MP issue#109 Dec/Jan 2019/2020

Torsten Müller-Ötvös CEO of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars

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THE BESPOKE EDITION ISSUE NUMBER 313 - DECEMBER - JANUARY 2019/2020

TIME TO CELEBRATE Dear Passionate Readers, What a great way to wrap up the year and prepare for 2020!

From meeting some of the most inspiring people, to attending the most exclusive launches, hosting some of the most high end events and launching the first edition of Passions Arabia Exhibition, this has definitely been a turning point for PH7 Group as we are gearing-up to celebrate our 20th Anniversary!

Can you believe it!?

How time flies!

And yet, when you learn to make every day count, you cannot but pause every now and then and be in awe‌ not with all you were able to achieve, but what you have been blessed to be able to continue to build on.

And the best is yet to come, See you all in 2020,

Zeina Mokaddam

KUWAIT CITY Arraya Centre Ground Floor, Al-Shuhada St. Phone: +965 22997662

ON THE COVER: December - January 2019/2020 A career BMW-er from 1989 until 2010 when he was appointed CEO of Rolls-Royce, Torsten Müller-Ötvös’s life is cars and luxury. Our Zeina Mokaddam received unprecedented access to this vision thinker, and learned more about how he views his role within Rolls-Royce, how he views luxury, and what makes him tick. It makes for a fascinating read!

Creative Director: Adel Alansari Creative Photographer: Faisal AlBisher Venue: Four Seasons Hotel - Kuwait

Torsten Müller-Ötvös CEO of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars

CONTENTS 14

Torsten Müller-Ötvös CEO of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars

20 A Man of His time

Alexander Schmiedt, Brand Director, Vacheron Constantin 24

Franck Juhel Montblanc President Middle East, India and Africa

28

Flying High Rohit Ramachandran, CEO, Jazeera Airways

30

Abdulla Al Awadi “Carpets of Love”

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Nouf Al-Hajri LEGAL CONSULTANT Khaled Al-Kandari Al-Kandari Law Firm PUBLISHED BY

MANAGING DIRECTOR Zeina Mokaddam OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Mishleen AlKazzi MANAGING EDITOR Simon Balsom EDITORS Rawan Qabazard Anju Kakar CONTRIBUTORS Adel Al-Ansari Yousif Abdulsayed Jalil Marvin SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER Shadi Moufied IN-HOUSE PHOTOGRAPHY Maher Al-Nouri

PH7 is a specialized publishing house based in Kuwait.

Telephone +(965) 2572 0810 Fax +(965) 2572 0860 Website www.ph7-kw.com To maintain the desired quality of our publication, your contribution and feedback are welcomed.

Please email your suggestions to info@ph7-kw.com For advertising, please contact info@ph7-kw.com For subscription, please email info@ph7-kw.com PH7 wishes to state that the opinions expressed in MEN’S PASSION are those of the authors concerned and not necessarily those of the publisher.

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MEN’S PASSION

Torsten Müller-Ötvös CEO of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars

A career BMW-er from 1989 until 2010 when he was appointed CEO of Rolls-Royce. His life is cars and luxury.

Our Zeina Mokaddam received unprecedented access to this vision thinker, and learned more about how he views his role within Rolls-Royce and what makes him tick.

up close & personal

COVER STORY

“Custodian of the brand”

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“From time to time, you need to rock the brand.

That’s what we did with Black Badge.”

Torsten Müller-Ötvös

CEO of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars

On Rolls-Royce

Why did you choose automotives as a career? I’m a car nut basically. When I was a little boy, I knew every car and every model. And, being raised in Munich, you always see that marvellous 4-Cylinder building of BMW. But, becoming part of the industry was never going to be easy. Having studied economics, I looked at other sectors too, until finally I got the offer of a job at BMW. What is the most challenging aspect of your role at Rolls-Royce? To constantly keep the brand up to date, and to look in to the future. To understand trends, to understand clients, and to know where we can improve. At Rolls-Royce we strive for perfection – it’s in our blood. This is my task here. We have a very good culture of challenging and supporting each other at the brand.

What’s the secret behind your success? A lot of things. I go with my gut feelings, but I’ve always enjoyed working and am fortunate to have had challenging bosses – and I mean that in a very positive way. I also had the good fortune to be given large roles from the very beginning of my career – this helped develop me. I’ve never been driven by money, for me the reward has always been the challenge.

What is it about luxury cars that fascinates you? I’m fascinated by luxury itself. The details, the extraordinary, rarity, the marketing story behind luxury, the refinement, the branding. Without these, you’ll never be successful. All this I find extremely appealing. I don’t consider Rolls-Royce as an automobile business. We’re a luxury business.

When your customers aren’t buying Rolls-Royces, what else are they buying? Our buyers have multiple lifestyles. They’re deep in to watches, jewelry, technical gadgets, fashion plays an important role too, and living – in the way they furnish their house including what kind of architecture they bring in. All our clients are highly interested in their surroundings. They’re asking how they can style their surroundings. Through this, they’re developing and expressing their personality. I haven’t found a Rolls-Royce customer who doesn’t care about how he/she looks or the way he/she lives.

COVER STORY

“For me, the reward has always been the challenge.”

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MEN’S PASSION

“ I’m constantly in the business.”

COVER STORY

“Strive for perfection, reinvent yourself constantly”.

Sir Henry Royce

On the work / life balance You’re a busy man. How do you juggle the work / life balance? How do you manage to find time for family and other passions?

For me, work is part of my life. I’m fortunate to work on something that I truly enjoy. For that reason, I’m not even thinking of the balance between work and life. I’m thinking more that it is important to guarantee some private time, but that’s all.

When you’re away from Rolls-Royce, do you find it easy to disconnect from work altogether?

No. Even on a vacation. It’s impossible. Many of our clients have my phone number, and I often get calls. I can never switch my phone off. Anyhow, I’m constantly in the business.

After 30-plus years in the business, what still motivates you?

I draw my motivation from the role itself, and of course the brand. Even after ten years in this position at Rolls-Royce, I’m humbled in my role.

115-year-old brand, and I’m running it with a wonderful team. It is a great honor.

Quick-fire Q&A When are you happiest?

When everything runs according to plan, and I’m surrounded by happy people.

What is your greatest fear?

To lose my wife and daughter.

What is your earliest memory?

I had a little kit-car at two-and-half-years-old. I’ll never forget it.

What is your most treasured possession?

I’m not really a material guy.

What is the trait you most admire in yourself?

Perhaps it’s not exactly a trait, but I like my attention to details.

What is the trait you most admire in others?

Loyalty and passion.

What do you owe your parents?

An excellent education in life. Not only academic, but througout life.

How would you like to be remembered?

If we’re talking Rolls-Royce… that I took part in an incredible modernization of the brand.

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MEN’S PASSION

A Man of His Time Alexander Schmiedt, Brand Director, Vacheron Constantin

Vacheron Constantin is the world’s oldest haute horlogerie manufacture with more than 260 years of uninterrupted history, Alexander Schmiedt has been brand director for the Middle East since the beginning of 2016. Accepting the mantle of such a great legacy is something Schmiedt continues to take in his stride.

INTERVIEW

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MEN’S PASSION

Being the oldest and, perhaps, the most bound by its traditions, hasn’t prevented Vacheron from presenting attractive propositions to a whole new demographic of watch buyers – the FiftySix is a case in point and, similarly, the Overseas - but this hasn’t diverted the essential essence of the brand at all. The company’s ambition is to champion artistry, agility and human interaction.

The motif “One of Not Many” was a great success for Vacheron.

It engaged a new generation of customers. Who are the new ambassadors to be added? And what’s the new direction for 2020?

In truth, the motif added no new direction - the concept simply offered a different way of expressing the 260-year-old values of Vacheron. So, this will not change.

With the end of the year approaching, we could do one of two things.

Look back, or look forward. We prefer to look to the future! Let’s talk 2020!

However, in 2020 we will bring a fresh expression of the concept – perhaps something for ladies.

Vacheron Constantin’s past 12 months have been largely about the Fifty-Six. What can we expect to see in 2020? You can look forward to a continuous development of Vacheron Constantin. The beauty of Vacheron is that we are really a generalist brand. We can make classic watches, we can make sporty elegant watches, we can make high class complications – all of which we have done over recent years. Indeed, I’m here in Kuwait for a private customer-only high-complications event.

Then there are also ladies’ watches. So, for 2020 there might be something we haven’t focused on in recent years – and part of it might just be something to do with our ladies’ collections! We have sophisticated female connoisseurs entering the watch market. For these ladies, the same as for our male customers, elements such as craftsmanship and rarity are becoming increasingly appreciated.

How much further do you have to travel along the superb FiftySix road as far as new editions go? It will continue to develop. It was not launched as a one-shot, but rather as a pillar within the Vacheron collections. In itself, the Fifty-Six is an emblem of sportiness and elegance.

The celebrities we partnered with for One of Not Many aren’t our ambassadors – the man or woman of the right caliber who chooses to wear a Vacheron Constantin for its authenticity… these are our ambassadors. We look forward to adding to their numbers in 2020.

Bespoke is increasingly important in many sectors – what’s the impact on your business growth with Les Cabinotiers? Is this something we might see become more accessible? (meaning, less expensive – in the way the Fifty-Six made the brand more accessible when it was launched). Les Cabinotiers is the level of watchmaking we originated at. Today, it exists as a special department within our company. Effectively, Les Cabinotiers is our ‘dream factory’. It is for the few that have a passion for the finest of fine watchmaking, and it’s for the few that also have the patience and will wait for bespoke pieces.

So, it’s not something that could ever be made more commercially accessible – nor do we want to try to see it become so. What we have done for the past two years, however, is to create ultra-limited editions by the artists of Les Cabinotiers – these pieces suit those amongst us who want a rare and very special piece, but who don’t want to wait.

INTERVIEW

In 2020, Baselworld and SIHH will share days in the calendar. A good move for the industry? Who are the winners here? I think everyone is a winner – we all get to go to Geneva during better weather! Seriously though, it is a good move – logistically for our guests, and also because the renamed Baselworld – Watches and Wonders – has become less of a B2B show and became increasingly an experience for press, clients, and the public. It makes a lot of sense for brands and visitors.

