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Apple Marina Bay Sands opens Thursday in Singapore

Apple’s most ambitious retail project sits on the waters of Marina Bay

Apple Marina Bay Sands opens Thursday in Singapore

Singapore — Apple today previewed Apple Marina Bay Sands, the first Apple Store to sit directly on the water. Appearing as a sphere floating on the iridescent Marina Bay, the store introduces a new and captivating retail experience at one of the most iconic locations in Singapore.
Entirely surrounded by water, Apple Marina Bay Sands offers uninterrupted 360-degree panoramic views of the city and its spectacular skyline. The sphere is a first-of-its-kind, all-glass dome structure that is fully self-supported, comprised of 114 pieces of glass with only 10 narrow vertical mullions for structural connection. As Apple’s third retail location in Singapore, the new store creates an unforgettable space for customers.
An oculus at the apex of the dome provides a flooding ray of light, with custom sunshade rings lining the interior glass.
Inspired by the Pantheon in Rome, an oculus located at the apex of the dome provides a flooding ray of light that travels through the space. The interior of the glass is lined with custom baffles, each uniquely shaped to counter sun angles and provide a nighttime lighting effect. With trees lining the interior of the dome, the green garden city of Singapore flows into the store, providing additional shading and soft shadows through the foliage.
“We couldn’t be more excited to open the breathtaking Apple Marina Bay Sands in Singapore, building on our commitment to this special place that began more than 40 years ago,” said Deirdre O’Brien, Apple’s senior vice president of Retail + People. “Our passionate and talented team is ready to welcome this community to our new store and deliver the care and support that our customers around the world love.”
Customers can explore curated Apple products and accessories or receive personal technical support from Geniuses.
Visitors entering the store encounter a dramatic reveal into the massive volume of the dome, where they can explore curated Apple products and accessories, receive personal technical support from Geniuses, or simply take in the stunning view of Marina Bay. The Forum is centered around a Video Wall, which will serve as the stage for Today at Apple sessions featuring Singapore’s artists, musicians, and creators. Entrepreneurs and developers interested in receiving training and advice can meet with Apple team members in Apple’s first underwater Boardroom, located on the lower level of the store.
The Forum will soon serve as the stage for Singapore’s artists, musicians, and creatives for Today at Apple sessions.
Nearly 150 employees speaking over 23 languages are ready to welcome visitors to Apple Marina Bay Sands.
Apple’s rich history in Singapore spans more than 40 years, beginning with the first corporate office in Ang Mo Kio. In 1981, the team was responsible for producing the majority of printed circuit boards for Apple II computers worldwide. Since then, Apple has expanded its corporate and retail presence, and now supports over 55,000 jobs across the entire Apple ecosystem.
The 148-person team at Apple Marina Bay Sands, who collectively speak over 23 languages, will welcome visitors for the first time on Thursday, September 10 at 10 a.m. SGT. The store will implement the same rigorous health measures for both employees and visitors seen across all Apple Store locations, including a mask requirement, temperature checks, and social distancing.
To ensure the health and well-being of guests, visits to Apple Marina Bay Sands on Thursday will be by appointment only. Customers can visit apple.com/sg/marinabaysands to choose from available times, and each non-transferable reservation admits one person. Capacity will be limited, so guests may experience wait times before entering the store.
Apple Marina Bay Sands opens on Thursday, September 10 at 10 a.m. SGT.
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Porsche congratulates motor racing legend Richard Attwood on his 80th birthday
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Porsche congratulates motor racing legend Richard Attwood on his 80th birthday

Stuttgart. Richard Attwood, one of the most successful works racing drivers of Porsche AG, celebrates his 80th birthday on 4 April 2020. 50 years ago, the British racing driver Attwood achieved the first overall victory for Porsche at the 24 Hours of Le Mans together with Hans Herrmann.

Porsche congratulates motor racing legend Richard Attwood on his 80th birthday

Porsche congratulates motor racing legend Richard Attwood on his 80th birthday

Porsche congratulates motor racing legend Richard Attwood on his 80th birthday

Attwood developed a passion for motorsports at an early age – inspired by the car dealership run by his parents. After racing in formula sport with Triumph and BRM, he first came into contact with the Porsche brand in 1967.

Porsche congratulates motor racing legend Richard Attwood on his 80th birthday

Porsche congratulates motor racing legend Richard Attwood on his 80th birthday

Together with William Bradley, he finished second in Zeltweg driving a private Porsche 906 Carrera 6. Porsche engaged Attwood for the World Sportscar Championship two years later in 1969, and from then on he was retained under contract as a works driver.

He raced in the World Championship for Makes in a Porsche 908/02, and came second in both Brands Hatch and Watkins Glen together with Vic Elford. In the season finale in Zeltweg, he finished third with Brian Redman in the 917. Together with Hans Herrmann, he took part in the Nürburgring 1,000 km driving a Porsche 908/03 in 1970 – finishing in 2nd place.

Porsche congratulates motor racing legend Richard Attwood on his 80th birthday

Porsche congratulates motor racing legend Richard Attwood on his 80th birthda

The first overall victory in the most important endurance race in the world is considered to be one of the greatest racing successes of the sports car manufacturer from Zuffenhausen. On 14 June 1970, Porsche achieved the first of a total of 19 overall victories at the 24 Hours of Le Mans.

Porsche congratulates motor racing legend Richard Attwood on his 80th birthday

Porsche congratulates motor racing legend Richard Attwood on his 80th birthday

After exactly 4,607.811 kilometres or 343 laps, Richard Attwood and Hans Herrmann crossed the finishing line first in the legendary Porsche 917 KH from Porsche Salzburg with the start number 23. “Unlike what many people may think, I never did any testing in the 917. I drove a 917 for the first time in a qualifying race in 1969,” says Attwood looking back. “In 1970 I did not believe for a minute that we had even the slightest hope of winning.”


