Tag Archive for: luxury

The-new-Mercedes-Maybach-S-Class-Exterior-design

Exterior design of the new Mercedes-Maybach S-Class

The new Mercedes-Maybach S-Class: Exterior design

Well-balanced proportions and many exclusive details

The Mercedes-Maybach S-Class expresses the superlative luxury that is the hallmark of the brand. It is a well-conceived combination of sublime beauty and trailblazing technology. It has an 18 centimetre longer wheelbase than the long Mercedes-Benz S-Class. Plus a number of exclusive features.

The Mercedes-Maybach S-Class is a classic three-box saloon with perfect proportions. These are determined by a short front overhang, the longest wheelbase in this model family, a well-balanced rear overhang and large wheels.

Distinguishing features at the front include the distinctive bonnet with a chromed fin and the Mercedes-Maybach radiator grille. This is highly recognisable by its vertical, three-dimensional trim strips. The word mark MAYBACH is elegantly integrated into the chrome surround of the grille. The equally distinctive bumper further emphasises the vehicle’s width with the shape of its air inlets, whose black mesh is also optionally available in chrome.

The Mercedes-Maybach S-Class also differs from its brother models when viewed from the side: The rear doors and flowing, more upright C-pillars underline the model’s superlative status. The fixed quarterlight in the C-pillar is framed by a high-quality surround that seamlessly blends into the side trim. Exclusivity is emphasised by the Maybach brand logo on the C-pillar. In some countries the brand logo is illuminated. The side view is characterised by flush-fitted door handles and 19, 20 or 21-inch wheels specially designed and reserved for this model. The optional ambient illumination projects the brand logo next to the opened front doors in LED technology.

The luxury saloon has the progressively designed, two-section rear lights of the new S-Class generation. Additional lights in the precisely laid-out interior, as well as partly animated functions, also make the Mercedes-Maybach unmistakable at night. The model-specific rear bumper and exhaust tailpipes also lend uniqueness to the rear view.

As well as non-metallic, metallic and designo paint finishes, the range of paintwork for the Mercedes-Maybach additionally includes two-tone finishes with a fine, hand-painted dividing line known as the pin-stripe (see “Under the microscope”). This particularly reinforces the extraordinary hand-built impression.

The new Mercedes-Maybach S-Class: Under the microscope: Two-tone paintwork

One week for the second colour

On request, the exclusive appearance of the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class can be enhanced by a two-tone paint finish with dividing line. This is applied by hand according to the highest quality criteria. It can take up to one week before the vehicle is returned to the regular production process from the custom paintshop.

Even a two-tone Maybach begins its painting process in regular production. In the paintshop, the bodyshell is automatically and electrostatically given a full coat of paint in the colour that will eventually embellish the lower half of the body – plus a layer of clearcoat. In the electrostatic painting process, statically charged paint particles are atomised and deposited on the (earthed) bodyshell.

The bodyshell is then sent to the custom paintshop. Once there, the entire bodyshell is ground to a matt finish by hand. Thorough cleaning is followed by the first, particularly demanding work stage: masking off. As the designers did not position the dividing line between the upper and lower paint finishes in a recess or below a trim strip, this requires extremely precise hand-painting. A special adhesive tape with a corresponding gap is used to apply the only four‑millimetre wide dividing line between the two colours.

As an interesting detail, the doors are weighted with weights before masking the dividing line. This is to simulate the effect of subsequent interior finishing with windows, power window fittings, loudspeakers, panelling and other technical equipment. This allowance ensures that the dividing line along the side and doors will later be at exactly the same height.

All the surfaces that will later bear the lower colour are masked off. These also include the transitions to the interior, e.g. at the doors or wheel arches – even where trim or a lining will later be installed. This too is part of the dedication to quality.

The exposed parts of the body are now completely painted by hand. Pneumatically atomised by compressed air, the paint is applied so that it presents the same picture as after electrostatic painting – this is important because removable parts installed later on, e.g. the bumpers, must precisely match the paint finish. Before the new base coat has fully dried, the masking tape is carefully removed without damaging the edges. The complete bodyshell is then given a new coat of clear varnish.

This has to happen within a very short time window, so that the edges between the paint coats blend into each other and cannot be felt afterwards – unlike competitors, where the dividing line is painted on. If the experts in the custom paintshop are not satisfied, the complete bodyshell is reground, the topcoat is re-finished and the whole bodyshell is given a clearcoat. All in all, the process including the necessary drying times can take up to one week.

The following colour combinations from the Mercedes-Maybach paint chart are available, the choice being dictated by whether the upper colour can fully cover the lower colour:

Lower colour Upper colour
designo diamond white bright obsidian black
high-tech silver selenite grey
obsidian black selenite grey
nautical blue high-tech silver
rubellite red designo kalahari gold
onyx black designo kalahari gold
obsidian black high-tech silver
obsidian black rubellite red
emerald green Mojave silver
Mojave silver onyx black
An OMEGA Trésor in Gold With a New Mesh Bracelet

An OMEGA Trésor in Gold With a New Mesh Bracelet

Three new additions have been added to OMEGA’s popular Trésor line, with each one crafted in the brand’s own 18K Moonshine™ gold. For women who adore the slender style and simplicity of this collection, it’s a chance to further raise the levels of luxury and choose a timepiece that shines with exceptional beauty.
An OMEGA Trésor in Gold With a New Mesh Bracelet

An OMEGA Trésor in Gold With a New Mesh Bracelet

The new models are sized at 36 mm, with cases crafted entirely from 18K Moonshine™ gold. First introduced in 2019, this distinctive alloy is inspired by the moonlight in a dark blue sky. It offers a paler hue than traditional 18K yellow gold, and also has a high resistance to the fading of colour and lustre over time.

