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  • ZEUS + DIONE - Resort 2024 Collection

    Wearing the colors of Greek summer Resort 2024 CollectionStep into the pulsating realm of Zeus+Dione’s Resort’24 Collection, where past and present intertwine and the soul-stirring legacy of Greek artisans, merge with the zeitgeist of the modern world. From the depths of Kalymnos’ sponge divers to the nimble hands of Syrrako’s master tailors, the journey unfurls Greece’s mosaic of profound craftsmanship. Intrigued by the poignant allure of artisans’ attire, Marios Schwab charts a cartographic opus, an interplay betwixt the time-worn and the refined. Immaculately tailored trousers, sleeves thoughtfully rolled, and hats steeped in symbolism become the embodiment of each artisan’s essence. Jumpsuits and pinstriped tailoring salute Greece’s storied outdoor photographers and the barbers draped in pristine white aprons. These garments, akin to exquisite prose, divulge the stories of their wearers. Read our Summer Issue See Haute couture from Dior, Alexis Mabille, Georges Hobeika, Zuhair Murad, Valentino and more Explore Moralmoda Art Culture Lifestyle Travel Business Interviews Events ​ Get in touch About us Contacts Subscribe

  • Lederer Watches presents the Central Impulse Chronometerin a steel and in a rose gold versions

    On the occasion of Geneva Watch Days 2023, Bernhard Lederer presents the final two series – Series 3 & Series 4 –- which bring to a close the amazing adventure of his celebrated Central Impulse Chronometer. In all, only 100 pieces will have been offered to collectors: Series 1 : 25 pieces in white gold, ‘Light Rhodium’ dial, presented in 2021 Series 2 : 25 pieces in white gold, ‘Deep Blue’ dial, presented in 2021 Series 3 : 25 pieces in rose gold, ‘Black Rhodium’ dial, presented in August 2023 Series 4 : 25 pieces in 904L steel, ‘Pacific Green dial, presented in August 2023 The latter two series, designed for discerning and refined collectors, will be highly coveted, firstly for the metal they are made of: 25 pieces in 18K rose gold, more precious and more elegant, and 25 pieces in 904L steel, a superalloy that is even more complex to machine and exceptionally durable. As a showcase for remarkable horological engineering and ingeniousness, they also represent the ultimate opportunity to acquire a watch that has thrilled experts the world over and is considered one of the most ambitious and demanding chronometric projects – the development of the escapement – of recent decades. After winning the Prix de l'Innovation, the Innovation Award at the Grand Prix d'Horlogerie de Genève in 2021, this high-performance chronometer with its revolutionary escapement now finds itself housed in a 44mm case available either in a rare 904L steel version with a Pacific Green grey-green open dial, or in an 18K rose gold version with a Black Rhodium grey-black open dial. Within the case, Bernhard Lederer's exceptional, multiple-award-winning caliber combines a new type of constant-force escapement with a double gear train. This duality is manifest with two perfectly synchronized seconds hands – a unique and unprecedented development in watchmaking – running in opposite directions within two intertwined apertures that together form a majestic figure eight. The refined craftsmanship and finishing down to the smallest detail further amplify the movement's architecture and performance, reflecting Bernhard Lederer's characteristic perfectionism. Following an admiring reception from experts at the initial presentation of the concept in September 2020 (the first two series were sold within weeks in 2021), Lederer Watches today unveils the two final series of the Central Impulse Chronometer. As with the first two, they are strictly limited to 25 pieces each. Thus is brought to a definitive close what will be known in the history of Haute Horlogerie as one of the most ambitious and challenging chronometric projects of recent decades. The Lederer Central Impulse Chronometer’s case is 44mm in diameter and 12.2mm in thickness, with two domed crystals to underline the slim silhouette of this horological masterpiece. The first two series brought out in 2021 were both in white gold and had an open dial. These final two come in either pink gold with a galvanically treated black rhodium dial (Series 3) or 904L steel with a “Pacific Green” dial in shades of green and grey (Series 4). The material of the latter is particularly difficult to process, and it is for this reason that most case manufacturers prefer to avoid it. Bernhard Lederer, on the other hand, has overcome this difficulty to give his series a particularly fine luster and rare longevity. The “8” formed by the two symmetrical circular openings on the exceptional moving mechanism further underline a resolutely artistic vision of the passage of time, dramatized by the two seconds hands synchronously moving in opposite directions. Intertwined, the two circles also convey a symbolic message of harmony, infinity and rebirth, and, in many cultures, of good fortune and prosperity, too. There is something very special about what Lederer succeeds in doing, this symbiosis between lived watchmaking and “German rigor” which can be recognized and measured in his creations. One sometimes gets the impression that, while most watchmakers might consider that a functional prototype means their work is done, for Lederer, the exciting part of perfecting the product has only just begun. Near-perfect chronometry – over the entire power reserve During the prototyping phase, Bernhard Lederer noticed a marginal but nonetheless disturbing fact: Despite the presence of constant-force remontoire in each of the two independent gear trains, the watchmaker noted a slight increase in the oscillation amplitude of the balance towards the end of the movement, inducing a tiny rate deviation in the running rate. Why was the amplitude increasing at the end of the power reserve? Because, when the torque delivered by the barrel spring weakens, the pressure of the remontoir wheel teeth on the pallets of the remontoir anchor is reduced. De facto, the resistance to winding decreases, so more force is transmitted to the escapement wheel. Ergo, amplitude increases. To remedy this, Bernhard Lederer re-imagined the remontoire. Traditionally, it is equipped with a saw-toothed wheel. This is what traditional watchmaking treatises had always advocated, so that was the concept Bernhard Lederer spontaneously opted for. But in practice, the watchmaker realized that it was precisely this ‘contact’ between winding wheel and anchor that needed to be modified if the amplitude error associated with the power reserve coming to an end was ever to be totally rectified. Now, a straight-toothed wheel drives a pinion with a two-armed wing, which is released every 10 seconds by the winding fork for half a rotation. The result, in terms of chronometric efficiency, was immediate: The triggering resistance was reduced by a factor of 10, as was the ratio between wheel and pinion, which considerably increased the efficiency of the remontoire. Importantly, it rendered the difference in triggering resistance negligible. Today, it is no longer possible to detect or even measure a variation in amplitude, as the Central Impulse Chronometer maintains a constant amplitude throughout the entire movement. Its regularity is quasi-perfect. Breguet, Daniels, Lederer: the circle is complete Drawing on almost 40 years of experience and supported by his team in Saint-Blaise near Neuchâtel, Bernhard Lederer took up the torch that George Daniels had lighted with his Independent Double-Wheel Escapement. Daniels himself had taken Breguet's work a step further by solving the issues this type of escapement was known to have. That is why the Central Impulse Chronometer escapement has a very different design. It incorporates two independent escapement wheels, each linked to its own barrel. These wheels work in alternation with a unique anchor. Its profile, its rubies, its lifting angles, its central impulse and the way it comes into contact with all the components it guides make this an extraordinary system. Two escapements, two remontoires To optimize accuracy, Bernhard Lederer installed the two escapement wheels at the end of two separate gear trains, each equipped with its own 10-second remontoire. By smoothing out the driving force to an extremely fine level, optimizing the geometry of the escapement parts, lightening these energy-hungry components, and reducing escapement friction to a minimum, Bernhard Lederer has achieved a degree of watchmaking perfection rarely seen before. By making the two escapement wheels independent of each other, he has essentially freed them. This sophistication also shows in the fact that the two seconds hands, each linked to an escapement wheel, are permanently synchronized, something never before seen in the watchmaking industry. They show no drift whatsoever in relation to each other. Finally, the precision of each watch is such that the behavior of the escapement wheels has been observed with high-speed cameras, tests have been carried out with different materials, and special measuring instruments have been developed to detect and record every amplitude of the balance wheel to obtain absolute definitive results. Each new discovery this process led to was like a door that had never been opened, allowing us to see what had never been seen before. Reason enough to incorporate this new knowledge into the development and refinement of the caliber that animates this collection, which is limited to a total of 100 pieces. Each watch is delivered with a Certificate of Chronometry. The work of Bernhard Lederer: A unique symbiosis between 'lived', empirical watchmaking, and German rigor The initial inspiration for this project came from George Daniels. Bernhard Lederer had exchanged ideas with him on numerous occasions and set about rethinking his work in depth in order to transpose George Daniels’ brilliant concept of an independent double-wheel escapement – which the master had developed for a pocket watch – into a wristwatch, with all the constraints that implied. Lederer chose a frequency of 3 Hz because the shocks endured by a watch on the wrist have repercussions on the movement's regulating organs. The latter must therefore resume normal operation as quickly as possible – a sine qua non for precision when a timepiece is worn. For this reason, a frequency of 3 Hz is the most appropriate. Lightweight materials and constant-force winding: less inertia, improved regularity One of the innovations of the Central Impulse Chronometer is the choice of lightweight alloys over traditional steel for components. Lighter and more rigid, such parts have lower inertia. They restart faster and therefore consume less energy. In other words, the impulse given by the escapement wheel to the balance wheel is optimized and disturbances are reduced, ensuring isochronism and, consequently, rate precision. Energy is transmitted from two barrels by two independent gear trains, each reserved for one of the two escapement wheels. In addition, Bernhard Lederer’s movement features a constant-force remontoire. This device accumulates and stores energy in a spring similar to that of the barrel, but less forcefully. At 10-second intervals, it recharges itself, thus equalizing the driving force supplied – all with a very homogeneous level of torque that ensures that the energy delivered to the balance wheel varies very little. An optimized anchor for direct impulse The engineering particularity of the Central Impulse Chronometer escapement also shows in the anchor. This is the watch's metronome. Here, the geometry of the central pallet has been re-imagined to improve efficiency: Now concave, the anchor has a reduced contact surface and prevents the escapement wheels from recoiling. The impulse is direct and aligned with the centerline connecting the escapement wheel to the balance wheel – so, it is theoretically perfect. This impulse axis remains constant over time, even at a low balance wheel amplitude. As a result, there is less friction, and the balance wheel receives the energy at the ideal timing for better isochronism and stability. The elegance of an authentic chronometer In addition to mastering the technical complexities of watchmaking, Bernhard Lederer is also a keen designer. Each of his creations bears witness to a strong artistic sensibility. And the Central Impulse Chronometer is no exception. The round, 44mm-cases in 5N rose gold (for Series 3) and 904L stainless steel (for Series 4) feature soft, elegant lines. Their slim, polished bezels amplify the sense of a vast dial. Two apertures around the seconds hands offer a view of the caliber 9012, its remontoires and escapements. On the case back, a second domed sapphire crystal – particularly delicate to machine for this reason – identical to crystal in front. It offers an exceptional view of the caliber 9012's three-dimensional, symmetrical, oblique and openworked architecture. The barrel, gear, remontoire, escapement and balance bridges are all skeletonized, accentuating the litheness of their geometric shapes. High-performance steel with a unique luster For Series 4, the final series, Bernhard Lederer chose a case made from 904L steel. This stainless steel is particularly difficult to work with is therefore rarely offered by most case manufacturers. Those who do appreciate this steel’s particular luster – and its ability longevity to maintain this luster over time. 904L stainless steel is highly corrosion-resistant, much more so than 316L steel, which is most commonly used in watchmaking. 904L belongs to the family of stainless superalloys. It is generally used in the high-tech, space and chemical industries. Its excellent anti-corrosion properties, comparable to those of precious metals derive from its high chromium content. When polished, 904L steel gleams with an exceptional luster. Finally, machining 904L steel requires the utmost rigor, and calls for specific tools and processing methods. In-house finishing at Ateliers Lederer in Saint-Blaise The two wide golden barrels contrast with the movement’s finishes. The wheel spokes are tangent curves with a unique profile, a Bernhard Lederer hallmark. The level of finishing is on a par with the engineering prowess represented by the Central Impulse Chronometer. The variety and exceptional execution of hand-finishing displayed here – polishing, beveling (incoming and outgoing angles), graining, engraving, satin-finishing, matte and glossy surfaces – further sublimate the movement's spectacular three-dimensional architecture. The Central Impulse Chronometer is a masterpiece of conscientious and discreet watchmaking, its technical excellence and design strength shining through in the accomplished craftsmanship and exceptional finishing. The model is available in two limited series of 25 pieces each, one in 5N rose gold with a black rhodium dial, and the other in 904L stainless steel with a gray-green dial in Pacific Green. Read our Summer Issue See Haute couture from Dior, Alexis Mabille, Georges Hobeika, Zuhair Murad, Valentino and more Explore Moralmoda Art Culture Lifestyle Travel Business Interviews Events ​ Get in touch About us Contacts Subscribe

