate for the Elimination of Mines and Explosive Hazards, with a mandate to bring attention to the thousands of people 22 NOV / DEC 2021

living in areas threatened by landmines and explosive remnants of war including improvised explosive devices. Craig has made dozens of videos supporting the vision of the United Nations for a mine-free world, including visiting minefields cleared by the UN, raising resources for mine action work, and speaking on behalf of the United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS) at international meetings. He is also a champion of the Secretary-General’s five-year Safe Ground campaign that aims to turn minefields into playing fields and raise awareness and resources for survivors of explosive artillery accidents.

Most recently, he contributed £10,000 to a fundraising challenge by three fathers who lost their daughters to suicide.

The Cheshire, UK-born actor, now 54, born to an art teacher mother and steelworker father, started his acting career in theatre at a young age. Looking back now with more than 70 film credits under his belt, he says, “I'm definitely not satisfied about my career. I don't know how you can be, it's the very nature of things.”

COVER STORY

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COVER STORY

EXPO 2020 UNITES MILLIONS

A glittering line-up of stars helped welcome the world to Expo 2020 Dubai, decorating an opening ceremony that will be remembered forever

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,000 spectators gathered inside Al Wasl Plaza, while millions across the globe tuned in to virtually watch the much-anticipated event. With the golden ring of connectivity – the inspiration for the Expo 2020 Dubai logo— raised to the trellis of the magnificent Al Wasl Plaza, the beating heart of the Expo site and the spectacular setting for the captivating ceremony, the most inclusive World Expo ever was officially underway.

In addition to music from some of the most influential artists on the planet and a beautiful live orchestra, a sensory overload of powerful visuals was beamed across Al Wasl Plaza’s dome, the world’s largest 360-degree projection screen. More than 3,000 lighting fixtures, 1,000 speakers, 1,300 costumes and buckets of passion and emotion from every one of the 1,000plus participating performers and volunteers also contributed to a one-of-a-kind spectacle of masterful artistic collaboration.

His Excellency Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan, UAE Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence and Commissioner General of Expo 2020 Dubai, welcomed the world to Expo 2020 Dubai – and to the UAE – in his speech, saying: “Expo 2020 Dubai will provide a significant platform for all people to connect, discuss and work together. Together, we will convey, from the UAE to the world, on our 50th anniversary,

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a message of tolerance, coexistence and peace; a message of progress, prosperity and growth; a message of brotherhood, happiness and an unwavering will to create a brighter future for everyone.”

Dimitri S. Kerkentzes, Secretary General, Bureau International des Expositions (BIE), said: “All the world is coming together, for the first time since the pandemic began, to connect, to exchange and to learn on this extraordinary global stage. The time has now come to open Expo 2020 Dubai, an Expo that marks the era, that plays a defining role in the global recovery, and that contributes to a better future.”

The flags of Expo’s 192 participating nations, revealed via a domino effect as flags were opened one by one, was a proud and visually stunning moment that also signified a reawakening of the world.

It was celebrated tenor Andrea Bocelli who brought the house down, rounding off the night’s electrifying proceedings with one of his all-time classics, The Prayer, its lyrics of human connection crescendoing into the grand finale.

With more than 75 millions records sold, classical music's biggest-selling living artist said that performing at Expo 2020 was a “great honour” and that his presence at Al Wasl “reflects all of the affection my audience has been giving me for many

COVER STORY

years and I hope to give it back”.

Andrea Bocelli said: “We have all gone through a year that no one could ever have imagined. For a year, we have lost the essentials, our freedom in and, in a sense, and even our dignity.

Now we finally see the light and I hope that this event will also help to instil in everyone a sense of optimism, a desire to achieve and to put what has been behind us.”

Before that, chart-topping British vocalist Ellie Goulding belted out a resounding, uplifting version of Anything Can Happen; Andra Day enraptured the audience with Rise Up; Chinese concert pianist Lang Lang wowed with his wizardry; and four-time Grammy winning singer-songwriter Angelique Kidjo, together with renowned Saudi singer Mohammed Abdu, sang John Legend’s powerful If You’re Out There?, with its moving lyrics imploring the world to join together.

Other highlights included the official Expo song, This Is Our Time, sung by Arab artists Hussain Al Jassmi, Almas and Mayssa Karaa, while Emirati singing sensation Ahlam Alshamsi completed the formidable regional line-up. The artistic prowess of Oscar-winning composer A.R. Rahman’s

all-women ensemble, the Firdaus Orchestra, comprising 50 musicians from across the Arab world, also proved a pivotal part of the ceremony’s inspiring journey.

Scott Givens, Executive Producer, Expo 2020 Opening Ceremony, who co-curated and co-produced the show with Franco Dragone, Artistic Director, said: “We picked artists that had songs that belonged in the ceremony and that tied in with Expo’s themes.

“Of course, we wanted to represent the world, we wanted to be plural and we wanted to reflect the diversity of our planet.

I'm very proud of the combination of talent that we've brought together to do this and the way they've executed the story.”

With up to 60 live events each day and more than 200 pavilions, the Expo site is coming alive during its 182-day feast for the senses. Its dynamic, diverse and ever-changing entertainment programme features an array of internationally celebrated names and the sounds, rhythms and sights of a global cast of performers.

Expo 2020 Dubai is open daily until March 31, 2022.

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BUSINESS

A NEW ER A OF SPACE EXPLOR ATION

Inspiration4 completes the world’s first all-civilian orbital mission to space

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he crew of Inspiration4 ushered in a new era of space exploration as SpaceX’s Falcon 9 lifted off from the historic Launch Complex 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida on September 15.

After an approximate three-day journey orbiting Earth, the Inspiration4 team re-entered the Earth’s atmosphere with a soft water splash landing off the coast of Florida, marking the completion of the world’s first all-civilian human spaceflight to orbit.

Since the mission’s announcement in March 2021, the Inspiration4 crew spent the months following completing a wide range of training activities, including centrifuge

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training, Dragon simulations, observations of other launch operations, Zero-G plane training, altitude training and additional classroom, simulation, and medical testing. This intensive, focused preparation was essential to helping four diverse strangers grow into their new roles as the first allcivilian astronaut crew to orbit Earth.

The Inspiration4 mission marks several historic milestones for human space exploration, including the first all-civilian human spaceflight to orbit, the first black female spacecraft pilot, the youngest American in space, the first person to fly to space with a prosthetic, the farthest flight for a human spaceflight since the Hubble missions, the first time

BUSINESS

SpaceX has operated three Dragons in space, tthe first freeflight of a Dragon spacecraft on a human spaceflight mission, the largest contiguous window ever flown in space, the first splashdown of a Dragon crew in the Atlantic Ocean, and the first triple-flown Falcon 9 booster to launch a human spaceflight mission.

The crew’s collective goal has not only been to fly to space but also make a significant contribution in the fight to cure childhood cancer back on Earth. Started by an initial $100 million gift from Inspiration4 commander and CEO of Shift4 Payments Jared Isaacman to St. Jude, Inspiration4 has a fundraising goal to raise $200 million through February

2022 to help accelerate research advancements and save more children worldwide. To date, the mission has a commitment of more than $130 million with new auction items and ways to support being shared during and after the mission.

To date, true to the mission’s name and purpose, Inspiration4 has raised nearly $154M dollars and counting for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

“The all-civilian Inspiration4 astronauts are paving the way for a future where space is more accessible to all who wish to go, and we are so proud that they entrusted us to fly them,” said SpaceX President and Chief Operating Officer Gwynne Shotwell.

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MEET THE CREW

(L-R: Chris Sembroski, Dr. Sian Proctor, Jared Isaacman, Hayley Arceneaux)

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BUSINESS

JARED ISAACMAN Leading the mission as the commander and benefactor, Jared Isaacman is the founder and CEO of Shift4 Payments, the leader in integrated payment processing solutions. He started the company in 1999 from the basement of his family’s house when he was only 16 years old and has built it into an industry-leading payments technology company with over 1,200 employees. Isaacman is considered one of the industry’s most influential business leaders and has been featured by various media outlets and publications.

An accomplished jet pilot, Isaacman is rated to fly commercial and military aircraft and holds several world records including two Speed-Around-The-World flights in 2008 and 2009 that raised money and awareness for the Make-a-Wish Foundation. He has flown in over 100 airshows as part of the Black Diamond Jet Team, dedicating every performance to charitable causes. In 2011, Isaacman co-founded what would become the world’s largest private air force, Draken International, to train pilots for the United States Armed Forces.

HAYLEY ARCENEAUX When Hayley was 10 years old, one of her knees began to ache.

Her doctor thought it was just a sprain, but a few months later, tests revealed Hayley suffered from osteosarcoma, a type of bone cancer. Her family turned to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital for her treatment and care, which included chemotherapy and a limb-saving surgery. She is now finished with treatment and thriving. She obtained an undergraduate degree in Spanish in 2014, and obtained her Physician Assistant (PA) degree in 2016.

She now works at St. Jude – the very place that saved her life – as a PA with leukemia and lymphoma patients.

CHRIS SEMBROSKI As a U.S. Space Camp counselor, Chris Sembroski conducted simulated space shuttle missions and supported STEM-based education designed to inspire young minds to explore these areas and find their passions. As a college student, Sembroski volunteered with ProSpace, a grassroots lobbying effort that promoted legislation in Washington, D.C., to help open space travel and allow companies like SpaceX to exist. He then served in the U.S. Air Force, maintaining a fleet of Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missiles and deploying for service in Iraq before leaving active duty in 2007. Following his education from the Air Force, Sembroski earned a B.S. in Professional Aeronautics from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.

DR. SIAN PROCTOR Dr. Sian Proctor is a geoscientist, explorer, and science communication specialist with a lifelong passion for space exploration. She was born in Guam while her father was working at the NASA tracking station during the Apollo missions and has carried on his dedication and interest in space. She’s an analog astronaut (a person who conducts activities in simulated space conditions) and has completed four analog missions, including the all-female Sensoria Mars 2020 mission at the Hawai’i Space Exploration Analog and Simulation (HI-SEAS) Habitat as well as the NASA-funded four-month Mars mission at HI-SEAS to investigate food strategies for long-duration spaceflights.

She has a B.S. in Environmental Science, an M.S. in Geology, and a Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction: Science Education.

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BUSINESS

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BUSINESS

HAPPY TALK WITH CAROLINE SCHEUFELE

Chopard Co-President and Artistic Director Caroline Scheufele is the creator of the iconic Happy Sport watch. For the launch of the new Happy Diamonds film, starrring Julia Roberts and directed by Xavier Dolan, she gives an intimate perspective on the things that inspire her and her commitment to Chopard’s creative edge

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s a little girl, you made your first watch from aluminium foil as a present for your parents.

How did they introduce you to the creative

process?

The first thing my father taught me to do, before I learned the alphabet, was to read the time on a Mickey Mouse watch he brought me from America. This was my first contact with watches, so I looked for anything I could find – paper, aluminium and anything else – to make my own timepiece.

The only mistake I made was that I got confused with my piano lessons and wrote Chopin on the dial instead of Chopard!

Chopard is one of the rare family Maisons in the watchmaking world and you are regularly seen with your family at major events. How does your family contribute to making you the woman you are?

One of the things I love most about Asia is that families are very close, with traditions such as having Sunday lunches together or the kids tending to spend time at home. Our family is very similar. In addition to living near each other we work very closely together, and I have shared an office with my brother since forever. Chopard is a family-owned and independent Maison. This is one of our main strengths and a great blessing in many ways. We don’t always agree on things, but we like to make decisions together and work as a team regarding business development, global strategy, production, distribution, new designs, and new products. We hope we will always be able to continue working this way.

How do you think one becomes a creator? Both you and your brother took drawing lessons during your childhood from a teacher who had a great influence on your training. How important was this to your creative process?

We are a very creative family. My brother draws and paints very well. I think our lessons were really the door that opened the way to what we are doing at Chopard today both in terms of what he does in the masculine environment and what I do with regard to jewellery and the ladies’ side of things. My brother is also very passionate about the mechanics of watches and complicated movements however and particularly excels when it comes to his other Maison, La Chronométrie

Ferdinand Berthoud. It is there that he can truly express himself.

Even today, you never leave home without a sketchbook. As an artistic director, do you think that the need to express your ideas through design is inherent to the nature of creators or do you think that it is a talent that you have to work on?

I think it is a bit of both. On the one hand, being creative never stops and on the other, creators are always searching for something new. One cannot simply push a button and be creative. It is an ongoing process – often in the back of one’s mind. Due to that, I always have my sketchbook at hand, including next to my bed at night, because I might dream of something and not remember the next morning. I may just write down a word so that I remember what happened during the night in the morning. One might have an idea at any moment of the day, even during a dinner – I sometimes even sketch on napkins! To create is a wonderful thing but it's also a responsibility as one always must come up with something new.

In 1985, you created your first jewel for Chopard: The Happy Clown. Initially intended to be a one-of-a-kind creation, it soon became a success that marked the beginning of jewellery-making at Chopard. Did you have any idea of this little clown's potential when you made this sketch?

Never! I was still at school when I designed that little clown.

As a child, I loved to go to the circus. And apart from the acrobats and all the animation, my favourite act was the clowns, because although they're sad, they make people laugh. As a result, I designed the little clown with diamonds in his tummy. And as a surprise, when my father saw the design, he produced it for me for Christmas. I thought it was a unique piece, but a bit later I went to the workshop and saw lots of them. That was the beginning of jewellery at Chopard.

The idea of dancing diamonds came from the vision of a waterfall and droplets gleaming under the sun's rays.

Can you tell us more about them?

Actually, the Happy Diamonds concept has existed for much longer than I have been involved in the Maison, but I’ve 2021 NOV / DEC

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always been fascinated by seeing these little diamonds spin around and actually talk about dancing from their place within the pieces of jewellery or the watches.

My mum invented the name Happy Diamonds. When she saw the first prototype in our workshops, she said: “Diamonds are happier when they are free.” Just as a person who is free is happy. Everybody agreed that her comment was very accurate, and it became the name of the entire collection.

In the 1990s, you decided to create a new watch with dancing diamonds: the Happy Sport. When you presented the project, is it true that a workshop manager originally didn't believe in it very much?

Not just the workshop manager, but the whole watch development team, along with my parents. They thought it was a crazy idea to put diamonds in a steel case when diamonds are normally hosted in white gold or in platinum.

But there was nothing to prevent it. Steel isn’t a precious metal but it's cool, young, and fun, and you can wear it around the clock. It was a big battle, however. And when it came to producing it, it was another challenge because everybody thought I had gone mad. But I'm a very persistent person who doesn’t take no for an answer. The more I hear no, the more determined I am. Anyway, it did happen, and the results are clearly visible. I remember the workshop manager saying that for every watch sold, he would give me a rose. I ought to have a rose plantation by now!

Did he keep his promise?

As we had this little bet, at the end of the day, he kept his promise. One Sunday morning, I received a beautiful rose tree for my garden!

What were the Happy Sport’s technical challenges?

Originally, in the classical Happy Diamonds watches, the dancing diamonds were just allowed to spin around the dial.

In the Happy Sport, they're totally free, because they're floating over the watch. This was a technical challenge because we had to find the aesthetic balance between the case, the dial, the first sapphire crystal, the position of the dancing diamonds and the next sapphire crystal, which made it quite complicated. Then, of course, the watch had to be waterproof. That was another technical challenge.

For me, when you say Happy, it says it all. The diamonds inside are actually truly free. They're not stuck in a setting where they can't move. And when you see them dancing, you realize it was worth the challenges!

Like Yves Saint Laurent, whose invention of luxury readyto-wear enabled women to dress in designer clothes on a daily basis, your introduction of the Happy Sport took the mystique out of jewellery watches, meaning women could wear them 24/7. You invented the watch of the free-spirited 1990s woman. What does being a free-spirited woman mean today?

When I invented the Happy Sport, it was most of all because I was doing a lot of sport myself. That's why the word “sport” is in there. At Chopard, we had a few summer watches, which were cool sporty pieces. But I really wanted something with a bit of sparkle that you could wear around 32 NOV / DEC 2021

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the clock, suitable for going swimming, water-skiing, playing tennis, shopping, taking the kids to school, going to the office or going to a cocktail party. So, if there was no time to change, you would already be somewhat dressed up with little diamonds dancing on your wrist. For me, that was what being a free spirit was all about, because today's women are all active, whether it's taking care of several kids or doing charitable work or travelling or working... And this watch is just perfect for all of it.

Women no longer simply look at the time, they take the time to contemplate the choreography of the diamonds. Were you aware that you would revolutionized our relationship with time this much?

I wasn’t really thinking of shaking up the watchmaking industry, I was just doing my job, which is also my passion, namely creating and designing. Maybe I did come up with something very unusual and unexpected, which is often the case with the best creations. But I had no idea that we would come that far with this watch.

How do you explain that the Happy Sport is still as contemporary today as it was when it was created in 1993? When young women come to your boutiques asking for the same Happy Sport that their mothers and grandmothers wore, what do you feel?

It's a watch that somehow really crosses generations. I think this is how icons are born, when something is passed on from grandmother to mother to daughter. I had no idea when I first designed it that this would be the case.

How do you wear your own Happy Sport or think it should be styled?

I would mix and mismatch it. You could wear it alone, or with beautiful Happy Hearts bangles, or with some beautiful diamond bracelets that would also go well with it to dress it up. I also wear the iconic clown pendant with it, so it lends itself to being dressed up or down. That is the beauty of the Happy Sport. You can easily pair the steel version with a diamond ring. There is no “no go”.

