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Drea Chong-Approved Jeweller Monica Vinader Brings Ethical Luxury to the Fore
Monica Vinader jewellery is said to be ‘touched by a thousand thumbs’ before it makes its way to its future wearer, with skilled gem cutters in Jaipur, master craftsmen in Thailand and Monica Vinader’s own design team in Norfolk injecting their unique artistry into each individual piece.
The fine jewellery pieces are also worn the world over, with Gigi Hadid pictured sporting the Doina Baroque Pearl Earrings, Rainie Yang spotted in the Heirloom Chain Cocktail Earrings and Heirloom Necklace and Drea Chong adorned in her favourite Keshi Pearl Necklace and Bracelet.
The label is also stocked globally in leading luxury retailers including Selfridges, Liberty and Nordstrom, as well as signature boutiques across London, Hong Kong, New York and Singapore.
Its global appeal is embodied by the label’s founder, Monica Vinader, who was born in San Sebastian, Spain, and after studying Fine Arts in London, travelled the world, eventually merging her pursuit of adventure and desire for accessible luxury into her eponymous brand.
But what makes Monica Vinader’s creations even more unique is the brand’s commitment to sustainability; since 2020, all its pieces are crafted using 100 per cent recycled silver and vermeil gold with only conflict-free diamonds featured in their designs.
Aware that sustainability is a lifelong commitment, the company has taken other steps to ensure it’s on the right path, with all of their deliveries and returns now carbon-neutral, and their ubiquitous cobalt and chocolate packaging fully FSC certified.
The brand also encourages its customers to participate in conscious endeavours by offering a five year replacement warranty and lifetime repair service to promote a circular economy where pieces are held onto and treasured for years.
Norfolk, where the brand’s head office is based, is also the site of its biodiversity project. Launched earlier this year with leading environmentalist Jake Fienne, it aims to preserve the local British Countryside. Seven hectares of agricultural land has been transformed into a new species-rich grassland, increasing carbon capture and introducing new species of national and international importance.
The brand’s efforts haven’t gone unnoticed, and recent accolades include the 2022 Queen’s Awards Enterprise for Sustainable Development and Positive Luxury’s Responsible Business of the Year, proving that Monica Vinader’s innovations aren’t limited to its designs.
In honour of Singles Day 2022 and the spirit of buying jewels for oneself, Monica Vinader is
offering 30 per cent off site wide.
For more jewellery reads, click here.
The post Drea Chong-Approved Jeweller Monica Vinader Brings Ethical Luxury to the Fore appeared first on LUXUO.
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Sunday, October 30, 2022
6 Modern Sports For The Adrenaline Junkie
Are you an adrenaline junkie? Do you love the rush of excitement that comes with feeling your heart race and your palms sweat? If so, then you’ll love these six modern sports. These activities will get your blood pumping from BMX racing to rock climbing like never before. So what are you waiting for? Get out there and start experiencing the thrill of a lifetime.
Gel Blasting
Also known as soft-abrasive blasting, gel blasting is a relatively new surface treatment method involving using a gel material to clean or polish. This technique can be used for various applications, from removing paint and rust to glazing surfaces and polishing metal.
If you’re interested in trying out gel blasting, it’s a good idea first to research the process. Many different types of gel materials may be used in this technique, so you’ll want to make sure you understand which ones suit your needs best.
Additionally, you’ll need to invest in the right equipment for gel blasting. This usually includes a pressure pot system, a hopper gun, and various nozzles that can be used depending on the material you’re working with.
When looking for a dealer in gel blasting supplies, it’s essential to choose one that specializes in this type of material. This will ensure that you get the right advice, equipment, and guidance as you start gel blasting. You want a store with the most premium gel blasters on the market as it impacts your experience. These days, some online stores are working hard to source the best quality products. As a buyer, you need to go through the collection and compare to see which fits your budget.
Another critical factor to consider is safety. This technique can involve high-pressure materials that could result in injuries if not handled properly. Wear protective clothing and goggles to avoid any harm to your eyes.
Once you’ve got suitable materials and equipment, you can begin experimenting with gel blasting on different surfaces. Whether you’re removing rust or polishing metal, there are many opportunities to practice this technique and improve your skills over time.
You may want to consider joining a gel-blasting club or group to make things more fun when playing. This can provide a great way to connect with other enthusiasts and share tips on how to get the best results from this technique.