  • A new brand is born: Haute-Rive watches by Stéphane von Gunten

    For the love of horological engineering, and carried by a watchmaking lineage spanning three generations – La Chaux-de-Fonds native and inventor Stéphane von Gunten announces the creation of his own brand, Haute-Rive, named after his great-great-grandfather’s atelier, where exceptional timepieces came to be over a century ago. HR01 CALIBER : With 1000-hour power reserve. - With a single barrel. - With a mysterious flying tourbillon. - With a function selector. - With bezel winding. - And a thickness under 12mm. Stéphane von Gunten is not just a watch engineer. He’s also a visionary. His career in the industry has been one of concepts, inventions and creativity. If he chose independence, it’s because he sees creativity at the heart of his work. To imagine. To push forward. He sees himself as a humble innovator, aware of the limits of his art yet committed to pushing them further. With Haute-Rive, he enters a new – no doubt his most personal – period of expression in watchmaking. At his own pace, the newly independent watchmaking engineer sets out on his own path in the traditional, one-off design and production of timepieces that reflect his character and life philosophy – to share, with that humility that is the hallmark of all passing down and gives rise to the most accomplished watchmaking. Today, Stéphane von Gunten announces the birth of Haute-Rive, an independent Swiss watch brand at the top of the watchmaking hierarchy. After nearly twenty years at prestigious watchmaking Maisons, Stéphane von Gunten decided to step away from the time constraints of big groups and enjoy total freedom of expression with the skills acquired on a journey that intimately prepared him for this new chapter. Haute-Rive is a tribute to horological engineering, of course, but above all, it’s a tribute to family values, to what it means to be human, to sharing, in the spirit and service of Swiss watchmaking excellence, rooted first and foremost in wonderment and delight.A new independent Haute Horlogerie watch brand from a cool, calm and compulsive engineer - not your average horologist - with an inaugural timepiece that pushes the limits. HONORIS I – The architecture of ‘long time’. High watchmaking, tradition and innovation. Three intertwined subjects in which innovation is often the poor relation. With Honoris I, its inaugural collection, Haute-Rive places these three elements on an equal footing. A wristwatch in yellow or white gold, polished, elegant, with a mysterious flying tourbillon and a grand feu enamel dial; the whole resting on a finishing ethic (chamfering and decorations by hand) that exemplifies Haute Horlogerie, high watchmaking. The element of tradition is rooted in the cultural and family heritage of founder Stéphane von Gunten. In Honoris I, he perpetuates the work of his ancestor Irénée Aubry, the 19th-century watchmaker and inventor, among others, of the 8-day pocket watch known as Hebdomas. In equal part at the heart of Honoris I: Innovation. Stéphane von Gunten takes his grandfather's inventions further, creating the first wristwatch with a 1000-hour power reserve that is both wearable and elegant – and reasonably slim at just 11.95 mm in thickness and 42.5 mm in diameter. Once a month, Honoris I needs to be wound via its 60-facet bezel, controlled by a column-wheel function selector. The construction of the case, movement and complications, and the way they interact, are all the result of an extreme pursuit of slimness, performance and refinement. This rare combination provides coordinates for the trajectory that Stéphane von Gunten is charting for Haute-Rive. HR01 CALIBER : With 1000-hour power reserve. - With a single barrel. - With a mysterious flying tourbillon. - With a function selector. - With bezel winding. - And a thickness under 12mm. Haute-Rive – it means ‘high shore’– is the name given to the place on the shores of Lake Neuchâtel, in Chez-le-Bart, near St-Aubin, where his ancestor Irénée Aubry set up his workshop. There he had laid the foundations for the Hebdomas pocket watch. One of the greatest successes of the 1900s, it offered eight days’ running time and was produced at a rate of a 1,000 units per day – three extraordinary distinctions at the time. Haute-Rive – ‘Haute’ as in Haute Horlogerie, and ‘Rive’ as in the visible but narrow shore where excellence lies.Haute-Rive, the brand, thus speaks to watch purists who reject traditional limits. One of them in particular spurred Stéphane von Gunten's watchmaking creativity: If Irénée Aubry succeeded over a century ago in designing an industrially produced watch with a running time of 8 days, he, Stéphane von Gunten, must be capable of moving the power reserve cursor even further, to the maximum, and without diverting from the language of fine watchmaking. The other thing: he wanted a watch that was wearable, and as slim possible. He then laid down the specifications and a symbolic number, 1000 hours. Stéphane von Gunten’s first caliber, the HR01, allows his inaugural Honoris I to be 42.5 mm in diameter and just under 12 mm thick.Before they were tamed, the rivers that flow down from the Swiss Jura Mountains to Lake Neuchâtel were unpredictable. Threatened by floods, the people who lived there favored higher ground, like that offered by the place called Haute-Rive in the town of Chez-le-Bart. Long since part of the municipality of St-Aubin-Sauges, it was here that Irénée Aubry set up his workshop, sheltered from the rising waters, after leaving Saignelégier, the village nestled in the mountainous Franches-Montagnes district of the Jura canton where he was born. Irénée Aubry was not your typical Jura watchmaker. He didn't have a farm; he didn’t do piecework or daywork. His friends and neighbors called him nickname "the inventor." Extending the power reserve His favorite subject was the power reserve, one of the weak points of pocket watches despite their large size. Irénée Aubry did something about it, coming up with a concept for which he obtained patent no. 88 on January 10, 1889: a watch that, once wound, could run on its own for eight straight days. The Graizely Frères watchmaking company acquired his patents and registered the brand name Hebdomas. Graizely added its own patent for a regulating organ visible through the dial, and thus was born one of the most important watchmaking successes that lasted from 1890s to the 1930s. Practical, affordable, slim, and recognized with several awards at World's Fairs, Hebdomas pocket watches were manufactured in La Chaux-de-Fonds by the company renamed Graizely et Cie, which later became Schild & Cie. The Pope's watch, Proust's madeleine Another timepiece conceived by Irénée Aubry created a sensation. Commissioned by the canton of Jura in 1887, Irénée Aubry developed an exceptional pocket watch to be presented to Pope Leo XIII on the occasion of his Jubilee by a delegation of pilgrims from Franches-Montagnes – the region where Irénée was born. This pocket watch – the famous Montre du Pape (the Pope’s watch) – ran for 40 days with a single winding. An unprecedented achievement. In 1888, he was decorated with the Croix Pour l'Église. Widely acclaimed, he stole the show with his watch at the Paris World's Fair in 1889. The gold case of the Montre du Pape features a portrait of Pope Leo XIII and an engraving of the Franches-Montagnes coat of arms. The gold bezel is fluted – a motif Stéphane would later echo on his HONORIS I, whose bezel is an important feature. Just as its 1000-hour power reserve, which evokes the scope and ambition of 40 days’ running time – at the time. As a child, Stéphane had often heard about this foundational event in his family’s history. The pope’s watch is the basis of Stéphane’s inspiration and the spark for creating the Haute-Rive brand. It’s the emotional touchstone from which he draws his creative genius, it’s his Proust's madeleine. Another commonality: as inventors, Irénée and Stéphane hold some thirty patents. The Pope’s Watch & Honoris I : Mechanical lineage - The basic architecture of the movement Patented construction 40-day power reserve Modern times One of Irénée Aubry's preoccupations was to navigate between concept and design. It is also at the heart of Stéphane von Gunten’s approach. For Honoris I, he aimed for the formal elegance of a dress watch, the technical language of visible mechanical attributes and performance. The design of his inaugural timepiece takes the form of a fully polished gold case. It is topped by a bezel with 60 concave facets and honed edges. It measures 42.5 mm in diameter. It is barely 12 mm thin. These could be considered the dimensions of an elegant chronometer with no special complications. And yet the Honoris I’s case houses several exceptional attributes: a flying tourbillon, a 1000-hour power reserve, a function selector, and a power reserve indicator on the back in the form of a readily legible disc. Rounding off the aesthetic of this classic timepiece, Haute-Rive opted for a grand feu enamel dial. Available in black or white, it is expertly executed at high temperature on an 18-carat gold plate using the champlevé technique. Prior to the five consecutive firings, the plate is cut to accommodate the movement's protrusions. For this dial is more than just a surface: It is the canvas for an aesthetic and technical composition. A large wheel, known as the wheel of time, the gear train under a central bridge with four pillars, and the tourbillon – these three elements emerge from the dial without revealing quite how they interact. The mystery continues with the long crown stem and its flowing pinion, easy to spot next to the column wheel required for function selection. The space dedicated to the barrel and its sizeable mainspring pushes these elements upwards. Stéphane von Gunten builds on this, transforming them into a technical statement set within a classically crafted whole. This echo of a traditional aesthetic is reinforced by the two leaf-shaped, perfectly polished hands in, depending on the version, white gold or flame-blued steel. The thousand-beat waltz To achieve the goal of a 1,000-hour power reserve for the HR01 caliber, Stéphane von Gunten increased the mainspring’s size to the maximum while preserving the overall dimensions of the watch. Usually, timepieces that offer 10 days of running time are quite enormous, often packaged in futuristic designs. Honoris I was conceived in the most classic spirit of wearability. That’s why Stéphane von Gunten opted for a single barrel. Increasing its size meant having the plate act as the drum. Custom-designed by a specialist in this field, the mainspring inside is 3 meters long, certainly the longest ever installed in a wristwatch. To deliver the smoothest possible torque, it is fitted with a sliding flange that prevents surges and peaks. The sliding flange also protects the gear train when the spring is fully cocked. The barrel communicates on one side with the power reserve indicator, located on the case back. Around a grained central cover, a ring with a graduation from 0 to 1000. This 360-degree indication offers optimum readability at all times, impossible with a traditional gauge. On the other, the barrel engages a differential that connects it to the gear train and to the winding mechanism. Winding is effected by turning the bezel counterclockwise. Why? The force required and the number of barrel turns would have made it quite impossible to use a crown. What’s more, the bezel feels comfortable to the touch, easy to turn thanks to the 60 subtly recessed grooves. They provide just the right grip for the winding operation, which can be spaced 40 days apart, i.e., once a month, with a 10-day safety margin. The time for secrets The function selector created for Honoris I is unique. It is linked to a crown that cannot be pulled out, to a column wheel, and to a sliding pinion located on the longest and most visible of all the crown stems. This directly engages the gear train for setting the time, right at the heart of the HR01 caliber. The central, three-dimensional gear bridge, shaped like a double mustache, is an essential graphic but also horological element of HR01 caliber’s design and a Honoris I hallmark. Its shape and prominence hint at a layered movement, fully in the spirit of classical watchmaking, which lends itself to the play and interplay of superlative finishes. Above the barrel, the HR01 caliber is topped by the wheel of time. It transmits power to the gear train, reminding the beholder of the importance of the driving force in this watch. The wheel of time meshes with a gear train spread over 7 levels vertically. At the end of this kinetic chain, Stéphane von Gunten installed one of his specialties, a complication that bears no secrets to him: a flying tourbillon. A large rhodium-plated brass cage, in the shape of an openworked cross, holds the finely tuned assembly. It houses a flat steel alloy balance spring, a variable-inertia balance wheel, and a Swiss lever escapement. It’s the structure and verticality of the cage that stand out here: They emerge from the dial, creating a third focal point above the spread of exquisitely executed enamel. Technical Specifications Haute-Rive Honoris 01 Movement Reference: HR01 caliber Winding: Manual, via rotating bezel Power reserve: 1,000 hours (41 days), one barrel, 3-meter-long mainspring Regulator: Mysterious flying tourbillon with one-minute rotation, angled anchor escapement, variable inertia balance wheel Functions: Hours, minutes; function selector; power-reserve indicator on the case back Diameter: 38.45mm diameter, i.e., 17''' (lignes) Thickness: 7.75mm Frequency: 2.5 Hz (18,000 vibrations/hour) Components: 288 Rubies: 35 Plate and bridges: Sandblasted, grained Hand-beveled with Jura gentian wood Case Material: 18K yellow gold or 18K white gold Dimensions: 42.5mm diameter Height: 11.95mm Crystal: Sapphire with anti-reflective coating Case back crystal: Sapphire Water-resistance: 3 ATM (30 meters, 100 feet) Dial Base plate in 18K yellow gold or 18K white gold Black or white grand feu enamel, champlevé technique Hands Leaf-type, domed, polished 18K white gold or blued steel Strap Black or brown nubuck calfskin, hand-stitched, tone-on-tone topstitching Buckle in 18K yellow gold or 18K white gold Limited edition Production limited to approx. 10 watches per year Price CHF 148,000 excl. VAT Read our Summer Issue See Haute couture from Dior, Alexis Mabille, Georges Hobeika, Zuhair Murad, Valentino and more Explore Moralmoda Art Culture Lifestyle Travel Business Interviews Events ​ Get in touch About us Contacts Subscribe