Since 2015, Happy Hearts has also become a jewellery icon. How did this idea come up?

It was during a very boring meeting! When I get bored, I start designing, so I doodled around. We already had these long chains with simple empty hearts, which I also design. And I thought about giving them some colour and started colouring the hearts. One often doesn’t see things that are glaringly obvious as was the case in this instance.

Subsequently, the trend was for young girls and women to wear lots of chains and good luck charms and bangles. As a result, we came up with the bangle, which is beautiful as well as being lovely to wear because it's very soft and easy to put on and take off.

You chose Julia Roberts to embody the Happy collections. Was she an obvious choice? Why this particular actress?

When we first talked about launching a Happy Diamonds

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film, the team said it would be nice to have an ambassador with an incredible smile. So, I immediately suggested Julia Roberts! I said that to my mind she has the most radiant smile on the planet! Who doesn't like Pretty Woman? Who wouldn’t want to be Pretty Woman? She is one of my alltime favourite actresses. She has made great movies including Erin Brockovich. She’s the kind of actress that shines from the inside out. She’s a happy person. She has this sunny energy fostering hope that everything will be reborn even more beautiful than before, as well as amazing magnetism and inextinguishable Joie de Vivre. Julia Roberts was the only person I felt could convey the free-spirited charisma of Happy Diamonds and that is exactly how I wanted the Happy Sport watch portrayed.

How did you come up with the idea of entrusting the film to Xavier Dolan? How did you meet him?

He is one of the darlings of the Cannes Film Festival, where I met him. As one of my favourite directors, I immediately thought I should ask him to collaborate on our project so he could capture the emotions I wanted to convey thanks to his sharp attention to detail, which is what makes the intensity of his movies. He was instantly enchanted with the idea of working with Chopard and Julia Roberts and has turned out to be a very good choice.

This brings us to your historical partnership with the Cannes Film Festival that reflects your love for cinema.

When did this passion strike you? Tell us the story of your collaboration.

I have loved going to the cinema ever since I as a little girl, and I still do. The beauty of movies, whether they're romantic, scary, or educational is that they take you into another world completely for two hours. I think that's what initially led me to Cannes. I had always followed the festival from afar, however, and one day I suggested opening a boutique during the festival because of all the celebrities in town. I went to Paris to investigate the possibilities and met Pierre Viot, then president of the Festival. He was charming and he invited me to redesign the Palme d'or, for the 50th anniversary. I left Paris that afternoon with the old version Palme under my arm and stormed into my brother's office in Geneva and told him I was going to redesign the Palme d'or.

He looked at me as if I were completely mad but that was how it all began. Twenty-four years after the new Palme d’Or was unveiled in its current form, the love story continues.

Since 2014, as part of our Journey to Sustainable Luxury, the trophy is made of Fairmined gold. We also created the Chopard Trophy in 2001, in order to reward young acting talents. Chopard belongs to Cannes and a bit of Cannes belongs to Chopard.

As one of these free-spirited women, you were at the origin of the Journey To Sustainable Luxury initiated in 2013 by Chopard. Today, sustainability is at the heart of the concerns of all the major maisons. Tell us how you came up with this visionary idea?

In 2012 at the Oscars, Livia Firth asked where our gold comes from. My immediate reply was “from the bank” but that wasn’t really the expected answer. There are millions of men and women digging up gold, often working in unsafe conditions and unfairly compensated for their work, or not at all. From that moment onwards, I was determined to embark on a mission to change not only Chopard as a company but also the entire industry. Sustainability is a Journey which never ends. And today, more than ever, our priority must be to protect the people on the ground who make our business possible. Once we became aware of the situation, there was no going back. All of us at Chopard are convinced of the importance of putting ethical issues at the heart of our concerns. The sourcing of responsibly mined gold for our watch and jewellery production was one of the biggest milestones on our Journey to Sustainable Luxury.

People who know you say that your optimism and positivity are contagious. What are your tips for happiness?

First, I think you must be happy in yourself. Otherwise, you can’t make others happy. It doesn't cost much to smile.

I always see the glass half full, not half empty, and I think waking up in a good mood, going to work in a good mood, and sharing your good mood with your team is essential.

What is your favourite motto?

Be happy!

And dance with your Happy Diamonds, of course.

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HOROLOGY

Andrea Caputo, Vice President, Blancpain, and Renee Capozzola, Winner, Female Fifty Fathoms Award

OCEAN COMMITMENT

The long-awaited Ocean Photography Awards and Female Fifty Fathoms winners revealed

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n June 2021, Blancpain announced its partnership with Oceanographic Magazine and its Ocean Photography Awards (OPA). To mark the occasion, the Manufacture de Haute Horlogerie created the special Female Fifty Fathoms (FFF) Award to encourage more women to share their vision of the oceans.

The partnership between Blancpain and the OPA competition is part of the Blancpain Ocean Commitment, which brings together all the Brand's actions in favour of the oceans. Blancpain conducts numerous initiatives in favour of ocean exploration and preservation through this programme, which have already led to concrete results, notably by contributing to extending the surface of marine protected areas throughout the world by more than four million additional square kilometres. Blancpain is convinced that such results could not be achieved without collective engagement. It is thus indispensable to raise awareness of the ocean’s beauty and vulnerability. Underwater photography is one of the best ways to achieve this goal. The Ocean Photography Awards, whose mission is to reveal the beauty of the oceans – as well as the many dangers they face –, is an ideal partner in this respect and represents a continuation of the photographic and artistic projects previously initiated by Blancpain. One of the most telling examples is the annual Edition Fifty Fathoms publication (2008-2020), which aimed to explore the multiple facets of the underwater world through a camera lens while offering underwater photographers a platform for expression and communication.

The 2021 edition of the OPA met with strong interest from the ocean community, resulting in over 3,000 entries to the competition. The deliberation process for the competition's six traditional categories, as well as the overall Ocean Photographer of the Year™ 2021 award, was conducted by a Jury composed of, among others, members of the SeaLegacy collective – the ocean conservation association in support of which the OPA are organised –, as well as specialist photographers and videographers.

The competition’s overall prize was awarded to talented Australia-based photographer, Aimee Jan, who took a shot that is as beautiful as it is touching of a green turtle in a school of glass fish. “I was out snorkelling when one of my colleagues told me there was a turtle under a ledge in a school of glass fish, about 36 NOV / DEC 2021

10 metres down,” said the photographer. “When I dived down to look, the fish separated around the turtle perfectly. I said to her: ‘I think I just took the best photo I have ever taken’.”

In addition to the usual awards, this year's edition of the OPA chose a photographer in a new category, entitled the "Female Fifty Fathoms Award" (FFF), in which competing photographers were all pre-nominated by someone for whom they are an inspiration, and were carefully evaluated by the Jury, as well as by Blancpain – whose President & CEO, Marc A. Hayek, has himself become an underwater photographer through his longstanding passion for the oceans.

Out of more than 100 nominations, 12 finalists were shortlisted and invited to submit a portfolio of ten ocean shots to showcase their work as a whole. The portfolio was the main judging element for the artists, but close attention was also paid to their achievements along with their commitment and ability to inspire others to act on behalf of the oceans.

The FFF award was won by Renee Capozzola, an American photographer and biology teacher who takes a special interest in marine conservation. She believes that underwater photography is a powerful way to bring to light the magical world that lies beneath the water, and her work often focuses on turtles and sharks. "Sharky Sunset", one of the photos in her portfolio that particularly appealed to the Jury and Blancpain, depicts both sky and ocean dominated by a blacktip reef shark (Carcharhinus melanopterus) – representing a species whose abundance is a sign of a healthy marine ecosystem.

As a reward, Renee Capozzola was presented with the first example of a new model from Blancpain's Fifty Fathoms collection.

The blue watch bears the serial number 1 and its case is engraved with the words "FFF Award 2021".

Introduced by Blancpain in 1953, the Fifty Fathoms is the world's first modern diver's watch. It was created by Jean-Jacques Fiechter, then co-CEO of the company and an avid diver. With a particular admiration for women divers because of their ability to outperform men in terms of immersion time, Fiechter was aware of the need for a reliable timekeeping instrument for exploring the underwater world.

HOROLOGY

OCEAN PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR

WINNER Aimee Jan A green turtle, surrounded by glass fish. “I was out snorkelling when one of my colleagues told me there was a turtle under a ledge in a school of glass fish, about 10 metres down,” says photographer Aimee Jan. “When I dived down to look, the fish separated around the turtle perfectly. I said to her: ‘I think I just took the best photo I have ever taken’.”

Ningaloo Reef, Western Australia

SECOND Henley Spiers

THIRD Matty Smith

“Diving in amidst the barrage of gannets, I witness the violent synchronicity of these impressive seabirds as they embark on fishing dives,” says photographer Henley Spiers. “They hit the water at 60mph, an impact they can only withstand thanks to specially evolved air sacs in the head and chest. The bird’s agility transfers from air to sea, where it also swims with incredible speed.”

Isle of Noss, Shetland, UK

“A hawksbill turtle hatchling just 3.5cm long and a few minutes old takes its first swim,” says photographer Matty Smith. “It had emerged from an egg just minutes earlier with approximately 100 of its siblings. They quickly made their way into the ocean to disperse as rapidly as they could and avoid predation from birds and fish. I had to work quickly for this shot.”

Lissenung Island, Papua New Guinea

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FEMALE FIFTY FATHOMS AWARD WINNERS WINNER Renee Capozzola A lone blacktip reef shark lines up its dorsal fin with the setting sun in Moorea, French Polynesia. “This over-under image was achieved by using a wideangle lens, a large dome port and strobe flash to illuminate the underwater portion of the picture,” says photographer Renee Capozzola. “Sharks are plentiful in French Polynesia due to their strong legal protections and are a sign of a healthy marine ecosystem.”

Mo´orea, French Polynesia

THIRD Emily Ledwidge SECOND Aimee Jan A manta ray feeds in calm waters. “We were out on a humpback whale tour when manta rays were spotted line feeding, swimming back and forth on the surface scooping up huge mouthfuls of plankton,” says photographer Aimee Jan. “On this day there was no wind – we call this a glass off because the surface of the water looks like glass. We got in for a swim and it was just beautiful. I took a few photos. / DEC 2021 This one was38myNOV favourite.”

Exmouth gulf, Western Australia

A leopard shark slowly swims away on the Ningaloo Reef. “In this chaotic world we should be taking the time to consider what is important,” says photographer Emilie Ledwidge. “What is important to us? What is important to Mother Earth? Sharks continue to be fished, finned, culled and hated by much of the world’s people. Their populations continue to fade and yet this is one species that we as humans cannot live without.”

Ningaloo Reef, Western Australia

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Day 3

Breakouts & High level Sessions

2021 NOV / Speakers DEC 39

BUSINESS

THE MOUAWAD HERITAGE

Guided by the endeavours and visions of four generations, Mouawad stays true to its traditions in masterful jewellery design and watchmaking

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or more than a century, Mouawad has been dedicated to the pursuit of artistic excellence and technical perfection, creating jewellery of unsurpassed beauty.

Steeped in rich tradition with a family history of masterful jewellery design and Swiss watchmaking excellence, the Mouawad brand is synonymous with luxury and refinement.

Around the world, Mouawad collections are worn by royalty, celebrities, and connoisseurs of exquisite jewellery.

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Now in its fourth generation, brothers Alain, Pascal and Fred Mouawad are the co-guardians at the helm of the brand.

Together, they bring their passion for the business to offer true luxury and refinement to a discerning clientele, penetrating continents across the world.

GC caught up with Alain and Fred to learn more about the company’s heritage and what lies ahead for the future of Mouawad.

How would you describe Mouawad’s 'signature' style?

AM: Timeless design is our signature style. What we mean by timeless is that every Mouawad piece of jewellery is as beautiful today as it will be every day in the future and is appealing to a contemporary audience for its ability to remain an object of desire beyond time.

Alain Mouawad

What are some of your proudest achievements since taking over the family business in 2010?

FM: Achieving the vertical integration of the company was a very important milestone and one our proudest achievements.

This has empowered us further in our mission of crafting the extraordinary, giving us absolute control over the entire process from sourcing diamonds to crafting them. Our role as fourth generation co-guardians is also very much about embracing innovation and some of our proudest moments have been seeing how the company continues to grow through innovation, always with our eye on building a sustainable future.

What are some of the challenges you face in running a family business, and how have you overcome them?

AM: The challenges are to preserve our strong heritage while continually looking ahead to the future and ensuring that we innovate and act strategically to build on our growth sustainably for generations to come. There is also the challenge today of the unknown, which has been created by the Covid pandemic, which means we must always be ready to adapt.

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Mouawad has always specialised in creating exceptional fine jewellery. Why did you decide to enter into diamond manufacturing?

FM: When we took over the reins of the company in 2010 as the fourth-generation co-guardians, we made a strategic move from being a multi-brand entity to being a mono brand, bringing all our expertise and our entire focus to Mouawad. One of our early ambitions, which we achieved, was the vertical integration of the company, which involved us sourcing our own diamonds in the rough and crafting them in-house. This was essential for us to protect the quality of everything we craft, giving us the power to have control over every stage of the process, from the sourcing of diamonds to the manufacturing and on to retailing our creations exclusively in our own boutiques. This allows us to deliver on our promise of excellence and reassures our clients of quality in every aspect, while also allowing us to be fully transparent over the journey of each diamond.

What do you think of sustainability in jewellery and how do you promote this within your brand?

AM: We consider sustainability to be essential to business.

This is something that has always been embedded in the business and which we have actively sought to build on. In terms of sustainability in the diamond industry, we received De Beers Sightholder designation, an exclusive privilege that gives us direct access to conflict-free rough diamonds, which allows us to demonstrate our adherence to ethical

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Fred Mouawad

BUSINESS

values in the sourcing and manufacturing of our jewellery.

In recent years, we also established the Mouawad Diamond Impact Fund (MDIF), a permanent philanthropic initiative, which was driven by our commitment to sustainability.

The MDIF’s mission is to create value by bettering lives of underprivileged communities across the world through education and skills development. In its first phase, the MDIF trained five South African nationals in collaboration with the South African State Diamond Trader at Mouawad’s Bangkok Diamond Manufacturing facility, equipping the trainees with the skills to go on to build sustainable careers in the diamond industry.

Mouawad has earned several Guinness World Records; can you tell us about that?

FM: Our Guinness World Records are a testament to our passion for enchanting audiences worldwide by crafting the extraordinary. Our first Guinness World Record was awarded in 1990, for the Mouawad Splendor, the world’s most expensive single pear-shaped diamond. Since then, Mouawad has been awarded four more Guinness World Records, an incredible achievement, for the Very Sexy Fantasy Bra (the world’s most expensive bra), the Mouawad 1001 Nights Purse (the world’s most valuable handbag), the L’Incomparable (the world’s most valuable necklace) and the Flower of Eternity Jewellery Coffer (the world’s most valuable jewellery box), each featuring incredible craftsmanship and precious gems.

Do you have any favourite pieces or collections?

AM: Each item we craft has the potential to be a favourite in its own unique way, but if I have to choose one from recent years, I would name the Mouawad Dragon Suite, which incorporates the Mouawad Dragon diamond as the centrepiece of the suite’s necklace. This Mouawad Dragon diamond is an extraordinary polished 54.21 carat round brilliant cut, fancy vivid yellow, making it the largest diamond of its type graded to date by the Gemological Institute of America.

To craft this suite was an exhilarating process that involved sourcing other outstanding yellow diamonds to complement the Mouawad Dragon’s unforgettable presence. I am also particularly fond of the Mouawad timepieces, which are born out of Mouawad’s illustrious watchmaking heritage.

Among the most spectacular is the Grande Ellipse Galaxy, which features a double barrel tourbillon movement, handwound with a retrograde date indicator and a 120-hour power reserve – a testament to Mouawad’s prowess in

watchmaking innovation – as well as being fully studded with the finest quality diamonds and rubies.

Where do you seek design inspiration?

FM: I love to travel, both for business and pleasure, and to explore new destinations. I see myself as a citizen of the world and can find inspiration wherever I go, in the places I visit and the experiences that life brings me.

What jewellery trends do you predict for the coming months?

AM: The coming months are traditionally the gifting season when, consumers are seeking exceptional items. We are currently working on some new collections to be released in the coming months, which feature a wealth of choices for the ideal gift to cherish.

Stay tuned to our social media for exciting news of this as head toward the end of the year.

Tell us about the importance of the #MouawadWomenWithPower campaign FM: The #MouawadWomenWithPower campaign is a call to every woman to believe in her potential while advocating for women’s rights in every country.

Mouawad is a firm believer in the power of women to change the world for the better, as evidenced by our partnership with the Miss Universe Organization and crafting of crowns, such as the Power of Unity crown among others, which carry with them positive messages relating to values of community and empowerment of women. With the #MouawadWomenWithPower campaign, we did a photoshoot at Al Habtoor, featuring Mouawad masterpieces whose dazzling power is a reflection women’s innate ability to dazzle and bring light to the world.

As the fourth generation Co-Guardians of the brand, what do you envision for the future of Mouawad?

AM: We see our future continuing as an international jewellery house, meaning we will continue to look at global markets from a strategic perspective. Our fifth generation of Mouawads, Jimmy and Anastasia, are now onboard and will be increasingly involved in the business, helping shape Mouawad as the voice of the next generation and engaging a younger audience.