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BMX Racing
This off-road bicycle racing sport is one of the most thrilling activities. BMX racing takes place on a dirt track full of obstacles and twists and turns, challenging riders to push their bikes to the limit to win. This sport is perfect for you if you love speed and want an adrenaline rush.
To make your racing successful, you’ll need the right equipment. This includes a high-quality bike, protective gear like helmets and pads, and proper riding technique. With time, practice, and patience, you can become a BMX racing champion in no time at all.
You can even go through resources online that guide you on how to ride BMX like a pro. When looking for online communities, you’ll find many forums with tips and tricks for the perfect racing experience. This connection can help you learn new skills, pick up safety tips, and get support from fellow riders.
However, following the set guidelines when participating in BMX racing is also vital. This includes adhering to the safety rules and regulations, taking precautions like wearing a helmet, and using good judgment while riding. With these tips under your belt, you can become an expert BMX racer in no time at all.
It’s good to keep learning new styles and techniques for BMX racing, so don’t be afraid to try different things. Experiment with obstacles and riding styles to see what works best for you and your bike. Try different weather conditions at different speeds to create the ideal racing experience.
You can also be in the loop about different events and races by signing up for a newsletter or following local clubs and organizations on social media. There are many opportunities to meet other riders and stay up-to-date with the latest news in BMX racing. This active engagement can help you stay motivated and inspired.
Skateboarding
If you love speed and excitement, then skateboarding is the perfect sport. This rapidly growing activity involves riding on a board across ramps or slopes, challenging riders to push their skills to the limit. Whether dropping into huge halfpipe jumps or grinding your way down rails, skateboarding is an adrenaline-pumping experience that will leave you on the edge of your seat.
If you want to make the most of your skateboarding experience, you’ll need to invest in the right equipment. This includes a high-quality board, protective gear like helmets and pads, and proper riding skills. With time, practice, and patience, you can become an expert skateboarder in no time.
Some tricks to focus on include carving, flipping, and grinds. You’ll need to master balance, coordination, and body control to nail these moves. This is why it’s also important to participate regularly in skateboard clinics or training sessions to hone your skills and improve your balance.
Consider joining a skateboarding club or community to advance your skills even further. These organizations often provide access to training resources and support from other like-minded riders. This can help you learn new skills, find the best spots for skating locally and get helpful advice when needed.
People often make the mistake of thinking that skateboarding is a young person’s sport. However, there are many experienced skaters out there who prove this stereotype wrong. If you want to get started in the world of skateboarding, make sure to set realistic goals for yourself and practice often.
These days, skateboarding has become a big business, with professional riders earning millions from sponsorships, endorsements, and competitions. So if you’re looking for a sport that will unleash your inner adrenaline junkie and take you to new heights, skateboarding is worth trying out.
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Skydiving
Many people acknowledge the amusement park staple of roller coasters, but few are willing to take the plunge themselves. Skydiving is a thrilling sport that involves jumping out of an airplane at high altitudes and free-falling for several minutes before deploying a parachute. The rush you get from skydiving is unlike anything else and provides an adrenaline rush.
For those interested in skydiving, it’s important to note that this sport is not for the faint of heart. It requires proper training and a strong body, as well as sound judgment skills when it comes to choosing the right equipment. To start off, you’ll need to invest in a reliable, high-quality parachute and an altimeter to keep track of your altitude.
Once you’ve got these items, ensure you’re adequately trained in skydiving before taking the jump yourself. This can involve signing up for a class or hiring an instructor who can help you learn the ropes of this sport and develop good judgment skills when making jumps.
Generally, there are many skydiving clubs in most cities that you can join to stay connected with other skydivers. These clubs can help provide support, guidance, and even tips for handling both routine jumps and emergencies.
You can always research the ones near you to find the one that’s best for you. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, skydiving is a sport that can provide hours of enjoyment and excitement. If planning a recreational trip somewhere else, such a search will show you if there are any skydiving clubs or schools in the area.
Other skills to focus on include landing techniques, proper body posture, and how to deal with emergencies. With time and practice, you’ll be able to become a skilled skydiver who can enjoy this sport for years to come.