Another new Trésor feature is the addition of mesh bracelets. Crafted with a silk-like pattern, these classically-styled straps fit elegantly and comfortably around the wrist, and are the very first metal bracelets within the collection.

An OMEGA Trésor in Gold With a New Mesh Bracelet

An OMEGA Trésor in Gold With a New Mesh Bracelet

The watches come with a full 5-year warranty and are offered in three unique choices:

– A model with an 18K Moonshine™ gold dial featuring an embossed silk pattern and Roman numerals.
– A model with a white dial, featuring embossed Roman numerals in 18K Moonshine™ gold.
– A model with an 18K white gold rhodium-plated dial, fully paved with a snow setting of 768 single-cut diamonds. The markings appear on the front crystal.

As always, each Trésor is defined by the 38 full-cut diamonds that curve along the sides of the case, as well as an additional full-cut diamond set on the crown, which itself is engraved with an OMEGA flower and filled with red liquid ceramic.

Turning the watches over, the OMEGA Calibre 4061 sits just behind polished mirror casebacks that are embellished by a unique metalized pattern.

Франк Мюллер Женева | Vanguard Yachting Anchor ™ СКЕЛЕТ

Вдохновленный динамичной коллекцией Vanguard ™, модель Vanguard Yachting Anchor ™ Skeleton развивает творческое видение времени с подтвержденными морскими деталями. Морской мир, украшенный всеми морскими деталями, от темно-синего до розы ветров на циферблате, вдохновил каждую изящную деталь этих недавно созданных часов.
Ажурные мосты призваны подчеркнуть архитектуру часов и раскрыть механизм, полностью изготовленный собственными силами.
Этот напарник доступен в розовом, желтом и белом золоте 18 карат, нержавеющей стали и бронзе.

   
Создав Vanguard Yachting Anchor ™ Skeleton, Франк Мюллер создал идеальную алхимию между традиционным механическим механизмом и производительностью часов с семидневным запасом хода.


Идеальные спортивные и элегантные часы для любителей моря с мостами, напоминающими якоря, и секундной стрелкой в положении «6 часов», представляющей собой компасную розу.
Сбалансированный дизайн, демонстрирующий страсть к ремеслам и искусству деталей, характерную для мануфактуры Franck Muller.

©2019 Franck Muller GenèveAll rights reserved GFM Watchland SA

www.franckmuller.com

ФРАНК МЮЛЛЕР GENEVE VANGUARD ™ REVOLUTION 3 СКЕЛЕТ

Skeleton Vanguard Yachting Anchor ™ представляет творческое видение времени с подтвержденными морскими деталями. Морской мир, украшенный всеми морскими деталями, от темно-синего до розы ветров на циферблате, вдохновил каждую изящную деталь этих недавно созданных часов. Идеальные спортивные и элегантные часы для любителей моря с мостами, напоминающими якоря, и секундной стрелкой в ​​положении «6 часов», представляющей собой компасную розу.
Ссылка

ЯХТА V 45 S6 PR SQT ANCRE FM (BL)
случайный
Розовое золото 18 карат
Ширина: 44 мм, Длина: 53,70 мм, Толщина: 12,65 мм
Водонепроницаемость до 30 метров
Обязательства
Часы, минуты и секунды в положении «6 часов».
Индикатор запаса хода
Движение
FM 1740-VSPR
Ручное механическое движение
Ширина: 37,05 мм, Длина: 40,20 мм, Толщина: 6 мм
Запас хода 7 дней
18000 полуколебаний / час
175 компонентов – 21 камень
Движение
украшение
Ручное снятие фаски, зеркальная полировка боковой поверхности, полировка нижней пластины молдинга Матовая обработка пластины и пескоструйная обработка противоположной стороны
Сатинированная обработка и снятие фаски на всех компонентов.
Круговая чистка ствола и колес.
Набирать номер
Ажурный механизм с мостами из анодированного алюминия синего цвета
Отделка из 24-каратного розового золота на индикаторе запаса хода, стрелках и розетке компаса
Ремень
Ремешок из нейлона, сшитый вручную

 

© Franck Muller Genève, 2019 Все права защищены GFM Watchland SA

ЧАСЫ HUBLOT MECA-10

Часы, вдохновившие на создание часов: сотрудничая с мануфактурой L’Epée из Юры, Hublot выпустила увеличенную версию своего знаменитого мануфактурного механизма MECA-10 для использования в настольных часах.

