luxury

All posts in “luxury”

Inkas Turns This Luxurious Bentley Bentayga Into An Armored Beast

Inkas is bringing forth a new luxury ride that is getting an armor upgrade package. This time the Ontario, Canada-based outfit is transforming a Bentley Bentayga into a luxury juggernaut. Anyone who can afford to own this model certainly belongs to the upper class. For those who are not satisfied with the standard trim can always opt for top-tier protection instead. If this applies to you, then look no further. Inkas will customize the SUV with your safety as the top priority.

We know a lot of you would rather choose this machine over any supercar or hypercar. Not only are you driving one of the most luxurious automobiles out there, but you’ll also appreciate the protection it provides as well. Slapping on layers of ballistic and explosive protection understandably adds weight. other SUVs might struggle with all of the added bulk, but this Bentley Bentayga barely breaks a sweat.

Underneath the hood is a 6.0-liter twin-turbo W12 engine that pumps out 600 horsepower along with 664 lb-ft of torque. Therefore, you can relax knowing that when the situation calls for evasive maneuvers, your SUV can haul you to safety quickly.

Despite the military-grade add-ons, Inkas understands that comfort and luxury are what it’s clients pay for. The climate-controlled seats include a massage function, while the adjustable interior lighting helps you relax. Additionally, the wood and leather steering wheel even boasts integrated heating to keep your hands warm and toasty. This armored Bentley Bentayga is just one of many models that Inkas will gladly customize for its clients.

Only from Inkas

Images courtesy of Inkas

August 31, 2019 / Comments Off

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The MSO Luggage Collection Fits And Matches Your McLaren GT

When you’re one of the privileged few who can afford to buy a McLaren supercar, money should not be a problem. In fact, there is a likelihood that you’re already wondering what to buy next to go with your fancy ride. As always, Men’s Gear is ready to help you spend your cash on most awesome stuff out there. Thus, we recommend that you upgrade your travel gear to match your snazzy new ride. If by chance you are the new owner of a McLaren GT, the MSO luggage collection is the perfect match for your grand tourer.

This is a common dilemma for those who have supercars. Since these exotic machines are designed to maximize speed, performance, comfort, and luxury, cargo space is somewhat limited. Of course, people who have the money to buy a McLaren will just scoff at this minor inconvenience.

However, being able to bring some stuff along for the ride is more practical. This bespoke collection features four pieces of luggage. A ($2,500) weekend bag, a ($6,800) golf bag, a ($3,800) cabin bag, and a($2,300) garment case. Overall, you’re looking at a jaw-dropping total of $15,400 for a complete set.

Other than the exceptional craftsmanship and quality of materials, McLaren claims that these will maximize space. Each of the pieces in the MSO luggage collection will exactly fit into certain spaces within the McLaren GT. Discerning owners can even grab these to match the interior of their supercar. If the price is not ridiculous enough for you, there’s always the titanium suitcases from Loius Vuitton to flaunt your deep pockets.

Visit McLaren for more details

Images courtesy of McLaren

August 25, 2019 / Comments Off

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Only 100 Units Of The 2020 Lexus LC 500 Inspiration Series Car Will See Production

Three years after its debut at the North American International Auto Show, Lexus is finally releasing its showstopper to the public. Only 100 examples of the 2020 Lexus LC 500 Inspiration Series Car will be available and it won’t take long to sell out. The month of August is all about automobiles and you will be seeing more of it here on Men’s Gear. So let’s check all the good stuff that makes this luxury coupe an enticing option for your next ride.

First of all, the form factor of this vehicle is sleek and sexy in every way. Lexus will be offering it in an exclusive Nori Green colorway that actually looks as appetizing as it sounds. The familiar spindle grille dominates the front end as it extends to the tip of the hood down to the bumper.

Its curves are all in the right places and give it an essence of speed even while at a standstill. Furthermore, the 20-inch forged aluminum wheels on the LC 500 Inspiration Series are like the icing to this exquisite cake.

The attractive aerodynamic exterior will become a beautiful blur as it zips by from 0-60 mph in less than 4.5 seconds. This is possible thanks to the 5.0-liter V8 engine that pumps out 467 horsepower. The powertrain comes with a 10-speed automatic transmission to move all that power to the rear wheels.