  • Hublot debuts Hublot Loves Summer Party on Lake Zurich

    Hublot stages Hublot Loves Summer Party on Lake Zurich for the first time Right after the 26th edition of the Hublot Polo Gold Cup hosted in Gstaad and met with unanimous approval this year, with a perfectly tested and relaxed organization, technically accomplished with an excellent field, the central Switzerland had its own Hublot event. Hublot brought together Friends of the Brand and Ambassadors Mujinga Kambundji, Corinne Suter, Andreas Caminada, Dario Cologna and Alan Roura for the first time on the shores of Lake Zurich for a memorable celebration. With sun-inspired cocktails, a private concert by the Dora Live Band and an electrifying set by DJ Ilona, the event showcased the shared passions and values that forge a unique spirit that unites these high-level achievers and members of the Hublot family. ©ARR All five exude a quiet strength with a touch of humility, and all work with time, striving for speed, precision, performance and optimization in their training, movements and gestures. And while they all also perform solo, their métier, sport and passion are executed with coaching and support from a team of professionals. Channeling their competitive nature, determination and team spirit, the evening included a table football tournament – a nod to the ninth FIFA Women’s World Cup, for which Hublot is Official Timekeeper – as three guest finalists competed against three ambassador teams for the Hublot Loves Summer Party 2023 Cup. “To be meaningful, coherent and impactful, it is important to us that each of Hublot’s Friends of the Brand and Ambassadors feel that they belong to a family. The relationships we build go beyond performances, careers and success. Today, by bringing all five together for the first time, it is a pleasure to witness their bonds, and what brings them together is the Hublot family. This is an additional source of satisfaction for Hublot, making what we achieve every day with our staff, partners and ambassadors all the more meaningful. It goes far beyond our watches and our image. These bonds, this sense of belonging, it is a force, it also tells our story.” — Ricardo Guadalupe, CEO of Hublot Read our Summer Issue See Haute couture from Dior, Alexis Mabille, Georges Hobeika, Zuhair Murad, Valentino and more Explore Moralmoda Art Culture Lifestyle Travel Business Interviews Events ​ Get in touch About us Contacts Subscribe

  • Jeweler Repossi marks 10th anniversary of Antifer collection

    WATCHES & JEWELRY Jeweler Repossi celebrates tenth anniversary of Antifer collection with art gallery Amélie, Maison d’Art ARR all images © ARR Repossi has asked gallery owner Amélie du Chalard to curate a truly exceptional art collection to celebrate the tenth anniversary of the jeweler’s Antifer collection, which has become an icon of High Jewelry. Inspired by contemporary art and architecture, both deeply rooted in Repossi’s DNA, the collection features radical minimalist lines and sharp angles, elevated by a contrast between full and empty spaces to create complete harmony. Antifer is one of the three pillars of the Repossi brand, alongside the Serti sur Vide and Berbere collections. To mark this anniversary, the Place Vendôme jeweler teamed with Amélie du Chalard, who invited six artists to create five original works that resonate with Antifer. Known for challenging the traditional codes of the art world, the Parisian art gallery conceived a dialogue between the collection and the artists, whose practices span sculpture, engraving and photography. “Antifer has something of a leaf, a drop of water, a mountain. In its multiplication it becomes an artifact, a delicate mechanism. The jewel reveals itself in its accumulation. […] The six artists – three women and three men – were chosen for the originality of their techniques and the richness of the materials and media employed – paper, slate, textiles, bronze, ceramics and photography. This diversity offers tremendously varied and relevant interpretations of the famous angle, which is neither completely pointed nor completely curved. The works not only highlight this angle, they also pay homage to the rigor, minimalism and purity of Antifer.” — Amélie du Chalard. Each in their own manner, visual artist Florence Grundeler, sculptor Victoire d’Harcourt, photographer François Kenesi, sculptor Michel Kirsch, visual artist Marine Vu and ceramist Guido de Zan celebrate ten years of creativity around Antifer. One piece by each artist is being added to Repossi’s personal collection. All the other works created have been exhibited since July 6 at the Amélie, Maison d’Art gallery. This collaboration resonates with the genes of the avant-garde jewelry house, which has always fused artistic inspirations with superb savoir-faire. “Repossi is celebrating the bold union of art and jewelry by teaming up with Amélie Maison d’Art, renowned for its artistic plurality, ranging from sculpture to painting and photography. In this collaboration, talented artists have drawn inspiration from our Antifer collection, which is celebrating its tenth anniversary, turning the traditional creative metronome on its head. The jewelry becomes a source of inspiration for these artists. This collaboration gives rise to works that transcend the boundaries of art and jewelry, offering a new perspective of the artistic dimension of Antifer.” — Anne de Vergeron, CEO of Repossi For a virtual visit of the gallery click here. Read our Summer Issue See Haute couture from Dior, Alexis Mabille, Georges Hobeika, Zuhair Murad, Valentino and more Explore Moralmoda Art Culture Lifestyle Travel Business Interviews Events ​ Get in touch About us Contacts Subscribe