You’ve been in your role four years now. Given your insight across the region, how do your national markets compare? Dubai is different from Qatar. Muscat from Manama. How do you quantify the markets? And Kuwait – how do you view Kuwait? What identifies the market as unique? All of our GCC markets share similarities, yet all are different. In general, they are countries where have a very strong history, and we’re developing well in all of them. Each has a sophisticated clientele, and each a growing strong female clientele.

The differences reveal a lot about the individuality. For example, Dubai is exposed to tourism in a way no other market is. Saudi Arabia is potentially our largest market – but retail in the Kingdom is still developing towards its potential.

As for Kuwait – it may be a small country, but it is the home of a very sophisticated market. Kuwaiti’s are the region’s trend-leaders.

We come to launch something here and we find they already knew about it six months earlier! It is a challenging market, and one that I enjoy hugely.

What, to you, defines ‘luxury’ today? Luxury began two hundred years ago amongst royals and industrialists. They sought things that were rare and fine.

Twenty to thirty years ago, luxury changed. Luxury was democratised.

Recently, through the omnipresence of social media, today’s new generation understands the value of a brand, they appreciate rarity, and authenticity becomes important. This is playing in to the hands of companies such as Vacheron Constantin.

The ultimate luxury is something that was made by someone else, but exclusively for you. We live in an age where we have a super-fast life cycle of products, we have 3D printing, AI, and more and more things can be made by machines. People appreciate objects that are not made by a machine. People want objects that were made by another human.

This is what we stand for.

To understand true luxury – one must discover the truly authentic.

Two years ago, we asked you to assess your relationship with time.

We can remind you of your answer: “It is the ultimate luxury!

When you are born, you are given a certain quantity of time and once a second is over you cannot take it back. There is no recipe on how to use it. My advice is to use it in a way that you don’t regret, and you make the most out of it.” Have the past 24 months done anything to change your view on this? Nothing. It still stands! One thing I will add though is that my time spent in the Middle East during these past two years has been time well spent!

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MEN’S PASSION

Franck Juhel Montblanc President Middle East, India and Africa

Franck Juhel was appointed President of Montblanc Middle East, India and Africa in September 2017. As President, Franck Juhel delivered great expertise and innovation to the brand, leading its development, expanding trade relations and enhancing communication strategies in both domestic and travel retail networks. in Kuwait for the opening of Montblanc’s newly renovated boutique at 360 Mall, our Katia Abbas sat down with him and discussed the brand, its highlights, and learned his definition of luxury.

INTERVIEW

2019 has been a challenge within every sector of retail. What is the spirit at Montblanc as you move into 2020? I hope I will be able to sleep a little in 2020! Our spirit is as good as it always is though! In times like this you either see only the challenges or you see the opportunities. We see the opportunities. My job is to make sure we seize all the opportunities as they arise. We want to bring the Montblanc experience and the Montblanc atmosphere to the region.

To deliver it the same way as any customer could expect everywhere else in the world.

With writing instruments, leather, travel, watches, new tech and accessories in the collection – how best would you describe the brand and its DNA to a newcomer in the luxury business? The brand is the same brand as when it was established by our founders. They were pioneers then, we are pioneers now. We have many innovations coming every year. Since our early days, we’ve become known for the quality of our products. I think they best way to explain Montblanc to a newcomer is through these two characteristics – a pioneering spirit, and high quality. We are, essentially, a luxury lifestyle business.

Craftsmanship and the human touch are at the core of every Montblanc product. Tell us more about the lengths that you go to in order to ensure you’re shipping the very finest of products.

Let me take, for example, 1858. It is a watch line that took four years to develop. Throughout the process, it’s not one watchmaker working on it – it’s a whole team. There are designers too, executives, the marketeers – each step delivers a high level of control. It ensures we deliver the very best, every time.

It’s been 10 years since the Great Characters collection first launched. How has the response been? Amazing, year after year.

Each time we launch a new character, it sells out almost before it reaches the boutique. The collectors are always waiting! Here, in Kuwait, our partner Beidoun have a waiting list ready every time we launch a new piece. It is incredible!

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MEN’S PASSION

INTERVIEW

What were the strong lines for Montblanc of 2019? Why did they succeed? One of our greatest successes was with the launch of our new luggage collection. As far as watches go – the 1858 was so successful it sold out. Bad news for some, but good news when you can’t deliver because demand is so high! In terms of writing instruments, we launched a new Starwalker Collection. It is an icon and emblem of Montblanc. When you touch something like this, as a brand, you’re always concerned as to the customers’ reaction. The new collection was very well received – it has relaunched the whole Starwalker line globally.

What trends will reveal themselves at Montblanc in 2020?

Unfortunately, I can’t yet share with you what will be revealed – not yet, anyway! But, we’ll enter even more deeply the world of new technology. Keep watching us! There will be a new writing instrument line – strongly linked to the Middle East!

What, for you, defines luxury as we move in to the third decade of the 21st century? My personal luxury is to spend time with my children. As a professional – luxury is about the individual. we all have our own way of defining luxury. for some it can be a service, for some a product, for some a vacation. However, where we all meet, at Montblanc we cover the global meaning of luxury... the best service and the best products.

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MEN’S PASSION

Flying High Rohit Ramachandran, CEO, Jazeera Airways

This month’s biggest aviation news was the opening of Jazeera Airways’ Kuwait – London route. In a stroke, Jazeera broke the 55-yearold duopoly held by the two countries national carriers by offering a lower cost alternative.

There’s a backstory here too… Jazeera Airways are one of a handful of the world’s airlines to be bullishly adding routes and building profits.

With sat down with the man behind its growing success, the redoubtable Rohit Ramachandran.

INTERVIEW

With less than three years under your belt at Jazeera Airways, you’re already bucking the trend and actually making money out of running an airline. What’s your secret? Why you and Jazeera? Why so few others? Firstly, I inherited a fundamentally good business, with very supportive stakeholders who had a strong vision for the future development of the airline. What we have managed to achieve as a team here is to focus fanatically on keeping our cost base under control whilst identifying new routes for our expansion plan which have delivered profit from Day 1. I can’t comment on others but we are only one of very few airlines in the region that are truly profitable. The ‘’why’’ is that there are different agendas; but as a private business, listed on the Kuwait stock exchange, we have a responsibility to shareholders to deliver a return and we are committed to that objective.

The new LGW route – aimed at a new breed of leisure and business traveller? The new breed is actually a traveller who has already benefited from Jazeera’s low cost proposition in the Kuwait market for the past 14 years. Great value has been something lacking on the London route. We are the first alternative to the two main carriers serving the UK capital in 55 years! The route was literally crying out for a low cost option and we have filled that gap.

What’s next for Europe? A second UK destination? Or something central continental? We are looking carefully at the LGW performance to see what we do next. Additional UK flights is certainly a possibility – we could increase the frequency to LGW or open a new destination such as Manchester. We are also evaluating other European routes – especially seasonal summer destinations for next year. We’ll release more news on that in the new year.

Jazeera’s fares are ultra-competitive – but not in the sphere of budget flights. What’s the red-line you won’t cross in terms of cutting frills to save $$$s on fares? Well, obviously we don’t compromise on safety. That’s a given. We do offer good quality cabin interiors for essential comfort but we’re not luxurious. LCC is in our DNA - we charge for food and baggage and other ancillaries. Yes, we provide free inflight entertainment but that is because we can make money from advertising revenues to fund it. Essentially we are like most LCCs. Our unique point of difference is that we own and operate our own terminal so we can control the passenger experience from check-in to boarding. Whilst that’s an investment we have the upside of airport revenues other airlines do not have.

What are the trends in aviation we need to be aware of now? How is environmental awareness going to affect the growth of airlines?

Also, is it still about fine foods and multi-channel seat-back TVs? Or comfort, service? Or is the future increasingly cost driven? That’s a very wide-ranging question. To keep it simple: first trend is with our A320neo fleet we are moving into what were traditional wide-bodied, long haul destinations. The jury is out on whether LCCs can successfully run a long haul network using wide-bodied aircraft. But the extended range of the A320neo allows us to use narrow-body aircraft for over 6 hours+ flying and be profitable. Second, this aircraft is more fuel efficient, has fewer CO2 emissions and 50% less noise. That’s a win-win for the environment and for the airline. Inevitably I’m sure we will see the development of completely carbon-free electric aircraft in the future, mirroring what is going on in the automotive industry. Thirdly, cost management in such a fiercely competitive industry is always going to be of paramount importance but that does not mean less for the traveller – in fact airlines will be offering more options, but the customer will have to pay for them on an à la carte basis, according to their needs.

You’re a constant traveller, Jazeera doesn’t serve every destination you head to. Who do you most look forward to flying with on routes not covered by your own airline – and why? Ideally my flights will be booked based on time performance and good service.

Five quick questions with Rohit Ramachandran The art of packing: what goes in your flight bag first? What do you never travel without?

My iPad. Tips for the businessman who’s looking to travel light?

Carry-on only!

How do you pass your time on board? Laptop, reading, napping?

All three, if there’s time.

Favorite airport?

Jazeera Terminal 5 at KWI “If I wasn’t running an airline I would be….”

Well, I’m actually a frustrated rock band musician!

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MEN’S PASSION

Abdulla Al Awadi “Carpets of Love”

Based in Kuwait, Al Awadi is a trained architect, an admired teacher, and a celebrated artist, working in the fields of costume and jewelry design, photography, and digital printing. His love for geometric patterns features calligraphy and icons of the Arab world that play with the idea of revisiting the complete notion of “Islamic design.”

INTERVIEW

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MEN’S PASSION

Hob “The majority of my design journeys have me revisiting traditional patterns, regardless of the fact they are social, artistic or geometric in nature; as well contemporary regional crafts whether existing, traditional, avant-garde or those on their way to extinction.” Abdulla Al-Awadi The local tradition of weaving Sadu (flat-woven carpets) has been a part of nomadic life for a long time and is unfortunately on the verge of extinction. A practice that has been passed down for generations, a young Bedouin girl would start weaving for her home from a young age till she was ready for marriage, making her the first architect in the region.

A constant companion in Abdulla’s journeys is the ‘word’ which is inherent in many of his art pieces and inspired by songs, poetry, proverbs, and the Holy Quran. In this collection, the aesthetic appearance of the ‘word’ initiates the statement, and its repetition generates the overall geometrical pattern of the carpet. Without a doubt, art as a mode of dialogue!

Jawa

Beloved lover

Shouq brown

Jawa stripes

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MEN’S PASSION

Farah AlWugayan A Kuwaiti poet reciting her story

Lover of the mystical, she dances with your energy and turns you into a poem.