Are you working on any special projects or designs at the moment?

FM: We will continue crafting the extraordinary, to bring exceptional creations to the world. We are also currently working on plans for the opening of a new Mouawad boutique in Hong Kong, set for 2022.

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BUSINESS

AN IMMERSIVE EXPO 2020 PAVILION EXPERIENCE

Powered by LG Electronics, the Dubai Cares Pavilion embraces the latest information display technologies and robotics for seamless connectivity, immersion, and peace of mind

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ubai Cares, part of Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives, has partnered with LG Electronics to ensure that visitors to its dedicated pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai enjoy a highly immersive journey that invites them to become part of a new chapter in the history of education.

Held under the theme, The Future is Human, the Dubai Cares Pavilion offers visitors the opportunity to discover Dubai’s story of coming together and creating a movement that was established by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to leverage education as the most effective tool to break the cycle of poverty.

The experience is brought to life by global tech innovator, LG Electronics, which will power the pavilion and support the organisation’s mission to enable equitable access to quality education for children and youth around the world.

Cutting-edge information display technologies include a

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136-inch All-in-One Essential LED screen, interactive display board, and video wall to make the experience both smart and immersive. In addition, the pavilion will also leverage LG’s PuriCare double tower air purifier and LG CLOi robot, each working to create a safer and more comfortable environment.

The LG CLOi UV-C Bot is a smart, autonomous disinfection solution, which provides contactless cleaning for high traffic and high touch areas, such as offices, hotels and schools.

“The Dubai Cares Pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai promises to take visitors on an exceptional journey that looks to both the UAE’s rich legacy of philanthropy in improving children’s access to quality education while also highlighting the leading role it is playing in shaping the future of education globally,” said Dr. Tariq Al Gurg, Commissioner General for the Dubai Cares Pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai and Chief Executive Officer and Vice-Chairman of Dubai Cares.

The Dubai Cares Pavilion is located in the Opportunity District within Expo 2020 Dubai.

BUSINESS

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BUSINESS

50 DAYS TO TR ANSFORM 5 MILLION LIVES

The Reach Campaign’s 50-day campaign aims to protect 5 million people from river blindness and lymphatic filariasis in vulnerable communities

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BUSINESS

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arrying on the legacy of the UAE’s founding father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, The Reach Campaign is dedicated to ending neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) with a major fundraising effort.

The ‘50 Days to Transform 5 Million Lives’ campaign launched on October 14 as the countdown begins to the UAE’s 50th anniversary on the 2nd of December.

The effort is led by The Reach Campaign, an awareness and fundraising initiative which aims to end two NTDs – river blindness and lymphatic filariasis – in partnership with Emirates Red Crescent and some of the UAE’s biggest organisations and companies.

All proceeds will benefit the Reaching the Last Mile Fund (RLMF), which offers a proof of concept for the elimination of the two diseases in Sub-Saharan Africa. Hosted by the END Fund – the leading philanthropic vehicle dedicated to ending NTDs – RLMF is a 10-year, $100 USD million initiative launched in 2017 by His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, with support from several organisations, including The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and The ELMA Philanthropies.

RLMF delivers preventative treatment for NTDs and focuses on ways to accelerate progress towards elimination – from investing in disease mapping efforts, to supporting advanced lab facilities and cross-border collaborations. The 50-day campaign aims to raise funds to support these activities and ultimately help protect at least five million people from

river blindness and lymphatic filariasis.

Organisations that will work with Reach to achieve its fundraising goal include strategic partner, Emirates Red Crescent; founding partners, ADNOC, Etihad Airways, Lulu Group International and National Health Insurance Company – Daman; and marketing partners, ADCB and Rivoli Group, as well as 18 other major organisations.

A series of fundraising initiatives will be announced as the campaign unfolds throughout its 50-day run, including personal fundraising challenges, employee giving campaigns, culinary and retail promotions, text-to-give campaigns, a global sweepstakes, and an auction of once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

River blindness and lymphatic filariasis disproportionately affect the world’s poorest people. Over 200 million people globally require treatment for river blindness, one of the leading causes of preventable blindness, while over 850 million people are at risk of lymphatic filariasis.

“The impact of these two diseases goes well beyond the individual. When adults suffer from river blindness or lymphatic filariasis, children are often taken out of school to support their care, with girls disproportionately bearing the caretaking burden. Countries that eliminate river blindness and lymphatic filariasis can secure a brighter future for their people, while also realising significant economic benefits that catalyse growth,” said Nassar Al Mubarak, Managing Director of The Reach Campaign.

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BUSINESS

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BUSINESS

MEET THE SCIENTIST ADVOCATING FOR A SMOK E-FR EE FUTUR E

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hen you think of anyone working in the tobacco industry, the last thing you may expect to hear them say is, “The best thing you can do is to never start smoking, or if you smoke – quit,” or that “we are working towards a future in which cigarettes are obsolete is in reach.” But that’s exactly what Philip Morris International and Dr. Gizelle Baker, VP of Global Scientific Engagement at PMI, are saying.

Dr. Baker is not a renegade employee, however, and as Vice President Global Scientific Engagement at Philip Morris International, she leads a team of talented scientists who are engaging and sharing the science on tobacco harm reduction and PMI's smoke-free products to increase the awareness about the topic, but to also to help build the understanding of the science.

Dr. Baker clearly knows what she is talking about: with a Ph.D. in Biometry and Epidemiology from the Medical University of South Carolina, and a BSc in Biology from Oregon State University, she started her career at PMI leading the Epidemiology and Biostatistics team, within the clinical department, which was responsible for the design and conduct of the clinical studies and the post-market assessment programs for PMI’s smoke-free products.

“Of course, the best thing is to never start smoking and for smokers, to quit tobacco and nicotine use altogether,” Dr. Baker says. However, she adds that when you consider there are over one billion people who smoke – worldwide – and the vast majority do not quit, then we need better alternatives to help shift adult smokers away from cigarettes which has the potential to changes in the way individual and public health evolves for the better.

“Advancements in science and technology have enabled us to develop and assess smoke-free products that—while not risk-free—are a far better choice than smoking cigarettes. The innovativeness and perseverance of our scientists and the whole PMI team—together with the company’s investment of over

USD 8.1 billion (to date) in science, product development and manufacturing have enabled us to do just that. Millions of men and women worldwide have already switched to our smoke-free products and given up cigarettes completely, and this is just the beginning. A future without cigarettes is within our grasp” says Dr. Baker.

“There is a growing number of countries that have implemented regulatory frameworks that aim to find the right balance between enabling adult smokers to switch to better alternatives and stop smoking, while at the same time minimising the number of youth and non-smokers exposed to nicotine-containing products."

As a scientist who has dedicated her career to the pursuit of improving the lives of others, Dr. Baker is keen to stress that the road to improved public health is to ensure adult smokers get accurate, factual information so that they can made informedbased decisions. A key example, Dr. Baker says, is that while nicotine is addictive and not risk-free, it is less widely known that many public health authorities have stated nicotine is not the primary cause of smoking-related diseases. Rather, it is the toxicants in the smoke, that are emitted when the tobacco is burning that is the primary cause of smoking-related diseases such as lung cancer, heart disease, and emphysema.

According to Dr. Baker, even though many smokers continue to smoke even though they are aware of the evident health risks, there is a light at the end of the tunnel when it comes to making cigarettes obsolete and therefore realising a smoke-free future. PMI’s goal being that by 2025, over 40 million smokers will have switched to smoke-free products.

“With the right regulatory encouragement and support from civil society, we could be looking at cigarette sales ending within 10 to 15 years in many countries. Effective policies and regulation should allow smokers access to scientifically substantiated, smoke-free products. They should also enable smokers to make informed choices based on accurate information.”

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BUSINESS

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BUSINESS

LEADING BY EXAMPLE: Q&A WITH SAIF ALI AL SHEHHI

Saif Ali Al Shehhi is the Group Executive Director of Happiness & Positivity and Supply Management at National Bonds, which offers sharia-compliant saving and investment schemes to UAE nationals, UAE residents, and non-residents

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n his role, Al Shehhi is responsible for overseeing the implementation of internal social responsibility programs that are aligned with the vision and objectives of National Bonds. In addition to the conventional mandate of the HR function, Al Shehhi facilitates the periodic delivery of training programs with a view to enhancing the professionalism and competencies of employees through instilling a culture of problem-solving and peerbenchmarking.

With over 17 years of experience in management, organisational behaviour and strategic management under his belt, Al Shehhi, a former faculty member at the UAE University, specialises in optimal managerial practices and the development of human resources through a nontraditional approach.

What’s your management philosophy?

I believe management style is something that needs to be adjusted based on the people one is ‘managing’. Each situation presented in one’s ‘work life’ is unique, a strong manager should possess the ability to listen to their team and adapt to whether that particular circumstance requires a transformational leader, laissez-faire manager, democratic approach or one that requires mentoring.

I am always one to push myself to learn more, get out of my comfort zone and love to guide my team on how to best overcome any challenges at hand. I encourage them to take on things that are unfamiliar, because that is the best way to learn from experience and I am always around to answer any questions that come along the way. I believe employees work best without being constantly monitored; once I set a professional vision with my team, I watch their creative juices flow and that can only happen when you assure them with your trust and delegate vital tasks.

You really can’t put a finger on any particular management style, but I do believe the best way is to provide clear directions and take a step back to encourage the team and maximise their effectiveness in your company.

What is the highlight of being responsible for happiness and positivity within your organisation?

I have been working in the HR field for over 20 years now

and have been responsible for people, their jobs and their happiness ever since. I do not believe in the traditional approach of ‘supervising’ and was delighted to know that the overall culture at my current organisation follows a similar concept. Although my previous HR role was a more technical role about enhancing the employees’ skillset through training programs and strategic management, the end goal was always to ensure their happiness.

According to me, a toxic environment in any organisation is basically the first steps towards failure; it’s a domino effect really or a plague that is extremely difficult to eliminate once the seed is sown. Being responsible for happiness and positivity is to also be the person that ensures that this ‘plague’ doesn’t break out and that to me is the highlight of my job, be it here or in my previous roles.

I love being the person that is there to help and instill a culture that is comforting, rewarding and motivating; I love being the person that has a domino effect of happiness throughout the organisation.

How has your previous employment experience aided your tenure at the current job?

It’s quite simple, everything relates to everything. I come with two decades of industry specific experience of managing people and ensuring that the companies’ biggest asset, its employees, are respected for their efforts and are bringing value to the organisation as well.

Regardless of the place of work, we experience similar situations everywhere and my current role has excellent practices in place for its employees and I am here to ensure the company is only headed onwards and upwards. The happiness of employees is what will convert a good company into becoming a great company and that is all I am here to do.

What are some of the challenges you see employees grappling with the most in a post-pandemic work environment?

The ‘new normal’ is here, as we all know and there’s so many pros and cons to how it affects the work environment.

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day lives are back to normal, albeit the 'new normal'. While the rest of the world are still either working from home or following a hybrid working culture, the UAE is now back to 100 percent occupancy in offices, and I think that people fear they will be taking the virus home from their workplace to their loved ones.

There’s so much that will change for organisations and its employees though, I see some people being ecstatic about coming back to work because the ‘work from home’ environment wasn’t working for them whereas some employees preferred spending less time in commute, having a flexible work environment, and having family around during their lunch breaks, etc. Change is inevitable and it is natural for people to resist change, so with time, I am sure that this too shall pass. We are very supportive of our employees, so when they do require some to cope with this transformation, we are here to ensure it’s a smooth transition.

How has your life experience made you the leader you are today?

There’s so much that life teaches you over the years, whether it’s your parents, your children or your neighbors, colleagues and mentors, every day there’s a new lesson to be learnt.

I believe it is so important to always remember where you came from, don’t lose that humble person inside of you no matter what heights your career takes, it is imperative to stay true to your core and be who you are. Stick to your values

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in life because that is what has gotten you to where you are today and will shape your tomorrow.

Learn from your mistakes and teach others too, we all have our downfalls, but we must take on these challenges as a lesson learned and spread the knowledge.

Lastly, teamwork really does make the dream work – your team, your colleagues are your ‘plus’ and ‘minus’ in every equation, they basically add to your strengths and fill in your weaknesses, so after all it really is all about ensuring your team and employees are always aligned to your goals, see your vision, and are headed in the same direction with you.

What drives you in your career and life in general?

I don’t think there’s a single motivating factor as such, there’s so much and the first and foremost one is family and future – isn’t that how we all start out?

There’s a lot of factors that can drive us and success is one of them, knowing that I have come a long way in my career after dedicating over 20 years of my life is what keeps me going; knowing that I am making a change during this period of success, knowing that I am inspiring people to follow the company’s vision, knowing that my efforts have been recognised over the years.

I am in the field of ‘people’, and believe I am a transformation leader, we empower employees and try to boost their confidence and instill an optimistic way of work in the company; being able to support these people is what

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drives me to continue working in the same field.

Being a part of a team and a leader, is extremely inspiring for me, you learn so much from your peers and can count on everyone’s individual capabilities and watch it come together to form the company’s vision – if this doesn’t drive you – then what does?

How can leaders best bridge the gap between younger and older workers? Why is it important to do so?

The most common misconception is that age is equal to seniority is one of the main reasons it is extremely essential to bridge this gap.

We need to ensure, regardless of the generation all employees can learn from one another, the open communication will not only benefit the workplace relationships, but it will also allow employees to earn respect for one another. For example, an elder team member can share success stories based on life and career experiences while the younger team member can support through introduction in social media or technology.

Members of all teams should be encouraged to embrace one another’s style of work, thus, creating a platform for open communication and mentoring each other. A mentor doesn’t always have to be the older or more experienced individual, it is a two-way street.

A collaborative training program is another way to ensure that all generations are learning something together, therefore, boosting team spirit and respect among the teams.

What is your greatest success story in initiating change within a company?

I would say it’s the change I created within my team in one of my previous roles; the team had a very transactional style of work that was not my cup of tea and slowly but surely, I transformed their thought process through delegation, autonomy, and trust.

The change in the team reflected in the company’s culture overall, the workflow process and most importantly in the communication channels. Choosing the right team that you can relate with is a decision that can take you a long way.

As a leader yourself, how do you take your own advice?

The common saying ‘practice what you preach’ is one that is difficult to abide by for every human, be it in their work life or personal life.

I ensure to take a few minutes at the beginning of every day to set goals that are aligned with my long-term vision and end my day by reflecting on my leadership style where I contemplate on what I could do differently. I believe, if you can acknowledge your shortcomings and rectify your mistakes, you’re a born leader.

It is crucial to stay sincere to your word, your leadership style and stay grounded while your role changes from executive, to manager, to director or even CEO. So, I try my level best to review my work and see where I can take my own advice and boost my career. I am also always open to feedback whether it comes from someone I report to or someone who reports to me, I am a believer of ‘any feedback, is good feedback’.

From your experience, what are the strongest qualities you’ve seen in leaders and how do said qualities translate into success?

There’s so much that can be said here but first things first, a leader must be a good communicator because he or she is the face and voice of the company for most part of it and come across daily interactions with a variety of stakeholders.

The leader should have empathy and actively listen to what his/her colleagues have to say, be a strategic thinker, creative, trustworthy, reliable, have time management skills and the list can really go on.

For me, however, I believe the top three qualities I would look for in a leader is trust, communication, and strategy.

With an element of these three, we are looking at a leader that can gain his colleagues’ trust and communicate with them effectively what the strategy and vision is; that to me leads to a successful business.

What have the highlights and challenges been throughout your career?

I go back to saying, people are assets, and this comes with both, highlights, and challenges. The biggest challenge is to ensure that your team member, or any employee that is part of the company, is realising their maximum potential.

The highlight is to be able to build that team that knows their potential and is ready to step out of their comfort zones. Being able to look at the big picture, connect the dots and ensure there are no gaps in the processes and systems created has been a focal point in my career, too.

What is the most important lesson you’ve learned in your career to date?

Simplicity is the key to success and advancement in one’s career. This is one of the most valuable lessons I have learned over the years and is a message I try to always get across.

Be it my personal or professional life I have always remained straightforward and take a step back from pessimistic individuals. As I have mentioned, people are assets, you help them mold themselves and that’s the simplest way to work with someone. You do not mold someone, or you cannot change someone, you can only guide them.

The best step forward is a simple one and you will create history.

How do you maintain a work/life balance?

I unplug to recharge – that’s my answer in a nutshell.

It’s not easy to balance it all, especially once you go higher up the ladder, but it is extremely necessary.

Acknowledging the importance of a work-like balance means you’re already halfway there, it’s just about actually applying the principle next. I ensure that I give myself enough time to recuperate so I can give it my all when I come back to work. My personal life involves spending time with family, going to the gym three or four times a week and reading, the more I read the more I believe I am gaining insight to be better at my job and excel in my career.

If you don’t switch off, you burn out - this is a simple motto I like to emphasise on at my place of work.

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WILL DUBAI PROPERTY HOLD ITS VALUE AFTER EXPO 2020?

Anna Skigin is the Founder and CEO of Frank Porter – a hassle-free Airbnb management company based in Dubai. As Expo 2020 and the wake of the pandemic play significant roles in the peaks and valleys of Dubai property values, Skigin shares her insights on what to expect

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ith Expo 2020 off to a very successful start, investors and Dubai residents alike are looking to the future. Will Dubai property hold its value after Expo 2020?