Презентация Hublot механизма MECA-10 в январе 2016 года ошеломила любителей часов. Мануфактура заново изобрела ручной механизм, предлагая непревзойденную производительность, а также уникальный стиль, вдохновленный конструкционной системой Meccano. Необычная скелетная архитектура придает механизму поразительную трехмерную глубину, которая хорошо видна через мосты и заднюю крышку. Его исключительный 10-дневный запас хода – теперь необходимый для любого приличного калибра с ручным заводом – отображается на диске, который можно прочитать на циферблате.

В 2020 году Hublot представила уникальный продукт в негабаритной версии. MECA-10 был увеличен в четыре раза для использования в настольных часах, при этом полностью сохранены его первоначальные характеристики, включая 10-дневный запас хода.

«Нам удалось воспроизвести уникальные особенности нашего механизма MECA-10 в большем масштабе. Этот инженерный подвиг был достигнут благодаря совместным усилиям команд Hublot и L’Epée. Таким образом, мы прокладываем новый курс священной традиции часового искусства. ”

Чтобы расширить свой механизм MECA-10, Hublot прибегла к услугам мануфактуры L’Epée. Всемирно известный опыт в часовом деле этой компании из Джуры сделал ее естественным выбором для сотрудничества, и, поскольку разработка наручных часов сильно отличается от создания часов, это также дало Hublot возможность продемонстрировать свой знаменитый подход «Art of Fusion». в новой отрасли часового искусства. Этот особенно впечатляющий результат был достигнут благодаря объединению опыта дизайнеров, конструкторов и мастеров часового дела Hublot и Epée.

Часы Hublot MECA-10, поразительно похожие на оригинал, по сути, являются увеличенной версией своего предшественника. В просторном корпусе 19,60 на 18,10 см находится драгоценный механизм, который представлен в двух версиях. Первый отличается углами в стиле Meccano и кольцом из полированной сатинированной стали и прозрачного композита. Второй покрыт черным PVD-покрытием, а мосты, поддерживающие зубчатые передачи, также покрыты черным покрытием. Заводная головка с насечкой в ​​положении «3 часа» покрыта резиной для лучшего захвата при ручном заводе.

Как и версия наручных часов, от которой он черпает вдохновение, часовой механизм MECA-10 имеет 10-дневный запас хода, который отображается на индикаторе у отметки «6 часов».

Эти два драгоценных выпуска часов MECA-10, плод тесного сотрудничества между Hublot и L’Epée, являются эксклюзивными экземплярами ограниченного выпуска, предназначенными для истинных ценителей.

ТЕХНИЧЕСКИЕ ХАРАКТЕРИСТИКИ

СПРАВКА

DC.MECA10.SD.SP.1123

DC.MECA10.SX.SP.1123

КЕЙС

Сатинированная и полированная сталь с черным PVD-покрытием

Сатинированная и полированная сталь

Диаметр: 134,6 мм

Толщина: 69,8 мм

ДЕЛО-НАЗАД

Сатинированная и полированная сталь с черным PVD-покрытием

Сатинированная и полированная сталь

БЕЗЕЛЬ

Сатинированная и полированная сталь с черным PVD-покрытием

Сатинированная и полированная сталь

НАБИРАТЬ НОМЕР

Матовый черный скелет

Стальные стрелки с сатинированной пескоструйной обработкой и белым люминесцентным покрытием

ДВИЖЕНИЕ

Механизм Skeleton Power Reserve с ручным заводом и 2 барабанами

Мосты с черным покрытием

Спусковой механизм с родиевым покрытием

Индикация запаса хода в 6.00

Частота: 2,5 Гц

Запас хода: 10 дней

Количество компонентов: 432

Камни: 52

Twenty~4, the Patek Philippe ladies

A new face for the Twenty~4, the Patek Philippe ladies’ watch born to accompany every moment of the modern woman’s life

A new face for the Twenty~4, the Patek Philippe ladies

A new face for the Twenty~4, the Patek Philippe ladies

The manufacture is stepping up the allure of its Twenty~4 collection exclusively for women with a fresh interpretation of the original “manchette” or cuff-style quartz model in steel of 1999. It is launching two new versions adorned with white-gold applied Arabic numerals and white-gold applied trapeze-shaped hour markers. Designed as stylish companions to every facet of an active lifestyle, these Twenty~4 references 4910/1200A- 001 with a blue sunburst dial and 4910/1200A-010 with a gray sunburst dial stand out more than ever as paragons of timeless feminine elegance.

A new face for the Twenty~4, the Patek Philippe ladies

A new face for the Twenty~4, the Patek Philippe ladies

Since 1839, timepieces for women have always featured prominently in Patek Philippe’s collections – whether as the pocket watches or pendant watches of the nineteenth century or the wristwatches that first emerged in the early twentieth century. Several milestones in the manufacture’s history also relate to watches destined for women, such as the first true wristwatch made in Switzerland, created for a Hungarian countess in 1868, and the Geneva company’s very first striking wristwatch, a five-minute repeater housed in a small platinum case with an integrated chain bracelet in 1916.