You’ll find her slaying cases at courts in the morning and wrapped in poems at night. She merges emotion with logic as words are everywhere for her.

A poet in touch with many spirits, she sought to outpour all her heightened emotions. Farah is known for her instant poetry and has taken up the challenge of writing instant poems in many events that have gained success over the past five years.

She published her first poetry book “hi, i’ll love you anyway” in March 2017.

Every poem she writes translates a part of her soul. She comes alive with words and believes in the unity that comes with language. Farah immensely believes that she writes because love is the only universal truth. She hopes her poetry becomes the tool that encourages everyone to stand, feel and simply become their truth.

During the 2018’s summer, Farah was a participant in Bowery Poetry in New York where she struck her audience with a performing piece. She uses performance to vocalise the words that reside in her heart.

Farah aims to heal and spread awareness through her words. With her great mechanism, she also aims to create a world of oneness where individuals would feel less alone.

INTERVIEW

Ivory wool knit top with Mickey Mouse applique, Violet black printed velvet long skirt, black lace gloves, black felt hat, white lace tights, and leather platform shoes All by Gucci

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MEN’S PASSION

Multicolor lurex jacquard long sleeve shirt, floral wool intarsio vest, red leather skort All by Gucci

INTERVIEW

When did you first fall in love with poetry?

Ever since I was very young, I witnessed my mother writing poetry in Arabic and extending her love by reading the poem out loud to us.

Sometimes she’d turn the poem into a song and sing it to my father.

It would engulf me in the warmth of her love and the words. As well my grandmother Maryam (rest be upon her soul), even though she did not read or write, would recite poetry in Arabic. I remember not fully understanding the words, however, her powerful recitation, that too with a robust Kuwaiti accent, would allow her verses to resonate effortlessly. Ever since, I have been in awe of the magic of words, tones, and storytelling.

When did you start writing your pieces?

I started writing around the age of 13. Writing for me began initially as an attempt to create characters; I would spend my time making up characters in my head and sketching them and giving them life. Eventually, each of the characters had their own story to tell, and sometimes their stories intertwined. I later realized that the dialogues in the stories were very poetic, and instantaneously the flight of poetry took off. My first piece was five pages long, and I clearly remember that my mother wept as she read it; I was not a very talkative child, and through my poetry, she had a sneak peek into my deepest thoughts. Seeing her moved by my words was a moment so profound and touching; it motivated me to explore words and literature further.

What was the first poem you read that inspired you?

I pulled out a Khalil Gibran book from the Arabic library in school and kept it with me for an entire year, and as I read it over and over again, it seemed to captivate me each time. What’s astonishing about Gibran’s writings is how his poetry tends to evoke the same feelings it emitted from the very first read; purposefully proving the power of words, expression, form, and structure. Years later, I found the same book in a used bookstore; I now have it in my library.

How did poetry change how you view things in your life?

Over the years, I have come to realize that I’m very metaphorical, and I use much imagery in my conversations. I tend to go through my reality poetically. I genuinely believe that it is the small and most unnoticed things that exist in our day to day lives, and in the dynamics of our relationships, that hold most power and significance. I am forever observing the mundane, for example, how my friend brushes her teeth twice in the morning. It truly is worthy

of being noticed, in my view. It is these very mundane moments that make up the significant elements in our stories. Poetry is my form of communicating and collecting these very moments that we generally neglect and give them due weight and recognition. Poetry makes me feel like I’m unifying the emotional journeys, I feel accomplished when I am told that my poem meant something special to someone or that my words were able to resonate something they didn’t know how to express. I aspire to heal with the collective through my storytelling and words. I want to cultivate a safe space for people to feel comfortable and invited to validate and to feel their feelings and emotions fully.

When was your first on-stage performance, and how did that make you feel?

In 2015 in Harlem, New York. It made me feel excited, alive and vulnerable. After that, my path expanded from being just a visual artist and evolved into a performance poet.

What projects have you worked on, and what is in store for Farah AlWugayan in 2020?

I published my first book in 2017, “hi, I’ll love you anyway,” and I have been performing on different stages around the world. I also released an audio-visual poem meshing visuals and performance poetry in 2018, “Psychosis”. I am currently working on more videos, and in 2020 I will be venturing onto different performance stages worldwide. A little disclosure: I have been pouring out poetry, working on a manuscript, but that’s for a secret future reveal.

Tell us about your personal style: how would you describe it?

My style is a culmination of my growth. In my early years, I leaned more towards a grungier side; as I grew older, my style evolved just as my personality did. The evolution, but of course, covers the various phases of my life. I am prone to opt from neutral colors, and mixed prints, to dark and grungy, to the integration of it all. What I wear depends on my mood; some days I want to express how mellow I feel, and I will pull out the melancholic neutrals, and on other days, when I’m hyped and excited, I will most definitely pull out bright colors to further amplify my fire feels. I love brands with a sense of edge and experiment, but mainly I like pieces that speak out to me, pieces unique in their making, and that seem to me like they were designed for the experience of my being. During my travels, I find myself hunting for pieces from local brands.

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MEN’S PASSION

Sunset yellow wool jacket, Sunset yellow fine wool turtle neck top, Sunset yellow wool skirt All by Gucci

Creative Photographer: Djinane AlSuwayeh Makeup: Fatima AlNaqi Hair/Manicure: FN Salon & Spa Assistant Photographer: Shamaelle AlSuwayeh Assitant Stylist: Ali Zaabi

INTERVIEW

Gold - brown Golden Horse printed lurex long sleeve shirt and skirt, crystal earrings, gold metal effect bracelet, black felt hat, and Gucci 1955 Horsebit bucket bag All by Gucci

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pop-up p72 St yle: Paul Smith’s Fau x A nimals p74

Concierge: K inder – Joy of Moving p76 - Think ing of

going vegan? p78; Bank ing: W ISE Investments p80 40 41

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Rolls-Royce Cullinan Black Badge Global media drive in Dubai

Black Badge is playing a huge role in the current success of Rolls-Royce.

Within a few short years, it has helped reposition the brand – attracting younger buyers, and also increasing the proportion of female buyers. RollsRoyce is no longer an ‘older gentleman’s motor’, instead, it is increasingly the choice of this generations new breed of ambitious, dynamic and hugely successful entrepreneurs and global game-changers.

We joined Rolls-Royce Motor Cars CEO Torsten Müller-Ötvös and his exemplary team for the launch of Cullinan Black Badge. That English marque Rolls-Royce would choose the Emirates for such an important launch shows the importance the brand places on the region for the success of this new Cullinan variant.

AUTOMOTIVE

Torsten’s time in Dubai provided us with unprecedented access to a man whose life is steeped in automobiles and luxury. First, let’s look at Rolls-Royce through his eyes, and learn his view of the region.

How important is the Middle East market to Rolls-Royce? In two words – very important. The reason is, we have a long history in the region. That’s clear from the number of Rolls-Royce’s you see in the streets here. The region ranks as our third largest market after North America and China. The market has developed nicely over recent years, particularly following our marketing approach which has attracted a younger clientele.

We’re not immune from recessionary tendencies of our markets – even here. Our owners are doyens of industry, running their own businesses, and CEOs. And when your own business comes under economic constraints due to shortfalls, then of course you are maybe not in the market for a new car. But that recovers quickly when the economy strengthens. We had a blip some years ago, but things are back nicely.

Torsten on luxury: Luxury is a very personal thing. I find our clients in the region very interesting when it comes to their desires in luxury.

You might be aware we are running Bespoke – an entire internal organisation within Rolls-Royce Motor Cars – and nobody else can deliver bespoke as Rolls-Royce can deliver it. Every car that we ship to the Middle East is highly bespoke. I’ve never seen as much creativity as I have from our clients here. Brilliant combinations of colours, designs, marquetry, and set-ups. I would never teach customers what their tastes should be. We are here to build their dreams.

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Torsten on how Black Badge changed the brand: When we launched Black Badge in 2016, it was quite an experiment. We had high hopes, and the reality of its success is even higher than we could have hoped. Black Badge has changed the face of the brand in many positive ways. We have new clients, younger clients, more females – currently around 15% of all buyers are women. These figures are reflected globally, in the Middle East region, and in Kuwait too.

Torsten on new directions and change: We have a culture of constantly reinventing ourselves. It’s like Sir Henry Royce said, “Strive for perfection, reinvent yourself constantly”. We took risks, that’s for sure. There’s a need to move a big brand from time to time. The biggest discussions revolved around whether what we were doing would scare away our long-standing customers.

It didn’t happen. Those customers appreciated what we did immensely. They decided it may not be for them, but they saw that was the way to keep Rolls-Royce moving forward, to keep the brand young. we also found new ways to communicate. But we’ve always respected our heritage – it would be foolish not to.

Torsten on going electric: Our customers will embrace this.

Electric fits with the brand extremely well. It’s silent, it’s torquey, it’s powerful, it delivers what we call ‘waftability’. We see a lot of our clients already own at least one electric car – so there will be no resistance against us introducing electric.

Torsten on the experience: For Rolls-Royce, it’s also about the immersive experiences that money can’t buy. We are building and creating unbelievable experiences. It is never about buying a RollsRoyce. We have created a luxury ecosystem – Whispers - and we’re offering our top customers a permanently luxury lifestyle. It’s more than a concierge – it’s an exclusive ecosystem for Rolls-Royce owners.

Torsten on exclusivity: We sell around 4,000 vehicles a year around the world. For as long as we keep it like that, as a little drop in the luxury market, then I’ll be happy with it.

Torsten on the future: Autonomous of course, electric of course, 3D-printed bodies perhaps, with AI embedded in to the cars.

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Cullinan Black Badge

Rolls-Royce introduces the darkest, most urban expression of a Black Badge motor car yet Created to satisfy overwhelming demand from younger, more adventurous clients, Cullinan in its silver badge guise, was launched to global acclaim in 2018, immediately becoming the world’s pinnacle super-luxury SUV. Combining luxury in its purest form with genuine practicality and off-road capability, Cullinan unequivocally delivered on the promise of an experience that is Effortless, Everywhere.

The Rolls-Royce of SUVs did much to reach a new group of clients looking for unfettered access to the world’s wildest places and most enriching experiences. Yet, within this group exists a subset of individuals who seek to subvert the motor car’s domineering presence by permanently cloaking it in the night. Cullinan has conquered the world’s wildest reaches. Now it is time for Black Badge Cullinan to conquer new urban frontiers.