The 2020 Lexus LC 500 Inspiration Car flaunts a lavish interior to match its alluring aesthetics outside. There’s a mix of Black Amber leather and Saddle Tan leather for a two-tone effect with Alcantara elements within. Pricing is currently unavailable but don’t it let it stop you from reserving one ASAP.

Reserve one now

Images courtesy of Lexus

August 20, 2019 / Comments Off

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The Ghost Zenith Collection Is An Exquisite Tribute From Rolls-Royce

This year’s Monterey Car Week is full surprises. Rolls-Royce just dropped the news regarding its Ghost Zenith Collection. It’s clear that we’re seeing the automotive industry pull out the big guns and we still can’t get enough. While the others are busy bidding at one of the many auctions that take place, some are eager for juicy tidbits from their favorite brands. One of them is Acura with a preview of the Type S Concept. This model is reportedly making a comeback after a decade of silence.

Meanwhile, Rolls-Royce is highlighting an impressive milestone of its own that likewise spans a decade. However, instead of remembering an absence, the British luxury marque is celebrating 10 years of automotive excellence. Despite the positive message of this announcement, there is also a hint of sadness that goes along with it. The automaker is officially ending the production of its Ghost series. As recognition for the model’s awesome popularity, it is crafting a special edition version that carries an essence of the original concept that started it all.

Each of the 50 examples of the Ghost Zenith Collection will have a bespoke keepsake within. Rolls-Royce literally took the Spirit of Ecstasy emblem from the 200EX in order to craft a unique tribute for each of the limited units. Owners can see it on the center console in the form of an intricate engraving along with the serial number of that particular vehicle. You might want to take a break and relax while you view the starlight headliner and spot the random shooting stars. This feature right here is just sheer opulence at work. In conclusion, Rolls-Royce just set the bar way up high for those who are hoping to follow its footsteps.

Only from Rolls-Royce

Images courtesy of Rolls-Royce

August 17, 2019 / Comments Off

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The Rezvani Tank X Is The Badass SUV We’ve Always Wanted

The rich and famous normally travel in style. Its either first-class accommodations on ships and planes or via private and luxurious modes of transportation. For the most part, when you’re not sailing or flying, a fancy automobile is always ready to provide service. Have a chauffeur drive you around in your luxury vehicle or take the wheel in one of your exotic supercars. If you don’t find any of these appealing, then something like the Rezvani Tank X might be what you’re looking for.

In fact, we would rather pick this beast of a machine over any upscale ride. Perhaps it is the way that this SUV just exudes a confident vibe that makes it so attractive from all angles. Nevertheless, looks along just won’t do. Thus, Rezvani knows what its discerning clientele need and probably want as well. With some fine-tuning in the hands of experts, the Tank X is a luxury-tier 1,000-horsepower overlanding juggernaut that knows no equal. Producing all that power is a 6.2-liter supercharged Demon V8 engine.

Strength is not the only thing going for it. Starting off with a Jeep Wrangler chassis, the Rezvani Tank X is purpose-built to perform even in the roughest of off-road adventures. Each one sports top-of-the-line FOX suspension systems and GRID off-road wheels with all-terrain tires for heavy-duty gripping power. When you need a protection package with your 4×4, go for the Military Edition. This is a comprehensive version of the Tank with a tactical set of upgrades that’s on par with most combat-grade vehicles.

Get it here

Images courtesy of Rezvani

August 17, 2019 / Comments Off

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The Bentley Mulsanne W.O. Edition Key Case Screams Pure Luxury

If you’re one of the few folks who celebrated Bentley’s centenary by ordering the Mulsanne W.O. Edition, you’re going to want this next item. The purchase the aforementioned luxury automobile means that you have the means to splurge for the purpose of pure extravagance. By all means, nobody is telling you how to spend your riches, which is we are helping out by suggesting even more cool stuff. To match your brand new ride, here is the Bentley Mulsanne W.O. Edition key case.

The British carmaker really knows how to indulge its discerning clientele, which is why we have this fancy container. To match its recent milestone, only 100 examples will be on offer in parallel to the 100 commemorative vehicles in production. For now, we’re still unsure if this will be a freebie or another costly investment. Nevertheless, you’re looking at a lavish accessory to accompany a limited edition machine. Just like the Bentley Mulsanne W.O. Edition it represents, the craftsmanship and attention to detail are top-notch.