THE PANDEMIC ATTRACTED A NEW INFLUX OF PEOPLE The higher quality of life offered in Dubai, along with desirable conditions for waiting out the pandemic has played an important role in recent property sales and values. From November of 2020 (when the market seemed to hit another low), sales have done very well.

Recent statistics from September 2021 show that nearly across the board residential sales prices and average residential rental prices are on the rise. August 2021 was one of the highest months for sales since December 2013!

25 MILLION VISITORS COMING TO DUBAI Although we’re still in the midst of a pandemic, projections for Expo 2020 look fantastic. Organisers expect to hit 25 million visitors between the beginning of October and the closing ceremonies at the end of March 2022.

A certain percentage of those visitors will be inspired to purchase property in Dubai—either for investment purposes or for a move to the UAE. Of course, those buyers will have added motivation because of all the commercial development that’s happened across Dubai in preparation for Expo 2020.

With brand new shopping centres, hundreds of new restaurants, new attractions, and even new transit routes and cycling paths, Dubai just gets better and better—and more

visitors don’t want to leave once they experience it.

DUBAI GOVERNMENT REGULATIONS ENCOURAGE MORE PROPERTY INVESTORS The new regulations revealed through the Dubai Land Department show that the government is continuing to take action to make Dubai a real estate destination. With lowered minimum financial requirements for a three-year visa through investment (as well as for longer five- or ten-year visas), another barrier to foreign property ownership has been lowered.

The government has made it clear that Dubai is open and ready to welcome expats looking for a place to call home. And the low interest rates right now are an added incentive for property buyers.

THE FUTURE LOOKS BRIGHT FOR DUBAI PROPERTY VALUES We believe strongly that Dubai will continue to grow and develop beyond Expo in a positive way. Every indicator from the number of sales to the average price per square foot to the relaxing of regulations is promoting growth in property values.

A major real estate trend we saw emerge in 2020, because of Covid, was a strong demand for villas, detached homes and townhouses, while apartment sales lagged behind. However, this is changing fast as apartment sales are making a strong comeback.

It’s interesting to note that Dubai’s property boom has extended to all properties. Even high-end, multimillion-dollar properties are setting records in 2021. The future looks bright for Dubai property values.

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PASSION FOR FASHION

First launched in 1962, fashion house Genny originally gained popularity in 1973 with Gianni Versace serving as Creative Director. Today, the historic pret-à-porter brand is set to make a strong comeback with Sara Cavazza Facchini at the helm. In this exclusive interview, GC discovers how she blends heritage with a sense of timeless elegance How did your passion for fashion begin?

I have loved fashion since I was a child because my grandparents distributed fabrics and I grew up among seamstresses, pins, meters, and thimbles.

How would you describe the Genny woman?

It is a woman who loves to be chic, sophisticated and with a touch of elegance from morning to night, always unique in her style, timeless, cosmopolitan, and consequently ready to live in any city in the world, passionate and sweetly sexy for the evening and above all sensitive to the necessity of the world.

She is a strong promoter of natural, organic, and sustainable fabrics.

What makes Genny a coveted brand to its consumers?

The brand's ability to emphasize the elegance of women and their femininity How do you maintain Genny’s legacy while keeping up with the latest trends?

Genny is a brand that does not create trends, but adapts to trends by choosing materials, shapes and details that allow the Genny’s woman to feel feminine but contemporary.

What are some of the memorable highlights you’ve experienced since joining Genny as Creative Director in 2013?

The flawless white suit, always made unique by refined details (white is my iconic color with which I always inaugurate the fashion shows) and the feminine evening dress, subtly sexy and sensual. I love seeing a woman walking in a long dress, it expresses her profound allure. All made unique by jeweled embroidery.

How do you stay updated with the trends in the fashion industry?

A marked sensitivity and perceptiveness on what people want to live. Fashion expresses very often people's needs and desires.

Through travels in the cities rather than through the different forms of contemporary art and visual arts, I am able to grasp what we are living.

How has Genny adapted to appeal to a new generation of digitally savvy and socially conscious consumers?

Working alongside the new generations in the ways and with the means on which they can be reached; the brand is present on all the main social media such as Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, Youtube, WeChat, LinkedIn with communication plans according to the platform. We recently invited numerous

talents from TikTok to our latest SS22 show to open up to a wider audience.

How would you define your personal style?

Feminine and chic, with the right touch of contemporaneity, such as to make me cool in any situation or city I am in.

What inspires your creative process?

Details or colors or sensations ... in every season there is a detail that stimulates my curiosity and therefore the whole creative process. The desire to investigate and express.

Do you have any advice for those just getting started in a career in fashion?

Strongly believe in themself and above all in own strong and characterized stylistic DNA. Who was or is the greatest influence in your life?

Grace Kelly What projects does Genny have planned for 2022?

We will celebrate the 60th anniversary of the brand. Stay tuned.

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THE DRY REVOLUTION

Erika Doyle is the founder of Drink Dry, the UAE’s first nonalcoholic beverage marketplace. With a curated inventory of booze-free beverage brands and a service-oriented focus on pointing patrons in the right direction, she’s on a mission to create an outlet for the sober (and sobercurious) to congregate and feel included 58 NOV / DEC 2021

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ell us a little about your career background and what inspired you to launch Drink Dry? I started my working life in London at the Lithuanian Embassy and spent almost 5 years working in that field. It has taught me patience and diplomacy like no other job could have ever done. I then took some time out to spend time with my children before starting my own business. Drink Dry was born out of my personal passion for the Zero Alcohol drinks category.

I wanted to open up people’s minds to new and different ways of drinking!

You hold a bachelor’s degree in History and Politics from the University of Nottingham. How does that serve you in this new chapter in your career?

I think it is fair to say that most people do not necessarily spend their careers working in the field that they have studied in, however what a university degree does give you above all else is a certain skill set that you can take and use pretty much in any industry. It gives you the knowledge, confidence, and the know-how.

What does a day in the life look like for you? Can you take us through a recent workday?

The beauty of what I do is that every single day is so different from the one before! So, one day I might spend the majority of my time working on next month’s marketing plans, and bear in mind that I did not have any experience in this field before I started Drink Dry, so a lot of it is also learning on the spot. And then the next day, I might focus on our company’s finances and try to make sure we are making all the right commercial decisions. Inevitably, throughout the week I will work with our website developers on our e-store, new features, and new product launches. Sometimes, I join key account meetings with our retail or hospitality partners, or even spend time in our warehouse filming crazy Instagram videos and reels!

Have you seen a shift in people's attitude towards alcoholic beverages before, during, or since COVID started?

The pandemic has certainly encouraged people to stop and think about their lifestyle choices and most importantly, how those choices are impacting them and their health.

What are some of your most popular products?

Our top-selling product over the last two months has been our Natureo 0.0% nonalcoholic still red wine by Familia Torres. Torres are fifth-generation winemakers with an exceptional track record. Natureo is made from the grapes from the family’s own vineyards in Catalunya, Spain. The wine has Mediterranean characteristics, and the taste profile is simply exquisite. No wonder our customers love it!

What challenges have you faced since launching the business in 2019?

The biggest challenge is changing people’s perceptions of what nonalcoholic drinks taste like in 2021. The processes involved in making these drinks have come a long way and so has the the quality and the taste.

What has been your proudest moment since starting the business?

The proudest moment so far was seeing our first orders being prepared for deliveries to our customers. It was the absolute beginning of our journey, and I could have only dreamed of where we are now, but the feeling on that first day was simply magical.

How is the global concern about health and well-being affecting alcoholic beverages?

A few years ago, nonalcoholic drinks producers were mainly small, niche, craft manufacturers, who had some great quality drinks but not necessarily a big brand behind them. In 2021, however, we are seeing that some of the world’s biggest players in the alcoholic drinks industry are bringing out nonalcoholic drinks under well-known brands, such as Heineken 0.0, Stella Artois 0.0, Guiness 0.0, Tanqueray 0.0, Martini 0.0, and even Gordon’s 0.0. This shows that Zero Alcohol drinks are not just a trend or a fad, they are here to stay.

You are a firm believer in giving back to society, spending Drink Dry’s revenue on various philanthropic endeavours. Can you tell us about the programmes you currently support?

Drink Dry currently supports the Haiti Life Skills Foundation, whereby we pay for young girls to become nurses. Unemployment in Haiti is high, hence providing a path for young people is vital.

Personally, my husband and I have been working with and supporting a number of truly wonderful charities around the world over the years – the British charity Kids for Kids, which helps some of the world’s poorest children in Darfur; Gentle Hands in the Philippines, Shamida in Ethiopia, and Save the Children in Lithuania.

What are the health and well-being benefits of being “sober curious”?

So many that I literally would not know where to start! I would say the main ones would be better sleep, more energy, better general physical and mental health, less anxiety, fewer mood swings, increased productivity, and better concentration.

With expansion plans in the works, where do you see Drink Dry in two years’ time?

We are working on taking Drink Dry across the borders and into other GCC markets. We hope to be in Kuwait and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia soon, as well as Oman and Qatar shortly after that.

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THINKING OUTSIDE THE LUNCH BOX

An interview with Citron’s Founder & CEO, Sara Chemmaa

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ara Chemmaa is the CEO and Founder of Citron, a Dubai based brand that creates and supplies innovative mealtime products to families. Inspired by her own children’s needs, Sara founded Citron in 2017 after she identified a clear need in the market for stylish and leakproof lunchboxes.

Since launch, the brand has grown to include over 90 products including a sustainable range, a bamboo range and a range specifically designed for teenagers. Citron has gone on to dominate the lunchbox and back to school market of the GCC, selling over 100,000 products, and winning several awards.

Tell us about yourself and your background?

My career path started back in 2008 when I moved to Dubai fresh out of business school to join an investment banking firm.

Shortly thereafter, I found myself moving yet again to become a consultant at McKinsey, where I stayed for three years. I then joined the strategy and investment team at MBC, the Middle East's largest broadcaster. There, I was responsible for studying new projects, analysing risks of new ventures, helping to find companies to acquire, and managing the venture capital fund, MBC Ventures, a branch of MBC's conglomerate that invests in startups in the TMT space. My eldest child, Ali, was born while I was at MBC. Being a mother was something I had always planned for. I knew it would completely change our lives, but I didn't know that it would also be the catalyst for a career change.

What motivated you to launch your own business?

It was all a matter of chance and opportunity. My son, Ali, is the reason why Citron even exists. Most children have some sort of challenge when it comes to food. My son's had to do with food getting mixed inside his lunchbox. He would fuss about it so much at school, he would come home with a full lunchbox. The solution was to find a lunchbox with compartments, but back then, I couldn't find anything that suited his needs. A temporary fix was to send him to nursery with five small boxes, but I'm sure his teachers weren't thrilled about that! The struggle to eat persisted at nursery, so I knew I had to do something. I took matters into my own hands, and

without any basic knowledge in product manufacturing, I was able to create my (his) own lunchbox with compartments.

The only problem was, I now had 3,000 lunchboxes, because that was the minimum order amount. I only needed one for Ali, so I created Citron to sell the other 2,999 units. That first lunchbox became an overnight sensation. Without any marketing campaign or push behind it, we were able to sell all of our stock in just three weeks. Suddenly, the lunchbox I had created for my son was a parent favourite.

Following Citron’s launch in 2017 with just one product — the lunchbox — how has the brand grown since?

Following the success of the first box, we knew we had to launch something in the market soon. The first lunchboxes came in four different colours, that weren't, let's say, the trendiest colours in the market. The reason was simple. We were a very small brand with small orders for big factories, so they pressured us to produce within their available colours.

Originally, the minimum order quantity per colour was 3,000, but being new we wanted to have more than one colour to choose, but couldn’t really afford such a large quantity, so, we struck a deal with the factory. They agreed to produce just 3,000 units with mixed colours, but the condition was that they would be the ones choosing the colours, not us.

Then, the launch happened. And even with those not-sotrendy colours and no communication efforts, we were able to sell everything in just three weeks. That was the moment I realised my struggles were the struggles of other mums as well.

After that moment, we knew that the market was craving these types of products that Citron now produces. We hired a team, rented a warehouse and decided to bring more ideas to life.

There were a few things we knew about our consumers— one was that parents like buying in bundles. So we expanded by introducing snackboxes, lunch bags, water bottles, eco-friendly lunchboxes, and more.

From the get-go, our aim has always been to make products that work, but also that are aesthetically pleasing for both mums and kids.

Our success was getting the attention of parents, and naturally it also started attracting investors. Citron achieved 2021 NOV / DEC

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funding from Arzan Venture Capitalists and, to date, we’re still the only non-tech, female-founded brand within their portfolio. We are very proud of this.

What does that mean to you and how has the partnership helped the business?

When we approached venture capital for funding, it was mainly to hire a team of talented people that could help elevate the business and the brand. But it also served another very important purpose; it supported us with investment in our product and in our direct-to-consumer platforms. We strongly believe that the strength of a brand lies in its capacity to understand its end users and their specific needs. Listening to our customers and collecting their feedback helps us take the business to new heights and fast-tracks our growth.

We are fortunate to have Arzan VC by our side. A group led by amazing partners that believe in the power of consumer brands. At the same time, I’m happy to have them pave the way for other VCs in the region that are willing to invest in brands with a different business profile. There are a variety of successful non-tech local brands and projects with a lot of potential to grow that deserve funding.

What are the expansion plans for the company in the next year?

Up until 2020, we were focusing on selling only in our original market where we sold in excess of 100,000 products. The UAE is our home, the brand was created here, and it is our betatester for a lot of our product offering practices to distributors.

In 2020, we thought we had enough of a sustainable customer foundation to expand to other markets. Today, we already sell in another 12 countries, including KSA, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman, Bahrain, Lebanon, Jordan, Iraq, China, Mexico, Australia and New Zealand. And, we are finalising negotiations to launch in India, Singapore, Hong Kong, UK, US, Canada, Italy, and other prospective markets.

Our target is to add an additional 13 countries by 2022 and to be available in 25 countries by the end of 2022. Our expansion is not limited to products, though. In terms of products, we are expanding into new categories. But those plans are still fairly secret, so there’s not much I can tell you other than to be patient and to have faith in us!

You currently have 23 new patents in process for products across your collections. Where do you find inspiration for your innovations?

Put simply, my kids are my source of inspiration. I watch them and learn from their daily struggles. I see ideas and opportunities everywhere and in everything they do. I love creating and thinking about new products. But what really gets me on the edge of my seat is seeing the product I thought about come to life and actually to be used by kids. There is nothing more rewarding than a happy child. Believe me, I know, I have three of them.

Where can consumers find your products?

In the UAE, Citron is being sold in many of the country’s major retailers, such as Borders, Virgin, Crate & Barrel, Lifestyle, Bumblebee, MomStore, and others. We also have a

great online operation starting with our e-commerce website, and other category stores like Firstcry and Mumzworld.

What are some of the logistical challenges you face with e-commerce vs. brick-and-mortar stores? Is there a tried-and-true distribution model that works better than others?

This year’s biggest logistical challenge was the exponential increased cost of shipping from China to the rest of the world.

We really had to crunch the numbers and find innovative ideas to help our distributors keep their prices low.

The second biggest challenge we faced this year was the speed of production. It is well-known that China is undergoing big changes in their internal policies, which affects the manufacturing process and its timings. For example, electricity has been reduced to three-day use per week. This alone creates difficulties for factories to meet their goals and demands. For us, this means longer delays.

We are currently in the process of opening our first brickand-mortar store. The idea is to have a space where our customers can interact, touch and feel the product, all the while being able to ask questions to our trained staff. We want people to come for an experience, rather than simply make a purchase.

Our store has to tell our story and make parents aware that our promise of making products that work is not only on paper, it is a real commitment.

Citron’s growth in revenue has increased in 2021, four times against revenue achieved in 2020. Did you anticipate this exponential growth?

In 2020, when the world was in turmoil, we didn’t expect this to happen. Nor did many other businesses. We expected growth, but not such a substantial one. It is still hard to believe that the world is recovering as quickly as it is and that people are so hungry for new products. We worked hard to be supplyready when we did, and we were fortunate enough to have things go our way. Even though shipping from China was a struggle, we bet on a fast recovery, and it happened. This combination of factors worked in our favour to help us push growth at a faster pace.

Citron is an award-winning brand, receiving global recognition for your innovative products. Tell us about that.

We won two awards in the USA for the design of our snackbox and lunchbox. The competition was tough, and we won against other brands that have some very innovative and well-recognised products. We are very grateful for those awards because it is an acknowledgment of the innovation we’ve been progressively trying to introduce in the market.

I can confidently say, given the success of our new product lines this year, that we plan to send more products for review next year.

Where do you see the brand in five years?

In five years, I’d like to see Citron being sold in 100 countries, to launch another 10 new product lines, grow our revenues by 10 times compared to 2021, and have a team that can support this dream.

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100 YEARS OF MERCEDES-MAYBACH

100 years on—why Mercedes-Maybach is the pinnacle of luxury and creative empowerment

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ontinuing its remarkable legacy, Mercedes-Maybach is looking ahead to an electric future that will continue to offer the perfection and state-of-the-art technology of Mercedes-Benz combined with the exclusivity of Maybach, signifying the pinnacle of technical innovation and sophisticated luxury that has won the likes of royalty, world leaders, movie stars, and sports champions alike.