  • HUBLOT POLO GOLD CUP 2023: LAPLACETTE IN HIS BACKYARD … ONCE AGAIN!

    Polo is a team sport. Wearing the colors of Gstaad, Sébastien Le Page and his Argentinian accomplices are the clear proof. On Sunday afternoon they mastered perfectly their game on this very special polo field of the Saanen airport allowing them to win the Hublot Polo Gold Cup for the second year running. In Gstaad colors, Sébastien Le Page and his Argentinian teammates win the Hublot Polo Gold Cup Gstaad for the second time © Der Rote Drache / K.GrallaMartincito Aguerre’s genius was not enough today. Indeed, Raul Laplacette’s teamplay proved unbeatable. Despite once again scoring eleven goals (that’s Team Gstaad’s daily rate since last Thursday!), it was also the fierce defense of the defending champions that made the difference. The Hublot players were never able to find a way through their opponents’ defensive wall. And if they did, Raul Laplacette was there to calmly steal the ball from the impudent attacker. Freeing up space, the men from Gstaad could quietly move forward and score on the other side. The only solution for Martin Aguerre Jr. was to try his luck from far, far away. He succeeded twice and scored his other three goals from penalties. Five goals was all the team could score today. Most valuable player of the final, top scorer of the tournament with 17 goals, Argentina’s Raul Laplacette is definitely in his backyard on the Gstaad airport pitch © R&B Presse / P.Renauldon Second title in two years: the polo field at Saanen airport is now the backyard of Raul Laplacette, most valuable player of the final and top scorer of the tournament with 17 goals: “On this kind of field, you have to move forward with the ball, attack, attack, attack, and keep attacking. As it is a smaller field than usual, you always have to try and get close to the goal to have a chance of scoring. In any case, that was our tactic. But it was also thanks to our organization that we were able to succeed: good players and fast horses. These are essential to play good polo.” A Swiss organization set up at the Polo Park Zurich by team captain Sébastien Le Page. “This second victory is all the more pleasing because it’s practically the same team than last year, which proves that the organization is working very well,” rejoices Le Page. It’s a real pleasure because we’ve been working on it all year round for several years. So I’m both very tired and very happy. I’m going to be able to savour this victory and drink some champagne, because I’ve not been been drinking for the last two weeks.” The French captain also paid tribute to his star player: “Raul is incredible, he controls the game so much that it seems like he’s doing nothing, when in fact he’s everywhere and scoring an incredible number of goals. I think he’s one of the best players on the planet.” For sure, on the Gstaad field, he could be a 10-goaler! The match for third place was much tighter, with Kielder Agro Group taking their first win of the tournament thanks to two fiery opening chukkers: 5-0, an advantage they maintained by battling hard right to the end: only one goal scored in the last two periods, while Gstaad Palace scored five in their turn. Final score: 6-5. This 26th edition of the Hublot Polo Gold Cup met with unanimous approval this year, with a perfectly tested and relaxed organization, technically accomplished with an excellent field, a very friendly reception and, above all, particular attention paid to the well-being of the horses, well-looked-after by the new refereeing rules, who, despite the weather, appeared to be in particularly good condition and happy to play. Read our Summer Issue See Haute couture from Dior, Alexis Mabille, Georges Hobeika, Zuhair Murad, Valentino and more Explore Moralmoda Art Culture Lifestyle Travel Business Interviews Events ​ Get in touch About us Contacts Subscribe