The case is crafted by hand from Burr Walnut with a veneer in Piano Black. Lift up the cover to reveal a set of three keys and a Flying B paperweight for your office table. The package also comes with a comprehensive brochure with exclusive imagery of the 1930 predecessor of the Mulsanne W.O. Edition. To top it all off, you are also getting a 1:18 scale model the 8-liter of the original 8-liter owned by Walter Owen Bentley. The Bentley Mulsanne W.O. Edition key case is a splendid addition to your automotive tribute.

Only form Bentley

Images courtesy of Bentley

August 5, 2019 / Comments Off

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The Urwerk X The Hour Glass UR-105 Is Designed To Age Over Time

The Hour Glass is an exciting annual show that allows watchmakers to flaunt their best. Moreover, it’s amazing to discover that the trade fair is already celebrating 40 years of awesome showcases. As with any important milestone, it is normal to commemorate the event with something special. To highlight this illustrious achievement, the Urwerk X The Hour Glass UR-105 presents a unique feature. Those who plan to snag one are in for a surprise because only three examples will be on offer.

This stunning timepiece will reportedly age along with its user. In order to deliver this effect, the watch uses a specific metal for the case. Bronze is the material of choice because of its tendency to develop a dynamic patina over time. In essence, this setup allows the timepiece to tell the time in two different ways. Just like most of the models from Urwerk, this commemorative edition makes a bold statement with its uncommon design. The manufacturer always shies away from traditional methods of telling time and opts to go about it with a twist.

Those familiar with some of the older models from Urwerk will recognize the wandering hours movement. In the case of the Urwerk X The Hour Glass UR-105, they’re labeling it as the UR 5.03 automatic movement. The open-work carousel holds four arms with three numeral satellites the rotate to show the hour. Next is the indicator below each number that moves in retrograde fashion along the minute indicator at the bottom. These complications sit under a sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating.

Get it here

Images courtesy of Urwerk

July 31, 2019 / Comments Off

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The Rolex Daytona 4130 La Barrichello Gets A Rose Gold Treatment

If you’re a fan of motorsports, you’ve likely seen the impressive number of sponsorships from top watchmakers. Perhaps both automative and watchmaking experts share common ground by working with intricate mechanical objects. On the other hand, it could just be that they just have piles of money lying around to help advertise their craft. Anyway, Formula 1 racing fanatics are surely going to lust after this exquisite timepiece by Artisans de Genève. This is the Rolex Daytona 4130 La Barrichello – a beautiful custom wristwatch for a legendary driver – in a stunning rose gold finish.

This is one Rolex that you won’t find on display at any official outlets. The name obviously hints that Rubens Barrichello is closely working with the Swiss shop for this exclusive offering. For the uninitiated, the Formula 1 driver currently holds the world record for 322 race starts in his 19-year career. His exceptional achievements also include 68 podium appearances and 11 Grand Prix victories. Artisans de Genève is modifying a Rolex Daytona 4130 as an ultimate homage to Barrichello.

Luxury watch enthusiasts will quickly notice that the dial of this custom timepiece is unique. After carefully taking the wristwatch apart, meticulous work was done to skeletonize the dial and other components. Meanwhile, powering the watch is Rolex’s 4130 automatic with a 72-hour power reserve and comes with some minimal modifications. Almost all of the components are in rose gold, except for the tachymeter bezel, dial, and two sub-dials, which are in black. Artisans de Genève is producing only a few Rolex Daytona 4130 La Barrichello wristwatches. Each one will set you back a cool $78,000.

Visit Artisans de Genève for more details

Images courtesy of Artisans de Genève

July 30, 2019 / Comments Off

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Grill Like A King Using The 14K Gold Miansai Grill Set

When you are hosting an outdoor barbecue, whoever is in charge of the grill deserves respect. Being the grillmaster means that you are responsible for crafting delectable dishes for guest to enjoy. As such, you can have buddies fetch you stuff like beer, snacks, and other similar items.