Remember that this activity has not only physical health benefits but also psychological ones as well. For instance, many attribute their increased confidence to skydiving and a greater sense of well-being. If you’re looking for an adrenaline-pumping experience that will truly take your breath away, consider giving skydiving a try.
Whitewater Kayaking
When it comes to kayaking, there’s nothing quite like the thrill of being on the open water and navigating challenging rapids. Whitewater kayaking is a sport that involves maneuvering small, specialised boats through rapidly moving bodies of water.
Many people are drawn to whitewater kayaking because it offers an adrenaline-pumping experience unlike anything else. If you’ve been thinking about trying out this exciting sport, here are some things to keep in mind, such as choosing the right kayak and equipment.
When starting whitewater kayaking, it’s essential to invest in the right equipment and gear. This includes boats specifically designed for navigating rapids, paddles, wet suits, helmets, and other accessories.
Another critical factor to consider is your skill level. Whitewater kayaking requires a certain amount of experience and coordination, so you’ll need to make sure that you’re comfortable with the basics before attempting more challenging rapids. You may even want to consider enrolling in a whitewater kayaking course.
Once you’ve got the appropriate gear, it’s time to start practicing your techniques in a safe environment. If you’re new to this sport, consider working with an instructor who can help you develop the skills and coordination needed for whitewater kayaking.
Whitewater kayaking is a great way to have fun with friends or family. If you have the right supplies and know what you’re doing, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy a day on the water while also engaging in some thrilling competition.
What matters is planning early for recreational activity. For instance, book in advance to ensure you get everything in place. Try different rivers and flows in the area, and then find which ones you like best. Also, it’s essential to consider your skillset before going on more challenging rapids. This will help you choose routes that match your abilities to have a safe adventure out on the water.
However, work with a guide who will explain the nature of these activities, give you tips on improving your skills and provide guidance on various safety-related matters. This will ensure you have the most fun possible while whitewater kayaking.
Rock Climbing
This is one of the most adventurous sports out there. Rock climbing is a challenging activity that involves scaling high, rocky walls and peaks with the help of ropes, harnesses, and other equipment. Not only does this sport allow you to explore breathtaking landscapes, but it also provides an adrenaline rush like no other.
To get started in rock climbing, you’ll need to find a suitable rock climbing gym or club. In these facilities, you’ll have access to excellent training resources and safety equipment that can help you improve your skills and ensure your safety while climbing. With time and practice, you can become a master of this sport in no time at all.
When it comes to rock climbing, it’s also essential to follow proper safety precautions. This includes wearing suitable clothing and equipment, taking measures to protect yourself from injury, and using sound judgment when choosing a route or climbing technique.
Target different climbing routes or challenges to make each of your experiences exciting. This can help keep things interesting and allow you to progress at your own pace. In addition, make sure to take regular practice runs in your area, so you’re always prepared for what lies ahead.
Some world-class sites to target include the Rock of Gibraltar, Yosemite National Park, and the Rocky Mountains. With these locations under your belt, you’ll have a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience that you’ll never forget. There is no loss in trying the less-bitten trails. Most of the time, you’ll always land where people have not gone before.
If rock climbing is your passion, then it’s essential to work on your skills as often as possible. This can include taking regular lessons and classes, practicing different routes or challenges, and seeking advice from experienced climbers.
As you can see, you can try many adrenaline-rush activities to bring the chills and thrills you want. Whether you’re interested in whitewater kayaking, rock climbing, skydiving, or something else, there are plenty of thrilling options. So what are you waiting for? Get out there and start exploring today.
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Bluegame Keeps It Social on BG54
Founded by Luca Santella in 2004 and acquired by Sanlorenzo in 2018, Bluegame has recently been creating one successful new design after the other.
As an architect and Olympic sailor, Santella knows the importance of getting the most out of every millimetre aboard a boat and he knows how to do it beautifully.
At 54ft, the new BG54 is not large, but its smaller size becomes a catalyst for conviviality due to a clever set-up that brings all aboard together without throwing them on top of one another.
Basically, everyone aboard can enjoy fun at sea whether they’re cooking, helming, sunbathing, playing in the water or just shooting the breeze.
Built in GRP, the boat has simple, clean exterior lines. The white hull has a wraparound black rubber fender, an open stern and strongly slanted bridge glass that combine to give it a purposeful, no-nonsense look.
