The Salon has revealed its dates, confirming that it will be opening to the general public with a two-part program.
The next edition of Watches and Wonders Geneva will be held from 9 to 15 April 2024 in Geneva’s Halles de Palexpo. New for next year, the general public will be able to attend the event over a long 3-day weekend, from Saturday to Monday inclusive. Press and trade visitors will have access to the Salon throughout the week.

The 2024 edition intends to build on the success of 2023, further raising Geneva’s profile as an international watchmaking destination. The program will again unfold in two parts – at Palexpo and In the City – with an evening event on Thursday 11 April in the heart of town. The aim is to get the people of Geneva and local players even more involved in this major watchmaking event.

All the brands taking part in Watches and Wonders Geneva 2024 will be announced at a later date, along with the full program.

4997/200R - CALATRAVA

Patek Philippe presents luxury timepieces in Watches and Wonders Geneva 2023

 

Patek Philippe presents 17 new watch models with innovative technical and aesthetic features, enriching its vast range of collections

On the occasion of Watches and Wonders 2023, the Geneva-based manufacture is unveiling a wide selection of new models, ranging from a Calatrava with an original 24-hour display and a Travel Time function for the display of a second time zone, to a new haute joaillerie version of the Grandmaster Chime, and the first Annual Calendar to enter the ladies’ Aquanaut Luce collection, renowned for its modern casual chic. A new vintage celebrating technical mastery and creativity.

“Why does Patek Philippe offer so many different collections? Because each of them has its own character and its own way of enabling us to innovate and express ourselves.” That was the message from Thierry Stern, president of the family-owned manufacture, in a recent communications campaign centering on the company’s brand philosophy. From the Grand Complications to the elegant sports models and others that have become icons of horological design, Patek Philippe maintains a vast choice of watches for men and women in every market segment. As time passes, the manufacture takes great care to ensure a balanced evolution of the approximately 150 references, which are crafted in small series, ranging from about ten pieces to a few hundred. The 17 new introductions presented at the Watches and Wonders 2023 salon are the perfect illustration.

Five refined new looks for the striking watches –Grand Complications emblematic of Patek Philippe

Since the manufacture’s foundation in 1839, Patek Philippe has made its mark as one of the greatest specialists in striking watches. Its supreme mastery was confirmed in 2014 by the launch, as a limited edition, of the Patek Philippe Grandmaster Chime – the most complicated Patek Philippe wristwatch, with 20 complications. This timepiece, which joined the current collection in 2016, is particularly notable for its five chiming modes, including an alarm striking the pre-selected time, and a date repeater striking the date on demand.

The manufacture is reinterpreting the design of the double-face reversible case, endowed with a patented rotation mechanism, by presenting it for the first time in a bicolor version combining white gold and rose gold. This new Patek Philippe Grandmaster Chime Reference 6300GR-001 also stands out by its two brown opaline dials, with a hand-guilloched Clous de Paris or hobnail pattern on the side displaying the time of day, and its two-tone chestnut brown patinated alligator strap and bicolor folding buckle.

In 2022, Patek Philippe highlighted the mechanical perfection of the Grandmaster Chime with two gem- set versions, one with baguette-cut diamonds (Reference 6300/400G-001) the other with baguette-cut diamonds and baguette-cut blue sapphires (Reference 6300/401G-001). Now, the manufacture is presenting a new alliance between haute horlogerie and haute joaillerie with the Patek Philippe Grandmaster Chime Haute Joaillerie Reference 6300/403G-001 shimmering with 118 baguette-cut emeralds (7.87 ct) and 291 baguette-cut diamonds (20.54 ct) in a superb example of the “baguette” and “invisible” setting techniques. This timepiece is endowed with two dials in ebony-black opaline, with a hand-guilloched Clous de Paris or hobnail pattern on the time side and a shiny black alligator leather strap with emerald-green hand stitching.

Another outstanding piece among the striking watches, Reference 5316, launched in 2017, unites a minute repeater, a tourbillon, a perpetual calendar with retrograde date hand and a moon-phase indicator. In the Grand Complication Reference 5316/50P-001, Patek Philippe gives this timepiece a unique new modern allure –with a platinum case and a sapphire-crystal dial with blue metallization and black-gradient rim, affording a veiled glimpse of the mechanical heart of the watch.

Rare Handcrafts World Time Minute Repeater Reference 5531G-001

Rare Handcrafts World Time Minute Repeater Reference 5531G-001

The manufacture is also enriching its selection of minute-repeating wristwatches –the largest such range in a current collection –with two reinterpretations under the heading of Rare Handcrafts. Rare Handcrafts World Time Minute Repeater Reference 5531G-001 – the first minute repeater model that always strikes the local time –is also the first World Time Minute Repeater in white gold. Its dial center is adorned with a new Grand Feu cloisonné enamel scene depicting one of the famous steamboats still plying the waters of Lake Geneva. Another new model, Rare Handcrafts Minute Repeater Reference 5178G-012, is endowed with a self-winding movement and “cathedral” gongs whose sound is particularly deep and rich. It features a new dial in blue Grand Feu flinqué enamel over a distinctive hand-guilloched swirling pattern.