Black Badge Cullinan Exterior: The King of the Night While clients can draw on the marque’s 44,000 ‘ready to wear’ paint options or commission an entirely individual Bespoke hue, it is anticipated

that many will opt for Black Badge’s signature Black. Multiple layers of paint and lacquer are meticulously applied and hand-polished 10 times at the Home of Rolls-Royce in Goodwood, West Sussex, representing the most comprehensive surface finish process ever applied to a solid paint colour. The depth and intensity of Black Badge Cullinan’s coachwork serves as the perfect canvas upon which to throw a contrasting hand-painted Coachline into stark relief.

Black Badge Cullinan Interior: Superlative comfort. Audacious design Ordinarily, great efforts are expelled to distance occupants from a Rolls-Royce’s mechanical function. However, the marque’s Colour and Trim experts gently sensationalised the engineering substance of Black Badge, seamlessly blending superlative comfort, bold aesthetics, advanced materials and precise, meticulous craftsmanship.

This ethos is perfectly embodied by Black Badge Cullinan’s Technical Carbon veneer. In the spirit of Sir Henry Royce’s founding philosophy, “When it does not exist, design it”, a collaboration between the marque’s designers, engineers and craftspeople saw the creation of a new luxury material. Inspired by masterpieces of urban architecture, a naked-weave carbon-fibre finish has been developed

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to create highly accurate repeating geometrical shapes that produce a powerful three-dimensional effect.

Each leaf of Technical Carbon is finished with six coats of lacquer before being left to cure for 72 hours then hand-polished to RollsRoyce’s hallmark mirror finish. This process takes 21 days and is only deemed complete once every piece is inspected by a craftsperson to ensure complete reflective uniformity across each of the 23 pieces within the car.

Black Badge Cullinan Engineering. The Architecture of Luxury’s dark side. Black Badge is far more than an aesthetic treatment. In creating this class of motor car, it was of vital importance for RollsRoyce to conceive a meticulously considered dynamic personality that perfectly harmonised with the motor car’s remarkable visual identity. Indeed, the exceptionally high expectations of the marque’s clients defined a rigorous testing protocol lasting more than three years to ensure that Black Badge Cullinan was relevant to their needs.

Key to the visceral thrill of Black Badge Cullinan is the Architecture of Luxury, Rolls-Royce’s proprietary all-aluminium architecture that debuted with Phantom. The sub-structure not only delivers extraordinary body stiffness but its flexibility and scalability allowed Cullinan to be fitted with all-wheel drive and four-wheel steering in its silver badged guise. These dynamic features have been comprehensively exploited and re-engineered for Black Badge while retaining the peerless quality of ride that has driven RollsRoyce’s success.

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“Black Badge reflects the desires of a distinct group of Rolls-Royce clients: men and women who take risks, break rules and build success on their own terms.

Indeed, before we launched Black Badge in 2016 the idea of creating a product that would satisfy this subversive cohort – that is highly dynamic and wilfully rebellious in aesthetic – caused a great deal of internal debate. However, once the marque’s designers, engineers and craftspeople began pursuing this dramatic alter ego, it became clear that these motor cars could not only exist comfortably beneath this revered and historic brand but they would define a new space within the super-luxury market. In this spirit, the time has come for Rolls-Royce’s boldest and darkest expression of Black Badge yet. The King of the Night, Black Badge Cullinan.”

Torsten Müller-Ötvös, Chief Executive Officer, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars

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Driven by Confidence The All-New Lincoln Aviator Takes Flight in the Middle East

The all-new 2020 Lincoln Aviator – arriving in the Kuwait and across the region in January – comes packed with advanced technologies that let the luxury SUV kneel to greet you, and scan the road ahead to glide through an uneven pavement. The three-row, premium large utility vehicle elevates Lincoln’s design vision while delivering on tenets of beauty, gliding, human and a crafted sanctuary.

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Power, capability and choice Aviator offers the kind of capability premium clients require in a three-row SUV, with available all-wheel drive. The standard twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine, paired with a 10-speed SelectShift® automatic transmission, it delivers an impressive 400 horsepower and 562 Nm of torque for effortless acceleration.

Lincoln Drive Modes’ five signature settings – Normal, Conserve, Excite, Slippery and Deep Conditions – allow clients to further customise their drive experience, while a 10.1-inch standard configurable LCD instrument cluster confirms their choices with beautiful, easy-to-read dynamic graphics and prompts.

Client-focused, intuitive technologies Aviator delivers a wealth of intuitive technologies designed to assist the driver while enhancing the overall experience of the journey. Right from the start, the suspension system on Presidential trim automatically lowers the vehicle to “greet” the driver, adding a new level of sophistication to Lincoln’s signature welcome lighting embrace. The convenience of this feature makes loading cargo easier as well.* Also new to Lincoln is an available technology that enables Aviator to “see” most potholes or uneven pavement and immediately make suspension adjustments to keep the ride as smooth as possible.

Adaptive Suspension with Road Preview uses an advanced forward camera to constantly scan the road, seamlessly adjusting the suspension as needed.

All Lincoln vehicles come standard with a suite of driver-assist features known as Lincoln Co-Pilot360™. With the arrival of Aviator, Lincoln’s most advanced suite of driver-assist technologies will be available in a new upgrade aptly named Lincoln CoPilot360™ Plus. It adds:

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• Traffic Jam Assist helps guide the vehicle using adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go, lane centering and traffic sign recognition, which scans speed limit signs along the roadway, adjusting speed based on the information obtained • Evasive Steer Assist aids the driver to help avoid a collision with a slower or stopped vehicle; it provides additional steering support when a collision cannot be avoided by braking alone • Reverse Brake Assist can help you stop the vehicle while backing up if Aviator’s integrated rear sensors and camera detect an obstacle at the rear • Active Park Assist Plus removes the stress from parking by taking over steering, shifting, braking and acceleration functions with the touch of a button to navigate parallel and perpendicular parking spaces with ease Aeronautical inspiration The boundless allure of flight has long inspired automotive design, and the all-new Lincoln Aviator takes that inspiration to the next level.

“The connotations of flight are intrinsic in the lines of the vehicle,” said Susan Lampinen, group chief designer – Color and Material Design – at Lincoln. “Aviator’s iridescent Flight Blue exterior color, for one, complements its flowing lines, while its signature grille is executed in high-gloss black and chrome accents that beckon the eye, while a wraparound windshield completes the aviation-inspired theme.”

An all-new Lincoln Presidential theme, Flight, harmoniously combines Luggage Tan and Ebony, further elevating the ambience of the cabin. Bright engine turn appliqués, brushed in small circles, replicate the finish of early aviation instrument panels and enhance

the theme. The supple leather of the seats is minimally processed to retain its natural texture.

Chalet is another Lincoln Presidential option for Aviator, evoking the contrasting pleasures of mountain slopes and the inherent comfort of an après-ski lodge. With Espresso and Alpine Venetian leathers and deep Silverwood appliqués, each touch is designed to awaken the senses.

Another Lincoln Presidential theme available is Destination.

Celebrating the art of travel, Destination takes its inspiration from vintage luggage, harkening back to a time when travel was rich with excitement and intrigue. Mahogany Red Venetian leather with an intricate diamond weave on the seats is complemented by smooth khaya wood appliqués – making travel both near and far a true pleasure.

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Lincoln Presidential is created for clients seeking the ultimate in a luxury experience, offering premium materials in specially curated designer themes and a host of membership privileges. The grille for the all-new Lincoln Presidential Aviator features reverse lattice mesh with a repetitive pattern of strong, bright-finished badge motifs.

Comfort and convenience Aviator’s spacious, airy cabin accentuates horizontal lines, minimising visual clutter to deliver a soothing sanctuary. An available Revel™ Ultima™ 3D Audio System re-creates an authentic concert-hall experience by immersing occupants in rich, superior sound emanating from 28 speakers throughout the cabin.

An ergonomically advanced steering wheel is intended for ultimate ease of use and customisation; only subtle thumb movements at the 10 o’clock position are needed to access the voice command

button. The steering wheel features streamlined, four-way switches at strategic positions to control music, phone and navigation functions.

Available Perfect Position seats with Active Motion offer 30-way adjustability, massage capability and additional lumbar support for driver and front-row passenger for paramount comfort, while flexible second-row seats recline, adjust fore and aft, and slide forward for easy access to the third row. The third row provides ample seating with plenty of room left over for cargo, assuring nothing and no one is left behind.

Other convenience features include an available wireless phone charging pad located in the front-row centre armrest, while a handy media bin is available for the front-row passenger. Multiple power outlets throughout the cabin keep occupants connected wherever the journey may take them.

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The Bernina Gran Turismo 2019 with Mahmoud Ezzeldin

Not your regular race or hill-climb by any means. This highly selective, hair raising Gran Turismo takes place in South East Switzerland at the Bernina Pass to be exact.

This year’s event celebrated the 90th Anniversary of this highly regarded motorsport event dating back to the 1920s.

Mahmoud Ezzeldin tells us more.

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The first two races were held in 1929 and 1930, the race was about 16km long rising steadily from 1,100 to 2,500 meters above sea level. It wasn’t tarmacked yet, back then it was a dirt track. The first race in 1929 was won by a German driver Hans Stuck in his Austro-Daimler. The 2019 Bernina GT made history, as the original winning Astro-Daimler driven by Hans-Joachim Stuck no other than Hans Stuck’s son! The son is a former 24h of Le Mans winner (1986 and 1987) and former Formula 1 driver.

He also won the 1990 German Touring Car Championship (DTM).

The recent editions of the Bernina Gran Turismo are run on a course of 5.7km of very good Swiss asphalt, beginning at La Rosa and ending at Ospizio Bernina. Elevation at the start line is 1,880 meters, and cars have to tackle 52 curves and bends before reaching the finish line at 2,328 meters above sea level. Cars are literally racing in the clouds at these heights.

The participating vehicles are split into three categories: race cars, sports cars and grand touring cars.