The dark-grey hard top contrasts with the hull and establishes the boat’s colour scheme: white and grey accented by black, with plenty of natural teak to add a touch of luxury. Light-grey teak caulking lightens the look of a yacht that offers a surprising amount on space once you get on board.
“The BG54 feels far bigger than it is because of the clever open layout and the enormous aft deck,” says Simpson Marine’s Nick Stratton, Sales Manager for Sanlorenzo and Bluegame in Asia.
“Approaching the yacht from the dock, it can easily be mistaken for a much larger yacht. This, the practical layout, durable build and high-end finishing are what buyers are looking for.”
Open and Social
You encounter the BG54’s first notable feature before you even board. The hydraulically operated gangway can be raised to dock height or lowered into the water to be used as a swimming ladder.
Even the swim platform can do more than you might expect. On top of offering excellent access to the sea, three-quarters of it lowers into the water so launching and hauling toys is easy.
As the beach platform and open stern are on the same level, you get a remarkably large, free and open area. Set it up with loose furniture, use it for storing water toys or invite a group of friends. There’s plenty of space for all.
Another surprise is concealed in an elegant row of natural teak cabinets just aft of the cockpit. Open them up and you’ll discover an outdoor galley that can be equipped with a sink, grill, fridge and icemaker.
It’s just three steps up to the cockpit, so preparing drinks or cooking a meal are an integral part of the boat’s social life.
Symmetrical steps with retro-illuminated teak treads lead to the airy cockpit under the hard top, with seating on four sides and a teak table that can fold out to double in size.
As well as being open on three sides, the cockpit is lit from above by a transparent hatch that leads to the sunroof, but it can be enclosed with Strataglass® clear vinyl shielding to shelter it from the elements.
An awning can be set up for extra shade and owners can choose to have heating, air-conditioning and even a dropdown flatscreen TV installed in the hardtop. With adaptability like this, owners are sure to get the best use from the BG54, whatever the weather.
“Customisations for Bluegame owners relate to how they envisage using the yacht. Do they want shade just at anchor or also underway? Further to the completely covered cockpit, there are a range of shade options using luxury canvas,” Stratton says.
“Depending on how the client wants to use the yacht, we can upgrade sound systems, add outdoor TVs or fit larger barbecues. Part of the Bluegame journey is getting to really understand what the owner wants from the boat and then working together to deliver that.”
Moving Forward
With the helm station just barely separated from the cockpit seating area, driving the boat is a social activity and all aboard can enjoy watching how the BG54 functions. The helm seat is actually a small couch made in elegant black carbon-fibre and perched on top of a locker.
There’s excellent visibility all around and the reverse windshield keeps direct light off the boat’s navigational equipment, which includes two Garmin touch screens to display navigation info and keep you updated on running systems and easy-to-use IPS joystick controls.
Carbon-fibre slats in the roof let light in and air circulate freely, while to port of the helm, a ladder leads up to the roof where sun worshippers can get all the rays they crave.
Side passages to the foredeck are wide, while high bulwarks keep all aboard safe. A handrail runs along the coachroof, with winches, cleats and fairleads concealed under a hatch at the forepeak.
The hatch to the anchor chain locker is flush to the deck. All these details keep the look of this technical space clean, so it can also double as a guest area with a couch and sun pads.
Making the most out of every inch makes the BG54 a ‘larger’ smaller-sized boat and assures that everyone aboard finds the spaces they need.
“At this size, Bluegame’s designers have worked hard to utilise the space as best as possible, but there’s always room to adapt,” Stratton confides.
“For example, we worked on a proposal with a client in Southeast Asia who wanted to use the yacht for diving, so we designed a custom dive storage area by adding extra showers, dive compressors and so on.”
Cabins and More
Head down the companionway by the helm and you’ll see that the BG54 is much more than a day cruiser.
A wall of darkened mirror helps make the stairs seem wider than they are and gives a sense of airiness to the lower galley, which has a convection cooktop, microwave oven, fridge and dishwasher.
Fore is a full-beam en-suite cabin that can be the owner’s cabin in the three-cabin layout or a VIP in the two-cabin version.
Aft of the galley, owners can choose between having a rather grand full-beam en-suite cabin or two twins that share a bathroom. Clean, modern furnishings keep the spaces stylish throughout the lower deck, all the way down to the bowl basins in the bathrooms.