  • A Belmond Hotel makes its much-anticipated return to Riviera Maya

    NOW OPEN: MAROMA, A BELMOND HOTEL, RIVIERA MAYA ARR On 3 August 2023, the Riviera Maya’s most storied hideaway Maroma, A Belmond Hotel will make its much-anticipated return. Set amongst 200 acres of lush tropical jungle and the secluded white sands of Mexico’s Caribbean coast, Maroma has been carefully reimagined with Mayan design, traditions, and culture at the forefront. The reborn icon now has 72 rooms, suites, and villas outfitted with a blend of local materials, artisanal patterns, and traditional craftsmanship and four dining destinations including a new gastronomic restaurant, Woodend by Curtis Stone, by the renowned Michelin-star chef and Casa Mayor by Mexican-born Executive Chef Daniel Camacho, where authentic local cuisine takes centre stage. The biophilic Maroma Spa by Guerlain is a holistic wellness retreat with a menu of nature-focused treatments and immersive guest experiences including an onsite apothecary and Meliponario, housing the revered Melipona bee. Building on its legacy of care for the community and environment, Maroma also unveils ground-breaking sustainability initiatives both on-property and in the community. Deeply embedded into the soul of the Yucatán, Maroma enters a new era as the beating heart of the Riviera Maya. A SOULFUL CELEBRATION OF MEXICAN CRAFT AND DESIGN ​ Internationally renowned design studio Tara Bernerd & Partners honours Mexican heritage while enhancing the original architecture of Maroma, whose white stucco buildings are aligned to the Sacred Geometry of Mayan masonry. Tara Bernerd and her team hand-selected local artisans to work in collaboration with to showcase the extraordinary range of pan-Mexican art and design, with each piece of furniture and décor carefully designed by Bernerd exclusively for Maroma. A journey to showcase the best of the country, 80% of furnishings and objects are handcrafted in Mexico like ceramicist José Noé Suro, who in collaboration with Tara Bernerd and her team, crafted over 700,000 hand-painted Jalisco clay tiles for the guestrooms; Henequen Textiles, with rugs woven from a hemplike material sourced from specific species of the agave plant; and artist Eduardo Ricon, who created shadow boxes displaying native botanicals. ​ The reborn Maroma channels effortlessly chic, hacienda-style living. The relaxed, residential design encourages guests to flow between the public areas, discovering intimate, tucked-away corners and lingering on exquisite details like handwoven textiles from Oaxaca, traditional glazed Saltillo floor tiles from Guadalajara, traditional Yucatan doors crafted out of heavy timber frames, and chandeliers crafted out of shells to Tara Bernerd & Partners’ designs, who took inspiration from local Mayan jade jewelry. Curved lines, organic forms, and expansive views of the Caribbean Sea inspire a feeling of being aligned with nature. The property’s three pools have also been completely redesigned with Sukabumi tiles handmade from volcanic stone , in the same vibrant turquoise tones as the region’s many natural cenotes. ​ Each of the 72 rooms, suites, and villas are spread across Maroma’s private stretch of sand; many have stunning ocean views. The 10 new one- and two-bedroom beachfront suites offer unobstructed views and direct beach access, some with private pools and gardens. Those in search of more privacy can opt for the two-bedroom beachfront pool villas or the 3,939-square-foot Villa Maroma, with four bedrooms, a full kitchen, bar, spacious outdoor terrace, chaise lounges, and a private pool. Maroma partnered with socially conscious brand Collectiva Concepción on traditional Manta staff uniforms and in-room guest kaftans that have been hand-embroidered by female artisans in Chiapas. The Mexico City-based fragrance brand Xinú created a custom scent and bath amenities inspired by the regional Amate tree, the scent of clay, mystical incense, and lemon. ​ ​ REGIONAL FLAVORS TAKE THE SPOTLIGHT ​ Belmond has partnered with Michelin-star chef and world-class restaurateur Curtis Stone to debut Woodend by Curtis Stone, the hotel’s signature restaurant. A celebration of the connection between sea and jungle, Woodend by Curtis Stone features seasonal dishes inspired by the farmers and fishermen whose ingredients are the heart and soul of the local fare, prepared using Curtis’ signature open-fire technique. Paying respect to the Yucatán Peninsula, its history, and traditions, dishes include grilled blue shrimp with green mango, apple, daikon and charred almonds; oyster crudo with pineapple mignonette and lemongrass; and Baja Striped Bass with tomato fondue, habanero vinegar and pink peppercorn. The menu also features an extensive range of plant-based dishes, cabbage heart with seeded macha and camembert or Mayan rice with maitake mushrooms, Chaya spinach and wheat berries. ​ Mexican-born Executive Chef Daniel Camacho also continues his legacy of celebrating his country’s rich culinary diversity at Casa Mayor. Sustainability is a central focus, with 90% of ingredients sourced from Mexico and almost half from the Yucatán peninsula. A proud member of #PescaConFuturo, which promotes sustainable fishery and aquaculture, Chef Camacho reinvents traditional hometown Mexican cuisine using freshly caught seafood from Amigos de Sian Ka’an. Guests can expect creative, colorful dishes ranging from seafood towers and Michoacan corundas to Jalisco-style Birria and chocolate cake with Oaxacan black mole, flamed with house mezcal. Signature cocktails are based on local ingredients such as chile xkatik, habanero, and sour orange. ​ Bambuco bar offers a more casual affair, where seasonal herbal drinks made fresh from the garden are featured alongside an extensive collection of mezcal. Each signature cocktail tells the story of a different Mexican state such as the Solteco featuring watermelon, citrus, peppers and mezcal tobala from Oaxaca or the smoky Gallina Borracha with mezcal salmiana sourced primarily from Guanjuato and Zacatecas. The bar also embraces a ‘zero waste’ ethos, recycling and composting 100% of its products and ingredients. The legendary beach hangout Freddy’s Bar continues to channel the vibrant spirit of the Riviera Maya, with lively music, fresh seafood and cocktails, and a locally sourced raw bar. Every seat in the bar has sea views; the design channels the beauty of the surroundings, with inlaid pebble motifs, locally sourced woven fabrics, and tropical pops of green and orange tones. ​ ​ SACRED RITUALS, HEALING VIBRATIONS ​ Founded on the principles of nature and vitality, wellness will take on a new dimension at Maroma Spa by Guerlain. Launching in November, the spa, a temple for rejuvenation and a place of deep spirituality, will mark the first Spa by Guerlain in Latin America. The newly renovated biophilic space will feature nine treatment rooms that look out to the jungle and incorporate local design elements with geometric shapes and artisanal objects. Healing rituals are inspired by the four elements of nature—fire, water, earth, and air—ancient practices, and the sacred Melipona bee, revered by the Mayans for over 3,000 years as a symbol of spiritual resonance. A signature treatment will be the Bee Healing Ritual, a honey-based treatment renowned for its effective healing powers that calls on Guerlain’s Abeille Royale collection. ​ Other holistic wellbeing experiences incorporate the frequency of the buzzing bees and the healing vibrations of sound therapy to stimulate the brain, balance energy, and inspire connection with nature as well as Under the Sea Wave morning meditation combining gentle movement and singing bowls, a Temazcal ceremony, and a constellation massage aligned with the cosmos. The spa also includes a selection of daily workshops in meditation, movement and yoga as well as its own apothecary where guests can learn how to identify herbs in nature, classify them, and prepare and incorporate them into healing therapies. The Healing Remedies Workshop involves harvesting your own herbs from a traditional Kaánché and learning to make natural balms, scrubs and more using a copper alembic. ​ ​ AN IMMERSION INTO MEXICO’S MOST IRRESISTIBLE REGION ​ From design and culinary to immersive experiences, every moment at Maroma is seamlessly intertwined into Mayan culture and traditions. Days can begin with a bike ride through the jungle before savoring the flavors of the Riviera Maya, whether discovering the artisanal process of cooking corn and making tortillas by hand during the Nixtamal Journey or signing up for an The Journey Around the Agave to explore the multiple origins, methods, and chemistry profiles that make tequila, mezcal and sotol distinct. The only luxury hotel in the Riviera Maya with a Starlight Tourism Certification by the United Nations World Tourism Organization, Maroma is the ideal spot for stargazing each night, where an astronomer will map out the Mayan constellations and share the integral role the night sky played in everyday life. A not-to-miss experience paired with biodynamic wines. To further commune with Yucatán treasures, Maroma offers easy access to the largest barrier reef in the Western Hemisphere, where guests can dive into the underwater world on PADI-certified dives and private snorkeling tours, or head to an exclusive cenote nearby , choosing between an open sky dip or an excursion through an underground cavern. ​ ​ A LOCAL STORY OF SUSTAINABILITY ​ Maroma has a long history of working with local organisations and will continue collaborating with Fundación Selva Maya and Mayahuum to protect the endangered Melipona bee, which is critical to the ecology of the Yucatán peninsula. Belmond will amplify its impact through its partnership with Guerlain. Initiatives include expanding resident hives, with the aim to reach at least 100 new hives by 2025, and introducing Guerlain’s Bee School and “Women for Bees” initiatives into Yucatán communities. As part of the programme, Mayan women from local communities will raise bees in their respective communities to preserve traditional know-how and raise awareness of the ancient tradition. On property, a Mayan beekeeper will undergo in-depth training to care for Maroma’s hives, while guests can sign up for workshops on the importance of the species’ survival and reap the medicinal and savory benefits through bee-centric spa and culinary experiences. Maroma is also proud member of the EarthCheck program, the world’s leading scientific benchmarking certification and advisory group for travel and tourism, in part to its measures to increase endemic biodiversity. An onsite nursery produces over two thousand endemic plants, some of which are in danger of extinction. The Maroma team rescues seedlings of regional flora, such as palma chit, palma real, ceiba and ciricote from the resort’s surrounding jungle to increase their rate of reproduction and survival. Maroma is also an important nesting and breeding area for Olive Throated Parakeets and White-Fronted Parrots, both of which are endangered species. To help conserve these endemic bird species in danger of extinction, Maroma has created a comprehensive conservation programme, identifying and protecting nests and hatchlings found on site and providing better environments for their reproduction. Maroma’s on-site Turtle Sanctuary also protects White, Loggerhead, Hawkbill, and Leatherback sea turtles and assists in releasing the baby turtles into the ocean. ​ ​ CINEMATOGRAPHIC CELEBRATIONS ​ Magical celebrations await at the range of indoor and outdoor event venues, including the new palapa with floor-to-ceiling windows, an elegant wooden floor, and an outdoor deck for dancing under the stars. Amid the palm-fringed shores, fragrant gardens, serene pools, and lush jungles, there’s no shortage of show-stopping spaces for a Mayan-inspired event – with the option to privatise the resort for up to 200 guests. Maroma offers a timeless backdrop for all festivities, from elopements and honeymoons to destination weddings and corporate retreats. Completely customizable for each moment, an array of private activities are available, including curated gastronomic experiences at La Cantina, a traditional family-style barbecue on the beach, private wine and tequila tastings, and water sports. ​ ​ Rates start at $1,095 per night for a Deluxe Room, based on double occupancy. For reservations and more information, please contact +1 866 454 935 or reservations.mar@belmond.com. Read our Summer Issue See Haute couture from Dior, Alexis Mabille, Georges Hobeika, Zuhair Murad, Valentino and more Explore Moralmoda Art Culture Lifestyle Travel Business Interviews Events ​ Get in touch About us Contacts Subscribe

  • Rolex acquires Bucherer

    ROLEX ACQUIRES BUCHERER To preserve the long-standing partnership between the two companies and perpetuate their shared history, Rolex has decided to acquire Bucherer. The watch retailer will keep its name and continue to operate independently. Its integration into the Rolex group will be effective once the competition authorities have approved the takeover transaction. Geneva, 24 August 2023 – Following the choice made by Jörg Bucherer, in the absence of direct descendants, to sell his company’s business, Rolex has decided to acquire the watch retailer, which was until now an independent entity. This move reflects the Geneva-based brand’s desire to perpetuate the success of Bucherer and preserve the close partnership ties that have linked both companies since 1924. For more than 90 years, the two businesses have worked alongside one another and have each contributed to the other’s achievements and growth. Today, Rolex stands as one of the leaders of the Swiss luxury watchmaking sector. Bucherer has become an internationally renowned multibrand retailer, with stores located in Switzerland, the United States, England, Germany, France, Denmark and Austria. Bucherer accounts for more than 100 sales outlets worldwide, of which 53 distribute the Rolex brand and 48 distribute the Tudor brand. The watch retailer is also an official after-sales service centre for both brands. Its watch servicing workshops employ watchmakers who have been trained by the company itself and are highly qualified. The Rolex group is convinced that this acquisition is the best solution not only for its own brands but also for all the watch and jewellery partner brands, as well as for all the employees of the Bucherer group. Bucherer will keep its name and continue to independently run its business. The Group’s management team will remain unchanged. Bucherer’s integration into the Rolex group will be effective once the competition authorities have approved the takeover transaction. The fruitful collaboration between Rolex and the other official retailers in its sales network will remain unchanged. A LONG-STANDING SHARED HISTORY Rolex and Bucherer share a long history. Bucherer has been an official retailer of the Rolex manufacture since 1924. The professional relationship, friendship ties and mutual respect have endured to this day. Indeed, Jörg Bucherer is the last person still in activity to have known and worked with Hans Wilsdorf, the founder of Rolex. He will remain as honorary president of the Bucherer group. Rolex is proud of what the two companies have achieved since the start of their collaboration. Read our Summer Issue See Haute couture from Dior, Alexis Mabille, Georges Hobeika, Zuhair Murad, Valentino and more Explore Moralmoda Art Culture Lifestyle Travel Business Interviews Events ​ Get in touch About us Contacts Subscribe