A new face for the Twenty~4, the Patek Philippe ladies

A new face for the Twenty~4, the Patek Philippe ladies

A modern classic

In 1999, Patek Philippe strengthened its privileged links with feminine watch lovers by launching its first collection dedicated exclusively to women. The aim was to meet the demands of the independent active woman who sought a timepiece with an assertive personality able to adapt to her modern lifestyle. A watch of timeless elegance that would complement her fashionable business wear and most elegant evening wear. It would be her ally on every occasion, uniting contemporary design, technical excellence and impeccable craftsmanship.

Twenty~4, the Patek Philippe ladies

Twenty~4, the Patek Philippe ladies

Conceived, as its name suggested, for every hour of the day and night, at work, at home and during leisure activities, the new Twenty~4 stood out by its original art-deco-inspired “manchette” or cuff design, featuring a cambered rectangular case that followed the contours of a woman’s wrist and a metallic bracelet that felt exceptionally smooth and comfortable.

The first three Twenty~4 models of 1999 (references 4910/10A) were also distinguished by their pairing of steel with diamonds, an association unique at the time, with the precious stones set in two rows highlighting the rectangular shape of the two-tier case. The dials, adorned with the two applied Roman numerals XII and VI and diamond hour-markers, offered a choice of threecolors: “Forever Black”, “Eternal Gray” and “Timeless White”. An elegant modern advertising campaign marked the launch of this new women-only timepiece, with the slogan “Who will you be in the next 24 hours?” shining the spotlight on the watch’s versatility. The creation of the Twenty~4 strengthened women’s perception of Patek Philippe as a brand of direct relevance and appeal to them. It reminded them that the manufacture developed and built not only the most technically innovative and complex timepieces but those most aesthetically striking and refined.

Twenty~4, the Patek Philippe ladies

Twenty~4, the Patek Philippe ladies

A great success

Blessed with its strong identity and a design tailor-made to live the lives of modern discerning women, the Twenty~4 quartz “manchette” model was a great success from the start and has established itself in the last two decades as one of the manufacture’s best-sellers. Over the years it has appeared in rose gold and white gold, with other dial colors (brown and blue), in a small format complementing the medium-size models, on satin straps, in dazzling Haute Joaillerie versions (including two endowed with manually wound mechanical movements) and in a yellow-gold model without diamonds on the case. Now seen as epitomizing the classic modern style, the Twenty~4 has represented, for many women, their right of entry into the Patek Philippe universe. It has consolidated the manufacture’s position as a major player in the women’s watch market and paved the way for the expansion of other women’s lines, such as the Calatravas, as well as the complications that are useful in everyday situations (the Annual Calendar, the time-zone watches and the chronographs) and even the grand complications (perpetual calendar, split-seconds chronograph and minute repeater).

The time of the Twenty~4 Automatic

In 2018, Patek Philippe responded to women’s increasing interest in mechanical watches by launching the Twenty~4 Automatic. While its bracelet retains the same exclusive design, with the broad, gently cambered central links framed by delicate two-tier outer links, this Reference 7300, endowed with a caliber 324 S C self-winding movement, stands out from the quartz-driven “manchette” model by its round case, its bezel lit with a double row of diamonds in a “dentelle” (lacework) setting, and the applied Arabic numerals on the dial, these last providing a distinctly contemporary note. This model is available in steel and in rose gold, with a choice of dial colors, and in a jewelry version with gem-set crown, lugs and bracelet. Patek Philippe also produces an Haute Joaillerie model in rose gold, paved throughout with diamonds, showcasing the “random” or “snow” setting. The launch of this new incarnation of timeless feminine elegance was accompanied by an advertising campaign that excited widespread interest. It gave center stage to a “Twenty~4 woman”: independent, sure of her taste and making her own way in the world.

New Twenty~4 references 4910/1200A-001 & 4910/1200A-010

Patek Philippe is continuing the renewal of its Twenty~4 collection by reinterpreting the original model, the medium-size (25.1 x 30 mm) quartz “manchette” watch in steel. It is issuing two new versions in which the Roman numerals give way to the white-gold applied Arabic numerals 12 and 6 and the diamond hour markers are replaced by applied trapeze-shaped hour markers, also in white gold. This new face constitutes the first major change to the Twenty~4 of 1999 – and an aesthetic evolution in step with the design of the Twenty~4 Automatic. The two new references feature a dial decorated with a blue sunburst (4910/1200A-001) or with a gray sunburst enriched by a gradation to black at the periphery (4910/1200A-010). Their white-gold applied numerals and hour markers and white-gold baton-style hands all have a luminous coating ensuring excellent legibility in the dark. The fine grooved rays of the sunburst emanating from the center of the dial play with the light, lending a refined but dynamic touch.

The distinctive shape of the two-tier rectangular case is underlined by two rows of 18 Top Wesselton Pure diamonds (approx. 0.42 ct) set with textbook precision. A Calatrava Cross, emblem of the Patek Philippe manufacture, embellishes the crown. The supple, comfortable bracelet, fitted with a fold-over clasp, is a jewel in its own right. Each component is manually finished and fully polished. The Patek Philippe caliber E15 quartz movement is made with the same devotion to fine workmanship as the manufacture’s mechanical movements. The new references 4910/1200A-001 and 4910/1200A-010 with Arabic numerals replace the previous references 4910/10A-001, 4910/10A-010, 4910/10A-011 and 4910/10A-012 with Roman numerals.