Luxury though, isn’t always tangible. Mercedes-Maybach is innately creative and continuously engaging in topical cultural conversations that will ultimately drive its creativity forward.

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The 100-year anniversary of the first Maybach automobile in 2021 will see multiple initiatives that celebrate this spirit come to life.

In this exclusive interview, Gorden Wagener, Chief Design Officer Daimler Group and Mercedes-Benz, Philipp Schiemer, Head of Top End Vehicle Group Mercedes-Benz AG, and CEO Mercedes-AMG Gmbh Ulrich Schmid-Maybach of the Maybach family, share their insights on the enduring heritage of the brand, the craftsmanship that goes into every model, and what the future holds for the celebrated marque.

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What are some of the hallmarks that have made Mercedes-Maybach such an iconic brand over the past 100 years?

USM: "What is good must also be beautiful." This was the credo of Wilhelm and Karl Maybach at the beginning of the 20th century. My great-grandfather and his son were regarded as gifted designers, trailblazers of automotive luxury and pioneers in matters of style. With a simple-sounding formula, they created highly complex things: perfection and craftsmanship paired with innovation, both technically and in terms of workmanship. This is what the name Maybach stands for to this day.

What does Mercedes-Maybach stand for?

PS: It's about the passionate combination of every detail, no matter how small, that makes a luxury car a Maybach – all in combination with state-of-the-art technology from MercedesBenz. Every Mercedes-Maybach stands for Sophisticated Luxury in all its facets – for our customers who are looking for something very special.

How would you describe the Maybach customer? In which market does Mercedes-Maybach resonate best?

PS: Maybach customers are looking for something special, and the aim here is to exceed their expectations with the highest standards of exclusivity and individuality, elegant design and consummate craftsmanship as well as state-of-the-art technology. Because customers in the core markets of China, Russia, South Korea, the U.S., Germany and Middle East are becoming younger on average, the definition of luxury is also changing.

Many of our Mercedes-Maybach customers are digitally connected to a high degree and place the highest demands on our digital solutions. They also expect the brand of their choice

Gorden Wagener with the Concept Mercedes-Maybach EQS clay model 2021 NOV / DEC

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to stand up for sustainable values and take responsibility for the environment.

Nevertheless, traditional values such as outstanding quality, exceptional materials and craftsmanship remain in demand.

In all cases, our customers would like to express their status and personal lifestyle with a Mercedes-Maybach.

Ulrich Schmid-Maybach

Where do the designers draw inspiration for each Maybach design?

GW: The Mercedes-Maybach brand embodies pure sophistication within the most beautiful automobiles with the three-pointed star and it´s luxurious brand ecosystem.

Perfection in craftsmanship, executed in every detail, creates that special “Maybach desire” every customer is longing for.

Inspiration can come from anywhere, you just have to go through the world with your eyes open and your senses awake.

A particularly exciting source of new impulses are cooperations, especially those that go beyond the automotive industry. For example, with designers from the fashion industry like currently with Virgil Abloh, Chief Creative Director and founder of Off-White and Men’s Artistic Director at Louis Vuitton, or with visual artists. This exchange allows us to promote the creativity of our teams, to enter into conversation and to bring different perspectives into line. This can lead to completely new impulses. I am convinced that the only way to advance design and creativity is to question, break up and rethink everything.

What distinguishes the Mercedes-Maybach GLS from other luxury SUVs? PS: It’s all about the passionate combination of every single detail that goes into making a luxury car a true MercedesMaybach - especially the combination with technology: advanced infotainment, safety and assistance systems.

And just to mention some technical highlights of the Mercedes-Maybach GLS: The AIRMATIC suspension included as standard or the optional, fully-active suspension with E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL effectively keep the road bumps at bay. For the first time there is a dedicated Maybach drive program that ensures even more comfort in the rear. Access and egress are also highly convenient: when the doors are opened, the vehicle is lowered slightly, and an illuminated running board made of anodized aluminium quickly and silently emerges on the access or egress side. The V8 engine with a displacement of four litres, which can develop 410 kW (558 hp) and 730 Nm of torque, is an engine variant developed exclusively for Maybach and moves the car discreetly and powerfully. The engine is combined with the 48-volt system EQ Boost.

What are your thoughts on the rise of electric cars? Will we be seeing a fully electric Mercedes-Maybach on the roads anytime soon?

PS: Of course, sustainability and electrification are among the key topics of our times – and Mercedes-Maybach has never ceased to evolve and keep pace also with societal changes.

Already today, there’s electrification in the new MercedesMaybach models available: For example, the V8 engine in the new Mercedes-Maybach S 580 4MATIC is electrified with

the very latest integrated starter-generator (ISG) and a 48-volt electrical system.

Plus, we will release a plug-in hybrid for selected countries soon.

And not to forget battery-electric Maybach vehicles which are also in development: At the IAA Mobility Munich in September, we presented our Concept Mercedes-Maybach EQS – announcing the first fully-electric series model for the brand to come in 2023.

What does the future look like for Mercedes-Maybach?

PS: We constantly observe and question trend developments in the sector and communicate with market research institutes, while engaging with Mercedes-Maybach owners through our exclusive customer care programme.

We see ourselves as a creator brand. Every vehicle has always been configured and manufactured with veritable artistic ambition. Customers and producers have always been creative together – we want to preserve this spirit and further strengthen it in the future.

This way, we ensure that the legend is always able to reinvent itself.

One thing is clear—the Mercedes-Maybach brand will grow, with more models, too. And they will also be electric.

USM: There is no greater luxury than knowing that you have the best. ‘To create the best’ was the claim of my ancestors Wilhelm and Karl Maybach 100 years ago. It is a good feeling to know that Mercedes-Benz AG not only pays tribute to this heritage and remains in dialogue with us as the founding family, but also constantly develops the Mercedes-Maybach brand and its products into an exciting future.

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MERCEDES-BENZ CONCEPT EQG

The Concept EQG proves it’s ready for the age of e-mobility with an all-electric version of the legendary all-terrain model series

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ith the Concept EQG, Mercedes-Benz presents the near-production study of an all-electric model variant of its utilitarian off-road icon. Visually, the concept car combines the unmistakably striking look of the G-Class with selected design elements typical of all-electric models from Mercedes as contrasting highlights. The high-caliber 4x4 qualities of the "G" will not only find their way into the age of electric mobility but will be developed even further in some areas. The Concept EQG offers a promising preview of what a Mercedes-Benz G-Class with battery-electric drive will be capable of.

At the world premiere of the current model generation of the Mercedes-Benz G-Class in Detroit in January 2018, Hollywood great Arnold Schwarzenegger, star guest and ardent "G" fan, elicited a promise from the then Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG, Dieter Zetsche, that was unexpected

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for many at the time: The upcoming electrification of all model series would of course also include the G-Class. Just under three and a half years later, Mercedes-Benz is making good on this promise and presenting the Concept EQG, a near-production study of an all-electric G-Class. "Wherever market conditions permit, Mercedes-Benz will be ready to go fully electric by the end of the decade," emphasises Markus Schäfer, Member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and COO of Mercedes-Benz Cars. "With this strategic step from 'Electric first' to 'Electric only', including sustainable production and the CO2-neutral life cycle of our batteries, we are accelerating the transformation to a zero-emission and software-driven future. We want to inspire our customers to switch to electric mobility with convincing products.

An icon like the G-Class fulfills this task perfectly."

The origins of the successful G-Class model date back to 1979.

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For more than four decades, the "G" has thus embodied the luxury off-road vehicle from Mercedes-Benz. The exterior appearance of the Mercedes-Benz off-road legend has changed only marginally over the entire period. Even as part of the extensive redesign in 2018, which brought with it the biggest technological leap in the model's history, Mercedes-Benz only cautiously developed the unmistakably striking design further. For good reason: because its once purely functional components have long since become iconic style elements. These include, for example, the distinctive door handle and characteristic closing sound, the robust exterior protection strip, the exposed spare wheel on the rear door and the eye-catching front turn indicators.

The Concept EQG is also very much in the design tradition of the model series and can be recognised at first glance as a G-Class. The near-production study adopts the G-Class' angular silhouette including its iconic elements. Illuminated stripes make the robust exterior protective strips stand out visually. The separating edge of the attractive two-tone paint finish – gloss black on top, gloss aluminium beam on the bottom – runs around the front end directly under the overlying bonnet, thus emphasising this design feature even more clearly.

The front view of the Concept EQG looks familiar, not least because of the typical round headlights. Instead of a radiator grille, as on the conventionally powered model versions, this allelectric variant features a continuous deep black radiator grille. In this Black Panel Grille, the illuminated star with 3D effect sets a striking accent. Around it, the animated pattern of "round squares" (squircle pattern) in the familiar blue of the Mercedes-EQ models creates a visual link. An all-round illuminated band wraps the Black Panel, which, alongside the white illuminated circles in the exterior mirror housings, complements the daytime running light graphic of the headlights.

The Concept EQG rides on 22-inch polished aluminium alloy wheels in an exclusive design. Instead of the usual spare wheel cover, there is a lockable box with white illuminated accents on the rear door, whose design is reminiscent of a wallbox. This could be used, for example, to store the charging cable within easy reach. "We're travelling into the future with the new EQG! This car epitomises the fusion of state-of-the-art off-road capabilities with the dawn of electric mobility that we all need to strive for. It stands for our relentless pursuit of the utmost desire and luxury. For us, the most important thing was to keep the full G-Class DNA but beam it into the EQ age: Like the G-Class but different. Modern accents like the white LED technology and a wallbox on the rear of the vehicle illustrate the difference." says Gorden Wagener, Chief Design Officer Daimler Group.

Another highlight of the exterior design is the flat roof rack in high-gloss black. The central element of its minimalist design is the centrally shaped "G", which is unmistakable in the top view.

The white LED strip integrated into the front edge of the roof rack is a modern interpretation of the searchlight indispensable for demanding off-road adventures – and thus underlines the seriousness of the Concept EQG in this area: not despite of, but precisely because of its all-electric drive. Another LED strip in red finish forms the rear end of the roof rack.

"We are proud of the more than 400,000 'G's we have produced to date," emphasises Dr Emmerich Schiller, Managing Director of Mercedes-Benz G GmbH and Head of the Off-Road Vehicle Product Division at Mercedes-Benz AG. "In its more than 40-year model history, the G-Class has always used the most modern and suitable drive technology at the time – from the pre-chamber naturally aspirated diesel of the early days to the AMG 4.0-litre V8 in the current top model, the G 63. Against the background of our 'Electric only' strategy, the electrification of this off-road legend is simply the logical next step – and an absolutely fascinating project.

Our icon is and remains 'stronger than time' in every respect."

The Concept EQG is clearly a "G" not only in terms of design, but also because of its inner values, making it an uncompromising off-roader. Its body is also based on the robust ladder frame. The chassis design remains extremely off-road capable, as is typical of the G-Class: with independent suspension on the front axle and a rigid axle at the rear, newly developed for the integration of the electric drive. With four electric motors close to the wheels and individually controllable, the vehicle will offer unique driving characteristics both on- and off-road. As with any real 4x4, the Concept EQG's off-road reduction can be activated via a shiftable 2-speed gearbox in order to meet the high "G"-specific off-road requirements with confidence.

Equipped in this way, the fully electrically powered version of the G-Class will of course face the legendary test track on the 1445-metre high Schöckl mountain in Graz at the end of its development into a series model. Peppered with gradients of up to 60 degrees, the 5.6-kilometre route has always been regarded in the international off-road scene as one of the world's greatest challenges for man and technology. After successfully conquering it, the electric "G" will also be able to adorn itself with the "Schöckl proved" quality certificate that is obligatory for the 463 series.

And like its conventionally-driven brothers, it will also shine with a climbing capacity of up to 100 per cent on suitable ground.

The design advantages of the electric drive also play into its favour, making it ideally suited for off-road vehicles and ambitious off-road operations. The batteries integrated into the ladder frame ensure a low centre of gravity. Since the electric motors provide their maximum torque practically with the first revolution, an all-electric off-road vehicle like the Concept EQG and the later production model boast enormous pulling power and controllability – which also proves to be an advantage on steep slopes and deep terrain.

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LUCID AIR DREAM EDITION

Lucid announces Performance and Range versions of the Lucid Air Dream Edition

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n a mission is to inspire the adoption of sustainable energy by creating the most captivating electric vehicles, Lucid Group announced the limited-run launch model of the Lucid Air, called the Dream Edition, which comes into two configurations, with the Range prioritising driving distance and the Performance focusing on extra power and acceleration.

Dream Edition Performance will feature a powertrain optimised for speed and acceleration, with 1,111 horsepower. Dream Edition Range will deliver 933 horsepower while embodying Lucid’s exacting focus on maximising range. While the official EPA ranges are not yet available, Lucid recently completed a real-world evaluation drive with Motor Trend. During the drive, a pair of Dream Edition Range cars drove from Los Angeles to San Francisco at highway speeds via central California, and then back

across the San Francisco Bay to Lucid’s global headquarters, travelling 445 miles (716 km) on a single charge. Upon arrival, the cars displayed, respectively, 30 miles (48 km) and 72 miles (115 km) of charge remaining.

“As a technology company, we seek to exceed expectations and this is clearly evident with our Lucid Air Dream Edition Performance and Range variants,” said Peter Rawlinson, CEO and CTO, Lucid Group. “I’m delighted to provide our Dream Edition customers with this additional choice and breadth of capabilities.”

The company’s first car, Lucid Air, is a state-of-the-art luxury sedan with a California-inspired design underpinned by raceproven technology. Featuring luxurious interior space in a mid-size exterior footprint, select models of Air are expected to be capable of a projected EPA-estimated range of over 500 miles (805 km).

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MASERATI MC20: A CAR WITH RACING DNA

The new Maserati super sports car is a worthy successor to the MC12

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aserati has entered a new era with the MC20, a new super sports car that combines performance, sportiness and luxury in the unique Maserati style.

The new MC20 (MC for Maserati Corse and 20 for 2020, the year of its world premier and the start of the marque’s new era) is the Maserati everyone was waiting for. It is a car with incredible aerodynamic efficiency, which conceals a sporty soul, with the new Nettuno engine, a 630-horsepower V6 with torque of 730 Nm that delivers 0-100 km/h acceleration

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in under 2.9 seconds and a top speed over 325 km an hour.

An engine that signals Maserati’s return to producing its own power units after a hiatus of more than 20 years.

The MC20 is an extremely lightweight car under 1,500 kg (kerb weight), and thanks to its power output of 630 hp, it comes out best in class in weight/power ratio, at just 2.33 kg/ hp. This record is achieved through the use of choice quality materials, exploiting all the potentials of carbon fibre without any sacrifices with regard to comfort.

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Nettuno, the first engine in this new chapter of the Trident's history, is the MC20's twin turbo V6, a technologic gem already awarded an international patent, which puts the MTC (Maserati Twin Combustion) technology, the ground-breaking combustion system developed in-house, onto the world's roads.

The Virtual Vehicle Dynamics Development system, which includes the use of one of the world’s most advanced dynamic simulators, was developed in-house by the Maserati Innovation Lab and is based on a complex mathematical model called Virtual Car. This method allowed performance of 97% of dynamic tests, optimising development times. The car was then fine-tuned in the best Maserati tradition with exhaustive track and road test-driving sessions in the most widely varying conditions of use.

The guiding theme of the MC20’S design was the Brand’s historic identity, with all the elegance, performance and comfort integral to its genetic make-up. The focus on performance led to the conception of a car with a distinct personality, with unmistakable forms that render it unique.

The butterfly doors are not only remarkably stylish but also functional, as they improve the car’s ergonomics and enable optimal access to and from the cabin.

The MC20 is designed to enable coupé and convertible versions and for full electric power.

Inside the cabin, the driver is always central, with no distractions from the sporting driving experience. Every component has a purpose, and is completely driver-oriented.

Simple forms, very few sharp edges and minimal distractions.

Two 10-inch screens: one for the cockpit and the other for the Maserati Multimedia System (MIA). Simplicity is also the keynote of the carbon fibre-clad central console, with just a few features: the wireless smartphone charger, the driving mode selector (GT, Wet, Sport, Corsa and a fifth, ESC Off, which deactivates the control functions), two speed selection buttons, the power window controls, the Multimedia System controls, and a handy storage compartment underneath the armrest. All the other controls are on the steering wheel, with the ignition button on the left and the launch control on the right.

The new MC20 is connected at all times with the Maserati Connect program. The full range of services includes connected navigation, Alexa, and Wifi Hotspot, and can also be managed through the Maserati Connect smartphone or smartwatch App. Both visually and conceptually, there are strong references to the MC12, the car that marked Maserati’s racing comeback in 2004. In the same way as its predecessor, MC20, with its explicitly racing soul clear from its name alone, announces the intention to return to the world of racing.

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2024 GMC HUMMER EV SUV Enhanced off-road proportions meet new features, including trail mapping and Power Station generator

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MC is expanding its electric supertruck lineup with the addition of the 2024 HUMMER EV SUV — and it is loaded with smart, purposeful technology.

“GMC’s HUMMER EV SUV offers an exceptional balance of on-road performance and off-road capability, enhanced by a unique structure that allows for our signature open-air experience,” said Al Oppenheiser, HUMMER EV chief engineer. “New features debuting on the SUV reinforce its role as a tactical tool in almost any situation.”