But sometimes you don’t want to do it all yourself and that’s why the BG54 even has an en-suite crew cabin aft. Space for this extra helping hand, a real boon when you just want to relax with your friends and family, is available because of the IPS propulsion system.
This win-win Volvo Penta technology gives you more than a smoother, vibration-free ride that’s more energy efficient. In addition, its smaller dimensions allow the engines to be placed further aft, leaving more room for guests and crew.
In fact, the BG54 doesn’t really have an engine room; it has an open-air engine locker under the aft deck. A smaller inspection hatch can be opened manually or a larger cover can be hydraulically operated. No matter what size of job you need to do, you’re breathing and moving freely, not in a dark, cramped and enclosed space.
Sturdy, seaworthy and practical, but also convivial and safe, the BG54 packs a lot of qualities into 54ft and puts them into a stylish package. Whether you use it as a day boat or as a home for coastal exploring and island hopping, this newcomer has a lot to offer.
This article first appeared on Yacht Syle.
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Rolex: A Champion of Cinema
For decades, Rolex watches have appeared on the wrists of many protagonists in iconic films. In one of its first few appearances on the silver screen, Sean Connery donned a Rolex Oyster Perpetual Submariner in the first Bond film, Dr. No, in 1962. This same watch would accompany Bond on his adventures through three more instalments, namely From Russia with Love, Goldfinger, and Thunderball.
From then on, Rolex became a staple timepiece in the world of cinema. Paul Newman sported an Oyster Perpetual Datejust in The Color of Money; Robert Redford checked the time on an Oyster Perpetual Submariner in All the President’s Men; Marlon Brando menaced us out of the shadows while wearing an Oyster Perpetual GMT-Master in Apocalypse Now; Bill Paxton sported a gold Oyster Perpetual Submariner Date in Titanic; and Eddie Murphy wore an Oyster Perpetual Datejust in The Distinguished Gentlemen, famously quipping in one scene, “Oh, another Rolex! I collect these, mine is a slightly older model!”
These are just four examples out of a veritable roster of Rolex appearances in films, many of them considered as classics in the world of cinema. Show, don’t tell, the film axiom goes. And Rolex watches portrayed fortitude in these characters, conveying a sense of toughness and control, along with a sophisticated sense of style.
The relationship between Rolex and cinema is a long-standing one, extending far beyond the brand’s appearances on the big screen. The brand has been equally busy behind the camera in supporting and uplifting the film industry. This is the area where Rolex’s relationship with the film industry has its deepest roots.
Rolex encourages the preservation and transmission of the cinematic arts, promotes excellence and celebrates progress by accompanying living legends as well as budding talents through its Testimonees (Martin Scorsese and James Cameron), its partnership with the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (the institution, the awards and the Academy Museum in Los Angeles) and the Rolex Mentor and Protégé Arts Initiative.
Rolex: Perpetuating the Art of Filmmaking
Recognising the importance of preserving these records of bygone, albeit recent, eras, Rolex has dedicated itself to the preservation of film history for future generations. This commitment is realised in two ways.
First, Rolex is a Founding Supporter of the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures in Los Angeles, the world’s premier institution dedicated to the art and science of movies and home to the Rolex Gallery. The Academy Museum offers exhibits and programmes delving into the art, technology, history and social impact of cinema, telling the stories of moviemaking. Exhibitions from this year alone include the ongoing Stories of Cinema and The Oscars Experience, and tributes to filmmakers Hayao Miyazaki and Melvin van Peebles. These stories are celebratory and aim to tell the different aspects of cinematic history.
The Rolex Gallery, situated on the third floor, is a permanent exhibit dedicated to the many aspects of moviemaking — technology, artists, history and social impact and showcasing Paul Newman’s Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona.
The second is Rolex’s support for The Film Foundation, a non-profit organisation established in 1990 by legendary director and Rolex Testimonee Martin Scorsese, dedicated to protecting and preserving motion picture history. The legendary director of classics films Goodfellas, Raging Bull and Casino initiated the Film Foundation when he became aware of the poor state of film conservation, upon viewing a print of the 1955 Marilyn Monroe comedy The Seven Year Itch in the late 1970s. He noted that the print, from the studio’s official archival copy, was only a couple of decades old at the time. Yet, it had faded considerably to a print with muted colours and foggy images.