“Rituals of my Life”

The launch of these two new Twenty~4 models is accompanied by a digital communication campaign addressing modern women sure of their taste, with an affinity for beauty and fine design. They are independent women, living life to the full, with a range of interests. Patek Philippe chose as central theme “Rituals of my Life”: the precious personal moments that punctuate the modern woman’s life – such as the finishing touches before an evening out; a pause for a moment’s serenity at sunrise; or the luxury of taking time for herself by reading a book or performing the movements that bring her physical and mental wellbeing. Essential, intimate moments that are part of a woman’s life today and that some choose to feature as scenes to be shared with friends on the social media. The slogan “Begin your own tradition” underlines the link with the famous Patek Philippe “Generations” campaign by inviting the Twenty~4 woman to begin a long-term relationship with a brand that shares her values. The images and videos work together with a film describing the creative philosophy behind the Twenty~4 collection: a model of timeless design that has become a modern classic and the gold standard for the “manchette” watch. All of which is set to strengthen Patek Philippe’s increasing success in the ladies’ watch segment and in the hearts of women for whom style and beauty must pass the test of time.

For more information about the new Twenty~4, please visit:
https://www.patek.com/en/company/news/introducing-the-new-twenty4

Patek Philippe reasserts its grand complications expertise

With the enrichment of the current collection by three models – the new Ref. 5303 as the first Patek Philippe minute repeater that presents the striking mechanism on the dial side as well as a reinterpretation of the legendary Ref. 5370 Split-Seconds Chronograph and the redesigned classic Ref. 5270 Perpetual Calendar Chronograph – the Genevan manufacture yet again leverages its virtuosity in the king’s class of watchmaking artistry. These three timepieces represent a perfect meld of tradition and innovation. Paired with beautiful finesse in looks and features, they enrich the already extensive lineup of grand complications.

Patek Philippe – Minute Repeater – 5303R-001

As far back as 1839, when the company was founded, one of the first timepieces crafted in the manufacture was a quarter repeater that can now be admired at the Patek Philippe Museum in Geneva. As the 19th century continued to unfold, Patek Philippe further pursued its passion for grand complications, crafted many watches of this type, and received several patents for technical optimizations. In the 20th century, the manufacture earned a legendary reputation for so-called supercomplicated pocket watches that were made for the American collectors James Ward Packard and Henry Graves Jr. and featured chiming functions as well as elaborate astronomical displays. At the same time, Patek Philippe was involved in miniaturizing grand complications so they could be worn on the wrist, as evidenced in 1925 by the first known wristwatch with a perpetual calendar. In the last decades of the 20th century, the manufacture again celebrated a milestone in this exceptional watch category and presented two pocket watches that the world had never seen before: the Calibre 89 (33 complications) that would be the world’s most complicated portable mechanical timepiece for 25 years, and the Star Caliber 2000 with 21 complications. In 2001, the art of miniaturizing highly elaborate mechanisms found its ultimate expression with the launch of the Sky Moon Tourbillon (12 complications) and subsequently, in 2014, with the Grandmaster Chime that with 20 complications would become Patek Philippe’s most complicated wristwatch.

An especially challenging philosophy

Today, Patek Philippe has one of the most comprehensive collections of regularly produced grand complications, including minute repeaters with perpetual calendars, astronomical watches, timepieces with tourbillons and models that combine several of these highly coveted functions. As the outcome of know-how transfers from one generation to the next and underpinned with the results of high-end research, these watches follow two fundamental principles that are highly important to Patek Philippe. One of them is to rise to the challenge of accommodating a maximum of technical complexity in a minimal volume (smallest possible height and diameter), allowing the design of very slender cases that project timeless elegance. Secondly, each complication – no matter how elaborate – must be simple to operate for the user and be a role model of convenience, functional integrity, and legibility. The three grand complications of 2020 illustrate this philosophy very convincingly. They embody a level of craftsmanship that makes each Patek Philippe a precious work of art.


Ref. 5303R-001 Minute Repeater An extravaganza for eyes and ears

Since it made its first pocket watch with a minute repeater (1845), Patek Philippe has established itself as one of the gifted interpreters of the music of time. This remarkable know- how comes to the fore even in the most extraordinary creations, such as the Sky Moon Tourbillon wristwatch featuring a minute repeater with cathedral gongs or the Patek Philippe Grandmaster Chime with five chiming functions including two patented global debuts. The manufacture also offers the broadest selection of regularly produced minute repeaters, watches with classic or cathedral gongs and models featuring a minute repeater with or without additional complications (perpetual calendar, tourbillon, World Time, chronograph). But never before had Patek Philippe crafted a minute repeater with a striking mechanism that was visible on the dial side.