As long as you wear the apron and hold the tools you have full command of your subjects. Don’t you wish that this kind of scenario would become reality? To be treated like a king would we awesome. Therefore, the closes you can get to feel like one during your weekend cookout is to wield the Miansai Grill Set. What’s in the box is a knife, spatula, fork, and a pair of tongs

If you’re wondering how it manages to do so, an up-close inspection of the items reveals the secret. Each of the four grilling tools the package includes is crafted out of the yellowish precious metal. That’s right, we’re looking at 14-karat polished gold pieces that belong in a display case instead of a barbecue party. Nevertheless, it is one heck of a fancy show of wealth. Moreover, it reminds guests of your regal status as lord of the grill.

For those of you who are just hearing about this label, it is a group of artisans who craft luxurious items for both men and women. Their products include jewelry, watches, bags, accessories, and just recently, food preparation tools. Michael Saiger, the founder and creative director of Miansai, notes that the brand “thrives on exploration, discovery, and the beauty of elevated design,” This mission statement is on full display with the extravagance of the Miansai Grill Set and its 14-karat polished gold construction.

Make it yours now

July 26, 2019 / Comments Off

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Ian DeLucca’s Object No. 1 AirPods Flaunt Diamonds And White Gold

Even though there are true-wireless earphones out there with more features and an impressive spec sheet, Apple still reigns supreme. Perhaps it’s the whimsical notion that products from the Cupertino tech outfit are far superior to others. Nevertheless, we cannot deny that the AirPods are insanely popular since its release in 2016. It’s gotten to a point wherein whether we like it or not, consumers can now purchase a pair with a generous helping of diamonds. Behold the Object No. 1 AirPods by Ian DeLucca in all its shimmering splendor.

A lot of you are probably thinking that this is totally unnecessary, but the affluent folks among us will beg to differ. Perhaps in the name of art, these extravagant pair of earbuds are a unique canvas that exemplifies the height of fashion and luxury.

Ian DeLucca, a designer working in Los Angeles, is aptly naming it Object No. 1. Furthermore, it is the perfect platform to kick off his “NEW MATERIALISM” campaign. Only 25 examples are going up for sale and at $20,000 each, rich and famous will be snapping these up in no time.

The privileged few who can afford the Object No. 1 are in for a lavish treat. The Object No. 1 AirPods ditch the familiar white plastic of the original in favor of something grander. It flaunts a white gold shell with 1,000 natural-mined individual VVS diamonds. The opulence does not end there because the set even includes a marble charging stand. We just want to point out that this is not the first time an Apple product gets this type of treatment.

Get it here

Images courtesy of Ian DeLucca

July 25, 2019 / Comments Off

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Award-Winning Yacht Adastra Power Trimaran Goes Up For Sale

What we have here is a magnificent 140-foot vessel with a stunning design by John Shuttleworth. While most yachts of similar size prefer to focus solely on extravagance, this one chooses to include speed into the equation. That Adastra is a power trimaran that makes a grand entrance wherever it sails to. The stunning design demands attention as onlookers witness this watercraft slice through the water with impressive haste. Reports point to Antony Marden, a businessman from Hong Kong, as the original owner. However, it appears that this seafaring masterpiece is going up for sale.

Built by McConaghy Boats, a market leader when it comes to composite technologies, this was originally valued at $15 million. This bespoke beauty is currently seeking a new owner to the tune of $12 million, which is a steal for the rich and famous. Despite its years of ferrying its owner and guests across the seas, the Adastra appears to be in tip-top condition and seaworthy as ever.

Whoever eventually claims ownership will be able to indulge in luxurious accommodations and amenities onboard the ship. Aside from the master bedroom, there are two guest cabins and multiple lounging areas on the deck.

Powering the Adastra is a brutish Caterpillar C18 marine engine capable of generating about 1150 horsepower. Likewise, the vessel can call upon the two 110-horsepower Yanmar auxiliary engines when needed. With a top cruising speed of 22.5 knots, credit goes to the superstructure’s use of lightweight materials for its construction. Finally, this yacht boasts a range of 4,000 nautical miles at 17 knots.

More details right here

Images courtesy of Adastra

July 23, 2019 / Comments Off

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Y7 Yacht

If you follow yachts at all, you might already be familiar with the work of Michael Schmidt Yachtbau. His latest creation is the Y7 Yacht, a towering beauty with heapings of Scandinavian design.