In 1971, he achieved another first place in the 1,000 kilometre race at the Österreichring. Richard Attwood retired from active motor racing at the end of the season at the age of just 31. His last podium finish was in 1971 together with Derek Bell in the 917 KH at the season finale of the World Sportscar Championship in Watkins Glen (3rd place). However, the now 80 year-old was not quite ready to fully enjoy his retirement. In 1984, he finished 15th in Daytona in a Porsche 928. Today, Attwood still accompanies the Porsche Museum to its driving events at renowned classic car meets all over the world. Among other things, he can be seen at the Festival of Speed in Goodwood, the Sound Night as well as at various historic motorsports events.


Richard Atwood’s most important Porsche racing successes
1967
2nd place 500 km Zeltweg, Porsche 906 Carrera 6

1969
7th place 12h Sebring, Porsche 908/02
2nd place 6h Brands Hatch, Porsche 908/02
4th place 1,000 km Spa, Porsche 908 LH
4th place 1,000 km Nürburgring, Porsche 908/02
2nd place 6h Watkins Glen, Porsche 908/02
3rd place 1,000 km Österreichring, Porsche 917
1st place 9h Kyalami, Porsche 908/02

1970
3rd place 1,000 km Brands Hatch, Porsche 917 KH
5th place Targa Florio, Porsche 908/03
9th place 1,000 km Spa, Porsche 908/02
6th place 1,000 km Spa, Porsche 917 KH
2nd place 1,000 km Nürburgring, Porsche 908/03
1st place 24h Le Mans, Porsche 917
3rd place CanAm Watkins Glen, Porsche 917 KH
4th place 1,000 km Österreichring, Porsche 917 KH

1971
2nd place 24h Le Mans, Porsche 917 KH
1st place 1,000 km Österreichring, Porsche 917 KH
3rd place 6h Watkins Glen, Porsche 917 KH

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12th special edition from Mercedes-AMG and Cigarette Racing celebrates its world debut

Mercedes-AMG and Cigarette Racing Team continue longstanding collaboration by creating performance one-off role models for land and water Affalterbach/Miami.

Mercedes-AMG and Cigarette Racing today presented the all-new 59’ Tirranna AMG Edition alongside a one-of-a-kind Mercedes-AMG G 63 Cigarette Edition (combined fuel consumption: 13,3-13,1 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 304-299 g/km) at the Miami International Boat Show. Jointly developed by Mercedes-AMG and Cigarette Racing, the 59’ Tirranna AMG Edition represents the 12th special edition boat resulting from this strategic collaboration. The Mercedes-AMG G 63 Cigarette Edition also made its debut in Miami, which was individualized at the AMG Performance Studio in Affalterbach following the same design principles as the boat.

12th special edition from Mercedes-AMG and Cigarette Racing celebrates its world debut

 12th special edition from Mercedes-AMG and Cigarette Racing celebrates its world debut

12th special edition from Mercedes-AMG and Cigarette Racing celebrates its world debut

The latest in a highly exclusive line of special edition boats, the 59’ Tirranna AMG Edition sets new standards in terms ofperformance and design, striking the perfect balance between a luxury yacht and a performance-oriented super console. Despite its 59’ length and 14’ beam, the Tirranna AMG Edition is extremely agile and optimized for high
performance.

 12th special edition from Mercedes-AMG and Cigarette Racing celebrates its world debut

12th special edition from Mercedes-AMG and Cigarette Racing celebrates its world debut

When designing their new performance flagship, the Cigarette Racing Team engineers focused their attention on every detail, for example by utilizing lightweight construction in key locations: Its raked hardtop is made completely of carbon fiber, reducing the vertical center of gravity for better handling, while carbon fiber also features throughout its superstructure, with carbon-capped stringers and a carbon-fiber transom. The hull and deck are vacuum infused using a highly optimized composite laminate schedule with PVC coring. The instrument panel is a nano-coated solid surface that is anti-reflective and heat-resistant, which also features titanium fasteners.

The striking design of the 59’ Tirranna AMG Edition and the Mercedes-AMG G 63 Cigarette Edition is the result of close collaboration between the Cigarette Racing Team, the Mercedes-AMG design team and Gorden Wagener, Chief Design

“Since 2007, we’ve shared our passion for performance with the Cigarette Racing Team. For the first time ever we followed a holistic design approach for both – the car and the boat,” says Tobias Moers, Chairman of the Board of Management of Mercedes-AMG GmbH. “The Mercedes-AMG G 63 Cigarette Edition is even more individualized than any other car before within our successful cooperation. The exterior and interior of this one of a kind G-Class Edition was tailor-made in our Performance Studio in Affalterbach underlining the high-performance appearance of the
Mercedes-AMG G 63.”

“The Mercedes-AMG G 63 is an unparalleled and timeless icon that has inspired us to push performance on water even further,” said Skip Braver, CEO of Cigarette Racing Team. “The 59’ Tirranna AMG Edition remains true to our proven racing DNA while embodying the next level of luxury and performance to once again redefine the expectations of our
discerning customers and set a new benchmark.”