The Ref. 5303 was unveiled in 2019 in a limited edition of 12 watches as a world debut on the occasion of the “Watch Art Grand Exhibition Singapore 2019”.
Now, a slightly modified version of the Ref. 5303 Minute Repeater Tourbillon has become part of the current Patek Philippe collection. This new complication for enthusiasts of repeater timepieces stands out with its open architecture without a conventional dial. The repeater mechanism – for the first time with the hammers and gongs – can be admired in action without removing the watch from the wrist. This is a further expression of Patek Philippe’s customer- centric development philosophy. The transparency aspect also applies to the tourbillon: the back side of its cage can be seen beneath the seconds subdial at 6 o’clock. In this veritably perfect composition, the filigreed steel parts glisten against the backdrop of the rose gilt plate.

The aesthetic of the manually wound caliber R TO 27 PS was subtly reworked to emphasize its appeal. For instance, certain components were pierced, as is common for skeletonized movements. Of course, Patek Philippe also mobilized its heritage in the manual finissage of movement parts: it decorated the plate with Genevan circular graining, applied a delicate perlage to the recesses, and decorated the hammers with a circular satin finish.

The inimitable rose-gold case sports a wide, cambered and polished bezel as well as white- gold inlays with foliage engravings that grace the caseband and the strap lugs. The white-gold slide in the left-hand case flank that activates the minute repeater features the same motif. The hour circle is black-lacquered sapphire-crystal rim with powdered rose-gold markers. The movement can be admired through the sapphire-crystal case back and is framed by a white- gold rim. Its open-worked decoration echoes the case inlays and the repeater slide.
This fantastic lesson in watchmaking artistry, elegance, and manual finissage is complemented with the unique sound that is typical of Patek Philippe repeater timepieces. As is the case for every Patek Philippe minute repeater, this melody of time is personally rated with great care by manufacture president Thierry Stern.

Ref. 5370P-011 Split-Seconds Chronograph A new face with a blue Grand Feu enamel dial

Apart from the minute repeater and the tourbillon, the triad at the pinnacle of the most elaborate horological complications also includes the split-seconds chronograph (movement No. 124’824); since 1923, it occupies a preferential position in Patek Philippe’s wristwatch collection. The Ref. 5370, the first split-seconds chronograph endowed with the proprietary caliber CHR 29-535 PS was launched in 2015 with a platinum case and a black enamel dial. Coveted by connoisseurs, this grand complication has now been subtly upgraded with a new blue face with glossy finish that reflects Patek Philippe’s proud tradition in Grand Feu enamel dials. It is an oeuvre of unmatched chromatic intensity that is made by hand on the basis of an 18K gold dial plate.

The dial is superbly legible as befits an instrument with a decidedly technical personality. The hours and minutes are tracked by slender leaf-shaped hands with luminous coatings and applied Breguet numerals in white gold. The results of short-time measurements are readable with the same precision and speed: the sweep chronograph and rattrapante hands as well as the instantaneous 30-minute counter hand contrast as clearly against the blue dial as do the white-printed scales.

The two-phase chronograph movement with two pushers for the chronograph functions and a rattrapante pusher integrated in the crown at 3 o’clock is an impressive example of how tradition meets innovation. The classic elements of the basic architecture are the manual winder, dual-column-wheel control, and the horizontal wheel clutch. Nonetheless, it is a 21st- century movement endowed with extensive optimization details and patented innovations as well as an advanced rattrapante mechanism.

The elegant polished platinum case with a concave bezel and satin-finished flank recesses is worn on an alligator strap in shiny night blue secured by a platinum fold-over clasp.
As is the case with all of Patek Philippe’s platinum wristwatches, the new Ref. 5370P-011 is graced with a small diamond between the lugs at 6 o’clock. It replaces its predecessor with the black enamel dial, presenting a new combination of superb craftsmanship and watchmaking artistry.

Ref. 5270J-001 Perpetual Calendar Chronograph A majestic classic with a new yellow-gold personality

As the heir of Patek Philippe’s grand 1941 classic (Ref. 1518), the Ref. 5270 Perpetual Calendar Chronograph has been available since 2018 in platinum with a golden opaline dial and a rose-gold version with a gold “goutte”-style bracelet. Now, the manufacture is extending its regular collection of this grand complication by the Ref. 5270, cased in yellow gold for the first time. It is a very elegant outfit for this timeless watch that pairs a concave bezel with two- tier lugs.

The silvery opaline dial with applied baton indexes and leaf-shaped hands in yellow gold assures excellent legibility. The displays of the perpetual calendar are tastefully balanced with an analog date at 6 o’clock and a double aperture for the day and month at 12 o’clock. They are complemented with two small round apertures for the day/night indicator and the leap year cycle as well as the typical moon-phase window.

The caliber CH 29-535 PS Q is the first chronograph movement with a perpetual calendar developed in 2011 and crafted entirely by Patek Philippe. It combines traditional architecture (horizontal clutch, column wheel and manual winder) with six patented innovations for the chronograph functions and stands out with its extremely thin calendar mechanism (1.65 mm for 182 parts). The movement can be admired through the sapphire-crystal case back. A solid back in 18K yellow gold is part of the scope of delivery.

The new Ref. 5270J-001 is worn on a hand-stitched matt chocolate brown alligator strap with large square scales secured with a yellow-gold fold-over clasp. It joins the previous platinum and rose-gold models to accommodate the individual preferences of aficionados of Patek Philippe grand complications.