Calatrava Reference 5224R-001

Calatrava Reference 5224R-001 

A new complicated model and refreshed designs in the Calatrava collection

With its sleek round case and air of understatement, the Calatrava collection (launched in 1932) has made its mark as the archetype of timeless elegance. Over the years, Patek Philippe has added to this vast family a variety of complications used in everyday life, such as the Travel Time dual time zone function and the weekly calendar. The manufacture is now expanding its range of travel watches with the new Calatrava Reference 5224R-001 featuring the Travel Time dual time zone and an original 24- hour display. The new caliber 31-260 PS FUS 24H self-winding movement is further distinguished by its patented system for correcting local time by the crown. It is housed in a rose-gold case harmonizing with a blue dial embellished by complex finishing touches, adorned with numerals, hour markers and five-minute cabochons all in rose gold, individually applied by hand.

Since 2015, the models in the Pilot style – inspired by the Patek Philippe watches created for aviators in the 1930s – have featured prominently in the manufacture’s collections, with several versions of the Calatrava Pilot Travel Time with the dual time-zone mechanism, as well as a Grand Complication equipped with a 24-hour alarm. Patek Philippe is now endowing this distinctive line, known for its original, highly recognizable aesthetic, with its first two chronograph models: Calatrava Pilot Travel Time Chronograph Reference 5924G-001, with a blue-gray sunburst dial and a navy-blue grained calfskin strap; and the Calatrava Pilot Travel Time Chronograph Reference 5924G-010, with a lacquered dial in khaki green and an olive-green calfskin strap with a vintage finish. These two watches house the caliber CH 28-520 C FUS self-winding movement uniting three practical and user-friendly complications:   a fly-back chronograph, a Travel Time dual time zone function and the date indicated by a hand, coupled with local time.

Other new models in the Patek Philippe current collection include the Calatrava references 6007G- 001, 6007G-010 and 6007G-011 featuring a graphic modern style. The ebony black dials, enriched with three types of finish, center an embossed “carbon” pattern. The dynamism of the design is heightened by touches of color on the dials and straps: yellow (6007G-001), red (6007G-010) or sky blue (6007G-011). The white-gold cases house the caliber 26-330 S C self-winding movement with date and stop-seconds function.

4997/200R - CALATRAVA

4997/200R – CALATRAVA

Patek Philippe is also expanding its range of elegant watches for women with the new Calatrava self- winding Reference 4997/200R-001, a reinterpretation of a great classic that catches the eye with a rose-gold case and a dial and strap decked out in purple. The dial, embossed with a pattern of concentric waves, is coated with more than fifty layers of translucent lacquer, creating a mesmerizing sense of depth. The case is adorned with a diamond-set bezel and houses the caliber 240 ultra-thin self-winding movement.

New functions and new faces for the Aquanaut and Aquanaut Luce

Patek Philippe made its mark in the domain of sporty elegance by designing two models that have acquired cult status: the Nautilus (1976) and the Aquanaut (1997), the latter strengthening its offer in 2004 with the launch of the ladies’ Aquanaut Luce line. Following the introduction of a Travel Time dual time-zone model in 2021 and a self-winding chronograph version in 2022, the Aquanaut Luce is now treating itself to a new practical and easy-to-use complication: the patented Annual Calendar. Graced with a blue-gray dial and strap, this Aquanaut Luce Annual Calendar Reference 5261R-001 in rose gold enhances the choice of complicated watches for women with a non-gemset model.

The new self-winding ladies’ Aquanaut Luce Reference 5268/200R-010 coordinates a rose-gold case with a dial and integrated strap in taupe –a warm hue between brown and gray in perfect harmony with this model’s “modern casual chic” style. Its characteristic rounded octagonal bezel is lit by the fire of 48 diamonds. The case is water resistant to 120 m and houses the caliber 26-330 S C self-winding movement with stop seconds.

The self-winding Aquanaut chronograph for men, already available in steel and in white gold, also sports a rose-gold case for the new Aquanaut Chronograph Reference 5968R-001, endowed with a sunburst dial in a gradient of brown to black, and a matching composite strap.

From technical models to jewelry pieces

In the segment of complicated watches for men, Self-winding Flyback Chronograph with Annual Calendar Reference 5905R-010 endowed with a rose-gold case and a blue sunburst dial lends a new face to this alliance between two sought-after Patek Philippe complications.

Gondolo Serata Reference 4962/200R-001

Gondolo Serata Reference 4962/200R-001

The Gondolo collection, comprising the Patek Philippe “form watches” of Art Deco inspiration, announces the return of a jewelry watch with unique style and timeless elegance. The Gondolo Serata Reference 4962/200R-001, in rose gold, is set with spessartites arranged in a double color gradient, highlighting the case’s refined curves. The brown-lacquered dial presents a floral decoration with contrasting finishes.