 12th special edition from Mercedes-AMG and Cigarette Racing celebrates its world debut

12th special edition from Mercedes-AMG and Cigarette Racing celebrates its world debut

High performance on water

The Cigarette Racing Team 59’ Tirranna AMG Edition features six supercharged 4.6-liter V8 Mercury Racing 450R outboard engines, each producing 450 peak propshaft horsepower. Together, these engines generate 2,700 horsepower, enabling a top speed of 80 mph. These are remarkable performance figures for a boat of this scale, with a capacity for 26 people, combining the ease-of-use of a center console with the style, spaciousness and performance of a luxury sport boat.

Thoughtful technical details enhance the overall ease-of-use of the 59’ Tirranna AMG Edition. Among other things, it features a unique gyrostabilizer, which decreases the boat’s roll by 80%. This feature is especially pleasing when stationary in choppy water, and also aids in tendering to a large yacht. The boat features both bow and stern thrusters,
making docking very simple for a boat of this size.

Unmistakable design

The stunning black metallic exterior of the boat is complemented by a golden designed AMG diamond pattern. In the interior, the cabin leather shares a distinctive Mediterranean color combination with the AMG G 63 Cigarette Edition in macchiato beige and dark blue. This uncompromising attention to detail continues below deck. The layout on the boat’s
lower level features a large sofa with a cabinet concealing a fridge, extra storage and a television. Further forward is a California king sized bed, and a large enclosed bathroom with a separate shower. The premium leather cabin upholstery is handcrafted, while the upper deck is in an upholstery, which is able to reflect up to 30 percent of the absorbed heat.

This technology made a darker color choice possible on the deck, while retaining a comfortable and luxurious atmosphere. Beautiful attention to detail is also evident in touches such as the rounded stainless steel continuous grab rail, which runs the entire length of the boat. Three windows on each side of the hull provide a sea-view from within the cabin interior, while skylights in both the hardtop and the cabin create a bright and spacious feel in the interior.

 

Skylight blinds can be closed when privacy is desired.

For entertainment, Cigarette Racing teamed up with JL Audio Marine to develop Cigarette Pure Plus: a 29-speaker, 5,200-watt sound system provides exceptional sound quality throughout the boat. Outside, a summer kitchen at the aft features a grill, sink, food prep station and storage for convenient outdoor dining. The aft face of the hardtop on deck also integrates a 7’ electric awning system, capable of fully covering the aft cockpit area. Both the forward and aftfacing lounges in the rear section of the boat electrically combine to form a large sun lounge, ideal for relaxation.

Tables in the front of the boat can be raised or lowered for dining.

The 59’ Tirranna AMG Edition also impresses with its advanced control-interface design, utilizing a digital switching system, enabling control of various systems from locations throughout the boat and via iPad. The digital system can control everything from lighting at the helm and cabin air conditioners to monitoring bilge pumps. There is also an RGB accent lighting system that runs along the gunnels of the boat that can be controlled via an app on the chart plotters. A variety of lighting scenes can be set at the touch of a button. The digital system also decreases the amount of cabling needed in the boat, thus reducing overall weight.

Driving performance on land

The Mercedes-AMG G 63 offers brilliant off- and on-road capability. The basis for the hallmark AMG Driving Performance both on and off metalled roads is provided by the 430 kW (585 hp) 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine in combination with the rear-biased all-wheel drive (40:60) with three differential locks. The AMG RIDE CONTROL suspension as a fully automatic, electronically controlled system adjusts the damping at each wheel to the current requirements – typical driving characteristics offered by the Mercedes-AMG G 63.

The one-of-a-kind Mercedes-AMG G 63 Cigarette Edition, making its debut at the Miami International Boat Show, offers additional exclusiveness through an outstanding handcrafted individualization executed at the AMG Performance Studio in Affalterbach. It embodies a unique celebration of the ongoing collaboration between Mercedes-AMG and Cigarette

Racing Team by sharing exclusive design finishes and special detailing that can only be found on this specific model. The specialists at the AMG Performance Studio implemented the special exterior in black metallic complemented by the unique golden designed AMG diamond pattern. The new 22” inch Mercedes-AMG cross-spoke forged wheels are highlighted with gold accents at the wheel center caps and at the rim flange. The Mercedes-AMG G 63 Cigarette Edition features AMG Night Package elements, a dark chrome AMG specific radiator grille, and the bullbar as well as the side entry boards in matt black whereas the vehicle logos are glossy black.

The interior of the G-Class – for the first time in line with the interior of the boat – features macchiato beige and dark blue two-tone exclusive nappa leather upholstery, as well as an AMG performance steering wheel in carbon fiber with dark blue nappa leather based on the interior of the boat. The unique floor mats and the iconic G-Class grad handle both are featuring the Cigarette lettering.

Collaboration between Mercedes-AMG and Cigarette Racing Mercedes-AMG and Cigarette Racing began their collaboration in 2007, primarily for organizing joint customer and
marketing activities. Whether on water or on land, Mercedes-AMG and Cigarette Racing are united by their focus on delivering the ultimate in performance. The two special edition models for water and road share the same interpretation of Performance Luxury – the brand aesthetic that has been defined for Mercedes-AMG. This turns them into a perfect
technological and optical match.

The Miami International Boat Show is open to the public from February 13-17, 2020 at the Miami Marine Stadium Park & Basin. For more information, please visit miamiboatshow.com.

You probably already know, but the relationship between Mercedes-AMG and Cigarette Racing comes from years ago. On this occasion, we show you the twelfth collaboration project, called 59 ‘Tirranna AMG Edition, which can be seen within the activities of the Miami boat show. In addition to the boat you are watching, you can enjoy a Mercedes-AMG G 63 Cigarette Edition, in the same color as the outboard.