YOUR ONCE IN A LIFETIME EXPERIENCE - Panorama Glass Lodge
Sleeping Under the Midnight Sun – Scandinavian glass cabin igloo in viking style with that little extra bit of luxury. Wonderful scenery and panorama views out of your super comfortable bed or private hot tub.

YOUR ONCE IN A LIFETIME EXPERIENCE

Panorama Glass Lodge

Sleeping Under the Stars – Amazing sunsets, sunrises and stargazing and with a bit of luck watching northern lights dancing above you all from  the comfort of your warm bed, no need to go outside and freeze.

  •  Cabin
  •  2 Guests (1 bed)
  •  1 Bathroom

If you want to take your Northern Lights watching to the next level, then the Panorama Glass Lodge in Iceland is it. A simple and clever design for a cabin which features an incredible view of the Icelandic landscape and night sky thanks to unique large glass windows that surround the bed.

YOUR ONCE IN A LIFETIME EXPERIENCE - Panorama Glass Lodge

YOUR ONCE IN A LIFETIME EXPERIENCE – Panorama Glass Lodge

Built to sleep two people, you can lounge while gazing at the stars above and the night sky around you. By encasing the sleeping area in glass, visitors are guaranteed an unobstructed view of nature night and day.

The home features a small fully equipped kitchen, a dining table, a full-sized bathroom and custom-made king-sized bed (which can comfortably sleep 2 guests). There are window blinds for the walls if more privacy is needed, while the glass roof remains exposed to the sky.

A hot tub located directly next to the lodge will keep you toasty while you stargaze and is a great option for adventurous honeymooners. The owners make sure to keep the hot tub heated to a blazing 38°C (102°F) so you can be sure it will keep you warm, even on the coldest nights.

Luxury Travel

In addition to the hot tub, there is also a 129-square-foot outdoor terrace on site with a small table and two chairs for al fresco meals.

WHEN TO VISIT

Luxury Travel

For the best chance to see the Northern Lights, Panorama Glass Lodge recommends visiting between late August and late April and checking the Aurora Forecast frequently.

Without a doubt, this little cabin is one of the more unique places to stay in Iceland that you won’t want to miss.

FACILITIES

  •  Coffee machine
  •  Essentials
  •  Parking (free)
  •  Heating
  •  Hot Tub
  •  Self-service kitchen
  •  Wi-Fi (free)

more information: Luxury Travel

CORE Real Estate - Luxury Home
Introducing Penthouse One at Walker Tower, widely considered to be the best penthouse downtown. Rarely does a home so momentous become available – with 5 bedrooms, 5.5 bathrooms and 3 wood-burning fireplaces amidst 5,955 square feet of pristine interiors and additional 479 square feet of private terraces.

CORE Real Estate – Luxury Home – 212 West 18th St PENTHOUSE1, New York, NY 10011

Spanning the entirety of the top floor at Walker Tower, Penthouse One offers unrivaled luxury and 360-degree views of the Hudson River, World Trade Center and Statue of Liberty in downtown’s most significant building.

 

INVICTO LUXURY
With the INVICTO the Bottrop located car manufacturer and general contractor Brabus Automotive presents in March 2020 as a world premiere an armoured version of the new Mercedes-Benz G-Class und thus sets benchmarks at the same time. The so-called INVICTO Shelter Cell meets OEM factory armouring standards. Among others, hot formed armouring steel plates and as an absolute innovation 3D-printed protection parts are being used for it. The ballistic protection level is VR6, however extended by a side blast protection at the level of a luxury state limousine. And finally the INVICTO VR6 Plus ERV is being certified as a complete vehicle. “ERV” by the way stands for “Explosion Resistant Vehicle” and attests the blast protection. Referring to individual purposes or personal needs the customer can select between three different and exciting lines PURE, LUXURY und MISSION:

World premiere: INVICTO VR6 Plus ERV armoured vehicle based on Mercedes-Benz G-Class in three accessory lines

  • Fully certified armoured vehicle INVICTO with innovative Shelter Cell technology and side blast protection
  • PURE, LUXURY, MISSION – three exciting accessory lines for various purposes
  • Decades of experience guarantee top quality according to OEM standards
INVICTO LUXURY

INVICTO LUXURY

The PURE is the understatement INVICTO, just pure protection. With the INVICTO Shelter Cell and all its guarding components, it offers maximum protection at VR6 Plus ERV level. At the same time, however, the exterior and interior remains as close to series as possible. Therefore, the INVICTO PURE is “undercover” in double sense.


Safety at the highest level of comfort and individualisation – that’s INVICTO LUXURY. Tailor-made and handcrafted interior in finest leather or Alcantara as well as exterior components and performance upgrades from the BRABUS accessory program. The INVICTO LUXURY – almost invisibly – combines maximum security at level VR6 plus ERV and with a stylish, luxurious interior.


The INVICTO MISSION is made for missions and more. Special target groups have special requirements to an armoured vehicle. With the MISSION Brabus Automotive complies with this in every way and meets the exceptional demands for challenging purposes. With its sophisticated interior and the exterior features, like protection vest compatible integral seats with variable foam geometry, “MOLLE”-system door panels and seat backs, a roof rail system, a digital rear display mirror, the Acetech system with two touch control panels, an intercom system and 20“ rough profile off road tires the INVICTO MISSION is especially made for special forces.