The 70-foot S/Y Bella is the first of the new Y7 range. It’s built in Germany and comes with a smattering of really cool stuff, like carbon fiber masts and trees. That’s standard, by the way. There are five different below-deck layouts available, with the standard design containing a main bedroom, VIP cabin, and a saloon.

The other layouts, meanwhile, offer two cabins brimmed with double beds. Another one has an office area, even, just in case you need to work even while at sea. The rear of the yacht includes a tender garage to which dinghies or jet skis may be attached.

At just 29 tons, this is one of the more lightweight yachts we’ve seen. But make no mistake — this thing packs heft, with nearly 300 square meters of sail area. This allows the boat to move on wind power when other similarly sized yachts are still running their engines.

The hallyards, sheets, and stretches are hidden to the steering columns, allowing the helmsman operate alone. Sure, there are more sophisticated yachts on the market, especially if money is not a problem for you. This, however, comes as a refined experiment on minimalism and maritime prowess, and you shouldn’t skip it. You can find more information about this new yacht by hitting the link below.

MORE INFO HERE

Photos courtesy of Y Yachts

July 18, 2019 / Comments Off

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Bentley EXP 100 GT Concept EV

Bentley took us for a wild ride during its centenary celebration with a trio of stunning limited edition automobiles. This luxurious collection includes two Continental GT variants and one from the Mulsanne range. The first out of the gates is the Number 9 Edition, which was followed by the W.O. Edition, then by the Number 1 Edition. All three are unique homages to the British marque’s grand automotive history. It appears that the curtains are staying open this time for the Bentley EXP 100 GT.

It’s not often that we get a pleasant surprise such as this extravagant concept coupe. Thinking that the festivities are over, we were not expecting that the company was hiding another ace under its sleeve. Shortly after remembering its exceptional past, Bentley is teasing us with the future of transportation. The electric powertrain can generate up to 1,106 lb-ft of torque. This pushes the EV from standstill to 60 miles per hour in just 2.5 seconds with a top speed of 186 miles per hour. It’s no slouch when it comes to range either. We’re looking at up to 435 miles on a full charge.

The first thing the caught our attention was the front-end dominated by a grille with thousands of LEDs that meld with its headlights. The light show extends higher up as a strip of LEDs runs along the length of the bonnet and ends just the illuminated Flying B ornament. So far, we are loving the colorway combination of ash, copper, and silver. Step inside the lavish cabin to bear witness to the sheer opulence of the Bentley EXP 100 GT. It can seat up to four people but can adjust to give more space for two passengers in autonomous mode.

Experience the future here

Images courtesy of Bentley Motors

July 13, 2019 / Comments Off

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Louis Vuitton Bisten Monogram Titane Collection

A French luxury fashion brand is putting a new spin to one of its iconic products. Travelers with a little too much money to burn just love the LV Bisten series. These luxurious suitcases boast top-notch craftsmanship and quality that’s perfect for the affluent globetrotter. Now it’s taking a bold approach by replacing some materials its using for the construction of this range of luggage. The Louis Vuitton Bisten Monogram Titane is a collection of three classic trunks made of titanium.

A couple of months ago at the Cruise 2020 event, the luxury label was once again in the headlines for something innovative. Highlighting flexible OLED technology, the fashion industry got its first handbags with integrated display panels on the sides. Instead of earning praises, the feedback was mostly negative from the majority of fashion critics worldwide. However, the Titane series appears to be on the right track as the innovation everyone would rather have. The lightweight metal components should make it more durable than normal.

Mimicking the design of the traditional model, the Louis Vuitton Bisten Monogram Titane etches the prints using lasers. The titanium side panels look elegant as it wraps around the entire suitcase. To add some contrast, certain parts such as the lock, side clasps, and edges use ruthenium instead of the classic brass. Furthermore, the corners and handle are still made of cowhide leather and gray microfiber lining. There are three sizes to choose from: 50, 55, and 60. No need to wait long because these pieces are now available for purchase online or at official boutiques.

Own it now

Images courtesy of Louis Vuitton

July 9, 2019 / Comments Off

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C Seed 301 Outdoor TV

When you’re after the ultimate experience in home entertainment, Men’s Gear is happy to help out. As long as the price is not a hindrance, there are premium options available for you to choose from. As of now, it seems that Samsung is proudly bragging about its monstrous The Wall TV measuring 219 inches. Nevertheless, as most people say, “there’s always a bigger fish” and one is about to overshadow the competition. Meet the C Seed 301—a jaw-dropping 301-inch television with insane features.