In the case of the boat, the Tirranna AMG Edition is equipped with six supercharged Mercury Racing 450R engines, with 4.6 liters of displacement each. The nominal power is 436 hp, but the sum of the sextet offers a thrust of 2,736 hp. With this configuration, the boat is capable of reaching a maximum speed of 129 km / h.

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HUBLOT CELEBRATES THE OPENING OF ITS FIRST ASPEN BOUTIQUE AND LAUNCH OF THE SPECIAL EDITION ROCKIES

HUBLOT LOVES ASPEN!
Hublot celebrates the opening of its first Aspen boutique and launch of the Special Edition Rockies

January 2020 [Aspen, CO] – Today, Swiss luxury watchmaker Hublot celebrated the opening of its first U.S. mountain-resort boutique in Aspen and launch of the Spirit of Big Bang Special Edition Rockies. The celebration hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony, cocktail reception, and dinner alongside friend of the brand, Olympic Gold Medalist, and world champion, Bode Miller.

HUBLOT CELEBRATES THE OPENING OF ITS FIRST ASPEN BOUTIQUE AND LAUNCH OF THE SPECIAL EDITION ROCKIES


VIP and members of the media enjoyed an action-packed day set against the unrivaled Aspen landscape, hitting the slopes at Aspen Snowmass while keeping time with Hublot clocks on display throughout the resort. The evening kicked off with an official ribbon cutting ceremony presented by Jean-Francois Sberro, President of Hublot North America, which flowed into a cocktail reception where guests perused Hublot’s latest novelties and mingled with Bode Miller. All attention turned to Jean-Francois Sberro as the hazy white glass of the main vitrines faded to reveal the Spirit of Big Bang Rockies. To cap the day of celebrations, guests dined at legendary members-only Caribou Club, toasting to Hublot’s expanding presence in Aspen.
To stay up-to-date, follow: @Hublot

Hublot has developed strong relationships with leading ski destinations around the world, so we are proud to be opening the first North American mountain-resort boutique in the iconic city of Aspen. We are looking forward to developing our relationship with this incredible city and are grateful for Bode Miller’s continued support.
Jean-Francois Sberro

CEO HUBLOT NORTH AMERICA

OLYMPIC GOLD MEDALIST, HUBLOT FRIEND OF THE BRAND

The Spirit of Big Bang Special Edition Rockies, limited to 25 pieces, features a white ceramic case and blue lined rubber straps, offering another chic take on the brand’s signature Art of Fusion. Designed for the serious and stylish skier, the high-tech ceramic – zirconium dioxide with high temperature sintering – provides a hard and solid case resistant to scratching and ageing, yet lighter than steel. Sporty and sophisticated, the trademark rubber straps add another element of function and style. Outfitted with the quintessential colors of ski season, snow white against clear blue skies, the newest Spirit of Big Bang houses the HUB4700 self-winding chronograph movement inside the iconic 42mm tonneau case.
Hublot Aspen, the brand’s first mountain-resort boutique in North America, will be operating through the winter with a full selection of timepieces in addition to the exclusive special edition Spirit of Big Bang Rockies. Featuring a bar and lounge with evening trading hours, the boutique is perfect for après! Located in the heart of West End, the charming and vibrant bustle of the town encompassed by the Rocky Mountains creates the perfect backdrop for Hublot.

 

The seasonal boutique supports Hublot’s position as the Official Timekeeper of Aspen Snowmass, one of the most prestigious ski destinations in North America, where Hublot reinforces the mountain culture closely tied to the brand’s Swiss heritage. In addition to this partnership, Hublot has developed strong relationships with leading luxury ski resorts around the world including Courchevel 1850 in the French Alps and Zermatt, where Hublot opened a chalet-styled boutique in both villages, released dedicated limited editions, and signed partnerships with iconic actors and venues affiliated with both resorts. Aspen Snowmass Resort joined the Hublot portfolio sharing the same ambition of being “first, unique and different” and celebrating ski culture.


HUBLOT
Founded in Switzerland in 1980, HUBLOT is defined by its innovation, which began with the highly original combination of gold and rubber. This “Art of Fusion” stems from the imagination of its visionary Chairman, Jean-Claude Biver, and has been driven forward by CEO Ricardo Guadalupe since 2012.
The release of the iconic, multi-award-winning Big Bang in 2005 paved the way for new flagship collections (Classic Fusion, Spirit of Big Bang), with complications ranging from the simple to the highly sophisticated, establishing the extraordinary DNA of the Swiss watchmaking house and ensuring its impressive growth.
Keen to preserve its traditional and cutting-edge expertise, and guided by its philosophy to “Be First, Different and Unique”, the Swiss watchmaker is consistently ahead of the curve, through its innovations in materials (scratch-resistant Magic Gold, ceramics in vibrant colours, sapphire), and the creation of Manufacture movements (Unico, Meca-10, Tourbillon).
HUBLOT is fully committed to creating a Haute Horlogerie brand with a visionary future: a future which is fused with the key events of our times (FIFA World CupTM, UEFA Champions League, UEFA EUROTM and Ferrari) and the finest ambassadors our era has to offer (Kylian Mbappé, Usain Bolt, Pelé).
Discover the HUBLOT universe at our network of boutiques located in key cities across the globe: Geneva, Paris, London, New York, Hong Kong, Dubai, Tokyo, Singapore, and at HUBLOT.com

”