Entries included a 1970s McLaren Formula 5000, 1960s Maserati Tipo 61, Bugatti Type 35B, 1928 Austro-Daimler, Lancia Stratos Group B, Lotus Cortina original Jackie Stewart Car, Ford GT40 MKIII, Lancia S4, Original works 1970 Monte Carlo Rally Porsche Cars, 3 beautiful and very rare Alfa Romeo Zagatos (from the collection of Dr. Kaufmann, owner of Leica). The amazing one and only 1962 Ferrari 250GT SWB Bread-van!! Also to complete the list of amazing cars, Jaguar D-Type, an early (narrowbody) AC Cobra 289, a more recent brushed aluminum AC Cobra one of the last few by Carol Shelby, Audi Quatro Group B Rally Car, 1965 Serenissima 308V Jet Competizione which did not race after finding our that another Original Serenissima Scuderia car was competing, the 250GT Bread-van. , a couple of Jaguar XK120, a couple of Mercedes 190 SL and a Group B Lancia Stratos.

There were also modern but very unique, exotic and super-sports cars participating. A very late edition Lamborghini Countach, The new (1500 HP) Bugatti Chiron and a Prototype BMW 535 Stationwagon Alpina B7.

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At Bernina, in the heart of the Alps Mountains, the setting and location is like no other in the world.

The temperature can change and weather can flip in seconds. The start line is already foggy, and the race track takes all cars through the clouds and above to where the sunlight is shining… it’s a magical unforgettable experience.

Just imagine for a moment, seriously well-maintained Swiss roads, climbing the Alps to temperatures just above zero, while twisting and turning in all directions. There are quite a few hairpins making this another joy, to again go through all the gears of your well-tuned machine and listen to the echoes and bellows, whines and growls as you climb up to Bernina. Each unique car and engine is an orchestra appreciated by only the real auto-aficionados a through the picturesque valleys and mountains of southeast Switzerland.

Very few races witness cars leaving a museum to join the action of fuel burning, rubber squealing and then go back to the museum walls and confines. I can only confess that the Bernina Grand Turismo is truly today’s ultimate historic race. The recipe in making this very tricky and logistically challenging “BGT” race can be told by the few men and women behind the scenes. As the organizers have plenty to worry about, I myself had to make sure I cover the action in the best way possible. The location with its charming beauty or undulating countryside greenery, laid back farms and mountains hugging you as you venture deeper into the valleys. The lush green surrounding one is soothing and pleasant, yet the sharp-edged rocks and cliff faces stand as a serious reminder of hazards just off the tarmac. As you are literally racing in the mountains at elevations of 1800 to 2500 meters above sea level, the weather can change rapidly. Add a splash of unexpected weather and you are faced with racing conditions, that are tough yet, permissible. The racing marshals are always busy with their flags, as there were just a couple of breakdowns but a few over-takes. Cars start at two-minute intervals but some faster cars close the gap ahead sooner than one expects. Witnessing all the cars with their chassis flexing as they manoeuvre their way around the twisty hill climb is not something you see regularly not even in most other historic races.

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The legendary (love me/hate me) 1962 Ferrari 250 GT SWB “Breadvan” was a feast for the eyes, not to mention the beautiful V12 snarl in high revs. Only one was created and yet after years of compiling history, competing for the 1962 “24h Le Mans” and winning both “Guards Trophy” & “Ollon-Villars Hillclimb” also in ‘62. Many year and races later, this very Ferrari competed and raced at Bernina GT in the sun, rain, fog and spread joyful emotions among so many attending the 2019 BGT. Cars were made to be driven.

Insight on the Ferrari Breadvan: the car is originally chassis #2819 GT, a 1961 250GT SWB which underwent a body change to improve aerodynamics and to compete with the then-new 250 GTO in 1962.

Owner of the car back then Count Giovanni Volpi owner of Serenissima Scuderia (Racing Team) hired Giotto Bizzarini to upgrade his Ferrari. The “Breadvan” Ferrari first appeared at the 1962 24 Hours of Le Mans. It quickly passed all Ferrari GTOs and was 7th overall during the 4th hour when a driveshaft failure caused its retirement. Results at other races proved the design’s effectiveness, as the car won the GT class in two races during the 1962 season.

Special thanks to everyone from the Bernina Gran Turismo organization committee, marshals, media, St. Moritz traffic police, racers, mechanics, and passionate fans.

There are always race results, but at the Bernina GT, it’s an achievement for each participant and car to have conquered the mountain. Time doesn’t make a difference, it’s the joy of driving one’s car, feeling every vibration, attentive to the faintest new sounds, sweating a bit and always gripping the steering wheel with your eyes focused on the near and far horizons… Bernina Gran Turismo, I will be back…

Words and images Mahmoud Ezzeldin

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Ferrari Roma

The new Prancing Horse V8 2+ coupé unveiled at unique event in Rome

The Ferrari Roma was revealed in the company of Enrico Galliera – Ferrari’s dapper Vice-President of Sales, during a dedicated client and media event held in Italy’s iconic capital. The new mid-frontengined 2+ coupé features refined proportions and timeless design combined with unparalleled performance and handling.

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Not only is the Ferrari Roma a new icon of Italian design, but it also represents the pinnacle of performance in this category, thanks to its turbo-charged V8 from the family of engines that has won the overall International Engine of the Year award four years running.

In this version, the engine reaches 620 cv at 7500 rpm and is coupled with the new 8-speed DCT gearbox that was introduced on the SF90 Stradale.

With its distinctive flair and style, the car is a contemporary representation of the carefree, pleasurable way of life that characterised Rome in the 1950s and ‘60s. The Ferrari Roma offers discerning clients the finesse and refinement that brings the concept of “la Dolce Vita” right up to date.

Stylistically, the Ferrari Roma is characterized by clean and symbiotic forms. In profile, its shape is readily drawn by a single stroke of a pen. It flows to perfection.

Powerful? Of course. The Roma possess the best power to weight ratio in its sector… it’s enough to propel its beauty from 0 to 100km/h in 3.4 seconds, and on to 320km/h when needed.

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Harmonious lines, timeless elegance and cutting-edge technology set new standards in the category

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Comfortable? You bet. It’s a 2+… and those rear seats are largely symbolic, but useful as extra luggage space. Both driver and passenger are cocooned within individual ‘cells’ that wrap around in an almost fighter-plane motif. Fabulous.

In a word? Elegant. From the outside to the interior, the new Roma is the perfect contemporary expression of elegance. Through this, it defines a whole new sector for Ferrari. It’s not simply a GT, through its styling, it is far more.

A car for these days? We believe so.

Check back soon for our first drive impressions.

For now, enjoy the gallery of images – and dream on.

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The 2020 Cayenne Coupé Latest addition to the third-generation Cayenne

If you already loved the Cayenne… you’ll love Porsche’s latest edition even more!

Porsche has extended the Cayenne model line to include a new Coupé body style. The Coupé includes all the technical highlights of the current Cayenne, but has an even more dynamic design and new technical details that position it as more progressive, athletic, and emotional. Take a look for yourself – our Zeina Mokaddam took one for a drive.

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“The Cayenne Coupé is everything the Cayenne was – and still is – but with more… inside, and out.

Highlights of the new model include sharper lines with a redesigned rear section, an adaptive rear spoiler, individual rear seats, and either a panoramic fixed glass roof fitted as standard, or an optional carbon fiber roof.”

“The significantly more steeply inclined roof line that falls away to the rear makes the Cayenne Coupé appear even more dynamic, and positions it as the sportiest-looking model in its segment.”

The Coupé has received plaudits from the motoring press, and customers alike.

The highly dynamic lines and custom design elements of the new Cayenne Coupé truly set it apart from the Cayenne. At the same time, it benefits from all the technical highlights of the third model generation, which features powerful engines, innovative chassis systems, and comprehensive connectivity.

Building on the already well-equipped Cayenne, the new Coupé variants include upgraded standard equipment. Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM), the Sport Chrono Package and 20-inch wheels are part of the starting MSRP of the standard model.

The current Cayenne Turbo was the first SUV to feature an adaptive roof spoiler, a concept the new Cayenne Coupé adopts and adapts to the new design. Each Cayenne Coupé model features both a roof spoiler and a new adaptive rear spoiler as part of Porsche Active Aerodynamics (PAA). The spoiler extends by 5.3 inches above speeds of 56 mph, increasing downforce to the rear axle.

All Cayenne Coupé models will come with the Sport Chrono Package as standard equipment. The new Cayenne Coupé is currently available at Porsche Centre Kuwait.

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Odysseus A. Lange & Söhne presents new timepiece concept

The ODYSSEUS opens up a new chapter for A. Lange & Söhne. It lays the foundation for a further watch family: the sixth one. For the first regularly produced timepiece in stainless steel, the Saxon watchmakers developed a tailor-made self-winding movement with a large day-ofweek and date display.

WATCHES

The ODYSSEUS is a sporty-elegant watch for people who admire fine watchmaking but live active lives. The prominent design of the stainless-steel case with a diameter of 40.5 millimetres and a height of 11.1 millimetres, featuring an integrated stainless-steel bracelet, embraces traditional brand elements and reinterprets them. This applies particularly to the sculpted, slightly cantilevered middle band of the three-part case. Its surfaces are decorated with a satin contour finish and the edges are emphasised with a chamfer. The combination of brushed surfaces and chamfered edges is echoed on the lugs and links of the massive stainless-steel bracelet. Specially sealed, tapered buttons for correcting the date and the day of week are arranged at 2 and 4 o’clock.

The ODYSSEUS is the first Lange watch with a water-resistant case and a screw-down crown, ex-posed to a test pressure of 12 bar.

New watch family Today, A. Lange & Söhne has five watch families: LANGE 1, SAXONIA, 1815, RICHARD LANGE and ZEITWERK. The ODYSSEUS is a new face that introduces a sixth watch family. And as usual at Lange, it is endowed not only with a distinctive design but also with a newly developed movement.

Date and day-of-week display What first meets the eye on the dark-blue dial is the day-of-week and date display. Located on the right, the Lange outsize date in the classic double aperture is complemented with an equally large dayof-week display on the left. The outer verticals of the frames echo the curvature of the bezel. The typical Lange font is used for both displays, though here, the numerals and letters are white against a blue background. The newly developed mechanism consists of 99 individual parts.

Three-dimensional dial The dial is made of brass and has several levels with different surfaces. Just like the outer scale of the subsidiary seconds dial, the notched baton appliques made of white gold lie above concentric lines, a technique called azurage. They contrast against the grained inner surfaces of the main and subsidiary dial. A bevelled, argentécoloured flange ring with a printed minute scale frames the dial.