Just like Samsung’s offering, you’re probably asking who are they making these for? Obviously, its for people who have more than enough cash to burn and desire to own whatever is unattainable by the working class. In other words, only society’s elite will dare buy it. Meanwhile, unlike the South Korean brand’s model, the 301 is designed for outdoor use. That’s right, this monster can withstand the elements so owners can enjoy their TV shows and movies like never before.

For superior durability, the C Seed 301 sports a carbon fiber and titanium body. Moreover, you have to see it in action in order to understand how the display works. When not in use, the television is securely kept underground. Instead of housing all 301 inches in a space of similar size, everything folds down into a more compact structure. With a press of a button, the assembly rises up from the ground like a tower. Then, the display unit unfolds into a giant 4K screen that is reportedly visible even in daylight.

Learn more from C Seed

Images courtesy of C Seed

July 8, 2019 / Comments Off

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Bentley Continental GT Convertible Number 1 Edition

2019 is a wonderful year for automotive enthusiasts as several carmakers are celebrating their respective milestones in the industry. One of those is a British luxury marque that enjoys worldwide recognition for its rich racing legacy. Get ready to welcome the Bentley Continental GT Convertible Number 1 Edition by Mulliner. It is an exclusive production model with only 100 units available for purchase. Judging by its rarity, it won’t be long until all of the examples on offer will be spoken for.

To start off, we want to point out that this special edition shares some similarities with another limited edition model from the same catalog. In fact, this is the third and final entry in the carmaker’s Centenary series. The first one being the Continental GT Number 9 Edition, followed by the Mulsanne W.O. Edition. All three of these sweet rides boast bespoke and lavish touches from Mulliner. As such, lucky owners have every right to show off the sheer quality and opulence of these automotive masterpieces.

Meanwhile, with the Mulsanne model being the only exception, the Bentley Continental GT Convertible Number 1 pays homage to the brand’s rich racing heritage. To be precise, it draws inspiration from the iconic No. 1 Blower and its record-setting lap speed in 1932 at the Outer Circuit at Brooklands. Thus, to commemorate 100 years of excellence, buyers will have a chance to own a piece of racing history within their new automobile. Engineers are recasting a small piece of the piston from the original No.1 Blower into wheel spinner on the vehicle’s dashboard. Finally, everything else is what anyone would expect from the luxury brand.

Discover more about it here

Images courtesy of Bentley

July 2, 2019 / Comments Off

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MB&F HM7 Aquapod

Among high-end wristwatches, the colors that regularly show up are gold, black, silver, and brown. Other tones might pop up every now and then but not as frequent as the aforementioned shades. Not many watchmakers can pull it off but the MB&F HM7 Aquapod manages to do so in awesome fashion. Aside from the stunning dial, the bright red sapphire crystal bezel and wristband are the stars of the show. This model also offers other configurations, but the scarlet version is the most mesmerizing among the bunch.

MB&F reveals that the inspiration for its exceptional design comes from the humble jellyfish. A 60-second flying tourbillon with a sapphire crystal brides sits dead center on the dial. The unique placement of its indices emulates the ripples that extend outward from the middle.

Unlike traditional watch complication that features rotating hands, the HM7 Aquapod uses a floating indicator on the 6 o’clock position instead. Meanwhile, the hours and minutes ride on two coaxial titanium discs that spin around as well. Furthermore, the Super-Luminova coating makes all of the details visible in low-light conditions.

The jelly-fish inspiration continues down to the case back were a titanium winding rotor resides. You have these metal tentacles the extend toward the middle and each one sports a contrasting satin and polished finish. Moreover, the thin strip of Super-Luminova paint separates each half of the tentacle. The MB&F HM7 Aquapod relies on an in-house automatic movement with a 72-hour power reserve. Lastly, both the top and bottom are protected by a sapphire crystal dome with anti-reflective coatings. Only 25 pieces of this exclusive timepiece are available.

Only from MB&F

Images courtesy of MB&F

June 27, 2019 / Comments Off

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Zenith El Primero A384 Revival Watch

Comebacks are a tricky thing to pull off — you can only really stage a good one if the original release made waves and pulled enough attention. For people to care about long-lost heirlooms, there must, of course, be a burning desire more potent than nostalgia. Which is all to say the Zenith El Primero A384 is staging a comeback — a potentially memorable one, at that.

In commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the famed El Primero, known as the world’s first automatic chronograph, Zenith is recreating the groundbreaking watch for modern times. The watchmaker unveiled its latest creation in New York City. What we have now is a reverse-engineered variant of the original classic, able to measure time intervals to one tenth of a second.

Beyond that, the El Primero A384 gains a few modern tricks as well. For starters, it boasts the 278-part El Primero 400 chronograph movement. There’s a sapphire crystal window and a transparent case back rounding out the luxurious look and feel across the board. On top of that, you get a 37mmm faceted matte-finished steel case and a lacquered black-and-white tachymeter. Those latter two are a nod to the original, and we’re fully into it.

To be sure, this isn’t an exact replica. Even Zenith CEO Julien Tornare admits as much:

“We can’t create an exact replica because times have changed and so has technology.”

The design, however, remains faithful to the preceding classic.

“We use a new state-of-the-art movement, and we added sapphire crystals and an open caseback. Otherwise, the design is exact.”

VISIT ZENITH

Photos courtesy of Zenith

June 17, 2019 / Comments Off

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Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar

It took them a while, but Audemars Piguet has finally given its RD#2 an official release date and name. Not only that, it signals another watchmaking first for the luxury brand. The Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar is the world’s thinnest Selfwinding Perpetual Calendar at just 6.3mm thick.

Audemars Piguet spent five years developing the watch, putting in countless hours of research, not to mention expert craftsmanship, to bring the concept to life. The design, as you would expect, doesn’t disappoint. The watch combines two signature Audemars Piguet traditions: complex internals and an ultra-thin profile.

The company developed the new ultra-thin 5133 calibre with a perpetual calendar. That proved to be a cumbersome task, requiring not only re-engineering the three-storey movement into a single level, but also re-arranging functions to boost ergonomics, efficiency, and robustness.

The new system, patented, of course, features a record-breaking 2.89mm central rotor. The redesigned case is just 6.30mm, shaving nearly 2mm off the Royal Oak Extra-Thin Jumbo. Which is all to say the Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar is the thinnest of Audemars Piguet’s selfwinding perpetual calendars. And the entire market, too.

Beyond its thin profile, the innards are nothing to sneeze at, too. You get a 12 o’clock moon phase, an homage to the company’s first-ever perpetual calendar. That came out in 1955, and it’s good to see semblances of it here, still. There’s also a 40-hour power reserve, and the watch gets the same frequency as the calibre 5134. That’s 2.75wHzor 19,800 vibrations per hour, to be exact.

CHECK IT OUT

June 14, 2019 / Comments Off

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David Rutten DR-01 Streamline

When it comes to high-end timepieces, a lot of brands go for premium materials to build their masterpieces. Titanium, carbon fiber, space-grade ceramics, gold, platinum, gemstones, and so much more. Luxury-tier wristwatches combine these alongside with superior craftsmanship to deliver stunning aesthetics and accurate timekeeping. In the meantime, the David Rutten DR-01 Streamline is standing on a league of its own as it boasts an exceptional feature.

The brand is figuratively reaching for the stars as they present a wristwatch that sports a vintage look, yet out-of-this-world. We actually mean it literally because the DR-01 Streamline is using materials that are extraterrestrial in origin. According to the watchmakers, the case is crafted out of octahedrite meteorites that came from outer space. On the other hand, we would like to refer to it as a watch made from a shooting star. Kidding aside, the timepiece showcases an Art Deco style with eye-catching patterns on the surface.

Obtaining these meteorites is a big challenge because most that enter the atmosphere turns into dust. Furthermore, the rare few that make it past our planets natural barrier usually fall into deserts, the poles, and the oceans. This is what makes the David Rutten DR-01 Streamline so special. The dial is likewise unique and features a jumping hour complication with a 120-hour power reserve for its manual movement. Only 88 examples will be available for purchase, which is understandable due to the rarity of the material it’s using. The leather straps that complete its ensemble will look great with any attire as well.

Own a piece of the heavens now

Images courtesy of David Rutten

June 11, 2019 / Comments Off

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