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS REFERENCE
CASE
CASE-BACK
BEZEL
641.HX.7170.RX.ASP19
Limited to 25 pieces
Microblasted and Polished White Ceramic
Diameter: 42mm
Thickness: 14.10mm
Water resistance: 10 ATM (100m)
White Microblasted Ceramic and Crystal Sapphire
“SPECIAL EDITION xx/25” engraved
Microblasted and Polished White Ceramic
DIAL & HANDS
MOVEMENT
STRAP & BUCKLE
PRICE
Sapphire Crystal with White Luminescent
HUB4700: Manufacture Self-Winding Chronograph movement
Frequency: 5Hz (36’000 A/h)
Power reserve: Approx. 50 Hours
No. of Components: 278
Jewels: 31
Blue Structured Lined Rubber Straps
Titanium Deployant Buckle Clasp
26’700 USD

HUBLOT: www.hublot.com

 

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Goodwood – Pistons at dawn, For motorsport fans, the new Hollywood film about the lead-up to 1966’s 24 Hours of Le Mans

Pistons at dawn

For motorsport fans, the new Hollywood film about the lead-up to 1966’s 24 Hours of Le Mans is a must-see. More than half a century on, the fierce rivalry it depicts between Ford and Ferrari remains a fascinating duel of wills – but what really happened at the end of the race?

Words by Peter Hall

Directed by James Mangold and starring Christian Bale and Matt Damon, Le Mans ’66 is a thrilling evocation of Ford’s legendary battle with Ferrari at the world’s greatest motor race. Naturally the movie focuses on the American experience, albeit with a British-born hero, but the real story was rather more complicated.

It began in early 1963, when Henry Ford II was persuaded that his company could acquire sporting prestige by buying Ferrari. Enzo Ferrari was open to offers, but when he examined Ford’s $10 million proposal he spotted a clause that gave control of his precious racing division to the Americans. Unleashing a tirade of insults at Ford emissary Don Frey, he got up and walked out.

Back in Michigan, Ford was not impressed: “All right, if that’s the way he wants it, we’ll go out and whip his ass.” Frey suggested building a mid-engined GT. It was a sign of things to come that Ford took five minutes to approve the car and 55 minutes on the marketing strategy.

Seeking motorsport expertise, British-born engineer Roy Lunn was despatched to England, where he hired John Wyer, manager of the Aston Martin team that had won Le Mans in 1959. Wyer had been recommended by winning driver Carroll Shelby, a wily Texan who was also committed to beating Ferrari, developing the Ford V8- engined Cobra roadster and Daytona Coupe at his Los Angeles speed shop, Shelby American.

Lunn then visited Lola Cars of Bromley, whose Mk6 GT had shown promise at Le Mans. Powered by a midmounted 4.2-litre Ford V8, it was just what he was looking for, so he purchased two and brought Lola boss Eric Broadley into the new Ford GT project based in Slough. While Ford set about modifying the Lola Mk6, Broadley struggled with its corporate approach. He left the project and, sure enough, in testing at Goodwood and Monza the car demonstrated both a tendency to lift at speed and chronic braking problems due to its weight. Nevertheless, now with a 4.7-litre engine, the Ford GT was unveiled in Slough on April 1 1964 before appearing at the New York Auto Show.

Director James Mangold talks Le Mans ’66 fact versus fiction

Ken Miles and Carroll Shelby at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1966. Miles was on course for the first triple crown in sports car racing until fate, and Ford, intervened.

A few weeks later the GT crashed in trials for Le Mans. On its German race debut it retired, as did all three entries at Le Mans, where Ferrari enjoyed a seventh victory. A new nose helped the aerodynamics, but after two cars again failed to finish at Nassau in November they were packed off to Shelby American with orders to make winners of them, at any cost.

Shelby’s chief asset was 46-year old engineer Ken Miles. The son of a Sutton Coldfield tea and coffee merchant, he drove tanks in World War II then took up motor racing before emigrating to California, where he found success in self-built sports cars. With his sardonic English wit he was the antithesis of Shelby’s West Coast hot-rodders, but he was central to the development of the Cobra, Daytona Coupe and Mustang GT350. Miles made the Ford GT work, winning at Daytona in February 1965.

While Slough produced the MkI GT40 (as it was now called, referring to its height in inches) Shelby set about installing a 7.0-litre V8 engine. Two of these formidable 215mph “MkII” GT40s were entered for Le Mans, driven by Ken Miles/Bruce McLaren and Phil Hill/Chris Amon. European entries brought the number of GT40s up to six but all of them retired, handing yet another victory to Ferrari, live on US TV.

For 1966, it was win or bust. Encouragingly, Ken Miles won at Daytona and Sebring. For Le Mans, Ford entered 15 MkIIs, of which eight were accepted: three from Shelby American (for Ken Miles/Denny Hulme, Dan Gurney/ Jerry Grant and Bruce McLaren/Chris Amon), three from NASCAR race team Holman-Moody, and two Slough prepared cars run by Alan Mann Racing. Ever conscious of marketing angles, each car was painted in a different colour from the Mustang range. Six more GT40s were entered by customer teams.

Bruce put his head through the car door and said, ‘Go like hell!’

After qualifying, the race appeared to be Ford’s for the taking and, carrying a card from Henry Ford II with the message “You’d better win”, race-team manager Leo Beebe took no chances, allocating lap times to each car: Gurney/Grant would aim for 3m37s, Miles/Hulme 3m39s and McLaren/Amon 3m41s.

It was spitting with rain as Henry Ford II himself dropped the Tricolour flag at 4pm and the drivers sprinted to their cars; Graham Hill was first away in one of the Alan Mann GT40s, followed by Gurney. As Miles jumped into his car he damaged the door, forcing a pit stop. Racing back to the front, he set a new lap record of 3m33s. McLaren and Amon fell behind, struggling with their Firestone tyres. Having switched to Goodyears, Amon recalled that “Bruce put his head through the car door and said, ‘Go like hell!’”