A rich collection of rare handcrafts

 Once again, as in previous years, Patek Philippe is also unveiling a splendid collection of one-of-a-kind or limited-edition pieces (dome table clocks, table clocks, pocket watches and wristwatches) showcasing the rarest and most refined of the artistic crafts, such as miniature painting on enamel, Grand Feu cloisonné enameling, hand engraving and wood marquetry. The “Rare Handcrafts 2023” exhibition, bringing together these 67 creations, will be open to the public from April 1 to 15 2023 in the Patek Philippe Salons in Geneva.

 

 

Christian Dior: Designer of Dreams 2023 pictures by Japanese photographer Yuriko Takagi

LA EXPOSICIÓN DIOR DESIGNER OF DREAMS EN TOKIO 2023

 

La exposición Dior Designer of Dreams en Tokio presenta una exhibición sin precedentes de prendas que trazan la sucesión de Monsieur Dior

En  #Dior , la pasión está en el corazón de nuestras creaciones.

La exposición #DiorDesignerofDreams en Tokio presenta una muestra sin precedentes de prendas que trazan la sucesión de Monsieur Dior desde creaciones de archivo de anteriores directores artísticos de la casa hasta diseños contemporáneos de  #MariaGraziaChiuri . Las piezas exclusivas se pueden descubrir de otra forma, ya que son redefinidas por el talentoso fotógrafo,  #YurikoTakagi .


Through Takagi’s poetic lens, these images capture the intricate beauty of each couture design in movement. Honoring the deep respect for tradition and craftsmanship held dear to both Monsieur Dior and Japanese culture, Takagi is able to breathe life into her photographs using a prolonged shutter speed as seen in this breathtaking display. Delve behind the scenes to see the making-of these moving photos.
A través de la lente poética de Takagi, estas imágenes capturan la intrincada belleza de cada diseño de alta costura en movimiento. Honrando el profundo respeto por la tradición y la artesanía apreciados tanto por Monsieur Dior como por la cultura japonesa, Takagi puede dar vida a sus fotografías utilizando una velocidad de obturación prolongada, como se ve en esta impresionante exhibición. Sumérjase entre bastidores para ver cómo se hicieron estas fotos conmovedoras.

Imágenes de Christian Dior: Designer of Dreams 2023 de la fotógrafa japonesa Yuriko Takagi

Imágenes de Christian Dior: Designer of Dreams 2023 de la fotógrafa japonesa Yuriko Takagi

Christian Dior: diseñador de sueños

Tras su éxito en el Musée des Arts Décoratifs de París, y tras haber viajado por el mundo de Londres a Nueva York(*1), la exposición Christian Dior: Designer of Dreams se presentará en el Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Tokio a partir del 21 de diciembre. , 2022; un evento excepcional que celebra los lazos sinceros y singulares entre Dior y Japón.

Acompasada por un nuevo relato escenográfico diseñado -como homenaje a la cultura japonesa- por el arquitecto Shohei Shigematsu(*2), socio de OMA, esta retrospectiva, que se reinventa bajo la curaduría de Florence Müller, destaca más de setenta y cinco años de pasión audaz, marcada por maravillosos descubrimientos: desde las influencias artísticas del modisto fundador hasta su amor por los jardines, desde la suntuosa magia de los bailes hasta su fascinación por la riqueza creativa de Japón, que inspiró las colecciones de Dior desde el principio. Esta amistad inquebrantable, consolidada por colaboraciones únicas y admiración mutua, se refleja en valiosos documentos de archivo, la mayoría de los cuales nunca se han mostrado al público.

Desvelados uno a uno, accesorios y modelos de alta costura del pasado al presente, soñados por Christian Dior –incluido el traje Bar por excelencia, emblema eterno del New Look– y por los distintos Directores Artísticos que le han sucedido: Yves Saint Laurent, Marc Bohan, Gianfranco Ferré, John Galliano, Raf Simons y Maria Grazia Chiuri. Los visitantes podrán descubrir una selección de cautivadoras y prestigiosas obras de la colección del MOT, así como fotografías de la fotógrafa japonesa Yuriko Takagi(*3) especialmente creadas para esta exposición y para su cartel. Perpetuando el espíritu visionario de Christian Dior, también se exponen iconos innovadores, como el bolso Lady Dior reinterpretado en los proyectos Dior Lady Art y Lady Dior As Seen By, junto con los mundos de los perfumes Miss Dior y J’adore,

*1 Esta exposición se ha llevado a cabo de diferentes formas en el Victoria & Albert Museum de Londres, el Long Museum West Bund de Shanghái, el Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Chendgu, el Museo de Brooklyn de Nueva York y la M7 de Doha.