  • BYRNE Watch introduces Next-Level Customization

    Up close and personal: BYRNE Watch introduces Next-Level Customization on the occasion of Geneva Watch Days 2023, and debuts its first pink gold model just one year after the creation of the brand. Photo credit: Igor Laski Every day, at noon or midnight, in a flash, the 4 cardinal indices – four rotating cuboids – turn at once to reveal another face. Roman numerals, Arabic numerals – or any other character, symbol or design made to order – can be made to appear on the markers. A patented animation complication that took 3 years of R&D in Fleurier, Switzerland. The Byrne GyroDial gives its wearer the feeling of a different watch every day, or whenever they choose, in a flash. Hence, the brand's motto: “One watch, four faces.” One watch, four faces. With this bespoke-developed movement, Byrne Watch has invented the (r)evolutionary watch: Every day at noon, or midnight, or on request, the four cardinal markers undergo a change as part of a never-ending cycle. Arabic numerals, Roman numerals, special characters or artwork – anything is possible. That is because each of the indices is in fact a cuboid – at any given moment, we see only one its four faces, absolutely flush with the dial. When the time comes, all four cuboids rotate one turn, instantaneously revealing different cardinal markers. Today, Byrne Watch is taking the idea of ‘bespoke’ for a timepiece to the next level. Byrne, whose very essence is to offer a watch that meets the wearer's deepest desire for personalization, now offers the possibility of defining the appearance of the 4 faces of each cuboid cardinal marker. The watch face now becomes a genuinely unique expression of its owner. Give free rein to your imagination... At a time when “bespoke” has become the new watchword, it seems only natural that an object as personal as a watch should also offer the possibility of true personalization. And yet... It wasn’t marketeering that inspired John Byrne to dream up this option for their clients, but the vast possibilities of the imagination. It all began five years ago, when attending a performance of Georges Balanchine and Igor Stravinsky's ballet “Apollo.” His eyes lit up with wonder, captivated by the changing appearance of several dancers lined up one behind the other, appearing to be one and the same ballerina but wearing different costumes. This sparked the idea of designing a watch that, in a flash, could also change its face. Upstream engineering One watch, four faces. The GyroDial’s intuitively lends itself to integrating any form of personalization on its cubes. In fact it was engineered into the watch from the outset. Everything had been thought out and thought through upstream. That’s the concept’s intelligence, with its singular ability for customization: the cuboid markers are designed to accept any kind of engraving, symbol or even a precious stone. Any element, essentially, can be applied to or integrated into each of the four faces of each cuboid. For Byrne Watch, it is especially gratifying to offer their clients such a breadth of possibilities. To give them the opportunity to own a unique watch, made only for them and, in a way, by them... because the client is in fact, right from the start, part of the design process. Byrne Watch founder John Byrne's primary aim is to match his clients’ desires as closely as possible. John Byrne: “The client can dream up their own watch. There really are no limits to the imagination. The Gyrodial complication has been thoroughly thought out all the way upstream, so that today we have absolutely free rein.” Example of hyper-customisation is a pink gold piece with diamond-set indexes. 16 customizable faces In taking ‘bespoke’ to the next level, Byrne offers a unique customization experience. With 4 different faces per cardinal index, the Byrne Gyrodial can potentially present up to 16 different marker faces – a vast canvas for the imagination. Anything is possible, from motifs inspired by the signs of the zodiac or the symbols of a country’s history, to personal family references Anything can also be kept from view, since the finesse of personalization offer also enables the face to be switched on demand - simply by rotating the crown. The wearer decides when to keep a face hidden, and when to reveal it, depending on where they are or who they’re with. This option is particularly appreciated when a secret number is involved. Every graphical motif on a Byrne watch is engraved and rhodium-plated, never painted. Each decoration or design is conceived on a nano-graphic scale and then rendered by in-house artist before it is sent to the manufacture engraving. An incredible technical feat, it represents personalization at the ‘ultra’ level. Life Philosophy To John Byrne, this approach to personalization has always been integral to his attitude towards life. Coming from the world of technical service, he appreciates how breathing new life into old or new parts requires agility and flexibility. He understands the importance of choice to the client. This mindset spontaneously led to the obvious realization that “a watch with four different faces means that surprise, fun and enjoyment will be at the very least quadrupled.” That’s how the adventure began. John Byrne’s connection to the artistry and craftsmanship that go into high watchmaking, such as enameling and gem-setting, runs deep. He sees himself as both guardian and guarantor of these ancestral techniques. The artistic direction the brand is taking exemplifies this stance, allowing him to express it with greater and greater deliberateness. The ZERO Pink Gold and its Limited Edition set with diamonds. A blend of sophistication and industrial aesthetic, that’s what Byrne Watch offers with this sleekly styled watch, expressed in the softest, most elegant of materials: rose gold. Photo credit: Igor Laski Gyro Dial ZERO: the starting point for the creation of the Byrne Watch brand. A vision, a movement, a playfully singular animation, so simple in appearance,and yet... complicated to develop – and never before seen in watchmaking. Byrne Watch was launched just over a year ago at Geneva Watch Days 2022. Since then, major retailers in Japan, the US, Canada and France have recognized in this watch and in the brand, all the attributes of a creative, dynamic, agile and vibrant independent watchmaker. The Byrne Watch team – headed by John Byrne, the passionate creator, and Claire Byrne, the company's CEO, at his side – has a long-term vision, with their unique concept as a common thread: a watch that changes its dial every day. Just one year after the brand’s inception, BYRNE Watch is pleased to present the ZERO model in a new, stunning version in pink gold, the precious metal’s silky sparkling effect contrasting with the watch’s industrial aesthetic. True to its unique original watch concept, the ZERO Pink Gold changes its dial every day, at midnight or noon, as the four cardinal indexes at 3, 6, 9 and 12 o'clock pivot in a flash to reveal a different face, transforming the appearance of the whole in the spirit of the brand’s motto: One watch, Four faces. Sleek and elegant at the same time, the watch profoundly embodies the brand’s values, presenting all the essential assets of a Byrne watch, combining elegant design and singular complication, legibility, precision, reliability and craftsmanship. Beneath its deceptively simple appearance, the singularity and originality of its dial married with a pink gold case opens up a fresh perspective on creative freedom, a new and even more refined space for expression. It is not just about being ‘different’. On the contrary: it is about revealing a new angle of sophistication in a strong, distinctive concept that is already instantly recognizable. Contrasts in the service of design So much is about contrasts, levels and reliefs that play on shadows and reflections. The Gyro dial ZERO movement is exposed, becoming the dial of the watch. Here, the caliber gleams in multiple variations of gray, spotlighting certain components while offering a compelling contrast with the rose gold of the case and the pivoting cardinal indexes. With its bridges, screws, plate, pivoting cuboids treated with 5N rose gold, the Gyro Dial ZERO Pink Gold opens the ideal of beauty to interpretation and gives the wearer a full, rich view of a magnificent mechanism whose every stage of design and manufacture adheres to the strictest codes of craftsmanship. The juxtaposition of sandblasted and polished finishes; the contrast between the edgy rendering of the ‘Sport’ numerals and the silky allure of rose gold; the bezel whose hollowing represented an yet another machining challenge; the crown, as always engraved with the number 1, like the starting point of the brand’s inception. Lightness and sophistication As the watch’s design emphasizes lightness when worn, the weight of 18K the rose gold case is compensated with a titanium case back to reduce overall heft. Weighing in at just 60 grams, the ZERO Pink Gold’s two-tone look reinforces alluring contrasts and makes the lightness of the watch seem all the more surprising. The movement’s industrial ‘openwork’ message finds itself not only perfectly complemented but also amplified with rose gold. The four cuboids, the centerpiece of the complication, are made of 5N rose gold, as are the hands. Last but not least, the watch is fitted with a black “ballistic grained” rubber strap with – a first for Byrne Watch – a folding clasp, adding to the distinctive sophistication of the whole. At the heart of Byrne Watch's approach: always and forever a focus on aesthetics, and the relentless pursuit of excellence, in a refined, resolutely contemporary style, with utmost attention to every detail. The ZERO movement Every morning, or anytime for that matter, you can choose from four different face styles on one watch. The faces of the cardinal indexes will show Roman numerals, Arabic numerals, no numerals, or, in the ‘Sport’ mode, display a favorite jersey number – all enhanced with Super-LumiNova®. With this complex movement, Byrne Watch has created an innovative watch whose dial essentially expresses a new mood every day, either automatically at midnight or noon, or whenever the wearer chooses – the Gyro Dial ZERO's four cardinal indexes are in fact pivoting cuboids whose faces change in a flash to reveal a completely different dial. Created and refined under the impetus of its creator, John Byrne, this patented animation complication is the culmination of three years of research and development in Fleurier in the Swiss Jura Mountains, the cradle of the Alpine republic’s watchmaking industry. Inside the Gyro Dial ZERO, a completely redesigned Caliber 5555. The hand-finished movement/dial presents a sleek and contemporary aesthetic. By exposing the movement, John Byrne conveys a modern message, showing that inventiveness in watchmaking doesn't exclusively call for a skeletonized movement. Pushing boundaries with a limited edition of 10 diamond-set pieces Taking the concept yet another step further and shining a new light on the original vision John Byrne had of his dream watch over five years ago: here we are today with the hyper-customization of the ZERO Pink Gold. The ZERO Pink Gold Diamond – a limited edition of only 10 pieces. Here, the four faces of the cardinal indices on the rose gold watch in turn show sides set with forty black diamonds in a triangular motif, with forty white diamonds in a triangular motif, with ‘Sport’ numerals, and one side with no numerals or symbols – ‘Ghost’ mode. At the core of the gem-setting mastery required for this creation we find unprecedented precision and detail. Indeed, the degree of meticulous care required in positioning each stone is difficult to imagine, a patient process towards perfection where even the slightest deviation would inevitably impact the harmony of the whole – and cause the master craftsperson to start again. Restrained ans refined by day, precious and sparkling by night... The ZERO Pink Gold "Diamonds" is a watch with multiple personalities. Pricing ZERO Pink Gold ‘Classic’: 35 000 HT Euros / CHF ZERO Pink Gold ‘Diamonds’: 55 000 HT Euros / CHF (Limited Edition of 10 pieces) byrnewatch.com Read our Summer Issue See Haute couture from Dior, Alexis Mabille, Georges Hobeika, Zuhair Murad, Valentino and more Explore Moralmoda Art Culture Lifestyle Travel Business Interviews Events ​ Get in touch About us Contacts Subscribe