Of course, the INVICTO MISSION doesn’t only provide reliable protection at VR6 plus ERV level, it also fulfils the highest demands regarding suitability for everyday use, comfort, driving dynamics, active and passive safety as well as manufacturing quality. Therefore the INVICTO MISSION is the perfect trace protection and escort vehicle with military compatible interior and special exterior features and offers furthermore lifestyle, too.


For an individual configuration of their INVICTO customers can select for the three different lines various options from the accessory program, for example a lightning and signal systems, auxiliary roof lights, a fire extinguishing system, an IR package including a night vision device, a fresh air system with ABC filter or an escape hatch, just to mention a few.


The highest technical standards were also paramount for Brabus Automotive when it came to developing the new armoured vehicle based on the Mercedes-Benz G-Class. Right from the very start, the overall ballistic concept was designed for a maximum protective effect corresponding to the level of OEM factory armour plating. Unlike with other retroactively armour plated vehicles, the components of the protection system were not individually welded into the vehicle’s bodywork structure; rather, the engineers at Brabus Automotive developed a self-contained, self-supporting, bolted structural cell, the so-called INVICTO Shelter Cell.

It is inserted into the body shell in a disassembled state and then constructed. One of the structural features of the shelter cell is the zero-joints design which means that there is absolutely no entry narrowing – similar to a vehicle armour plated in an OEM factory. The armour components are mounted to the shelter cell without any gaps. Unavoidable weld seams, on the doors for example, are achieved with material overlapping and so-called labyrinths. The design of the upper windscreen frame is also innovative. Christian Draser: “For the first time anywhere in the world, we’re using protective elements here, which are produced in an additive manufacturing process in a 3D printer. We’re definitely the first to do it.”


The shelter cell is validated using the latest processes and methods, which are also being used at the OEM. The development team at Brabus Automotive combined virtual simulation procedures with real tests on test samples. It was only once the individual elements of the shelter cell proved their protective effect that the entire cell was tested in the vehicle. Every single material pairing and screw connection was tested by being shot at from several angles and at projectile speeds which are well beyond the standard speed of the calibre being protected against. Furthermore, individual assemblies were also subjected to several explosions in preliminary tests in a so-called blast frame. Brabus Automotive is taking its own time-consuming path here, too, as the effect of special protective measures is not usually specifically tested for retrofitted vehicles. “By contrast, we have the entire vehicle certified by an accredited German ballistics authority, both with regard to being fired upon and being subjected to explosions as per resistance class VR6 Plus ERV,” says Christian Draser. The side blast protection (ERV) is quiet at the level of a luxury state limousine.


The added weight of the overall vehicle due to the armour plating is comparatively low at around 1,000 kilograms, but the load-bearing capacity of the chassis must be modified to meet the high requirements of Brabus Automotive when it comes to driving dynamics and life span. The necessary adjustments cover the entire front and rear axle construction of the vehicle. The entire wheel suspension, for example, has been replaced by own new development, while frame reinforcements around the longitudinal beams and the spring dome increase the strength of the original vehicle structure. The obligatory verification of the new construction included simulations using the finite element method (FEM), component analyses, stationary endurance runs and road tests. Thanks to this process established by Brabus Automotive, the extreme lifespan requirement can be ensured in accordance with OEM requirements, even with materials under the greatest of loads.


To ensure a high degree of driving dynamics, Brabus Automotive equips the chassis with reinforced springs, stabilisers and shock absorbers. The shock absorbers of the active chassis now have a pipe diameter of 60 instead of the previous 50 mm. A modified braking system with 402-mm brake discs and six-piston brake callipers at the front and 380-mm brake discs and four-piston callipers at the back ensure adequate deceleration, even with the maximum additional load. Wheels with increased load-bearing capacity and a special run-flat system developed by Brabus Automotive round off the chassis adjustments of the vehicle.


Brabus Automotive has a wealth of experience. For years they assist car manufacturers across the world with development and production, from limited edition and small-series vehicle derivatives all the way through to factory solutions. As a result, Brabus Automotive, part of the Brabus Group, has developed a reputation within the automotive industry as a premium specialist providing products and customisations to the highest level of OEM quality. “We usually implement projects as a general contractor for car manufacturers according to the turnkey principle. Brabus Automotive takes on overall responsibility for the entire process of product development, vehicle development and production,” explains Christian Draser, CEO of Brabus Automotive. In addition, Brabus Automotive also develops, produces and distributes vehicles on its own.


When implementing projects, the experts at the Bottrop-based company are able to rely on an extensive system-level understanding of vehicles acquired over decades along the entire product development process – in the fields of design, development, integration, testing, adjustment and homologation, for example. There is also an extensive expertise in manufacturing processes guaranteeing small-series production to a premium level. Christian Draser: “With the extensive range of services on offer, Brabus Automotive primarily supports large-scale car manufacturers whose organisational structure means that the small-series development and production of niche models is not economically viable.”