*2 OMA es una asociación internacional que practica la arquitectura, el urbanismo y el análisis cultural. Shohei Shigematsu es socio de OMA Nueva York y lidera la diversa cartera de la empresa en las Américas y Japón.

*3 El fotógrafo japonés también ha contribuido al catálogo de esta nueva retrospectiva.

www.mot-art-museum.jp/en/exhibitions/Christian_Dior/

Imágenes de Christian Dior: Designer of Dreams 2023 de la fotógrafa japonesa Yuriko Takagi

LVMH organiza la cuarta edición de LVMH Watch Week en Singapur del 10 al 12 de enero

Organizado por el Grupo LVMH, LVMH Watch Week es tradicionalmente el primer evento en el calendario de exhibiciones de la industria relojera, antes de Watches and Wonders en Ginebra. Como cada año, el evento destaca el impulso dinámico de las marcas relojeras de LVMH y de toda la industria. BulgariHublotTAG HeuerZenith  estarán en Singapur este año para presentar sus últimas colecciones y relojes excepcionales para periodistas de todo el mundo.

 

Cada una de las cuatro maisones de relojería LVMH contará con su posicionamiento distintivo y su único savoir-faire: audaz creatividad y sofisticación de Bulgari, innovación dinámica en Hublot, espíritu de vanguardia para TAG Heuer  y Legendary Expertise en Zenith.

A partir del 10 de enero, los sitios web y las redes sociales de LVMH, Bulgari, Hublot, TAG Heuer y Zenith mostrarán todas las nuevas y emocionantes creaciones de relojes presentadas en el evento.

Motorlux 2022

Motorlux and Broad Arrow Group Monterey Jet Center Auction Partner to Offer Premium Ticket Package and Access

Motorlux and Broad Arrow Group Monterey Jet Center Auction Partner to Offer Premium Ticket Package and Access

TRAVERSE CITY, Mich., July 15, 2022 – Motorlux, the reimagined McCall’s Motorworks, includes exclusive access to the first-ever Broad Arrow Group Monterey Jet Center Auction. All Motorlux ticket holders can preview the auction vehicles during the event on Wednesday, August 17. Lux Premium tickets also include admission to the auction (a $200 value) held on Thursday, August 18, providing access that is normally reserved for consigners, registered bidders and their guests.

Motorlux 2022

Motorlux 2022

“The Broad Arrow Group is thrilled to bring auction action to the Monterey Jet Center the day following – and in partnership with – this year’s Motorlux event,” said Kenneth Ahn, President, Hagerty Marketplace and CEO, Broad Arrow Group. “It is the perfect combination of people, place and passion – our clients and friends from around the world, an inspiring setting and an incredible offering of cars.”

Highlights from more than 90 auction vehicles include the personal Aston Martin DB5 of legendary actor and icon, Sir Sean Connery. The 1964 Aston Martin DB5 will be offered directly from the Connery family, who have committed to donating a significant portion of the sale proceeds to benefit the Sean Connery Philanthropy Fund.

Pre-war automobile enthusiasts will appreciate the unique and outstanding 1939 Mercedes-Benz 540K Spezial Roadster. As one of the true crown jewels of the Classic Era of motor cars, arguably no automobile symbolizes the pinnacle of design, engineering and construction among the Classic Era cars better than the supercharged Mercedes-Benz 540K Spezial Roadster. Incredibly rare, stunningly beautiful, a cherished centerpiece for collectors worldwide – chassis 408383 is the perfect representation of those enviable qualities.

Additional highlights include a 2012 Lexus LFA Nürburgring, one of 50 produced. The single-owner LFA is finished in orange and has only covered about 1,200 miles since delivery. Porsche fans will enjoy viewing the 1987 Porsche 959 Komfort and BMW aficionados will appreciate the 1981 BMW M1. Both rare and highly collectible German supercars represent the pinnacle of 1980s automotive engineering.

Motorlux Ticket Packages Available Now

Ticket packages are available at the Motorlux Onsite parking is included with all ticket packages, adding a new level of convenience and exclusivity to the evening.

The Lux Pass includes an up-close look at some of the world’s most impressive airplanes and automobiles, preview of the inaugural Broad Arrow Group auction, farm-to-table culinary stations, interactive entertainment, convenient self-parking at the Monterey Pines Golf Club as well as an open bar with signature cocktails and locally inspired refreshments.

The Lux Plus ticket includes all the Lux Pass accommodations plus early entry starting at 5:00 pm Pacific, one hour before the event opens. In addition, Lux Plus holders can access the exclusive Lux Lounge featuring an open bar with curated cocktails and gourmet culinary stations from California’s esteemed chefs.

Lux Premium ticket holders will enjoy all the Lux Plus extras plus upgraded parking on the tarmac and admission to the Broad Arrow Group Auction, showcasing 80 exceptional motor cars, on Thursday, August 18.