Overnight rain favoured the Ferraris, but they didn’t last, and by daybreak Ford held the top six places. However, there were more retirements to come; the Shelby drivers were racing each other, and at 9am Gurney’s car overheated. With several hours remaining and three surviving Fords running 1-2-3, the leaders were told to slow down. Amon, by now almost a lap ahead, complied. Miles had other ideas and built a four-lap lead, although some of that was lost to brake problems when the McLaren/Amon crew used his spares.

Carroll Shelby (centre) with his Cobra drivers (left to right), Jo Schlesser, Ken Miles, Bruce McLaren and Phil Hill at 12 Hours of Sebring in 1965

Beebe now hatched an infamous plan. As Shelby recalled, “They came up to me and said, ‘Who do you think should win the race?’ I thought, ‘Well, hell, Ken’s been leading for all these hours – he should win.’ I looked at Leo Beebe and said, ‘What do you think ought to happen, Leo?’ He said, ‘I don’t know, I’d kind of like to see all three of them cross the line together.’ So I said, ‘Oh
hell, let’s do it that way then.’”

Receiving his orders at the final pit stop, Miles was furious: “So ends my contribution to this motor race.” Nevertheless he obeyed, slowing while McLaren and the Bucknum/Hutcherson Holman-Moody car caught up. They crossed the finish line side by side with McLaren easing ahead slightly at the chequered flag.

However, the regulations made a dead heat impossible. The McLaren/Amon car had started the race eight metres behind the Miles/Hulme machine and having covered a greater distance, it would be the winner.

Miles and Hulme were held back while a bemused McLaren and Amon joined Henry Ford II on the podium. “I think I’ve been f***ed,” declared Miles, bitterly. After all, he was Shelby’s lead driver, he had done the lion’s share of MkII development and, having won Daytona and Sebring, he could have entered the history books by taking the first “triple crown” of sports car racing.

As Carroll Shelby said, “The GT40s would never have reached the pinnacle they reached without Ken Miles”

Was Beebe really unaware of the distance rule? It’s often said that it was mentioned too late to change the team orders (in the absence of radios), although as they were a dozen laps ahead, the leaders could have been called in again. Alternatively, had McLaren been asked to slow down while Miles continued unhindered, the photo finish could have been staged with Miles one lap ahead. It has even been suggested that Miles was indeed ahead, but that the lap chart was altered. Miles’ remarks at the final pit stop, and his attempt to enter the winners’ circle, could sustain several theories.

Beebe later confessed: “I had some real difficulties over that. But [Miles] was a daredevil… I held him back because I was afraid the drivers would knock one another off. All you need is one good accident and you lose allyour investment.”

Sadly, Miles didn’t get another chance. In August he was killed testing Ford’s J-car, an all-American successor to the GT40 MkII with an unstable “breadvan”-shaped rear section and a bonded alloy chassis.

For Ford, all was not lost; a redesign produced the GT40 MkIV that won Le Mans in 1967, prompting winner Dan Gurney to spray Henry Ford II with champagne. Mission accomplished, albeit at enormous cost (perhaps $500 million, and a man’s life), Ford cancelled its programme, although new engine rules permitted Le Mans victories for John Wyer’s lightweight MkI in 1968 and 1969. The Ford was now more famous than any Ferrari.

Yet as Carroll Shelby said, “The GT40s would never have reached the pinnacle they reached without Ken Miles. He was not only a friend, he was a good engineer, he was a good test driver and as good a race driver as I ever knew… I can’t say what a void I felt when we lost him.”

Fuente: www.goodwood.com

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Highlights of CES 2020 – Mercedes-Benz VISION AVTR

This highlight video will give you a short impression of the presence of Mercedes-Benz at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2020 in Las Vegas. Subscribe to Mercedes-Benz. At CES, the inventor of the automobile will be giving an outlook on the sustainable mobility of the future with the Mercedes-Benz VISION AVTR. The concept vehicle connects human, machine and nature in an unprecedented way.

Mercedes-Benz VISION AVTR

#MBvisionavtr #MBces2020 #mercedesbenzTV

Highlights of CES 2020 – Mercedes-Benz VISION AVTR

Ola Källenius, Chairman of the Board of Management Daimler AG and Mercedes-Benz AG, presented the visionary concept vehicle in his keynote speech to around 2,000 spectators at the Park Theater of Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM) together with the Academy Award winning director and creator of AVATAR, James Cameron. The VISION AVTR is the result of an unprecedented global partnership between Mercedes-Benz and the AVATAR films.

Mercedes-Benz VISION AVTR

 

Credits: ™ & © 20th Century Fox Film Corp.

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Six motorsport highlights from another incredible year at Goodwood

Six motorsport highlights from another incredible year at Goodwood

Can you believe that the 2019 Goodwood motorsport season is over? Well there’s no need to be down, as tickets for the 2020 Goodwood Festival of Speed presented by mastercard, 78th Members’ Meeting and Revival are now on sale!

Goodwood fos-2019-volkswagen-idr-jayson-fong-goodwood-

Goodwood fos-2019-volkswagen-idr-jayson-fong-goodwood-

That’s right, tickets to our 2020 motorsport events are now on sale, and to celebrate that, and to look back on 2019, we’ve collected six of our favourite moments from this year’s 77th Members’ meeting, Festival of Speed presented by Mastercard and Revival.

Remember, tickets to the 78th Members’ Meeting are on sale exclusively to GRRC members and members of the GRRC Fellowship. For more information on tickets visit ticketing.goodwood.com.