The number 60, printed in red at 12 o’clock, provides a colourful accent. In the ODYSSEUS, the brand-typical lancet-shaped hands for hours and minutes are more prominent than in other watches of the manufactory. Just like the inner surfaces of the baton appliques, they are luminous.

Adjustable steel bracelet The stainless-steel bracelet is eminently comfortable to wear. Its length can be adjusted in small steps up to 7 millimetres thanks to a safety deployant buckle. By pressing the pusher embossed with the Lange signature the bracelet can be pulled or pushed to adjust the desired length. It is not necessary to open the buckle. If required, the bracelet can also be extended by adding further links.

Movement for an active lifestyle For the ODYSSEUS, A. Lange & Söhne developed the new L155.1 DATOMATIC manufacture calibre. The name DATOMATIC visible on the rotor stands for the date mechanism combined with automatic winding. With a diameter of 32.9 millimetres, the movement – visible through the sapphire-crystal caseback – completely fills the case. It features a unidirectionally winding central rotor with a centrifugal mass in platinum. Thanks to the skeletonisation of the rotor further details of the manually executed, lavish finissage of the movement can be observed.

New escapement When fully wound, the mainspring barrel delivers a maximum power reserve of 50 hours. To guarantee high rate accuracy regardless of external factors, the new self-winding calibre operates at a frequency of 28,800 semi-oscillations per hour (4 hertz). The newly designed balance is regulated with four countersunk poising screws that are flush with the outside of the balance-wheel rim. This design reduces turbulence despite the higher frequency. Together with the freely oscillating balance spring made in-house, the minimised air resistance has a positive impact on the movement’s rate accuracy and energy efficiency.

Bridge instead of balance cock The oscillation system of the ODYSSEUS is held by a balance wheel bridge secured at two points. It is manually engraved with a wave motif. Other movement decorations also express the concept of combining traditional facets with new ones. All frame parts of the calibre L155.1 DATOMATIC are made of German silver. Additionally, elements of the rotor were black-rhodiumed.

In accordance with the A. Lange & Söhne philosophy, the entire movement is elaborately finished by hand and assembled twice. A further typical Lange hallmark, a screwed gold chaton secures the upper bearing jewel of the escape-wheel arbor. It also marks the position of the escapement and places a traditional accent, right there where the heart of the watch beats.

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Vacheron Constantin’s Métiers d’Art The legend of the Chinese zodiac

Vacheron Constantin is pursuing its dialogue with collectors and passionate devotees of Haute Horlogerie by enriching its Métiers d’Art The legend of the Chinese zodiac with the sign of the rat. Symbolizing a strong vitality and intelligence, it will take over from the pig at the Chinese New Year on January 20th 2020. Two new creations, realised in twelve models each, combine the technical excellence of Caliber 2460 G4 with the beauty of artistic crafts.

WATCHES

Paper-cutting, at the crossroads between Eastern and Western cultures China, a nation with which Vacheron Constantin has been cultivating special ties since 1845, first introduce the paper-cutting technique known as Jianzhi, a popular art echoed in Swiss culture through its famous Scherenschnitt paper-cutting. This artistic approach, highlighted in the Métiers d’Art The legend of the Chinese zodiac, has been given a fresh interpretation thanks to the expertise of the master engravers and enamellers.

Allied artistic crafts The foliage motif appearing on the dial and based on classic Chinese iconography is etched directly in the metal. The pattern remains semi-embedded and stands out from its gold base by a subtle stagesetting of variously accentuating reliefs creating a depth effect. This makes the vegetation appear to be floating over the dial.

Then comes the stage of Grand Feu enamelling, an ancestral technique that remains the preserve of a very few particularly skilled artisans. By applying the enamel in successive layers, the enamel specialist enhances the intensity of the blue or bronze-toned dial.

Achieving the necessary mastery of colour and of reactions to firing at temperatures between 800- and 900-degrees Celsius calls for an expertise that can only be acquired over long years of experience.

The rat, made of platinum or pink gold, is hand engraved and delicately applied to the dial centre.

A movement that leaves plenty of space for artistic expression Calibre 2460 G4 makes it possible to create a distinctive and ideal stage-setting for the decorative arts, by giving the central dial motif a starring role. The hands-free time display is achieved through four apertures showing the hours, minutes, days and dates. These indications – the first two of the dragging variety and the last two of the jumping type – proudly embody the longstanding savoir-faire of the Maison in designing and developing original displays.

Clearly visible through the sapphire crystal back of the platinum or pink gold case, the 22-carat open worked oscillating weight features a decor inspired by the Maltese cross emblem. All movement components are indeed finely finished in accordance with the criteria of the Hallmark of Geneva, a quality label of which Vacheron Constantin is the most faithful representative.

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The Master Grande Tradition Gyrotourbillon 3 When a meteorite meets high watchmaking

Encapsulating the core values of La Grande Maison, JaegerLeCoultre presents a new version of the Master Grande Tradition Gyrotourbillon 3, which marries the technical tour-de-force of its signature multi-axis tourbillon to the finest of artistic craftsmanship.

WATCHES

In 2013, Jaeger-LeCoultre first introduced the Master Grande Tradition Gyrotourbillon 3 to mark the Maison’s 180th anniversary.

Combining a third-generation interpretation of the Gyrotourbillon with an intriguing and highly unusual instantaneous digital display chronograph, it represents mechanical sophistication of the highest order.

But still, Jaeger-LeCoultre wanted to do more. And so, this new version of Gyrotourbillon 3 harnesses the exceptional skills of the Manufacture’s Rare HandcraftsTM (Métiers Rares®) artisans to elevate the rare and precious timepiece to a new level. With various elements of the dial showcasing the traditional Rare HandcraftsTM of hand-guillochage, engraving and grand feu enamel, this new model introduces the rarely seen craft of meteorite inlay.

On the dial side, the intriguing geometric markings of the silverygrey meteorite are complemented by the subtle glitter of deep blue aventurine and the glow of pure white grand feu enamel. This harmonious interplay of materials, colour and surface pattern is complemented by the warmth and richness of the pink gold case and dial details.

Found in Namibia, the Gibeon meteorite chosen for this watch is an iron-nickel alloy with an octahedrite crystal structure, formed by the cooling of the asteroid fragment in outer space over the course of billions of years before it crashed to earth in prehistoric times.

The abstract geometric patterns of the intersecting crystal structures shimmer gently when the material catches the light, their irregular arrangement making every slice of meteorite subtly different from all others.

In addition to the meteorite inlaid on the German silver bridges, a disc of meteorite sits at the centre of the time display dial, surrounded by a ring of aventurine with applied indexes. On the chronograph display, an aventurine disc is encircled by a ring of white grand feu enamel, marked with elapsed seconds. The Day/ Night display comprises a 24-hour plate on which two gold semicircles are applied, one each for day and night. The white day section is decorated with hand-guilloché, hand-engraved sunrays and an applied polished pink gold sun; the night section features applied polished pink gold crescent moon and stars, set on a rich blue background.

Asymmetrical yet perfectly balanced, these three overlapping dials are layered, adding visual depth to the watch face – and, despite tempting glimpses of the movement, drawing the eye irresistibly to the tourbillon as it spins in space, with no immediately visible means of support.

It is on the back of the movement that the meteorite truly takes centre stage. A lively yet subtle mixture of colour and texture – blued screws, ruby jewels, the shiny aspect of the hand-chamfered and hand- polished jewel countersinks, bridges and plates, and the matt finish of the brushed borders of the German silver plates – offsets

the abstract geometric patterns of the meteorite, which adorns all of the plates and bridges.

A skill mastered by very few craftsmen in the world, meteorite inlay requires a rare degree of precision and dexterity. First, the artisan must hollow out the surface of the German silver plate or bridge, to a depth that exactly matches the thickness of the meteorite fragment, leaving only a fine fillet of German silver at the borders. Once the new surface has been polished, the meteorite must be laid so that its edges fit seamlessly within the complex, curving borders and its surface lies exactly flush with them, to form a completely flat and unified plane. It is work of the utmost refinement and precision, measured in fractions of a millimetre.

Such exacting work complements the remarkable precision of the Gyrotourbillon mechanism. Exceedingly rare and complex, this multi-axis tourbillon comprises two cages, set at two different angles, turning opposite directions, at different speeds, with a blued spherical balance spring beating like a heart in their centre. In the absence of a tourbillon bridge, the cantilevered all-aluminium cages of Gyrotourbillon 3 appear to be suspended in space.

Hand-wound movement, calibre 176, incorporates a fully integrated chronograph, which displays the seconds on a traditional round dial and elapsed minutes on an instantaneously jumping digital counter.

Conceived and crafted for true connoisseurs of art and mechanics, the new Master Grande Tradition Gyrotourbillon 3 ‘Meteorite’ represents the highest expression of Jaeger-LeCoultre’s codes.

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MEN’S PASSION

Big Bang Unico Sorai Act with Hublot to conserve rhinoceroses, a biodiversity emergency

Two-thirds of rhinoceros species may disappear in our lifetime, which would be an irreversible loss for our planet; and its main cause is poaching. Hublot has committed to a partnership with Kevin Pietersen and SORAI – Save Our Rhino Africa India – to conserve rhinoceroses threatened with extinction.

WATCHES

This commitment takes the form of the Big Bang Unico SORAI, from which a large proportion of the funds raised from sales will be directly paid to Care for Wild for the care and conservation of orphaned baby rhinoceroses, and to the South African National Parks agency to reinforce their nocturnal surveillance capabilities using airborne thermal intelligence tools.

In buying the time piece, 100 people will thus become involved in this initiative undertaken by Hublot on the recommendations of SORAI.

“The illegal trade in rhino horn and poaching was one of the subjects debated in Geneva last August during the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), demonstrating the urgency with which action is now needed. Staying ahead of poachers is a race against time, every time. Using innovative technologies such as thermal intelligence, surveillance teams can stay ahead of the poachers. We are proud and delighted to support Kevin Pietersen’s SORAI organisation in this goal for our future generations and global biodiversity.”

Ricardo Guadalupe - CEO Hublot

“This collaboration between Hublot and SORAI has allowed us a platform to give huge amounts of visibility to an incredible cause, on a global scale. By partnering, we are doubling the voices on this cause - and I’m so pleased that Hublot is now supporting the rhinos and their conservation quest. I’m looking forward to future and sharing the amazing story of SORAI with the world.”