About Motorlux

Motorlux is a fresh take on Monterey Car Week’s hangar party with a focus on cars, craft and community. Returning to the Monterey Jet Center on August 17, 2022, Motorlux remains faithful to its entertaining and elegant roots while elevated with artfully curated experiences celebrating automotive, aviation, fashion and design. For more visit the Motorlux website at Motorlux.com.

About Broad Arrow Group

Broad Arrow Group and its subsidiaries — Broad Arrow Auctions, Broad Arrow Capital, and Collectors Garage — represent the collective vision of its founders, team members, and partners — to be the best advisor, marketplace, and financier for car collectors, with integrity, trust, and innovation. Broad Arrow Group was founded in 2021 to develop and operate a portfolio of businesses and brands that address the needs of various segments of the collector car market and to transform the collector car industry.  In January 2022, Hagerty (NYSE: HGTY) made a strategic investment and became a joint venture partner for Broad Arrow Group. Learn more at broadarrowgroup.com.

About Hagerty, Inc. (NYSE: HGTY)

Based in Traverse City, Michigan, Hagerty’s purpose is to save driving and car culture for future generations and its mission is to build a global business to fund that purpose. Hagerty is an automotive enthusiast brand offering integrated membership products and programs as well as a specialty insurance provider focused on the global automotive enthusiast market. Hagerty is home to Hagerty Drivers Club, Hagerty DriveShare, Hagerty Valuation Tools, Hagerty Media, Hagerty Drivers Club magazine, MotorsportReg, Hagerty Garage + Social, The Amelia, Detroit Concours d’Elegance, Greenwich Concours d’Elegance, California Mille, Motorlux, Hagerty Drivers Foundation and more. For more information on Hagerty, please visit https://www.hagerty.com/, or connect with us on FacebookInstagram and Twitter.

Japan: Courts and Culture: The Queen's Gallery, Buckingham Palace

Japan: Courts and Culture: The Queen’s Gallery, Buckingham Palace

This exhibition explores British royal encounters with Japan over a period of 350 years.

From samurai armour sent to James I in 1613, to a Coronation gift for HM The Queen in 1953, Japanese treasures have reached the British Court through trade, travel and treaties.

Each object on display reflects materials and techniques particular to Japan. Uniquely, many were commissioned or presented by the Japanese Imperial Family. Together, they reveal the ceremonial, diplomatic and artistic exchange linking the two courts of East and West.

… an exquisite, intricate, truly diverting parade of treasures ★★★★

THE TELEGRAPH

The Royal Collection holds some of the most significant examples of Japanese art and design in the western world. For the first time, highlights from this outstanding collection are brought together to tell the story of 300 years of diplomatic, artistic and cultural exchange between the British and Japanese royal and imperial families. The exhibition includes rare pieces of porcelain and lacquer, samurai armour, embroidered screens and diplomatic gifts from the reigns of James I to Her Majesty The Queen. Together, they offer a unique insight into the worlds of ritual, honour and artistry linking the courts and cultures of Britain and Japan.

Explore the Exhibition

Description

This splendid and understated armour was sent to James I of England by Tokugawa Hidetada, third son of Tokugawa Ieyasu, who ruled as the second shōgun of the Tokugawa dynasty from 1605 to 1623. Some sources have suggested that the armour may once have been owned by Takeda Katsuyori (1546 – 82), a daimyō who had fought, and lost, against Tokugawa Ieyasu at the Battle of Tenmokuzan in 1582.

The armour is of the body-wrapped (dōmaru) type, which hinges around the body and fastens on the right. The ‘pumpkin-shaped’ helmet (akodanari kabuto) is signed by Iwai Yozaemon, one of the main armourers to the ruling Tokugawa family. Armours by Iwai Yozaemon in other European royal collections indicate that this was a popular diplomatic gift from the Tokugawa family, easily available from a regular and reliable source.

The helmet has a very wide, almost flat neck guard (shikoro), small turn-backs (fukikaeshi) and visor (mabizashi) decorated in gold lacquer with stylised clouds. The akodanari helmet has prominent vertical rivet lines and is lacquered black. A raised area at the back of the helmet bowl may have been designed to accommodate the chonmage, the samurai hairstyle which consisted of a shaved pate with the hair oiled and tied at the back of the head in a queue. This distinctive form of helmet was extremely popular during the Muromachi period (1392–1573) and the traditional style would have appealed to the Tokugawa family who were conservative in their tastes. The face-mask (sōmen) has a fearsome appearance, although the whiskers have possibly been trimmed over the years.

Much of the armour is laced in red and blue silk in a chequerboard pattern. The lamellae (kozane) are individual pieces of iron lacquered and laced together – a technique known as hon-kozane (‘true’ kozane), which creates a more flexible armour.