Mini overtakes at the 77th Members’ Meeting

What better way to celebrate 60 years of Britain’s most iconic motor than to bring about that number of the mighty racers together for an epic three-part battle at Goodwood? Well, that’s exactly what we did at the 77th Members’ Meeting back in April 2019. Set as a shootout of two heats on Saturday and an epic final on Sunday, the event would eventually pitch Mini legend Nick Swift against Goodwood outright lap record holder Nick Padmore in virtually identical cars. This clip is just a taste of the madness that ensued, and you can watch the whole race by clicking here.

Senna GTR world debut

It’s not just racing cars at Goodwood, of course. We have a very long history of debuting some of the world’s most precious metal, and that doesn’t just stop at the Festival of Speed. Oh no, over the last few years both the Revival and Members’ Meetings have gotten in on the act, with McLaren’s new Senna becoming a bit of a fixture at our season opener. In 2018 at the 76th event the standard (if one can ever be standard) Senna made its dynamic debut, before the ultimate hardcore track version, the GTR, followed at the 77th. Safe to say it made quite an impression!

39.9 seconds – a new record at the Festival of Speed

Romain Dumas has been coming here for a few years, but it seems that over the last 24 months or so he’s decided to make Goodwood his own. First he won the 2018 Timed Shootout in Volkswagen’s mighty ID.R Pikes Peak dominator, then he raced hard with Andrew Jordan at Revival later that year. As if that wasn’t enough in 2019 he turned up with a new version of the ID.R, ready to have a crack at the Hill record, a standard that had sat for only the small matter of 20 years… Undeterred he didn’t just break it, he smashed it, and then took the outright Festival Hill record down below 40 seconds for the first time ever. It was stunning and, as you’ll soon see, it turned out Dumas wasn’t done with Goodwood just yet. If you want more, you can see the full timed shootout by clicking here.

De Tomaso P72 unveiled to the world

We’ve seen plenty of incredible debuts over the years at Goodwood, we’ve even spoken about one already in this very piece. But at the Festival of Speed this year we saw one that dropped a lot of jaws. Decades after disappearing from the face of the earth De Tomaso, once of Mangusta and Pantera fame, was back. It was back with a bang too, in the form of the stunning De Tomaso P72, a car with an amazing exterior and a mind-boggling interior.

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OMEGA Celebrates The New James Bond Watch in New York
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OMEGA Celebrates The New James Bond Watch in New York

With Special Guests including Daniel Craig, Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli
OMEGA Celebrates
The New James Bond Watch in New York

As the trusted timepiece of the world’s favourite spy, the Swiss watchmaker OMEGA has hosted an event in New York to celebrate its newest James Bond watch. Guests were welcomed at The Top of the Standard, where the new Seamaster Diver 300M 007 Edition was revealed for the very first time. Actor Daniel Craig, as well as producers Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli made a special appearance for the occasion.

James Bond has been wearing an OMEGA since GoldenEye in 1995 – the choice of Lindy Hemming, the costume designer who worked on all the Bond films between GoldenEye and Casino Royale. As guests arrived at the event in New York, they were greeted by a full display of the unique Seamaster watches worn by the British spy over the past 25 years.

Raynald Aeschlimann, the President and CEO of OMEGA, welcomed everyone inside and introduced the new watch. He said, “James Bond shares many of the same qualities as OMEGA, from exquisite style to adventurous spirit and exacting precision. We can’t wait for everyone to see the new timepiece he’ll be wearing on screen.”

Speaking about his involvement in the design process, Daniel Craig said, “When working with OMEGA, we decided that a lightweight watch would be key for a military man like 007. I also suggested some vintage touches and colours to give the watch a unique edge. The final piece looks incredible.”

Producers Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli said, “Bond’s military experience is a fundamental part of 007’s character, so it is fitting that OMEGA’s new design so cleverly reflects that aspect of his identity. Bond and OMEGA have been synonymous for almost a quarter of a century now, so as we prepare to launch the 25th Bond movie, the timing is perfect to launch the new Bond watch.”

The new Seamaster Diver 300M 007 Edition has been purposefully built with the needs of 007 in mind. Crafted from lightweight Grade 2 Titanium, it includes an innovative titanium mesh bracelet, as well as military-style engravings and a vintage appearance thanks to its “tropical” brown aluminium dial and bezel. This non-limited watch will be placed in OMEGA’s iconic current collection and available to customers worldwide from February.

Amongst the many guests in New York were a number of familiar faces including Paul Wesley, Antoni Porowski, and Sean O’Pry. As an added surprise, the spy-inspired night was concluded with a set from world-renowned DJ, Honey Dijon.

www.omegawatches.com
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OMEGA hosts a star-filled tribute to the 50th anniversary of the first lunar landing at Cape Canaveral
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OMEGA hosts a star-filled tribute to the 50th anniversary of the first lunar landing at Cape Canaveral

OMEGA hosts a star-filled tribute to the 50th anniversary of the first lunar landing with George Clooney and an impressive line-up of NASA veterans; including Charlie Duke and Thomas Stafford.

OMEGA hosts a star-filled tribute to the 50th anniversary of the first lunar landing at Cape Canaveral

It was a gathering of greats at Florida’s Kennedy Space Center when OMEGA paid tribute to the mission that made history.

OMEGA hosts a star-filled tribute to the 50th anniversary of the first lunar landing at Cape Canaveral

OMEGA hosts a star-filled tribute to the 50th anniversary of the first lunar landing at Cape Canaveral

After a day of discussions on a range of space-related subjects, media and VIP guests enjoyed a “Golden Moments” dinner served beneath the impressive Saturn 5 rocket, which was attended by George Clooney, Amal Clooney, Charlie Duke and Thomas Stafford.