New technologies include a new available Power Station generator that enables customers to utilise up to 3 kW of power from the vehicle, turning the HUMMER EV SUV into a power source on the trail or a backup generator.

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Africa and Middle East said: “The excitement we have seen in our region upon the HUMMER EV reveal exceeded our expectations.

Today, with the reveal of the HUMMER EV SUV, we further assert our commitment to bringing world-class trucks and SUVs while also pushing forward our future mobility agenda, and this milestone embodies this promise in the best way possible. We are very excited and cannot wait to see it on the roads in the Middle East – a market that has a strong emotional connection to both GMC and HUMMER.” HUMMER EV’s interdependent body/battery structure enables the Infinity Roof on the EV pickup as well as the SUV and expected best-in-class off-road proportions help make the new SUV even more maneuverable — while making the most of the HUMMER EV’s signature features such as CrabWalk, Extract Mode, and more.

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MASTER OF MANEUVERABILITY With a nearly 9-inch shorter wheelbase than the HUMMER EV Pickup, the all-new HUMMER EV SUV offers even greater maneuverability, with expected best-in-class off-road proportions and a turning circle of only 35.4 feet (10.8 meters) with 4-Wheel Steer — nearly the same as a Chevrolet Bolt EV. Without the constraints of a conventional propulsion system

and traditional drive axles, tremendous power and control is available to each of wheel. In fact, the Ultium drive system can channel power to a single wheel, keeping the vehicle moving in some of the toughest driving conditions and terrain — including 13 inches of suspension travel, climbing 60-percent grades (forward and reverse), scaling 18-inch verticals and fording water more than two feet deep.

IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCE The 2024 HUMMER EV SUV offers a multisensory, immersive experience that puts drivers in the middle of every moment.

The HUMMER EV’s user experience team worked with Perception, a creative agency best-known for their Sci-Fi Thinking and technology design work within the Marvel Universe, to create a cinematic in-cabin experience that engages the senses.

Special features such as Watts To Freedom bring their own unique multisensory, interactive experiences, with distinctive sound via the premium Bose audio system, feel through the haptic driver’s seat and sight, with custom screen displays showing the special performance mode is “armed and ready.”

The user experience is customisable through My Mode, allowing the driver to tailor their favourite features, including steering, suspension, sound, and acceleration for a truly personal interface that celebrates every drive.

The HUMMER EV’s remarkable driving capabilities blend with these engaging technologies and a carefully crafted user experience, creating a sense of intensity and drama for drivers and passengers, while features such as the standard Infinity Roof and modular Sky Panels create an open experience, allowing customers to enjoy HUMMER EV’s nearly silent movement during outdoor adventures.

The HUMMER EV SUV was also designed as a two-row SUV with a shorter wheelbase to help optimise its off-road maneuverability while providing secure rear storage, with instantly recognisable proportions that convey HUMMER EV’s characteristically aggressive stance.

“Designing the Pickup and SUV simultaneously helped us give each their own unique features to maximise utility,” said Phil Zak, HUMMER EV design executive director. “The SUV’s tight proportions create a distinct profile and spacious cargo area, while maintaining a roomy and architecturally-inspired cabin.”

The rear design is unique to the SUV and incorporates a standard full-size spare tire mounted to a power swing-out tailgate. Using one of three button options, the swing gate automatically opens like a vault — even wider than the vehicle itself. The extra width allows for an unimpeded 48-inch opening designed to make loading gear and supplies easier. The spare tire mount also creatively houses a rear-facing camera to assist with reverse maneuvers and trailer alignment.

Inside, a similar five-passenger layout from the truck remains, allowing for a large and useful rear cargo area. In fact, with the rear seats folded flat, the HUMMER EV SUV offers up to 81.8 cubic feet of cargo space. On top of that, there is an additional storage space hidden under the load floor and another compartment integrated into the side trim.

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SUPER-STRONG AND SUPER-FAST As with the HUMMER EV Pickup, the new SUV is built on a unique, interdependent body/battery structure that serves two crucial functions: It reinforces the overall structure for exceptional rigidity, while also protecting the double-stacked Ultium battery pack.

“The HUMMER EV’s body protects the battery, while the battery supports the structure,” said Oppenheiser. “That means the battery pack itself is a structural element, which enables 80 NOV / DEC 2021

a truly open-air experience and a rare combination of extreme off-road capability and smooth on-road performance in a bodyframe integral platform.”

A large, flat load floor incorporates a protective sheer panel sandwiched between the high-strength martensitic top and bottom layers, which help protect the battery. The strength and rigidity of the floor helps reduces twisting and deformation, while also providing the stiffness required to enable the HUMMER EV’s removable Sky Panels and I-Bar.

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TACTICAL TECHNOLOGY WITH NEW TRAIL MAPPING The HUMMER EV SUV is loaded with smart, purposeful technology designed to enhance on-and off-road excursions.

“It’s technology that adds to the HUMMER EV’s immersive driving experience,” said Mike Colville, EV complex feature integration. Standard HUMMER EV SUV technologies include a large infotainment screen, in-vehicle Energy app, smartphone-

synced digital key, HD Surround Vision, and several customisable off-road widgets.

The new Power Station generator offers significant external powering capabilities to power off-road adventures, and more.

With enhanced vehicle hardware, the HUMMER EV SUV can jump charge another electric vehicle at 240v/25A/6kW and power a variety of equipment at 120v/25A/3kW. 2021 NOV / DEC

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DEFENDER V8 BOND EDITION

The stealthy Defender V8 Bond Edition features bespoke touches that honour Land Rover’s long partnership with the James Bond franchise

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and Rover SV Bespoke has created a new Land Rover Defender V8 Bond Edition to celebrate the 25th James Bond film, No Time To Die. Exclusively available to just 300 buyers around the world, the Defender V8 Bond Edition’s interior features laser etching detailing that it is ‘one of 300’ and the SV Bespoke logo. Each vehicle is commissioned by the vehicle personalisation experts at SV Bespoke in the UK. Available to order as a Defender 110 or 90 and inspired by the specification of the Defenders that appear in No Time To Die, the stealthy Defender V8 Bond Edition features an Extended Black

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Pack with 22-inch Luna Gloss Black alloy wheels, signature Xenon Blue front brake calipers and a ‘Defender 007’ rear badge.

The bespoke touches extend to the practical interior, with illuminated ‘Defender 007’ treadplates and a specially developed touchscreen start-up animation for the intuitive Pivi Pro infotainment system that honours Land Rover’s long partnership with the James Bond franchise. At night, customers will also spot unique ‘007’ puddle lamp graphics.

“The Land Rover Defender V8 Bond Edition is an exclusive take on the most powerful production Defender ever made, inspired by vehicles on screen in No Time To Die. It represents a meeting

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of two great British brands and is a unique celebration of Land Rover’s 38-year association with James Bond,” said Finbar McFall, Land Rover Brand Director.

Defenders are at the heart of the action in No Time To Die alongside two Range Rover Sport SVRs. A Range Rover Classic and Land Rover Series III are also in the film, which was released in cinemas around the world in September.

Based on the recently launched Defender V8, the Bond Edition is powered by a 5.0-litre supercharged petrol engine, which produces 525PS, 625Nm of torque and drives through an eightspeed automatic transmission. The Defender V8 90 accelerates

from 0-60mph in just 4.9 seconds (0-100km/h in 5.2 seconds) with a top speed of 149mph (240km/h).

It delivers new levels of performance and driver engagement by combining the V8 with expertly developed suspension and transmission tuning to create the fastest and most dynamically rewarding Defender yet.

With unique suspension and transmission tuning, including bespoke spring and damper rates and a new Electronic Active Rear Differential, Defender V8 delivers more agile and engaging handling with heightened body control – all accompanied by a characteristic V8 supercharged soundtrack.

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SPEARHEADING CHANGE

Richard Mille welcomes fencing champion Miles Chamley-Watson to the family

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f you decided to spearhead a saber through the clichés about fencing, one of the world’s most elite sports, you’d probably invent the latest member of the Richard Mille family: Miles Chamley-Watson! Miles describes himself as a half-white, halfblack kid from London with Jamaican, Irish, British and Malawian roots, who moved to New York City at the age of ten, and now competes for USA. “All of which is, admittedly, a bit weird,” he jokes in his deep London accent.

Miles first discovered fencing at Manhattan's Dwight School.

Teachers thought it would be a way to handle his hyperactivity.

A double-edged sword because, ever since, Miles has been channelling “that inner kid in me” to become not only an Olympic medallist but also the first U.S. male fencer to win an individual Senior World Championship title. His style is so unique, he even has his own eponymous move – The Chamley-Watson – a deft behind-the-back flick to his opponent’s side.

“Time, it is in my sport. You can train your whole life, but the merest millisecond means the difference between Gold and nothing. I train myself mentally in slow motion. I need to get in touch with my neural system, unblock my mind and establish a flow state.” Miles does intensive brain training and yoga with

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his coach, often using virtual games to focus his brain patterns.

“Obviously, I go to the gym everyday, but my mind is my weapon.

It alone is in charge of guiding my foil.”

Obsessed with time, this mindset means Miles describes himself as “a massive watch person.” Five years ago, he wrote down his dream partners. Richard Mille was at the top. “We’re both unconventional. It’s a brand that’s all about taking risks. I have ‘Risk’ tattooed on my hand and I look at it for inspiration each time I compete.” Miles aims above all to transform ‘stuffy’ fencing from niche to mainstream. He sees this as a way of helping children like himself, bullied or misunderstood at school.

“I want to show kids what they can do. I’m even working on new outfits and a scoring system with flashing lights to get fencing on Prime Time TV!” Miles wears the RM 67-01 Automatic White Gold Diamond Set. “I love seeing the movement, the dials. It’s so much what fencing is all about – precision, timing and style. Above all, Richard Mille a brand that refuses to do things like everyone else. They dare to be different, like me.”

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CODE 11.59

The two-tone gold case of the new Code 11.59 by Audemars Piguet Tourbillon Openworked offers a refined frame to the hand-finished openworked movement in different grey hues

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wiss Haute Horlogerie manufacturer Audemars Piguet presents a new iteration of its 41 mm Code 11.59 by Audemars Piguet Tourbillon Openworked. The handfinished openworked movement adorning different shades of grey is housed in a two-tone case interweaving 18-carat white and pink gold. This gold combination highlights the case’s multifaceted geometry, while providing an elegant contrast.

The two-tone case emphasises the complex architecture of the Code 11.59 by Audemars Piguet. Its extra-thin bezel, stylised lugs and round caseback, all crafted in 18-carat white gold, are subtly contrasted with an 18-carat pink gold octagonal middle case. Each component has been hand finished down to the smallest detail with an alternation of satin-brushing and polished chamfers. The technical complexity notably resides in reaching perfect alignment across the case’s multiplicity of angular and rounded surfaces – an aesthetic only achievable by hand.

Two-tone gold cases are rare at Audemars Piguet yet an integral part of the Manufacture’s history. Out of the 550 complicated wristwatches produced and sold between 1882 and 1969, only eight examples combined two types of gold. The blend of white and pink gold was exceptional, with only one wristwatch recorded in the Manufacturer’s archives before 1978.

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Although, this combination has become more prevalent in recent decades, it remains a distinct symbol of refinement.

This watch houses a multi-tiered hand-wound tourbillon openworked movement, Calibre 2948. Its slate grey openworked plate and bridges are illuminated by a pink gold-toned balance wheel and a light grey openworked barrel and gear train. The main plate and bridges, visible on both sides of the watch, are finished with vertical satin-brushing for more visual appeal. In addition, the barrel and different wheels are adorned with circular satin.

With 70 hand-polished angles, the hand finishing on this 3.65 mm movement pushes the openworking art to new heights, while the three-tone decoration amplifies the watch’s 3-D effect.

The slate grey lacquered inner bezel complements the openworked movement and accentuates the extra-thinness of the watch’s bezel, barely visible around the dial. The long 18-carat pink gold hands add a subtle touch of colour in an echo to the balance wheel and middle case.

The unique double-curved sapphire crystal, which seamlessly integrates the curved extra-thin bezel, completes the watch’s contemporary design. Playing with depth and light, this complex glass brings forward the detailed work adorning the openworked movement.

HOROLOGY

SIGNATURE ANNIVERSARY Breguet’s tribute timepiece celebrates the timeless aesthetic and visionary genius of the master watchmaker

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n June 26, 1801, or on “7 Messidor An IX”, to use the French Republican calendar in force at the time, Abraham-Louis Breguet secured a patent in Paris for his “watch compensating for all of the inequalities that may be found in the balance wheel and mainspring”. Breguet named his invention the “tourbillon” (or “whirlwind”) in line with the common practice at the time to use terms connected to astronomy.

Exactly 220 years later, the House of Breguet is paying homage to its founder’s invention, which opened a new world of precision, stability, and elegance in fine horology. Breguet’s tribute comes in the form of the Breguet Classique Tourbillon Extra-Plat Anniversaire 5365.

This timepiece – with its limited run of 35 pieces, the same number of tourbillon watches made during Abraham-Louis Breguet’s lifetime – is a heartfelt tribute to the timeless aesthetic and visionary genius of the master watchmaker. In its attempts at authenticity, Breguet’s design for this timepiece is elegant and understated, reaffirming the brand’s standards put in place by its founder.

The same can also be said of the various engineturned motifs adorning the gold dial. As well as becoming one of Breguet’s aesthetic hallmarks, engine-turning, also known as guillochage, possesses very specific watchmaking features.

By offering surfaces with finely worked irregularities, the technique allows light to be captured in a variety of ways, ranging from the utmost clarity to a more matte finish. Light captured in this way enables the different reading zones on the dial to be clearly marked. Engine-turned surfaces are also better protected from the ravages of time than a polished finish, which are overly shiny and prone to corrosion and scratches. Finally, engine-turned surfaces offer the relief needed to collect the microdust that could have degraded the chronometric

performance of the first pocket watches more than two centuries ago.

Throughout its history, Breguet has refined both the range of its engine-turning work and its predilection for specific motifs.

Such is the case with the Clous de Paris, which takes up the entire central part of the timepiece. Handmade with a diamond chisel, it is created by interlacing engraved and crossed lines with a pitch of only 0.25 millimeters. From 50 centimeters (the usual distance for reading a wristwatch), it gives the illusion of a matte finish. This makes it easier to read the hours and minutes, indicated by the two central blued steel off-centre open-tipped hands, now known as “Breguet hands.” On the periphery, the piece is decorated with a grain d’orge (or “barley grain”) motif that is cherished by the brand. On the rear of the piece, the platinum rotor is engine-turned with a wave motif.

For this anniversary piece, Breguet has fitted its reference 5365 with a 60-second tourbillon, visible between 4 and 6 o’clock, with one of these axes showing the seconds. More eagle-eyed horologists will notice two special features. Firstly, the piece’s upper bridge is made of blued steel, which is something of an unusual finish for a tourbillon in the Classique collection. Secondly, the cartouche affixed above the tourbillon, bears the text “Brevet No 157”, a reference to the patent number awarded to Abraham-Louis Breguet for his invention a mere 220 years ago.

This tribute is repeated on the rear of the piece, via the engraving “Anniversaire 1801– 2021” on the barrel, and “Brevet No 157 Du 7 Messidor An IX” upon the lower bridge of the tourbillon, alongside the individual number of each piece. All these references, along with the Breguet signature on the rotor, are engraved by hand. To the right of the movement, there is a faithful reproduction of the original watercolor plate used by AbrahamLouis Breguet when filing his 1801 patent application for a tourbillon regulator.

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THE BIG BANG

Hublot and Berluti share five years of collaboration and an exploration of the shades of grey in their latest limited-edition run of 100 pieces

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nnounced in 2016, the partnership between the famous men’s fashion house and the most disruptive of the watchmaking brands has unveiled a new interpretation of the Big Bang Unico. Together, they have fused fashion and watchmaking, leather and titanium, form, and substance.

The new Big Bang Unico Berluti Aluminio leverages this shared know-how and provides an understated, elegant, monochrome, and timeless piece. It is a Big Bang for true collectors and connoisseurs. This edition will be limited to 100 pieces, as with every collaboration between Hublot and Berluti.

The emblematic patinated Venezia leather is at the heart of the polished titanium bezel as well as on the dial, where the indices and words “Swiss Made” are gauffered directly on the surface.

The leather is held between two pieces of sapphire glass, whose cut reveals the gears of the Unico movement, a feat of technical prowess. Working with Berluti, a technique was developed to encapsulate natural leather hues and crystallise them in time; in this way, their beauty is rendered in an authentic and unchanging manner. As for the strap, it symbolises the perfect fusion of the two worlds and it is available in two versions: one in burnished Aluminio Venezia leather; another in patinated Aluminio Venezia leather with the Scritto motif, exclusively for Japan. Aluminio is one of Berluti’s signature patinas. It perfectly transcribes the light onto the different tones of the Venezia leather.

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For this model, Hublot took responsibility for the new, twopart bezel design. With the help of a sticky, rigid resin, the first piece of the bezel—in leather, about 1 mm thick—is inserted onto the second piece, in grey titanium, and then screwed onto the case of the watch. This will allow the bezel to be patinated over time, just like the strap.