Continuing the conservative style, the shoulder guards (sode) are very large for an armour of this period. The solid iron upper areas of the cuirass () are decorated with gold lacquer dragons whose red lacquer tongues chase stylised clouds, possibly symbolising the Buddhist pearl of enlightenment, on a black lacquer ground. The rims (fukurin) and other metal fittings are of engraved and pierced shakudō and gilt-copper alloy. Interestingly, the small fittings to secure the cuirass have a discreet motif of a paulownia (kiri) leaf, an imperial symbol later adopted by the Tokugawa family. The sleeves (kote) are decorated in a similar fashion and have fine, though faded, silk with auspicious motifs and areas of iron mail. The greaves (suneate) are decorated with further stylised clouds in gold lacquer on black.

Text adapted from Japan: Courts and Culture (2020).

Provenance

Sent to James I by Shōgun Tokugawa Hidetada, 1613

This is one of the ‘two varnished armours’ given to Captain John Saris of the East India Company at Edo on 19 September 1613. Saris returned to Plymouth with the gifts in September 1614, but no account of their delivery to James I survives. The pair were almost certainly the first Japanese armours to arrive in Britain. By the mid-seventeenth century, they appear to have been separated, for only one was recorded at the Tower of London in 1660. The present armour was stored in a lacquer box in the Armoury at St James’s Palace, where it was inventoried in 1649–51 by the Commonwealth government for the posthumous sale of Charles I’s possessions. At that time, it was described as an ‘Indian Armor’ and purchased by Major Bas on 23 October 1651 for £10.

Following the Interregnum, the armour was returned to the Royal Collection, but confusion about both pieces’ provenance abounded. The armour at the Tower was for example described in 1662 as a present to Charles II ‘from the Emperor Mougul’, in India. As late as 1916, the present armour was confused with another in the Royal Armouries which had in fact been given to Philip II of Spain in 1585. At that time, it was in reality mounted on the wall of the Grand Vestibule at Windsor Castle, with other Japanese items from the Royal Collection.

Source & Photos: ROYAL COLLECTION TRUST

Watches and Wonders Geneva | Nearly 40 watchmaking Maisons to exhibit at the physical Salon in 2022

After two entirely digital editions, the key watchmaking industry event is confirmed to take place in Geneva both in a physical format – in the halls of Palexpo – and digitally, via the watchandwonders.com platform. Nearly 40 watch and jewellery brands will gather at this watchmaking summit for the first time over 7 days – from 30 March to 5 April 2022.

The next Watches and Wonders Geneva, which is eagerly awaited after two years of being entirely online, is already shaping up for 2022. More than a trade show, this watchmaking summit will bring together the main industry players, with the arrival of new brands such as Hublot, TAG Heuer and Zenith from the LVMH Group, Grand Seiko, Oris and the jeweller Van Cleef & Arpels who is making its return to the Salon.

 

Reputed brands such as Chanel, Chopard, Patek Philippe, Rolex and Tudor will also be exhibiting for the first time in Geneva. Not to mention other major Maisons, such as Cartier, Hermès, IWC Schaffhausen, Jaeger-LeCoultre, Piaget, Ulysse Nardin and Vacheron Constantin, who have been regulars for many years.

All these players will vibrate to the rhythm of a thrilling watch-industry week and will be showcased in one single setting at Palexpo. The Carré des Horlogers will welcome fifteen independent designer-craftsmen and women at the centre of the exhibition.

A hybrid, flexible concept.

After proving its agility over the last two events, Watches and Wonders Geneva is moving to a hybrid format so that visitors can above all have a face-to-face experience but also participate on line, depending on the changing context of the pandemic.

Everything has been thought through and organised to ensure that the product presentations, new product launches, keynotes, panel discussions and conferences be followed in Geneva by visitors onsite, but also, for those who are unable to travel, remotely, via the www.watchesandwonders.com platform. All the content will be available online, live or in replay.

But nothing can ever replace in-person experience. Industry players have clearly stated their desire to get together around the products. They want their guests to be able to see and touch the exceptional pieces, to discuss, debate and interact on site.

Watches and Wonders Geneva 2022 promises once again to be a great success but also a wonderful reunion. Whether in Geneva or elsewhere in the world, make a date for this leading watchmaking summit, from 30 March to 5 April 2022!

EXHIBITING BRANDS | A. LANGE & SÖHNE | BAUME & MERCIER |

CARTIER | CHANEL | CHOPARD | GRAND SEIKO | HERMÈS | HUBLOT | IWC SCHAFFHAUSEN | JAEGER-LECOULTRE | MONTBLANC | ORIS | PANERAI | PARMIGIANI FLEURIER | PATEK PHILIPPE | PIAGET | ROGER DUBUIS | ROLEX | TAG HEUER | TUDOR | ULYSSE NARDIN | VACHERON CONSTANTIN | VAN CLEEF & ARPELS | ZENITH CARRÉ DES HORLOGERS | ANGELUS | ARMIN STROM | ARNOLD & SON | CYRUS | CZAPEK | FERDINAND BERTHOUD | GRÖNEFELD | MOSER & CIE. | LAURENT FERRIER | LOUIS MOINET | REBELLION TIMEPIECES | RESSENCE | RUDIS SYLVA | SPEAKE-MARIN | TRILOBE