  • Tetyana Chumak, founder of TG Botanical, an eco friendly Ukrainian brand

    Tetyana Chumak, the brand's designer, finds beauty in nature's periodic destruction cycles. The chaotically sewn pieces with elastic thread that make up the bulk of the TG Botanical SS24 collection, in the designer's opinion, evoke the surface of the Earth and corroded metal. This season Tetyana Chumak uses certified batiste, cottons, silks, organic nettle and linens for kinetic skirts, cargo trousers, daring tops and dresses. For the very first time the TG Botanical introduces accessories to the collection, which are made of an old nettle cloth, sourced from local artisans. SPRING/SUMMER 2024. (All images: James Cochrane©) All our collections are produced in-house and for each product, it is clear how and where it was made. This allows me to control the whole production chain and avoid harmful impact on the environment. - Tetyana Chumak, the brand's designer and founder. You founded the brand during the first lockdown. How challenging was this process at the time? Tetyana C.: To be honest, the process of creating the brand during the first lockdown was not so complicated, even though we had numerous restrictions, they can’t be compared to the ones that we received when the war in Ukraine started. We had a 20-years old experience of curating a so-called Ukrainian mass-market brand TAGO and when the quarantine started it gave us a clear understanding that people don’t really need so much clothes. I felt that it's time to produce clothing with absolutely unique designs and benefits, which resulted in the birth of TG Botanical. The whole process of establishing was a true pleasure for me and my team. It was absolutely about implementing my inner desire and never about sales or economics. We enjoyed the process with all our hearts. What is your goal for the brand and its mission? Tetyana: After 20 years of working in the fashion industry, I started wondering about its future and the final point that we were going to. I was feeling that the market was oversupplied by numerous brands and the amount of similar clothes was shockingly rising. It was a moment when I realized that I have missed the excitement of producing average clothes with commercial success. I was happy to see a totally different perspective – producing less for more. This means that it’s better to make one really chic dress from sustainable materials that could be timeless. SPRING/SUMMER 2024. (All images: James Cochrane©) My team and I set a goal of creating a sustainable brand that will help us to popularize the idea of conscious consumption. It was my inner desire to prove that clothes could and should be less harmful for the environment. We started experimenting with modern technologies and implementing innovative organic fabrics into the production process. The main ambition was to make a brand with a unique philosophy based on responsibility, both ecological and social. TG Botanical is the result of following the passion of my heart and I believe that its name speaks for itself: about its origin, mission, strategy and existence. How do you expand your natural fabrics research while maintaining your competitiveness? Tetyana: I believe that it is hard to use the word “competitiveness” when we are talking about sustainable fashion, because personally for me this sphere is about supporting and encouraging both customers and brands. We strive to make our planet a better place to live and fight against this constant race for being better than someone. To produce TG Botanical pieces we use hemp, linen and organic cotton. Speaking of expanding the list of the natural fabrics, our team, from the beginning of the TG botanical journey, decided to work on the creation of sustainable alternatives that could be used for the TG Botanical pieces. I aim to promote the idea of “grown clothes” that will live forever passed down through generations. TG Botanical is committed to developing and integrating new material processes, as well as traditional dyeing techniques into every collection as well as reducing the impact of the brand on the environment season by season. Why do you insist on working with eco-materials and even experimental techniques for dyeing? How does this enhance your creative process and the final product and its textures? Tetyana: The name of the brand speaks for itself. TG Botanical is about clothes from the environment, from botany. In each collection we play with the elements of nature. This is reflected not only in the use of eco-materials and special herbal dyeing techniques, but also in the textures/patterns of the products. I believe that the importance of creating eco-friendly materials is high on a global scale, but the fashion industry definitely takes a special place here. There always were and always be shopaholics, that sincerely can’t be saturated by fashion, but I feel that we could make a little change about this. We could keep fashion and shopaholism and switch it to a high-quality organic material that will be less harmful to the environment. Also my team uses experimental techniques for dyeing fabrics with plant pigments obtained from tansy flowers, acorns, onion husks and coffee beans. This allows us to obtain a unique variety of colors and textures using environmentally-friendly materials. Thanks to the occupation of your family, you have an opportunity to research technologies for the production of fabrics. Could you elaborate on this and what are your favorite fabrics for the SS24? Tetyana: All our collections are produced in-house and for each product, it is clear how and where it was made. This allows me to control the whole production chain and avoid harmful impact on the environment. The brand is dedicated to further research and development of new fabrics and techniques. For example, during the creation of our second collection, our technologists found a way to implement a coat design with faux fur made from hemp. We have a goal to achieve our own certificates for dying techniques and fabrics in the near future. But for now TG Botanical works with reliable fabric suppliers that have an international certification of Global Recycled Standard. I’m obsessed with our knitwear. It is presented in each of our collections and will always be. I feel that it will most likely remain my favorite in the future collection as well, but this time it will be a bit different. And what exactly this difference will be, we will see next season. Could you comment on why CPHFW is the right platform for your brand? Tetyana: Copenhagen is a city of absolutely progressive and sustainable fashion, which totally resonates with the DNA of our brand. From the very beginning, TG Botanical has received incredible support at Copenhagen Fashion Week. It all started from the very first presentation of the brand as a part of the Official Presentation&Event Schedule. During the second press-breakfast, Cecilie Thorsmark, CEO of CPHFW, personally visited us and expressed her sincere sympathy to TG Botanical and its pieces. This was a true blessing for me and my team, I will remember this day forever! The next season, AW23, we became finalists of the Zalando Sustainability Award which gave us an opportunity to make our first runway show. It was existing and incomparable. For this show we had double support – CPHFW and Zalando. This gave me a clear understanding that every effort that we are putting into TG Botanical is totally worth it! And the fact that we have received so many kind words and feedback from the fashion community for our Spring/Summer 24 Runway Show collection is further proof that TG Botanical is a perfect fit for such an influential brand as Copenhagen Fashion Week. But of course there is always room for improvement. Read our Summer Issue See Haute couture from Dior, Alexis Mabille, Georges Hobeika, Zuhair Murad, Valentino and more Explore Moralmoda Art Culture Lifestyle Travel Business Interviews Events ​ Get in touch About us Contacts Subscribe

  • MB&F : New 'Sapphire Vision' editions for the HM92

    In 2019, MB&F presented Horological Machine N°9, nicknamed HM9 ‘Flow’: a tribute to the beautiful automotive and aeronautic designs of the 1940s and 50s, materialised in a case that echoed the epoch’s flowing, aerodynamic lines. Inside the voluptuous case, the highly complex and convention-breaking HM9 movement, starring two fully independent balance wheels and a central planetary differential, performing the delicate task of averaging the two distinct heartbeats into one coherent time-pulse. Two years later, in 2021, MB&F presented a series of four HM9 ‘Sapphire Vision’ editions – born from the wish to fully display the complex HM9 movement through a transparent shell. Those HM9-SV editions were crafted in very limited editions of only 5 pieces because the sapphire cases are incredibly difficult to craft; if you look closely at other sapphire cases, they are essentially composed of two flat slabs screwed together. The HM9-SV case is anything but flat – it’s all about curves. And to make things even more challenging, the minimum requirement of any MB&F case is 30m of water resistance. HM9-SV’s sapphire crystal hull is sealed with a proprietary combination of patented three-dimensional rubber gasket and high-tech compound bonding, mastered thanks to an in-house process involving a vacuum and high temperature. Now, MB&F present two new HM9-SV editions in sapphire crystal, again limited to only five pieces each: 18K yellow gold frame with green-CVD movement, and 18K white gold frame with blue-CVD movement. Retail price of the new HM9-SV editions is CHF 420,000 + VAT (USD 490,000 / EUR 440,000 + tax) – first deliveries start now. Read our Summer Issue See Haute couture from Dior, Alexis Mabille, Georges Hobeika, Zuhair Murad, Valentino and more Explore Moralmoda Art Culture Lifestyle Travel Business Interviews Events ​ Get in touch About us Contacts Subscribe