To bring the patinated Aluminio Venezia leather into harmony with its mechanical ensemble, the Hublot Manufacture chose from the vast palette of materials at its disposal: titanium for the 44-mm case and its deployant clasp, resin for the central horn, tungsten for the oscillating weight, and satin-finished rhodium for the hands. Building on more than 40 years of ground-breaking designs, Hublot masters the full spectrum of watchmaking materials and was thus able to create a Big Bang that was perfectly tuned to the nuances of the patinated Berluti leather.

The Big Bang Unico Berluti Aluminio also reveals part of its beating heart. The gears of the Unico movement, an authentic manufacture self-winding Flyback chronograph with three full days of power reserve, can be admired thanks to the cut of the two pieces of sapphire glass that hold the leather on the dial-side. A rare and contemporary piece, the Big Bang Unico Berluti Aluminio is delivered in a special case with a travel pouch, and a shoehorn key ring with the Berluti logo.

HOROLOGY

SPIRIT OF THE UNION Panerai’s Luminor GMT Spirit of the Union celebrates the UAE Golden Jubilee with a limited-edition timepiece

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anerai is the product of distinct traditions rooted in two different countries: the sophistication of Swiss watchmaking artistry and an illustrious history of design inheritance from Italy. They are the foundation of a respected brand that mixes advanced horological and aesthetic achievement.

A destination with its own unique qualities inspired a brand new Panerai watch: the Luminor GMT Spirit of the Union, available exclusively at the Panerai boutiques in the United Arab Emirates.

Available in a limited edition of only 200 pieces, Panerai created the Luminor GMT Spirit of the Union to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the formation of the United Arab Emirates, a significant milestone in the young nation’s history.

The watch’s P.9010/GMT caliber alludes to the history of the UAE: a green GMT hand and rubberised crown recall the colors of the national flag, as does the shimmering black sun-brushed dial, while an engraving on the caseback reads “Year of the Fiftieth” in English and Arabic. Even the reference number—PAM01971, refers to the date of the UAE’s founding half a century ago.

The watch is accompanied by four rubber straps, red, green, white, and black, as a recall to the nation’s flag and a black alligator strap as an elegant finishing touch for the watch.

To emphasise its commitment to the United Arab Emirates, Panerai, in collaboration with Christie’s, will auction the n000/200 Luminor GMT Spirit of the Union, with all proceeds going to the Noor Dubai Foundation, a non-profit organisation based in the UAE, which is active in the prevention of blindness and visual impairment globally. The Foundation envisions a world where all individuals living in low-income regions, suffering from visual impairment, are given equal and fair

opportunities of treatment that will improve their quality of life.

“We are honored to offer as part of our ‘Watches Online: The Dubai Edit’ auction this exclusive Panerai Luminor GMT Spirit of the Union n000/200 that celebrates the UAE’s Golden Jubilee in aid of Noor Dubai Foundation. We hope collectors seize this opportunity to acquire this rare timepiece and support a local charity,” said Remy Julia, Watch Specialist - Director at Christies Dubai DIFC Head of Middle East-India-Africa.

“Creating a piece to celebrate the UAE’s Golden Jubilee was important to us, but being able to create awareness and support Noor Dubai Foundation with the support of Christie’s is something that makes the Luminor GMT Spirit of the Union even more special,” explains Gaby Bitarian, Brand Director, PANERAI MEI. Dr. Manal Taryam, CEO & Board Member Noor Dubai Foundation further added, “it is an honor to collaborate with international watch brand Panerai and international auctioneer Christie’s to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the UAE with this limited-edition timepiece and to also support Noor Dubai’s mission of improving the well-being of individuals through prevention of blindness worldwide. We hope to see more cross sector collaborations with international brands through their CSR programs to help those in need.”

In addition to the auction, Panerai is also celebrating the visual beauty of the UAE with a campaign to reveal the watch. Dubbed Around the Seven Emirates, this campaign, shot in collaboration with Panerai’s brand ambassador, Jeremy Jauncey, will feature shots from each emirate. The campaign will showcase the country’s beauty along with the PAM01971 in action in different adventurous settings.

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SAUDI ARABIA’S UNTOUCHED BEAUTY

A once-in-a-lifetime stay at The Red Sea Development Company’s luxury Desert Rock mountain resort in Saudi Arabia will offer stunning vistas and stargazing opportunities on the Kingdom’s west coast

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e often talk about immersive experiences in the context of virtual reality, but The Red Sea Development Company (TRSDC) in Saudi Arabia is taking the concept a step further by carving a luxury hotel into a rock mountain for its future guests to literally immerse themselves in.

Set in one of the most dramatic desert landscapes in the world, the Desert Rock resort is being integrated into the stunning mountainside and offers panoramic views of the mountain canyons below and a canopy of stars above.

As part of The Red Sea Project, TRSDC recently revealed a first look at Desert Rock’s designs, which are intended to celebrate Saudi Arabia’s spectacular natural beauty and Nabatean heritage.

“Since the inception of the Desert Rock project, creating a development that combines luxury, sustainability and an immersive experience for our guests has been at the heart of it all,” said John Pagano, TRSDC CEO. “We cannot wait to 90 NOV / DEC 2021

welcome guests to enjoy a stay at this unique property.”

Inspired by the surrounding beautiful mountains, volcanoes and wadis, Desert Rock will feature 48 villas and 12 hotel suites.

A variety of accommodation styles will be available to best meet guests needs, from ground level dwellings to crevice hotel suites midway up the mountain.

An impressive feat of engineering, a select number of rooms will sit within the excavated rock-scape, giving guests access to stunning views of Saudi Arabia and opportunities for stargazing, all from the comfort of your room.

The unique rock formations included in the resort architecture were produced by a series of cataclysmic seismic events thousands of years ago, and so the architecture has been designed to keep this natural beauty while also reducing energy consumption, supercharging the ecosystem, and regenerating native flora. This innovative architecture model offers guests a completely unique and unmatched form of luxury, combining nature and sustainability as one.

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“Desert Rock offers a ‘never before seen’ opportunity for guests to connect physically and metaphysically with one of the most dramatic desert landscapes in the world,” said Chad Oppenheim, Founder of Oppenheim Architecture, the design and planning firm behind the concept. “Our key intention when designing the resort was to build with the land, not on it, and to be mindful of the stunning nature elements that already exist at the site, amplifying its natural beauty.”

Guests will enter the resort through a hidden valley nestled between the mountains. Most roads leading into the resort will follow the edge of the main wadi, hidden behind landscape mounds, to provide uninterrupted views. This will also minimise sound and light pollution, allowing guests to fully absorb the surrounding dramatic desert landscape.

The resort features state-of-the-art facilities, including a world-class spa and fitness centre, remote destination dining areas as well as a feature lagoon oasis.

Visitors will be able to hike with members of the local

community who will provide educational tours of the area. Dune buggies will also be on hand to hire as part of the site-wide activities program, making it the idyllic holiday destination for those seeking adventure and relaxation alike.

TRSDC is championing the ancient history of the area, which is positioned at the crossroads of continents, connecting Asia, Africa, and Europe. For centuries, Saudi Arabia has been a meeting point for civilisations and a crossing point for caravans on the incense trade route carrying spices, myrrh, cotton, ebony, and silk.

The Nabateans — an ancient Arab people who inhabited northern Arabia and the southern Levant and who are perhaps best known for their rock-cut monumental tombs in Petra, Jordan — inhabited Saudi Arabia’s north-western region some 2,000 years ago and constructed their second largest city there at Mada’in Salih, a few hours’ drive from Desert Rock.

The Desert Rock resort will be open for guests to visit as part of phase one of the Red Sea destination set to complete in 2023.

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BRUNELLO CUCINELLI FALL/WINTER 2021

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FALL/WINTER FASHION PICKS

Eminent fashion houses around the world continue to blur the lines between tailored ensembles and impeccable leisure wear. Blended in ways that defy the standard rulebook, get your wardrobe ready for the cooler months with the season’s most coveted looks

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VISVIM

FRAME

ANDERSON & SHEPPARD CARTIER EYEWEAR

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MARTINE ALI

BRUNELLO CUCINELLI

LORO PIANA FILSON

CELINE HOMME

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TOM FORD

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BRIONI

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ART & CULTURE

Louvre Abu Dhabi announces four exhibitions and an array of events and programming coinciding with the UAE’s Golden Jubilee

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n celebration of the UAE’s 50th National Day and the Louvre Abu Dhabi’s own fourth anniversary on 11 November, Louvre Abu Dhabi will offer a range of programming and events celebrating global exchange and connectivity with Abu Dhabi and the United Arab Emirates. The museum’s new cultural season will be anchored by three international exhibitions, the launch of a new annual exhibition and art prize, and a popular ongoing exhibition at the Children’s Museum, accompanied by a rich public programme. This new season explores the many geographic paths and singular voices that have created significant artistic and cultural connections across the globe.

“As the UAE welcomes the world over the coming months, Louvre Abu Dhabi will truly offer something for everyone in this upcoming season of exhibitions, events and programming. New international exhibitions, new acquisitions and masterpieces on loan will join a display of works from each of the seven emirates.

In this extraordinary Jubilee year, we remain resilient and deeply rooted in our community, committed to our mission of telling stories of cultural connections throughout this season, beginning with Dragon & Phoenix,” said Manuel Rabaté, Director, Louvre Abu Dhabi.

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EXHIBITIONS An exceptional new exhibition, held in partnership with the Musée national des arts asiatiques – Guimet and curated by Sophie Makariou, will look at artistic and cultural exchanges between China and the Islamic world. Running from 6 October 2021 – 12 February 2022, Dragon and Phoenix – Centuries of Exchange between Chinese and Islamic Worlds explores this history of mutual exchange and fascination, unfolding over five chapters and featuring immersive scenography chronicling the 8th – 18th centuries. The Islamic world consistently turned its gaze towards China, the model for technical advances and objects of beauty.

In contrast, the Islamic world was a supplier of luxury objects – particularly those made of glass – and an important source of inspiration for China, whose interest was sparked following a long history of cultural and material exchange. The primacy of Chinese artistic production would only be rivalled when an alternative model with a radically different aesthetic captured the attentions of the Islamic world: that of Europe.

Complementing the exhibition will be a selection of handpicked weekend family film screenings and kayak cinema shows in November and December. In addition, Dragon Boats will join

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the popular, ongoing yoga and kayaking activities at the museum.

Through a joint collaboration with leading Swiss watchmakers Richard Mille, Louvre Abu Dhabi has established an annual exhibition and art prize for contemporary artists. The inaugural exhibition Louvre Abu Dhabi Art Here 2021 will feature all shortlisted, UAE-based artists’ proposals from 18 November 2021 to 27 March 2022 in the Forum, a space of interaction and exchange dedicated to contemporary art. From these shortlisted artists, one will be selected as the winner of the Richard Mille Art Prize and awarded $50,000. This collaboration creates a significant platform for artists in the region, as well as an expansion of Louvre Abu Dhabi’s display of and engagement with contemporary art.

The first international exhibition of 2022, Versailles and the World (26 January – 4 June 2022), will be held in partnership with musée national des châteaux de Versailles et de Trianon and tells the story of Versailles as a central diplomatic instrument that solidified the prowess of the French royal court and served as the stage for its fascination with various civilisations in a rapidly globalising world.

This exhibition is curated by Hélène Delalex, Curator, Furniture and Decorative Arts, and Bertrand Rondot, Chief Curator, Furniture and Decorative Arts, at the musée national des châteaux de Versailles et de Trianon. Global cultures and aesthetics found themselves represented at Versailles as it transformed into a diplomatic hub receiving foreign dignitaries from all around the world. These visits ushered in an unparalleled era of artistic and commercial exchanges, which will be brought to life in this exhibition through an array of objects, from Chinese and Japanese lacquerware to wallpapers and porcelain.

Delving into one medium that is crucial to artistic production, documentation, and communication, Stories of Paper (April – July 2022) will trace the origins of paper in all its forms, from ancient China and the Islamic world, to contemporary global societies. At a

time when the use and purpose of paper is being questioned in an increasingly digital world, this exhibition seeks to define paper as part of a global, collective human heritage. Organised with Musée du Louvre, this exhibition is curated by Xavier Salmon, director of the Drawings and Prints department at Musée du Louvre and Victor Hundsbuckler, curator at the same department.

The Emotions! The New Art Adventure exhibition also continues in Louvre Abu Dhabi’s Children’s Museum. Children and families navigate three floors of interactive activities, artworks, and games to explore four key emotions: joy, sadness, fear, and anger. Children can learn to let unpleasant feelings go, explore ways cultivate happiness, and come away understanding all emotions. Access to the museum and the exhibition is free to all children under 18.

NEW LOANS & ACQUISITIONS Coinciding with the museum’s anniversary, 59 new loans and 56 new acquisitions will go on view in Louvre Abu Dhabi’s galleries.

Works on loan come from lending institutions within the France Muséums network, along with regional and local partners. These artworks will be installed among those in Louvre Abu Dhabi’s permanent collection, creating new narratives and stories of cultural connections between artworks in formal and thematic dialogues.

In celebration of the UAE’s 50th National Day, Louvre Abu Dhabi will display artworks from each of the seven emirates – including loans from national museums and institutions such as the Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi and Dubai Municipality.

Returning visitors to the museum will be greeted by an entirely new pairing of works upon entry – the bronze sculpture The Words I Love Most by Egyptian artist Ghada Amer (2012) on loan from the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi in dialogue with the new acquisition Series of eight allegories attributed to Jacob de Backer (Antwerp, 2021 NOV / DEC

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active between 1571 and 1585). Both works explore the infinite possibilities of word and image in expressing complex human and societal values, such as love, charity and hope. These are universal, moral guideposts which, although represented differently, continue to connect civilisations across time and geographies.

EVENTS AND WORKSHOPS As part of its Research Programme, Louvre Abu Dhabi is presenting a talk series in collaboration with Cartier at the Women’s Pavilion at EXPO 2020 Dubai, using artworks from the museum’s collection to initiate discussions on landmark moments in women’s history.

To celebrate the nation’s Jubilee, December will see the museum’s iconic dome transformed into an audio-visual installation reflecting 50 years of the UAE, including a roller-skating rink for an event in collaboration with Madrollers, open to children in the afternoon and to young people in the evening. The event will consist of dynamic, digital wall-mapping showcasing images and videos of the UAE over the past five decades, alongside a DJ playing nostalgic Emirati music.

Enjoy Drawing at the Museum each week, exploring an artwork, developing sketching skills and learning about different aspects of drawing. Learn about form and perspective from ancient ceramics and reliefs, marvel at the intricacy of the human form, analyse light and shade, and observe the dome and architecture.

Participants end each two-hour visit by participating in a group discussion to critically reflect, share insights and discuss ideas.

The museum’s #MakeandPlay initiative will continue in the form of videos online and drop-in sessions at the museum. Visit the museum and feel free to re-imagine artworks your way. Make

and Play drop-in activities are linked to the museum artworks, allowing participants to create an original flipbook, a helmet, a mask, a costume, or a paper horse, in four activity stations. All the materials are provided, and museum educators are on-hand to support for a fee of AED 50 per person. These events will run alongside the ongoing programming directed at senior Emirati citizens and People of Determination.

In addition to the museum’s renowned fine dining restaurant Fouquet’s and the newly renovated Aptitude Café, Louvre Abu Dhabi’s Art Lounge reopened on 12 October. The perfect place to gather with friends and enjoy a post-gallery visit refreshment, the rooftop Art Lounge offers a wide selection of beverages and light bites amid stunning, unobstructed views of the Abu Dhabi skyline. With something happening every night of the week, check the museum’s website for more details on the various offers.

LATES are starting again from 3 November, with the Wednesday Dome edition allowing visitors to enjoy complimentary access under the dome from 6:30 pm – 9 pm. Take in the extraordinary architecture of the ‘museum city’ as the sun sets over the sea.

The evenings will be themed, offering programming such as poetry and film screenings, and special dining options will be on offer at the museum’s food outlets - sushi nights at Art Lounge or pizza nights at Aptitude Cafe.

For any visitors undertaking a self-guided tour at the museum, or wishing to explore from afar, WE ARE NOT ALONE is a futuristic audio-visual experience available via Louvre Abu Dhabi’s website and app, offering users a sci-fi-inspired tour developed by SOUNDWALK COLLECTIVE and narrated by Hussain Al Jassmi, Willem Dafoe, Charlotte Gainsbourg, Zhou Dongyu, Nina Kraviz, Wim Wenders and Jean Nouvel.

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THE WONDERS OF JAPAN

Promising the trip of a lifetime, Japan is home to an unmatched diversity of breathtaking natural beauty, an intriguing culture, and world-renowned cuisine

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enowned for its understated but highly attentive hospitality, Japan has much to offer the luxury traveller, from the snowfields of Hokkaido in the north to the lush subtropical jungle and the pristine coral reefs of Okinawa in the south, to the high mountains and forests that cover 80 percent of the country, and on to the bustling streets of Tokyo and magnificent temples and shrines of Kyoto. Take the journey and unveil the most exclusive experiences covering the realms of art and architecture, culture and cuisine, and nature, across the entire Japanese archipelago.

An experience like no other, Japan is an intriguing country in which futuristic bullet trains and skyscrapers and centuriesold shrines and temples coexist in a harmony unique to this enchanting island nation.

GASTRONOMIC EXPERIENCES Since food is a very serious business in Japan, it’s no surprise that Japanese food is one of the most popular cuisines in the world.

Time-tested preparation techniques, combined with great attention paid to the provenance of ingredients, is what lies at the heart of Japanese cooking, and even the utensils used are just as highly valued as the chefs preparing the mouthwatering food.