Kevin Pietersen - Founder of SORAI

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MEN’S PASSION

Ulysee Nardin’s Kuwait pop-up Xplore, Xcite, Xist

Ulysse Nardin, the innovative luxury Swiss watch manufacturer inspired by the sea, will host a two week pop-up in Kuwait’s Salhiya Mall this December.

Following the recent success of the Ulysse Nardin showcase in April, the leading brand in haute horology has taken the opportunity to return to Kuwait from December 1, to create an immersive and exclusive two-week pop-up space that will offer the striking Diver 42 and Diver 44, Freak X and Skeleton X collections.

WATCHES

The space will XPLORE. XCITE and XIST, allowing shoppers to discover the depths of the cutting-edge brand that continues to evolve and innovate through its mechanical timepieces and implementation of unsurpassed technologies. Ulysse Nardin is one of the few brands with a heritage of expertise to produce its own high-precision components and movements from its original headquarters located in Switzerland.

Diver 42mm has an unexpected vintage look, with an uncluttered dial design, touches of retro beige, and a central second instead of a small second counter. While, Ulysse Nardin’s stunning yet robust Diver 44mm models redefines functional elegance, the design shows an inverted, concave bezel and domed sapphire glass, a celebrated and eXciting breakthrough in watch-making. Both Diver timepieces are meticulously crafted with Ulysse Nardin’s very own silicium technology and are crafted to withstand up to three hundred meters of water pressure.

FREAK, is hailed as Ulysse Nardin’s most audacious collection to date, the FREAK X was created for the adventurer and free spirit who lives to eXplore. The design pushes the boundaries with its flying carrousel movement rotating around its own axis with no dial and no hands; the central bridge acting as a minute hand and uses one of the wheels to indicate the hours.

A true reveal in revolutionary craftsmanship, where no element is left to the imagination the SKELETON X, shows intricate details through its shape-within-shape geometry, centered on an X formed by four of the indexes that is framed in a rectangle, in turn inside a circle. Inside and clearly visible, the movement is a super-light balance wheel in silicium, extra-wide, with nickel flyweights and stabilizing micro-blades. The SKELETON X eXists in four different satin-finish versions: satin-finish titanium blue, satin-finish titanium black, satin-finish rose gold or matte-finish Carbonium ® GOLD. Speaking on the forthcoming pop up, Teresa Garin from Ulysse Nardin said, “We are thrilled to be returning to Kuwait and partnering with the Salhiya Mall, who completely understand our innovative visions. We received an incredible response during our showcase in April, with the luxury sector continually evolving across the region, we’re excited to further explore the opportunities in Kuwait and build our relationships with collectors who share our passion in haute horology.”

The Ulysse Nardin pop-up will run from 1st – 14th of December and will be open from Sunday to Thursday - 10 am to 10 pm and from 5pm to 10pm on Fridays.

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MEN’S PASSION

Paul Smith’s Faux Animals Autumn / Winter 2019

Paul Smith uses vibrant animal print in his autumn/winter ’19 collection to give a confident and contemporary twist on classic men’s and women’s pieces.

Style preview

STYLE

The use of animal print nods to the focal print theme of the autumn/winter ’19 collection, which celebrates the clash of patterns, colours and styles that occurs on the bookshelves of Paul’s own office. In tribute to this, photo prints have been mixed with ‘90s graphics and block colours, with animal print pieces added to create even more contrast.

British riding jackets have been modernised and updated with an unexpected choice of fabric and colour. It also features a number of technical details including an internal storm cuff and engineered sleeve design. Mirroring another theme of the wider collection, the blue leather trousers feature zips inspired by punk clothing.

For men, a faux snake print leather material has been used to create classic bomber jackets, long riding coats and skinny trousers in rich red or dark blue colours. The red riding coat links to a key reference within the collection, where traditional

For women, leopard print pieces have been styled with more traditional tailoring designs to create strong, contemporary looks. Jersey leggings and tops come with a tonal leopard print design that adds both visual texture and subtle color to outfits.

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MEN’S PASSION

Kinder – Joy of Moving Aiming to bring joy to school children through moving

Earlier this year, Ferrero announced a partnership with Saudi Arabia’s Ministries of Health and Education. for the next year, the Ministries and Ferrero will join forces to launch Kinder Joy of Moving across the Kingdom. This physical education program – designed to encourage children’s natural inclination to be active, move and play – is set to be embedded in the national curriculum of primary schools in major cities including Jeddah, Riyadh and Dammam.

The scientifically-recognized Joy of Moving methodology aims to get children of all ages moving through play whilst also developing key skills in four major areas ranging from physical fitness to motor coordination, cognitive function, creativity and life skills.

To ensure a flawless roll-out, the physical education teachers at each primary school – encompassing children aged 4-12 – will be trained by certified global Kinder Joy of Moving coaches. The instructors will therefore be fully equipped and informed to bring to life the program’s core vision, which is to promote the importance of movement and daily physical activity for children and young people around the world, to support their long-term health and happiness.

We learned more from Guido Ferralasco, Regional Managing Director at Ferrero Gulf.

CONCIERGE

What sports in particular will Saudi’s youngest children be encouraged to get involved in?

Moving in Saudi Arabia in the years to come. Still, looking ahead, we, of course, remain open to potential opportunities should an appropriate one arise.

Essentially, the physical education program is designed to encourage children’s natural inclination to be active – based on the belief that a positive attitude towards movement will make today’s children, more active adults tomorrow. In short, thanks to Ferrero’s partnership with Saudi Arabia’s Ministries of Health and Education, Kinder Joy of Moving – set to be embedded in the national curriculum of primary schools in major cities including Jeddah, Riyadh and Dammam – instinctively shifts the focus from performance to fun and from competition to collaboration.

CSR is a large part of Ferrero. What other initiatives do you currently have in the region?

So, instead of focusing on specific sports, the program consists of a series of multidisciplinary events comprising a number of diverse activities. The physical games were, in fact, developed in collaboration with athletes and former champions, as well as experts to ensure that children get active, enjoy moving, and develop core skills in an engaging and joyful way.

This isn’t the first time Ferrero has unrolled the Joy of moving program – what results have you seen from it in other countries?

Since 2005, when it was first launched, Kinder Joy of Moving has inspired and positively affected millions of children worldwide; it has also been part of our Group’s Social Responsibility program since its launch in 2013.

For over 13 years, the project has become increasingly successful, attesting to the company’s commitment towards the well-being of the younger generation. The latest global results show that 4.4 million children in 34 active countries, together with 127 local Federations took part in the program’s activities (physical education programs, sports events, student championships, multidisciplinary camps), thus helping to push forward the project’s ultimate goal: to promote a healthier and happier lifestyle through a joyful approach to movement and physical activity.

Do you have plans to roll this out further across GCC countries?

At this point, we are focused on ensuring a flawless implementation of Kinder Joy of

For our Group as a whole, the term corporate social responsibility has always stood for caring for people and for the local area: namely consumers, employees and former employees, families and the local communities in which we operate. These principles of social responsibility guided Ferrero’s first steps 70 years ago in Alba and remain unchanged to this day.

Both globally and in the region, our approach to corporate social responsibility focuses primarily on our consumers: our key stakeholders. Our passion to satisfy them is at the heart of our daily activities here at Ferrero Gulf and across business units worldwide.

The fact is, at Ferrero, consumer focus isn’t just an abstract value – it’s something we put into practice every day, based on a sense of responsibility that goes beyond commercial targets. This responsibility is made into reality through our nutritional strategy, ongoing innovation, the quality and freshness of our products, food safety and responsible and transparent communication.

Moreover, globally, our commitment to caring for people and the local area is demonstrated by the activities of the Ferrero Foundation and the Michele Ferrero Entrepreneurial Project, active in Africa and Asia. As previously stated, our Group also continues its commitment to the promotion of active lifestyles by addressing young people and their families all over the world through the Kinder Joy of Moving program.

When it comes to caring for the planet, monitoring and improving the impact of our activities throughout the entire supply chain is a priority for our Group, which we address by ensuring that our main raw materials are responsibly sourced.

All of Ferrero’s sustainability goals mentioned in our CSR Report – for example, committing to source all refined cane sugar and cocoa from sustainable sources by 2020 – are global objectives. This means that business units across geographical areas need to work towards accomplishing these milestones.

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MEN’S PASSION

Thinking of going vegan?

Is it the REAL healthy choice?

November’s World Vegan Month may have passed you by, but perhaps now is as good a time as any to re-think our daily diet and switch from animal produce to a vegan based lifestyle.

There are lots of reasons why people decide to go vegan, such as environmental concern and animal welfare, but eating a plantbased diet also has some major health perks too.

WELLNESS

According to Fitness First Nutrition Manager, Banin Shahine, a vegan diet is richer in certain nutrients. Studies have shown that a vegan diet provides the body with more fibre, antioxidants and beneficial plant compounds. These nutrients help the digestive system, protect the body from chronic diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, arthritis, and diabetes and help cleanse the liver. Here, Banin Shahine, Nutrition Manager at Fitness First Middle East, shares her six health benefits of going vegan.

A vegan diet will help you eat more whole foods Eliminating meat and dairy can help increase your whole food intake and will also encourage you to get more creative in the kitchen. When you lead a vegan lifestyle, naturally you will be consuming a lot more colour and variety of fruits, vegetables and whole grains, that provide the body with the vitamins and minerals you need for optimal health.

You may feel a spring in your step Processed foods and sugars can make you feel lethargic and lower your energy levels. Eating whole foods rich in healthy fats, vitamins and minerals will significantly give your energy levels a good boost and lower your stress levels.

Here are a few delicious plant-based foods to help increase your energy levels: - Bananas are one of the best foods for energy. They are an excellent source of carbohydrates and are full of potassium and vitamin B6- all of which can help boost energy levels in the body.

- Brown rice is extremely nutritious. It is less processed than white rice and retains more nutritional value in the form of fibre, vitamins and minerals. Thanks to its fibre content, brown rice has a low glycaemic index, meaning it can help regulate blood sugar levels and maintain steady levels throughout the day.

- Apples are rich in natural sugars and fibre and provide a slow and sustained

energy release. Rich in antioxidants, apples also help slow down the digestion of carbohydrates, and release energy over a more extended period of time - Edamame beans are relatively low in calories, but these satisfying pick-me-up snacks are full of proteins, carbs and fibre. Edamame beans also have huge amounts of vitamins and minerals that help increase energy in different ways.