More information at watchesandwonders.com

Bugatti Presents the Centodieci at Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este 2021 and celebrates 30 years of the legendary Bugatti EB110

With its timeless beauty, Villa d’Este on the shores of Lake Como has provided a residency for the aristocracy, princesses, marquises, sultans and tsars for centuries. Considered one of the most breath-taking architectural works of the sixteenth century, every year, this elegant five-star resort welcomes automotive enthusiasts from all over the globe to the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este. Here, they can appreciate the spectacle of some of the finest automobiles and motorcycles, in both production and prototype form, ever created. This year, visitors could also enjoy Bugatti’s stunning Centodieci, which the French luxury brand was presenting in the ‘Concept Cars & Prototypes’ category over the previous weekend from Saturday 2nd to Sunday 3rd October 2021.

With its timeless beauty, Villa d’Este on the shores of Lake Como has provided a residency for the aristocracy, princesses, marquises, sultans and tsars for centuries. Considered one of the most breath-taking architectural works of the sixteenth century, every year, this elegant five-star resort welcomes automotive enthusiasts from all over the globe to the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este. Here, they can appreciate the spectacle of some of the finest automobiles and motorcycles, in both production and prototype form, ever created. This year, visitors could also enjoy Bugatti’s stunning Centodieci, which the French luxury brand was presenting in the ‘Concept Cars & Prototypes’ category over the previous weekend from Saturday 2nd to Sunday 3rd October 2021.

Bugatti unveiled the Centodieci – which translates as 110 in Italian – during Monterey Car Week in California at the Quail in 2019 to celebrate the company’s 110th anniversary. Inspired by the legendary Bugatti EB110 of 1991 and powered by the 8.0-liter W16 engine producing 1,600PS, just 10 Centodieci units will be hand-built at Bugatti’s Molsheim Atelier and be delivered to customers next year. All ten Centodieci models had already been accounted for by customers prior to the car’s unveiling.

A Concours d’Élégance for automobiles was first held at Villa d’Este back in 1929, and Bugatti has enjoyed a long and successful relationship with the event. Recent highlights have included the Bugatti La Voiture Noire taking the premiere prize in the ‘Concept Cars & Prototypes’ category the last time the event was held in 2019. Models from Bugatti’s illustrious past, such as the 1937 Type 57S four-seater sports tourer, the 1934 Type 59 Grand Prix car and the 1938 Type 57SC Atlantic, have all been awarded significant accolades in recent years.

This year also marks the 30th anniversary of the Bugatti EB110. The groundbreaking and first supercar of its time represents the mid-period of Bugatti’s history, when Bugatti Automobili S.p.A. was based in the famous ‘Blue Factory’ in Campogalliano in Italy under the stewardship of Romano Artioli. Introduced in 1991 to mark 110 years since the birth of Ettore Bugatti in 1881, the EB110 elevated the supercar genre to a new level. It featured a revolutionary engineering package that included a carbon fiber chassis and a 3.5-litre 12-cylinder engine with five valves per cylinder and quadruple turbochargers. The transmission was also incorporated within the engine block to create more space for cabin occupants. Exemplary grip, traction and safety were delivered by four-wheel-drive, another key D.N.A. strand that remains pivotal to today’s production Bugatti models.

The historic supercar model – a blue (originally silver painted in “Grigio Chiaro metallizzato”) EB110 SuperSport – presented at Villa d’Este in the class “The Next Generation: Hypercars of the 90s” was formerly owned by Romano Artioli. The Italian entrepreneur, who relaunched Bugatti as Bugatti Automobili S.p.A. in 1987, prior to the company’s closure in 1995, has fond memories of the development of this revolutionary supercar. “While we were at the premiere of the EB110 in Paris in 1991, the engineers back at Campogalliano were urging us to return swiftly to the Blue Factory, as they were eager to begin work on the EB110 Supersport version. Everyone was focused on reducing weight and boosting power, while keeping in mind that I was ferocious that the safety characteristics of the car be upheld.”

The final result was a quite remarkable weight reduction of nearly 150kg from the original configuration, and an increase in performance from 560PS to 612PS, with the engine developed entirely in-house at Campogalliano. Immediately after the EB110 SuperSport was presented to the world’s press at Salon de l’Automobile in Geneva, the team took the car to the Nardò circuit in the South of Italy, to carry out the homologation tests.

“After a warm-up lap we set the world record with a speed of 351 km/h and an acceleration of 3.2 seconds from 0 to 100 km,” recalls Artioli proudly. And it didn’t stop there. The car also set a speed record on snow and ice at 296km/h, while a Bugatti EB110 GT powered by natural gas achieved at top speed of 344.7 km/h.

“I left my heart in my Supersport. No other car gives the same sensation of power, control and safety in every road condition as the EB110 – and with such beautiful style. I could not be more proud for “her” to be at the Concours d’Elegance in Villa D’Este.