As a filmmaker, the lack of detail and poor state of the film disturbed him greatly. He felt that much of the film’s visual narrative quality was lost (no mention is made of what he thought about the audio). From there, he became aware that of the many movies made before 1950, more than half were irretrievably lost, even some Oscar winners. These films had been erased from cinema history and those surviving were quickly deteriorating in quality.
So, he drove the Film Foundation initiative together with his director friends, including George Lucas and Steven Spielberg, and to date, the Film Foundation has worked in partnership with archives institutions and studios to restore over 925 films. These are then made accessible to the public through festivals, museums, and educational institutions around the world. Expanding to the world at large, the Foundation’s World Cinema Project has restored 50 films from 28 different countries, and its free educational curriculum, The Story of Movies, teaches young people about film language and history.
Mentoring the Next Generation
Celebrating achievement and preserving the past are important, but equally important is ensuring the future of cinema. Rolex makes its contribution by promoting the transmission of knowledge across generations through the Rolex Mentor and Protégé Arts Initiative.
This Initiative, founded in 2002, was developed by Rolex and is one of their first collaborations with Hollywood. The Initiative sees younger artists of exceptional promise — the protégés — selected by established masters to work with them on a one-on-one basis for two years (called a ‘cycle’). Working so closely together creates a mentor-student relationship, enabling creative exchange and catalysing the transfer of knowledge from one generation to another.
The Initiative spans various disciplines that rely on creative ability, including visual arts, architecture, dance, literature, music, and of course film, with the aim to ensure that the knowledge and skills of those disciplines are passed on to future generations.
Out of the 58 Mentor and Protégé duos, eight have been in film. The roster of film mentors reads like a list of renowned film directors: Mira Nair, Stephen Frears, Walter Murch, Zhang Yimou, Alfonso Cuarón, Alejandro G. Iñárritu, Spike Lee and of course Martin Scorsese. The 2020-2022 cycle, currently still underway, paired Spike Lee (Do The Right Thing, Malcolm X and Da 5 Bloods) with native American filmmaker Kyle Bell. For the initiative’s 2023 – 2024 cycle, the mentor will be Chinese film director Jia Zhang-Ke (The World, A Touch of Sin and Mountains May Depart) who will be mentoring Filipino filmmaker Rafael Manuel.
As for Martin Scorsese, he mentored independent filmmaker Celina Murga in the 2008 – 2009 cycle. Along with fellow film director and Rolex Testimonee James Cameron, these two towering figures have a longstanding relationship with the brand. In 2012, James Cameron famously took a Rolex Deepsea Challenge watch on his record-breaking Mariana Trench dive.
Rolex has always maintained close ties with the world of cinema, not only through the presence of Rolex watches in films, but also underpinned by Rolex and Hollywood’s shared beliefs in excellence, fostering talent and encouraging progress, and recognizing the importance of transmitting knowledge to future generations. Through its many initiatives and support for the film industry, Rolex has become an acting participant in Hollywood, of its own right.
For more watch reads, click here.
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This 1974 Ferrari 365 GT4 BB In Rosso Corsa And Nero Is Heading To Auction
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Thursday, October 27, 2022
Breitling Goes Better With the Breitling Super Chronomat Origins
Ever wondered how superhero characters got their powers and who they were before their larger-than-life transformation? That is what origin stories are for — to give a deeper insight into that part of a superhero. And what about watches, then? Have you considered how they came to be? Breitling is about to change that narrative with their latest release — the Breitling Super Chronomat Origins.
In a bid to do better, the Breitling Super Chronomat Origins is a traceable watch that allows its gold and diamond source to be tracked to its respective mine and producer. Each watch is accompanied by a blockchain-backed NFT that is responsible for the traceability of the watch’s supply chain. It will see Breitling shift their attention to working with better gold, better diamonds with better traceability by 2025 across its entire product portfolio.
Better Gold, Better Diamonds
The Breitling Super Chronomat Automatic 38 Origins will be the first watch to debut raw materials from trusted suppliers. Its 18k rose gold case features gold sourced from a single artisanal mine that meets the Swiss Better Gold Association’s criteria. The association’s guidelines are in place to improve working, living and environmental conditions in artisanal and small-scale (ASM) mining communities. On top of that, Breitling contributes to local community development projects with every gram of gold purchased.