  • Rolls-Royce Motor Cars unveils Rolls-Royce Amethyst Droptail in Gstaad

    Rolls-Royce Motor Cars unveils Rolls-Royce Amethyst Droptail to commissioning client at private event in Gstaad, Switzerland. This comes after Rolls-Royce Droptail commission 1 of 4 unveiled. This breathtaking coachbuilt masterpiece celebrates its commissioning client’s cultural heritage, family legacy and personal passions. Extraordinary coachbuilt project is inspired by the birthstone of the patron’s son. Incorporates exquisite celebration of painstaking craft and focussed minimalism Veneer aft deck is the largest wood surface ever produced by Rolls-Royce Rear section is the only aerodynamically functional wood surface on a new motor car Precious amethyst gems are incorporated into interior and exterior First time both brushed and polished finish have been applied to Pantheon grille Finish inspired by haute horlogerie, referencing client’s Vacheron Constantin timepiece Unveiled to commissioning client at private event in Gstaad, Switzerland “This stunning expression of Rolls-Royce Droptail truly captures the soul of its commissioning client. This distinguished and international individual exemplifies connoisseurship, and their global outlook, refined tastes and deep-rooted heritage were a broadening pleasure to explore. The extraordinary projection of their spirit, captured in Rolls-Royce Amethyst Droptail, is a clear statement of Rolls-Royce Coachbuild’s intent: to collaborate profoundly as a means to produce an historic expression of applied art. It is the client’s personal involvement that gives Coachbuild motor cars their unparalleled strength of character. These products reflect an exceptional clarity of vision, executed with absolute conviction. Amethyst Droptail captures these virtues in extremis.” Torsten Müller-Ötvös, Chief Executive Officer, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars “A Coachbuilt Rolls-Royce derives its identity and legend from the accomplishments, sensibilities and character of its owner. It is this human dimension, combined with highly progressive design, that makes it entirely unique and irreplaceable. This specificity gives every Coachbuild commission a sense of timelessness and artistic endurance. Within Rolls-Royce design, Amethyst Droptail will stand in our history as a representation of how accurate our creative response can be in projecting the soul of an individual commissioning client through both literal and highly conceptual expressions of personal luxury.” Anders Warming, Design Director, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars “Rolls-Royce Amethyst Droptail is the epitome of quiet artistry and its significance lies in its depth of detail. Together with a discerning patron whose character resonates throughout the commission, we explored their sensibilities, cherished pursuits and values through masterfully curated details, each imbued with profound symbolic significance. Created for an individual with a passion for modern design, the minutia of haute horlogerie techniques and whose family has a special connection to gemstones, Amethyst Droptail is a remarkable projection of connoisseurship, contemporary design and personal heritage.” Alex Innes, Head of Coachbuild Design, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars AMETHYST DROPTAIL One of four unique expressions of the Rolls-Royce Droptail, Amethyst Droptail is a truly elevated expression of applied art, commissioned by a patron whose family business has grown from a gemstone boutique to a multinational corporation with diversified interests. Exceptionally well-travelled, internationally educated and truly global in their inspirations, the client is an established patron of the arts, whose collection of precious jewels, significant motor cars and contemporary artworks are housed in a specially commissioned private museum. The patron tasked Coachbuild designers to create an elegant expression of Droptail inspired by the amethyst gem – the birthstone of their son and an enduring symbol of purity, clarity and resilience; themes that are explored throughout this exceptional motor car in extraordinary depth. The client’s passion for quiet artistry and subtle flourishes is what defines Amethyst Droptail – a projection of true connoisseurship that rewards those who study it with beguiling details. Rolls-Royce Amethyst Droptail was unveiled to the commissioning client, their family and friends at a private event in Gstaad, Switzerland – a region of particular significance for the patron. A FLOWER IN THE DESERT The patron and co-creator of Rolls-Royce Amethyst Droptail expressed a profound desire to celebrate the cultural heritage of their home region. Rolls-Royce Coachbuild designers responded with an inspiration point that would define this Droptail’s exterior treatment: the Globe Amaranth wildflower, which blooms in the desert near one of the client’s homes. The duotone exterior paint finish captures multiple stages of the flower’s bloom. The main body colour is a soft purple hue with a delicate silver undertone, named Globe Amaranth in tribute to the flower, and is enhanced with fine flecks of powdered aluminium that reflect the light and create a captivating iridescent finish. A deep purple Amethyst contrast paint, which is used on the motor car’s upper coachwork, contains a blend of red, blue and violet mica flakes that together create a unique mauve colour with a subtle metallic sheen. In sunlight, the motor car also reveals a gentle hint of mauve paint on the inside of the 22-inch wheels, providing a subtle but elegant contrast to the mirror-polished aluminium surface; a touch that the client compared to the colourful lining of their favourite bespoke jacket. The exterior is finished with a subtle but highly complex treatment to the carbon fibre used to construct the lower sections of the motor car. The result of two years of development, the marque’s craftspeople created a chevron pattern book-matched along two axes, which adds geometric decoration to Rolls-Royce Amethyst Droptail’s technical exterior surfaces. The carbon fibre itself is finished with a fine layer of lacquer tinted with Amethyst pigment, which in most lights reads as body colour. This intricate and technically demanding detail is hidden until the motor car is closely scrutinised, speaking of the client’s passion for subtlety and restraint. DEPTH OF DETAIL The client’s trust in Rolls-Royce’s artisans to execute the most challenging flourishes is expressed in the Pantheon grille treatment. The exterior grille surround and ‘kinked’ vane pieces are partially hand-brushed and partially hand-polished with a precise line demarking each finish – a surface treatment that had never been attempted on this scale before. The concept was suggested by the commissioning client’s son, a collector of haute horlogerie who was inspired by the brushed hands of an historically significant piece in his archive. Achieving the perfect uniformity in the finishes, as well as the sharpness of contrast between the finish types, was the result of more than 50 hours of collective work. Beneath this extraordinary expression of contemporary craftsmanship is an intricate lower front air intake. This highly detailed piece was digitally designed and ‘printed’ in a lightweight composite and incorporates 202 hand-polished stainless-steel ingots, each of which has been painstakingly painted by hand in the Globe Amaranth hue. The front end is resolved with a Spirit of Ecstasy figurine surrounded by amethyst cabochons. The cabochon treatment, whereby a gemstone is shaped and polished into a rounded form rather than faceted, was requested by the client in order to avoid a conspicuous sparkle. This subtle detail recalls the client’s early enterprise in the precious gemstone business. CELEBRATION OF MATERIALS Rolls-Royce Amethyst Droptail celebrates the materials and crafts personally curated by the commissioning client and his family. The material selection began with a sample of wood offered by the client – a stunning Calamander Light open-pore wood, which has a complex texture and long bands of colour. The colours of the client’s initial wood sample served as the inspiration for the motor car’s leather treatment – the gently contrasting leather, in the aptly named Sand Dunes hue, was developed to perfectly match the caramel strands on the Calamander Light open-pore wood. Following this, wood specialists were challenged to source material with bands in precisely the same colour as the leather, a task that took more than six months to resolve, requiring specialists to review more than 100 logs before the perfect piece was discovered. The primary leather hue, named Amethyst, complements the exterior surface and is finished with a subtle pearlescent lacquer, reminiscent of the brilliance of the precious gemstone after which the motor car is named. For Amethyst Droptail, Rolls-Royce has created the most extensive wooden surface area in its history, with the material extending from the motor car’s fascia and doors to the shawl panel, cantilevered ‘plinth’ centre armrest and onto the aft deck. In applying wood to the aerodynamically functional aft deck, the marque’s aerodynamicists and wood specialists worked closely together to experiment with not just the form of the panel, but with different wood-grain textures and the precise angle of the placement of the veneer itself. The result is both an extraordinarily artistic piece and the world’s only ‘raw’ wooden surface that produces downforce on a new roadgoing motor car. A completely new veneering process was developed specifically for Amethyst Droptail, with each veneer sheet placed upside down to expose the raw wood texture. Two techniques are combined: ‘bookmatching’ at 55 degrees, in which the sheets of wood mirror each other, and ‘slip-matching’, in which the sheets of wood are aligned side by side in sequence, to create a repeating grain pattern for an organic, natural effect that gives the illusion of a single piece of wood. To ensure Amethyst Droptail can be enjoyed by its commissioning client in a variety of climates around the word, the interior wood parts were tested to meet the same rigorous endurance standards as the exterior parts. Prior to its final construction, more than 150 samples underwent over 8,000 hours of testing. This included a full sunlight exposure simulation and rainfastness assessment, as well as testing for durability in temperatures ranging from +80°C to -30°C. The deck’s protective coatings, developed specifically for Amethyst Droptail, have been granted their own patent. To complete the interior treatment, the client requested an elegant addition: the adornment of the rotary dials with rare amethyst gems. As with the gems at the base of the Spirit of Ecstasy figurine, they too are shaped in a convex cabochon style rather than faceted. The stunning depth and clarity of each stone is of a standard usually reserved for fine jewellery. Each stone was examined by experts within the client’s organisation before they were personally and individually approved by the client. The interior suite is resolved with woven leather floormats – a subtle tribute to the traditional weaving crafts found for centuries in the souks of the client’s original home region. BESPOKE, ELEVATED A removable hard top has been designed to give Rolls-Royce Droptail two distinct characters: without its roof, Droptail is a lithe, open-top roadster; with the roof installed, it is a formidable and dramatic coupé. The roof incorporates electrochromic glass that allows the surface to change colour and transparency instantly. The client challenged Coachbuild designers to develop a glass that would alter its hue in order to correspond with the colourway of Amethyst Droptail. In response, the Rolls-Royce Bespoke Collective developed a unique chameleon effect for its electrochromic glass: when deactivated, it is completely opaque and has a subtle purple tint, mirroring the motor car’s Amethyst exterior finish. Once the glass is activated at the touch of a button, it becomes translucent with a hue that matches the Sand Dunes leather colour used in the interior suite. The realisation of this extraordinary flourish required specialists to experiment with 60 iterations of glass colouring before a perfect match was found. A SINGULAR TIMEPIECE Rolls-Royce Amethyst Droptail fascia is graced with a unique timepiece commissioned by the client from the renowned Swiss haute horlogerie maison, Vacheron Constantin. Handmade in Geneva, the piece, named ‘Les Cabinotiers Armillary Tourbillon,’ has an intricate hand-wound movement and is securely housed in a specially designed holder, enabling it to be removed and stored separately from the motor car if desired. The timepiece features a bi-retrograde display with instantaneous return of the hours and minutes as well as a bi-axial tourbillon. Vacheron Constantin and Rolls-Royce Motor Cars worked closely together to ensure the forms, materials and colours of the timepiece were in perfect harmony within the motor car. The instrument dials combine amethyst-coloured inserts with the partially brushed and polished finish of the timepiece’s hands. The timepiece is affixed to a white-gold baseplate with a hand-crafted sunburst guilloché pattern. AMETHYST DROPTAIL: A PERSONAL PLACE IN ROLLS-ROYCE HISTORY This extraordinary expression of Rolls-Royce Droptail is a testament to the commissioning client’s passion for quiet detail, playfully but meticulously incorporated into one of the most historically significant Rolls-Royces ever built. It also represents the marque’s capabilities, not just in realising such a clear vision, but in artfully harmonising heritage, modernity and soul. All images © Read our Summer Issue See Haute couture from Dior, Alexis Mabille, Georges Hobeika, Zuhair Murad, Valentino and more Explore Moralmoda Art Culture Lifestyle Travel Business Interviews Events ​ Get in touch About us Contacts Subscribe

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