“The Centodieci Concorso d’Eleganza at Villa d’Este is one of the jewels in the crown of the automotive season,” explains Bugatti Automobiles S.A.S. President Stephan Winkelmann. “After the event was lost to the pandemic in 2020, it is even more special for Bugatti to return to the wonderful location of Villa d’Este and present our Centodieci to customers and friends of the brand from all around the globe. And of course, the event is even more exciting with the presence of the personal Bugatti EB110 Supersport “America” owned once by Romano Artioli himself. This seminal supercar represents the second period of Bugatti’s history, and gave our designers and engineers the inspiration for the Centodieci.”

The Bugatti Centodieci was presented as a static display within the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este ‘Concept Cars & Prototypes’ area on Saturday 2nd October and again on Sunday 3rd October, the car also participated in the dynamic presentation parade.

 

 

On Tuesday September 28th, 2021 actresses Léa Seydoux and Ana de Armas attended the world premiere of No Time To Die wearing jewelry by Chopard

Léa selected to wear a pair of “Nuage”  earrings featuring brilliant-cut diamonds (totalling 3.77cts) Lea also selected an exquisite butterfly ring featuring pear shaped diamonds (totaling 14.5cts) in 18-carat white gold from The Haute Joaillerie collection and Precious Lace collections.

Ana selected to wear a pair of earrings featuring brilliant pear cut diamonds (totaling 26.78cts) a ring featuring a marquise brilliant cut diamond (totaling 9ct) with further brilliant cut diamonds set in 18-carat white gold, another ring featuring emerald cut diamonds (7.45ct) set in FairMined white gold, a pair of round brilliant solitaire earrings and lastly a ring featuring diamonds in 18-carat white gold.

 

 

 

 

 

hublot-boutiqueginza

Swiss luxury watch brand Hublot celebrates its 40th anniversary with another Big Bang! After Place Vendome in Paris, Rue du Rhône in Geneva, 5Th Avenue in New York City, New Bond Street in London, Heritage in Hong Kong Tsim Sha Tsui district, now comes Chuo-dori Street in Tokyo for the brand world’s biggest Flagship Boutique.

HUBLOT LOVES TOKYO!


In 2020, Hublot is turning 40! During this anniversary year Hublot has a reason to celebrate, as on May 26, its largest flagship store, the Hublot Boutique Ginza, will open. After Place Vendome in Paris, Rue  du Rhône in Geneva, 5Th Avenue in New York City, New Bond Street in London, Heritage in Hong Kong, now comes Chuo-dori Street in Tokyo.The swiss luxury watchmaker is now present on an iconic location on Chuo-dori Street. The new boutique, also called the “Hublot tower” thanks to its 56-meter-high dynamic façade, will offer Hublot a stylish, luxurious and open space. The Hublot Boutique Ginza perfectly expresses The Art of Fusion, the brand concept focused on the blending of materials and ideas. Across three floors, customers will be immersed in the world of Hublot. Visitors will find the whole collection displayed on the ground floor, the VIP experience room on the second floor and the exhibition area on the third floor.

We are honored to celebrate the opening of our new flagship Boutique in Tokyo. In only 40 years, Hublot has seen many firsts and many successes, and today is again another milestone for our Maison. We have long had presence on the most prestigious streets in the world’s metropolises and from today in Japan too, our number one market. The “Hublot Tower” is a symbol of the fusion of modernity and tradition that we ardently pursue and uphold in all our actions.” -Ricardo Guadalupe, CEO of Hublot

The 56-meter high dynamic façade is the most idiosyncratic and artistic façade of the brand’s boutiques. The laminated glass panels scattered with mirrored pieces exhibits different sights: it reflects sunlight to create a beautiful glitter during the daytime, and at nighttime a luxurious glow appears to emanate from within.

The interior of the boutique, boasting the brand’s largest retail space at 330 square meters, reflects one of the important elements of Hublot’s watchmaking—its unique use of materials. The spacious boutique expresses on three floors the contemporary style so dear to Hublot: leather chairs, ebony tables, floors of marble or carpet, and an impressive staircase with sides made of zigzag laser-cut mirrored stainless steel.

Another highlight of the boutique is the crystal chandelier installed on the vaulted ceiling reaching more than 9 metres high, which can be rarely found in Japan. The entrance hall is full of a sense of openness and welcomes customers.

Each floor of Hublot Boutique Ginza expresses the fusion of quality materials and contemporary, luxurious beauty by boldly displayed pop artworks depicting Hublot timepieces and movements on the walls, stretching from floor to ceiling.



Hublot Boutique Ginza Overview
            Opening:                                                                     May 26, 2020
            Address:                                                                      5-9, Ginza 3-chome, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
            Telephone:                                                                  03-3538-5055
            Business hours:                                                          11:00 – 20:00
            Total store space                                                         330 m2
            Floors                                                                            3