The watch’s diamond-set bezel features Type IIA single-crystal diamonds, the most valued and purest type of lab-grown diamonds. They are identical to mined diamonds and are subjected to the same rigorous quality testing. Breitling will transition entirely into lab-grown diamonds by 2024 across all its products, which are traceable to diamond growers that meet high social and environmental performance standards and climate neutrality. Breitling contributes to a social impact fund for every carat purchased that supports diamond-producing communities.
Sustainability Roadmap
Breitling’s release of the Breitling Super Chronomat Automatic 38 Origins is the start of a new roadmap for the brand’s sustainability efforts. It signifies a major sustainability milestone for Breitling as they bid to strengthen their commitment to sustainability.
“For us, sustainability is not a project; it’s a journey we’re on to transform our business. We drive this change by creating beautiful products and experiences with better materials, manufacturing, and packaging. And while we know we can’t do everything at once, action by action, we’re doing everything we can in our sphere of influence.” says the CEO of Breitling, Georges Kern.
Besides this, Breitling will eliminate plastic waste across its operations and plan to adopt a zero-plastic waste stance by 2025. In this first year of the initiative, Breitling reduced 34 per cent of plastics compared to what would have been generated without intervention. Achieving carbon neutrality on all measured emissions was also the first step for Breitling as they moved towards climate action.
Measured approaches such as switching to 100 per cent renewable energy across Breitling’s headquarter operations and purchasing Sustainable Aviation Fuel for all employee flights aboard SWISS are part of the brand’s strategy to combine investments in high-quality carbon-offsetting projects with internal initiatives. Other moves, such as engaging key stakeholders to conduct their carbon accounting and reduction strategies, will aid Breitling’s goal for a sustainable future.
Given how the environment is in dire need of restoration and rehabilitation, Breitling partners with Ocean Conservancy, “urban rewilding” nonprofit group SUGi, the African organization Qhubeka and Solar Impulse Foundation by Swiss explorer Bertrand Piccard for various initiatives.
This article first appeared on Men’s Folio.
For more watch reads, click here.
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Sequoia: Hosting Family Adventures in Indonesia
Fresh from a refit completed ahead of her fifth birthday in September 2022, the 26m Sequoia is enjoying a second wind as one of Indonesia’s leading luxury charter yachts, having had a two-year lull due to the pandemic.
The wooden schooner is again plying her trade in Raja Ampat and surrounding regions for the winter season from November to March before heading west to Komodo National Park from May to October.
Yessi Maya Sari, who owns Sequoia and Coral Triangle Safaris with her husband Kevin Corcoran, is relieved and delighted to see her beloved yacht and its 10-strong crew sailing again and doing what they do best — revealing Indonesia’s most spectacular coastal scenery to families or small groups.
“The greatest reward of owning Sequoia has been seeing the joy brought to families as they explore and connect to these precious reefs. The lack of tourism for the past two years was a down side, but fortunately the world has now largely opened again and we’re almost where we were before Covid,” says Yessi, who was born and raised in Sumatra, among the largest of Indonesia’s 18,000 islands.
“We offer a product and service that’s attractive to a specific niche, as Sequoia is one of only a few three-cabin wooden yachts for parties of six or less. We cater to ultra-high end clients looking for a connection to nature and their loved ones. In the end, it’s life’s experiences and not material things that bring joy. More than ever, we’re aware that experiences with those we love are what really matter most in life.”
Labour of Love
A Certified Public Accountant, Yessi began her career at Johnson and Johnson, later working at L’Oreal, and Unilever, while also becoming increasingly interested in adventure travel, whether it was hiking Everest, skiing in the Rockies or scuba diving in Southeast Asia’s Coral Triangle, the latter inspiring the name of their company.
“I enjoyed my work, but I came to realise that my true passion was exploration of remote parts of the globe. This led Kevin and I to found Coral Triangle Safaris and build Sequoia. We believe our product is unmatched and can provide a family with an experience of a lifetime in a private setting.”
Kevin, who hails from Syracuse in New York state, worked in the implantable medical device market, bringing new technologies to market, and said his career helped the couple look ahead to the growing emphasis on experiences and exploration for discerning travellers.
“I was fortunate to be able work with some of the world’s most innovative doctors and I learned to work towards understanding future demand,” he says.