Clearly proud of the Swiss brand’s claim-to-fame as the first watch worn on the Moon, President and CEO of OMEGA Mr. Raynald Aeschlimann summed up the spirit of the occasion. “It’s a huge achievement to land on another world. I can’t think of a better reason to raise a glass in tribute.”

Though OMEGA Ambassador George Clooney drew a great deal of media attention, the self-effacing actor was determined to ensure the spotlight stayed focused on his fellow guests. “It’s a great pleasure to be here – and an honor. I have enormous respect for the people who made the Apollo missions such a success.”

George Clooney was joined on stage by veteran of four NASA space missions and commander of Apollo 10 Lieutenant General Thomas Stafford, along with CAPCOM for Apollo 11 and Apollo 16 lunar module pilot Charlie Duke.

Reflecting on the pioneering spirit of the Apollo era, Charlie Duke described it as an exciting time but stressed that the success of the 1969 mission was down to hard work and commitment. “We were heading to the Moon, but we were also grounded, very realistic, and we never took success for granted, not once.”

Apollo 10’s Thomas Stafford talked about the “alien yet familiar” qualities of the lunar surface, and spoke proudly of his role in Apollo 11’s glory. “It was a great honor for me to play my part in the successful mission that followed.”

Also in attendance were Astronaut and artist Nicole Stott, NASA pilot and ISS commander Terry Virts, ESA astronaut and NASA veteran Jean-François Clervoy, and former NASA engineer and the man behind the Moonwatch, Jim Ragan.

To mark the 50th anniversary OMEGA has released a 42 mm Speedmaster in 18K Moonshine™ gold – an exclusive new alloy which offers a paler hue than traditional yellow gold and higher resistance to fading over time. The design is replete with lunar history as well as modern materials and a superb new movement: OMEGA’s Master Chronometer Calibre 3861- a manual-winding OMEGA Co-Axial escapement movement with Moonshine™ gold plated main plate and bridges, as well as burgundy markings.

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Four leading ladies join OMEGA in Shanghai for the launch of the new Constellation “Manhattan”

Four leading ladies join OMEGA in Shanghai for the launch of the new Constellation “Manhattan”

An unforgettable night with Cindy Crawford, Nicole Kidman, Alessandra Ambrosio and Liu Shishi.

It was an evening of true star quality, as OMEGA launched its new Constellation “Manhattan” collection at a special event in Shanghai. Hosted at the city’s dazzling Expo I–Pavilion, the celebrations introduced a full makeover for the iconic Constellation timepieces and also brought four of OMEGA’s most inspirational women to the stage.

Cindy Crawford, Nicole Kidman, Alessandra Ambrosio and Liu Shishi arrived as the glamorous guests of honour for the evening – each representing the beauty, sophistication and excellence that the Constellation collection is known for.

Standing alongside the four OMEGA ambassadors was Raynald Aeschlimann, President and CEO of OMEGA, who said, “The Constellation has always been admired by women all around the world. No matter the country, it has appealed to ladies of all backgrounds and styles. To celebrate that spirit, we’ve been lucky to have not one, but four of our closest friends here together. Having Nicole, Cindy, Shishi and Alessandra at one single event shows how much love there is for the Constellation.”

The Constellation collection has long been OMEGA’s symbol of unrivalled precision and elegance in watchmaking. It was the “Manhattan” design in 1982 that introduced the modern look and today’s new collection has enhanced many of the most famous features. More than 100 new models will be made available to customers, each of them with subtle updates including bevelled edges for a refined feminine look, slender bezels and the iconic “claws”, which now fit more snugly to the case. More dial colours and case sizes have also been created, including watches in 25 mm, 28 mm and 29 mm.

Stepping inside the venue, it was clear for guests to see the evening’s inspiration, with an exquisite backdrop of white and gold that mirrored the “Manhattan” skyline. Amongst the many shapes and textures, the new timepieces were on display and ready for a close-up look.

Cindy Crawford has a very unique connection to the Constellation, as she was part of the collection’s redesign in 1995. Speaking in Shanghai, she said, “I’ve now seen this collection evolve over the past several decades and I’m always impressed by OMEGA’s new designs. It’s such a classic watch, yet these new models prove just how relevant it remains today.”


Alessandra Ambrosio, one of the world’s most recognised super-models, said, “I love fashion that is timeless. The Constellation is the perfect example. It has history and style, and it’s a watch that never loses its charm. That’s the sign of a truly great design.”

Nicole Kidman is another watch fan who knows OMEGA and the Constellation very well. Speaking to guests, she said, “I’ve known OMEGA a long time and they’re a brand that cares about quality and advancing their products. We can clearly see that in the Constellation. These watches are made especially for women and they have been able to adapt and change in the most subtle and elegant way.”


The Chinese actress, Liu Shishi, one of OMEGA’s newest ambassadors, said, “It’s my honour to welcome everyone here in my home country. It’s a privilege to be in Shanghai and to share the stage with such great women.”

The special evening concluded with a musical performance by the pianist Stephen Ridley as well as the revelation of OMEGA’s new Constellation advertising campaign. The imagery, shot by renowned photographer Damon Baker, features Cindy, Nicole, Alessandra and Liu Shishi, all together in one powerful and beautiful portrait.

For the evening, Cindy, Nicole, Alessandra and Shishi each wore a model from the new Constellation “Manhattan” Jewellery Collection. These 28 mm timepieces are distinguished by their dials made from Australian white opal. The hours are marked by 12 baguette-cut ruby indexes – beautifully matching the red dresses worn by the OMEGA ambassadors.

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