This attention to detail means that you will dine like royalty

throughout your stay, whether you’re eating in a fine dining restaurant or sampling a hot broth at a neighbourhood noodle bar.

Eating out in Japan can feel like a private performance that invigorates all your senses. From the displays of fresh seafood in tanks to the dramatic open kitchens with flaming grills and the ceremony of ancient food preparation techniques, the drama of Japanese dining will leave you with a satisfied palate and unforgettable memories.

Flavour balance, skill and a desire for perfection set Japanese cuisine apart. It’s no wonder it has been distinguished with a UNESCO cultural heritage award. When eating in Japan, expect to be served the best seafood in the world, beef that melts in the mouth like butter, and the most well-presented and best-tasting sashimi on the planet.

With Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto featuring prominently in international coverage of fine dining, there’s no shortage of outstanding eating options. And it’s not just Japanese cuisine on offer, since the commitment to excellence extends into a very wide offering of cuisines from around the world.

To elevate your Japanese taste experience why not enlist the expertise of a private chef who can take you on a personal food tour of Japan, intimately discuss the creations with you and reveal all the nuances in the tastes of Japanese cuisine?

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NATURAL WONDERS Beyond the buzz of its cosmopolitan cities, the Japanese archipelago has a diverse wealth of natural wonders for intrepid travellers to explore. Stretching 3,000 kilometres from Russia down to Taiwan, Japan offers every climate you could wish for, from the snowfields of Hokkaido to the subtropical islands of Okinawa. The country is mostly magnificent mountains, covered in forests, and surrounded by beaches. So, if you are looking for an adrenaline-filled experience in Japan’s great outdoors, you can enjoy the natural wonders of this diverse island country by taking a scenic tour along a seaside trail, white water rafting down a wild river, or hiking through virgin forests. These are but a few of the great Japanese adventures available to the intrepid traveller.

A great respect for nature’s power and splendour is one of

CULTURAL AND UNIQUE ATTRACTIONS Proudly celebrating the arts, scholarship, architecture, tradition and innovation, Japan is an ancient country with a unique and captivating culture and home to Living National Treasures, craftspeople who have dedicated their lives to mastering an art, in the process preserving practices and philosophies for future generations. Travellers can meet with these artisans, learning the importance and significance of the traditions they preserve, while appreciating the nuances of their art.

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the central principles of Shintoism, Japan’s indigenous animist religion, and this island country’s spectacular natural beauty is one of its greatest and largely undiscovered attractions. Large parts of the country are protected, so visitors can explore a multitude of natural environments, from forests filled with wildlife and sacred spirits to beaches with glowing sands, and ancient paths to hike that will leave you enlightened and uplifted.

Exploring new terrain by sea or by rail can be a magical—and luxurious—experience, with a constantly changing vista seen from the window of a luxury cruise ship or train carriage. From the comfort of your seat, you can take in the diverse scenery of Japan and appreciate the very Japanese concept of transient beauty.

culture developed over long centuries at times in isolation from the rest of the world. Here you come to appreciate just how much work goes into shaping the simplest item and, in turn, admire it all the more. Entertainment really is like nowhere else, with performances where dance and highly controlled movements replace language, and a visit to a Japanese museum could turn into a whole package experience ranging from art to history. If it is a memorable cultural experience catered to personal interests that you seek, then Japan has much to offer.

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ACCOMMODATION Whether you wish to wake up in the cocooned comfort of a plush bed in an international hotel or on a futon on tatami mats in a traditional ryokan, Japan’s versatile luxury accommodation will make you feel instantly at home.

For the discerning traveller who enjoys accommodation with a global appeal, Japan is home to some of the world’s finest boutique and flagship hotels with cutting-edge facilities in prime locations.

Here you can enjoy a cocktail in the opulent surroundings of a rooftop bar with views over a glittering metropolitan nightscape.

If you prefer a more authentic Japanese experience, a ryokan resort with its refined interiors, tatami mat flooring, futon bed, and yukata robes will give you a taste of traditional Japan with

a luxury twist. Here you can relax, unwind and experience the pinnacle of Japanese hospitality and age-old customs said to date back to the 8th century.

Located in secluded pockets of the breathtaking Japanese countryside, these luxury hideaways will awaken your senses with spacious accommodation and private alfresco hot spring baths surrounded by nature. The ryokan is the perfect break from busy city life.

Be it a design hotel with attentive service, a taste of the traditional or an escape-it-all rural retreat, world-renowned Japanese hospitality will make you feel pampered and relaxed so that you can fully enjoy your time away.

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JET-SETTING IN STYLE

TUMI and McLaren add key travel and accessory pieces for the ultimate collection of modern essentials

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UMI and luxury supercar maker and Formula 1 team McLaren have joined forces to create a brand-new line-up of co-created, premium travel accessories and luggage, expanding upon their sought-after debut collection that launched globally earlier this year.

Remaining true to both brands’ emphasis on quality, innovation and design excellence, nine additional pieces have been added, extending the collaborative range to include small leather goods, outerwear, and sleeker silhouettes.

Designed to meet the needs of those who prefer lighter, more compact designs, the pieces are accented throughout with familiar touches from the collaboration’s initial launch including carbon fibre, a key lightweight material for both companies, and McLaren’s signature papaya orange colourway.

A testament to what is now their third year of collaboration, Victor Sanz, TUMI’s Creative Director, and Rob Melville, McLaren Automotive’s supercar Design Director, continue to reinvent modern essentials while carefully incorporating elements that remain true to each brand’s core DNA. Key pieces of the collection include The Halo Backpack and M-Tech Soft Satchel.

The Halo Backpack embodies luxury performance, featuring a moulded front panel, a padded sleeve that can hold up to a 14-inch laptop and a built-in USB port for on-the-go recharging. It is accented with carbon fibre, papaya highlights, a leather handle and magnetic zippers featuring subtle TUMI and McLaren branding.

The M-Tech Soft Satchel is this collection’s travel solution. As weekend trips, staycations and short breaks continue to trend, this satchel makes the perfect companion for those who prefer the ease of unstructured silhouettes. This duffel is fashioned with both an articulated papaya-accented padded shoulder strap and leather top carry handles to offer adaptability while keeping you on the move.

The range presents three additional, compact styles. The universal Brox Slim Utility Pouch is perfect for those who prefer to only carry the essentials. The Fuel Crossbody is a new streamlined design that offers hands-free and versatile wearability that can be fashioned as a crossbody or worn around the waist. The Remex Accessory Kit is small enough to take away on vacation or holiday, to the gym or the office for a touch of hybrid working, complete with a clear window accent that provides a quick view to easily spot your belongings.

Rounding out the collection’s smaller goods are the Global Double Billfold, Passport Cover, and Folding Card Case. Each is exquisitely fashioned in leather and highlighted with papaya-coloured metal hardware, carbon fibre and embossed branding, which make them perfect for holiday gifting.

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LIFESTYLE THE STUBBLE BUDDY

Meet the game-changing, bathroom-cleaning vacuum designed to quickly clean up hair left behind on your bathroom counter, sink, and floor after you trim. The Stubble Buddy quietly vacuums beard hair and hair clippings in seconds so there's no more mess, clogged drains, hairy floors, or dirty sinks.

PIQO PROJECTOR

Embark on an immersive cinematic media viewing experience with the PIQO HD 1080p Projector. Equipped with a 200-lumen bulb, this pocket-sized projector provides an incredible HD viewing experience with a massive 240-inch image in stunning clarity and superior picture brightness whether it’s day or night. The addition of built-in Hi-Fi speaker eliminates any need for portable audio devices so you can enjoy your favourite movies, shows, and music on the go.

BELLROY RFID-BLOCKING WALLET

These RFID-protected wallets and passport holders keep your cards safe from electronic skimmers, adding a layer of security for more peace of mind. Crafted from premium, durable materials, Bellroy’s wallets balance clever storage with slim design, while keeping all your valuables safely stored.

KAHUNA ZERO-GRAVITY MASSAGE CHAIR

Kahuna Massage Chairs utilise state-of-the-art design and innovative technology, including proprietary 3D and 4D rollers, and a human-like touch for the ultimate zero gravity relaxation experience. The brand has also received acclaim for American inpatient rehabilitation treatments.

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TECHNOLOGY

SMART SNORE EYE MASK

Achieve more restful sleep for yourself—and anyone who may be sleeping next to you— with the Smart Snore Eye Mask.

It uses advanced sound recognition and bone conduction technologies to accurately recognise snoring. Once detected, it utilises 36 levels of progressive micro-vibrations to gently stir you without waking you. These light vibrations encourage your body to adjust the muscles in your throat that can constrict breathing—effectively eliminating the cause of snoring so you can sleep more soundly.

BOSE FRAMES TEMPO

Experience high-quality sound—without headphones. Bose Frames Tempo are high-performance sport sunglasses with a revolutionary Bose Open Ear Audio design that allows you to hear your music and your surroundings at the same time for a workout unlike any other. With its sweat and weatherresistant design, light weight, aerodynamic nylon frame, and soft, silicone nose pads, Tempo is designed for comfort and performance, ideal for use both indoors and out.

SONY PLAYSTATION 5

Gaming has come a long way since Mario. The PlayStation 5 is the largest console in history, and it uses its power to immerse you in new ways. You’ll stare at 8K graphics and listen to redesigned sound, all while battling through Fortnite with a redesigned controller that uses haptic feedback and pressuresensitive trigger.

VECNOS IQUI

This pocket-sized gadget strives to simplify 360-degree photography. While it’s not much bigger than a Sharpie, this 360-degree camera punches above its weight. With four lenses, one of which points straight up, you can focus on being in the moment and not worrying about catching the right angle.

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TECHNOLOGY

MORE PRO THAN EVER BEFORE iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max, push the boundaries of what’s possible in a smartphone

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edesigned inside and out, iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max introduce an all-new Super Retina XDR display with ProMotion, featuring an adaptive refresh rate up to 120Hz, making the touch experience faster and more responsive. The pro camera system gets its biggest advancement ever with new Ultra Wide, Wide, and Telephoto cameras that capture stunning photos and video, powered by the unmatched powerful performance of A15 Bionic. These technologies enable impressive new photo capabilities never possible on iPhone, like macro photography on the new Ultra Wide camera and up to 2.2x improved low-light performance on the new Wide camera.

New photography features like Photographic Styles personalise the look of images in the Camera app, and both models now include Night mode on all cameras.

Video takes a huge leap forward with Cinematic mode for beautiful depth-of-field transitions, macro video, Timelapse and Slo-mo, and even better low-light performance.

Both models also offer end-to-end pro workflows in Dolby Vision, and for the first time, ProRes, only available on iPhone. iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max also include 5G with more bands for better coverage, big improvements to battery life for the best battery life ever on iPhone with iPhone 13 Pro Max, new storage capacity of 1TB, and the Ceramic Shield front cover, tougher than any smartphone glass. iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max will be available in four stunning finishes, including graphite, gold, silver, and the all-new sierra blue. “iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max make up our most pro iPhone lineup ever with the biggest advancement for our camera system, the best battery life ever in an iPhone, and the fastest performance of any smartphone, setting a new standard for iPhone and enabling incredible experiences never before possible,” said Greg Joswiak, Apple’s senior vice president of Worldwide Marketing. “The new pro camera system offers even more pro photography capabilities like improved telephoto zoom, macro photography, Photographic Styles, Cinematic mode, as well as ProRes and Dolby Vision video. The Super Retina XDR display with ProMotion is our best display ever; it intelligently responds to the content on your screen, offers fantastic graphics performance, and is perfect for any viewing experience.”

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TECHNOLOGY

UNFOLD YOUR WORLD Samsung has opened the next chapter in foldable innovation with the new Galaxy Z Fold3 5G

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amsung’s latest innovation is a premium foldable smartphone built with the craftsmanship and flagship innovations Samsung users have come to love and expect. The third generation of these category-defining devices incorporates key improvements, making it more durable with more optimised foldable experiences than ever before. From iconic design to immersive entertainment, Z Fold3 offers unique new ways to work, watch, and play.

For those who need the ultimate device for productivity and immersive entertainment, Z Fold3 is a true multitasking powerhouse with next-level performance, an undisrupted 7.6-inch Infinity Flex Display, and the first-ever S Pen support on a foldable device.

“With Galaxy Z Fold3, Samsung is once again redefining the possibilities with foldable smartphones that empower users with the flexibility and versatility needed for today’s fast-paced world,” said Dr. TM Roh, President and Head of Mobile Communications Business, Samsung Electronics. “As a pioneer and industry leader in the foldable category, we’re proud to build on our legacy of innovation with the Z Fold3. These devices equip consumers with technologies that unlock new ways to maximise and enjoy every moment with an ecosystem built on openness and innovation.”

The revolutionary Hideaway Hinge enables the devices to stay in place at any angle for innovative user experiences with Flex mode. The Hideaway Hinge is also thinner and sleeker than ever before. Z Fold3 was also put through a strenuous folding test, verified by Bureau Veritas, to withstand folding 200,000 times.

Plus, it’s equipped with the latest 5G band compatibility for the best experience inside and out.

Unfold Z Fold3 to immerse yourself in theater-like viewing experiences and stay fully engaged in your favourite content on the uninterrupted 7.6-inch Infinity Flex Display—thanks to the new under display camera technology.

For the first time ever on the Galaxy Z series, Samsung is bringing its beloved Note series technology to Z Fold3—the S Pen functionality. Take advantage of fully optimised S Pen features on their foldable screen, which is a perfect fit for on-the-go multitaskers. On Z Fold3’s massive Main Screen, it’s easier than ever to jot down notes during a video call or check off a to-do list while reading emails, and power your creativity and productivity with the S Pen, which features a specially engineered retractable Pro tip with force limit technology to protect the phone’s main screen for peace of mind while using the S Pen. Productivity seekers will also enjoy Z Fold3’s enhanced Flex mode features, which let you do more at once, such as joining a video call on the device’s top screen while checking meeting notes on the bottom. With Z Fold3’s updated Multi-Active Window, it’s even easier to make dinner plans over text while checking your calendar,.

Z Fold3 is built with a sleeker, thinner, and lighter design for even better portability than Galaxy Z Fold2. It comes with a choice of three timeless colors: Phantom Black, Phantom Green, and Phantom Silver.

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LIFESTYLE

RAY-BAN AND FACEBOOK INTRODUCE FIRST-GENERATION SMART GLASSES

Ray-Ban Stories smart eyeglasses and smart sunglasses, with camera and audio, combine legendary Facebook technology and iconic Ray-Ban style

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ay-Ban Stories smart glasses give you a new way to capture photos and video, share your adventures and listen to music or take phone calls — so you can stay present with friends, family and the world around you.

Ray-Ban Stories’ dual integrated 5MP cameras let you capture life’s moments as they happen from a unique first-person perspective. You can easily record the world as you see it, taking photos and up to 30-second videos using the capture button or hands-free with Facebook Assistant voice commands. A hardwired capture LED lights up to let people nearby know when you’re taking a photo or video. Streamlined, open-ear speakers are built in, and Ray-Ban Stories’ three-microphone audio array delivers richer voice and sound transmission for calls and videos.

Beamforming technology and a background noise suppression algorithm provide for an enhanced calling experience like you’d expect from dedicated headphones.

Ray-Ban Stories pairs with the new Facebook View app,

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so you can share your stories and memories seamlessly with friends and social media followers. The Facebook View app on iOS and Android makes it easy to import, edit and share content captured on the smart glasses to apps on your phone: Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, Messenger, Twitter, TikTok, Snapchat, and more. You can also save content to your phone’s camera roll and edit and share from there. And new, exclusive post-capture enhancements built into Facebook View let you create unique content to put a special spin on your posts.

Designed with privacy in mind, Ray-Ban Stories has numerous built-in features to provide control and peace of mind to both device owners and bystanders.

Ray-Ban Stories are available in 20 variations, in classic Ray-Ban styles — Wayfarer, Wayfarer Large, Round and Meteor — and five colours with a range of lenses, including clear, sun, transition and prescription, so you can choose the style that’s right for you.

TECHNOLOGY

December 2021 GLOBALCITIZENFORUM.ORG

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LIFESTYLE

FLY ON THE WAVES

Inspired by supercars, Italian-based Centrostiledesign has dreamed up what might be the future of boating

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he Future-E concept boat is an opulent water vessel that draws its design inspiration from supercars to provide drivers with a stylish way to get around on water.

The boat features a futuristic interior that is spacious enough to accommodate a driver along with up to three passengers, while the dashboard is equipped with a series of wraparound displays. It is supported by four foils that lift the boat out of the water as it builds up speed — topping out at an impressive 30

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knots. A kinematic system most closely associated with an F1 racer suspension makes your ride across the water stable and comfortable. The shape of the foils also serves as a cradle to store the vessel on the deck of a superyacht or on any land surface.

The concept foiling yacht is the closest thing to a "flying boat" and is being billed as a zero-impact boat with no carbon emissions, noise, or even waves, thanks to its 100% recycled carbon fiber and all-electric engine.

MONTENEGRO Citizenship by Investment Program

Sail to a world of possibilities. Anchor in Montenegro.

Invest from € 250,000 in an approved real estate project in addition to a donation of € 100,000 to qualify for residency and citizenship in Montenegro, one of Europe's youngest and most promissing countries.

Qualify for citizenship in 6 months.

Become a Global Citizen®

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