- Leafy green vegetables like spinach, kale, broccoli, lettuce and watercress are all excellent sources of Vitamin B and have an important part to play in energy production. Incorporating these nutritious foods into your daily diet will help fight fatigue.

You’ll slash your saturated fat intake Saturated fat is primarily found in animal products like meat and cheese and it is a key factor in increasing cholesterol which contributes to many heart diseases.

Adopting a vegan diet will automatically decrease your saturated fat intake. Any transition to more plant-based eating is extremely heart healthy. Not only can a plant-based diet help with your cholesterol levels but it can also decrease the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, cancer and diabetes.

Fewer migraines Migraines are commonly linked to diet, and food can often be the trigger. Try and stay away from chocolate and cheese and opt for plant-based foods, especially organic product as the produce is much purer and less likely to trigger a migraine attack.

Reduce the risk of kidney failure A meat diet isn’t always best for the body, especially in high consumption. Recent studies have shown that by following a vegan diet you can reduce the risk of kidneys not functioning properly. Plant proteins are healthier for your organs and help encourage production levels within the liver and kidney.

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THE LIFE REFINED

WISE Investments Invest For Your Future with Gulf Bank

Gulf Bank’s latest digital investment platform aims to make the process of investing easier, transparent, and more cost-efficient than ever For those who are looking to invest their hard-earned wealth, it can often be difficult knowing where to start. Gulf Bank’s WISE Investments, an advisory and portfolio management service for long-term investors, aims to make the process of investment easier, transparent, and more cost-efficient than ever.

As a digital investment tool, WISE provides its clients with the opportunity to diversify their investments, focusing on both equities and bonds with a long-term approach.

One of the main highlights of WISE is how quickly you can start investing. By filling out a simple questionnaire, WISE determines your financial goals, risk appetite, and investment horizon, to recommend a portfolio that is customized to your needs. In less than ten minutes, you can have a well-balanced, diversified portfolio in global markets that suits your lifestyle. You also have the flexibility to exit and receive your money back with no extra or hidden fees. WISE portfolios consist of low-cost passive index investments (exchange-traded funds), providing you with an extensive range of options to reach your different financial objectives.

Because digital banking is now more convenient and secure than ever, WISE Investments also allows you to easily monitor and track your investments from the comfort and

convenience of your home. As a WISE client, you will be able to track your portfolio anytime, anywhere via Gulf Bank’s mobile app or online banking. Over the course of your investment time period, the WISE Investments team will continuously monitor and optimize your portfolio for you whenever necessary, so you can go about life with the assurance that your wealth is working for you.

WISE Investments by Gulf Bank is available for anyone aged 21 years or older who is a legal Kuwaiti resident, or a Kuwaiti citizen with a permanent Kuwaiti address. Kuwaiti citizens residing abroad who are existing Gulf Bank account holders can also open a WISE portfolio with Gulf Bank, in addition to US nationals who are existing Gulf Bank account holders.

To learn more about WISE Investments with Gulf Bank, customers can visit one of Gulf Bank’s 58 branches or log onto https://www.e-gulfbank.com/en/personal/investment/ wise. Customers can also download the Gulf Bank Mobile Banking App, available on the App Store and Google Play. Customers can also contact the Customer Contact Center by calling 1805805 or direct their queries through the WhatsApp service on 65805805 for assistance and guidance.

BANKING

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THE LIFE REFINED

Trending on passionsarabia.com

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What’s trending at the home of Men’s Passion online

look at the hottest stories from the past month on Men’s Passion’s online home at passionsarabia.com. Follow us on Instagram @passions.arabia for a regular dose of the styles, the trends, the brands, the maisons and the marques... with stories of the passionate people who are making it happen.

Passions Arabia Exhibition – Winter is Coming // Selim Mawad Beirut’s artist of the revolution (and much more besides) was in Kuwait for the first Passions Arabia Exhibition. He shared the genesis of his most recent works with us. passionsarabia.com/passions-arabia-exhibition-winter-is-coming-selim-mawad

Passions Arabia Exhibition – Winter is Coming // Ebbarra Ebbarra is a jewelry brand all about words that falls under the brand Intisars.

Usually, jewelry is studded with valuable diamonds or precious stones, whereas Ebbarra’s jewels are studded with words, words that are and will always be priceless. Adorned by words of prayers from the Holy Quran, timeless poetry about love, or soulful words of the wise, Ebbarra is about harnessing the power of words and making them your soulful treasures. passionsarabia.com/passions-arabia-exhibition-winter-is-coming-ebbarra

Passions Arabia Exhibition – Winter is Coming // Heba Al Enezi Haute Couture brand Heba Alenezi, is renowned for world-class ready-to-wear dresses and luxurious bridal couture gowns. With over 10 years of experience in the fashion industry in Kuwait and the Middle East, Heba has undoubtedly proven herself time and time again with her unique taste in art and fashion, as well as her sharp eye for detail. passionsarabia.com/passions-arabia-exhibition-winter-is-coming-heba-al-enezi

PASSIONS ARABIA

The Bespoke Event – Bibi Hayat Thoughts in mind for that once in a lifetime event? Business launch ahead?

Going as a guest? Parties and events aren’t what they used to be. Doing it right is more important than ever. And, more than ever, doing it right invariably means doing it with the right people. Right? Pick the best organiser, and your evening is going to go with a swing and, critically, shine the right light on you. The best organisers make the whole thing look easy, and the best that we know is Kuwait’s Bibi Hayat. passionsarabia.com/bespoke-bibi-hayat

Luna & Beau: Building pet-friendly communities Checklist: Café. Vegan Bakery. Facials. Massages. Daycare. Boarding. Training.

Premium brands. Exclusive accessories. Bedding. Apparel. Greenery. Friendly people. Contemporary décor. Community! All in one space! Yes, animal lover and Luna & Beau’s founder Salman Dashti has successfully and passionately created a wholesome atmosphere changing the culture of pet-ownership and humananimal bonding, bringing pet love, care, and awareness to the forefront. passionsarabia.com/luna-beau-building-pet-friendly-communities

FIRST LOOK: Ferrari Roma: “la Nuova Dolce Vita” The new Ferrari Roma was revealed during a dedicated client event held in Italy’s iconic capital. The new mid-front-engined 2+ coupé features refined proportions and timeless design combined with unparalleled performance and handling. passionsarabia.com/first-look-ferrari-roma

El Primero A384 Revival: The time has finally come 50 years since its introduction in 1969, this year marks the 50th anniversary of the El Primero calibre, as well as the anniversary of the first watch to feature the revolutionary movement, the El Primero A384. With its distinct and instantly recognizable design, the A384 brought a new sense of style and substance to the world of chronographs, becoming a collectible icon. passionsarabia.com/el-primero-a384-revival-the-time-has-finally-come

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Passions Arabia Exhibition ‘Winter is Coming’ Throughout three days in late November, winter came to the Four Seasons Hotel Kuwait at Burj Alshaya in the shape of the inaugural Passions Arabia Exhibition. The show saw a specially curated selection of twenty-five of the Arab world’s finest designers and brands brought together for the first time.

Each showing their Winter 2019 collections, some for the first time ever in Kuwait, the Passions Arabia Exhibition ‘Winter is Coming’ also supported four national NGOs: Alnowair, ASAP Initiative, Eithar, and Spread The Passion.

The Fours Seasons’ Al Mirqab Ballroom hummed with the arrival of invited guests on its opening night, and further still when the doors opened to the public the following morning.

The first of a series of Passions Arabia Exhibtions, the second will follow in 2020.

EVENTS

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THE LIFE REFINED MEN’S PASSION

EVENTS

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THE LIFE REFINED MEN’S PASSION

The Queen of the Desert Ara Alekian’s sculpture ‘The Queen of the Desert’ was presented for the first time in Kuwait during the Armenian art exhibition ‘Symphony of Colours’. Held under the patronage of Kuwait’s National Council for Culture Arts and Letters and in collaboration with Aramé Art Gallery, this unique exhibition featuring more than 50 beautiful artworks, created by some of the most talented and renowned Armenian artists.

EVENTS

RunKuwait!

In the early morning of Saturday 23rd November, 3,000 participants set off marking the 9th edition of the annual RunKuwait marathon. A community-based fun sporting event for everyone (from beginners, to the more committed and even pros), each joined the 5km or 10km run or walk.

This year the event’s race village hosted warm-up exercises, activities for children, family members and friends who join to cheer for the participants.

RunKuwait is a charitable initiative aimed at raising awareness and generating funds towards the rehabilitative treatment of vulnerable children with special needs. Since 2013, all registration proceeds are channeled directly towards the non-profit Children’s Evaluation and Rehabilitation Center (CERC), founded by FSHN.

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LISTINGS

A seasonal (and non-seasonal!) pick of the best for December 2019!

Christmas at Dubai Opera 4 – 14 December Dubai Opera house Celebrate the most wonderful time of the year at Dubai Opera where there’s something for everyone! From the much-loved returning Jingle Bell Favourites and ballet, to traditional choral music of Handel’s Messiah, interspersed with pop-up performances by the National Youth Orchestra and GEMS Choir. Plus, a new Christmas Market, free to all, from Dec 4 – 14 where you can indulge in authentic festive treats, seasonal shopping and activities for children. dubaiopera.com New Jibla 4 – 14 December JACC Kuwait Following earth’s total destruction from a major catastrophe, first-world citizens depart to Mars with only one Kuwaiti family that sneakily boards the space shuttle, while other Kuwaitis and third world citizens migrate to Saturn.

Years after the flight from the burning planet to Mars, social justice and human well-being are achieved. Yet despite all the advantages of the Martian life, Jassem and Salwa face an opposition from their families, who still hold onto the traditions and customs of their former life on Earth.

Written by Saud Al-Sanousi and directed by Julian Webber, the play takes a satirical look at the future in a massive production performed by outstanding actors like Saad Al-Faraj and Abdulrahman Al-Aql. jacc-kw.com The South 11 December Dubai Opera House The South (featuring Alison Wheeler ex The Beautiful South on vocals), will be performing for one night only on 11 December. Expect a night of fun and nostalgia with songs from The Beautiful South including A Little Time, Perfect 10, Rotterdam, Don’t Marry Here, Old Red Eyes along with songs from The South. dubaiopera.com

CLASSIC FUSION ORLINSKI 18K King Gold case set with diamonds.

Self-winding movement.