“In the case of our business, it may be that families are bored of going to luxury hotels and staring at their computer or phone. They now appear to be favouring more adventurous and active experiences that connect them to nature and each other.”
Designed for eco-conscious cruising, the hardwood yacht was hand-crafted by the Konjo boatbuilders over four years, yet with an American emphasis on safety and sustainability.
Sequoia remains the only yacht in Indonesian waters built to US Coast Guard Safety Standards, and all components, including a low-consumption John Deere engine, generators and sanitation systems, were imported from the US. Completed in September 2017, the yacht conforms to EPA Tier 2 and Tier 3 emissions limits, while no single-use plastics are permitted.
“Our goal was to allow families to explore the world’s most pristine and biodiverse reefs in comfort and safety. It took over four years to complete because we took our time to build a classic, heirloom wooden yacht for future generations to enjoy,” Yessi says.
Sequoia is like an ultra-luxury Swiss chalet on water. Although purposely modest in size at 86ft, it’s one of the most sophisticated, luxurious wooden yachts in Southeast Asia. Many of our guests never imagined that a wooden boat could be so comfortable and luxurious.”
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Reaching for the Sky
In fact, Sequoia’s modest size also enables a shallow draft of just 2m, enabling the yacht to cruise closer to beaches and mangroves that may be out of reach for large phinisis with a draft of over 3m or even 4m.
Sequoia’s experienced Indonesian crew include several who have been with the yacht all her life. Depending on the guests’ desired activities and itinerary, the roster can include a cruise manager, butler, master therapist for spa treatments and a dive master.
The yacht is equipped with a Bauer Dive Mate air compressor and 10 full sets of new scuba and snorkelling gear, including children’s sizes, while PADI Scuba Diving courses are included in the weekly charter rate, which starts from about US$59,500.
For many guests, chartering Sequoia is a once-in-a-lifetime occasion and ties in with a major family celebration such as an anniversary or birthday or even a child’s graduation.
“Many of our guests have already been to the finest hotels and resorts, so are looking for a deeper, more meaningful holiday,” Yessi says. “Our typical guest profile is an active family of four ready to travel to the other side of the planet to experience coastal waters and dive sites that look like Finding Nemo.”
The all-wooden Sequoia provides a warm, welcoming home for a week or longer. Life for guests revolves around the main and upper decks, with the lower level dedicated to technical areas.
On the main deck, the central ‘Great Room’ is a cosy, covered alfresco dining area that sits beside the main galley and between two of the three en-suite guest cabins. Aft is the Island Suite, entered by an elegant, curved staircase, while forward is the Ocean Suite, which has an aft-facing bed.
The upper deck is also known as the sky deck and is home to the aft Sky Suite. Forward is Sequoia’s iconic sky dining area featuring two large circular loungers with folding canopies along with tables that can be set up for snacks, cocktails or full meals.
In the evening, the sky deck can be set up as an outdoor cinema for movies under the stars, offering a stunning setting to watch Finding Nemo or Finding Dory if you haven’t had enough of the underwater world.
Further forward are stairs down to the foredeck or ‘middle deck’, another great outdoor area that has space for sunbeds, while down a couple more steps are more seating areas in the bow.
“We were extremely thoughtful in how we utilise space. Although we’re on the small side with only three large suites for up to six guests, there are no wasted spaces. Guests have multiple areas to dine, relax and connect, including a spa area and stunning outdoor dining areas,” Yessi says.
“We’re focused on a very specific market that places high value on comfort, luxury and unique experiences. For small families, we’ve created an intimate setting that can’t be found even in the top end resorts or other yachts. Also, Sequoia moves every day, creating entirely different landscapes, seascapes and experiences for guests.”
Fun on and in the Water
As proud as they are of Sequoia, the owners are most proud of the experiences she offers. Onboard activities can range from cooking classes to arts and crafts activities for kids, while there are a huge number of toys suitable for both adults and children.
The toy store includes inflatable kayaks and paddleboards, with waterskis and a two-person inflatable tube among high-adrenaline activities led by the 21ft Boston Whaler tender. Fishing is also available where permitted.
Underwater exploration is arguably the highlight of any holiday, with the dive instructor managing a full dive centre in one of the world’s best regions for diversity of marine life, whether you’re chartering in summer or winter. As Indonesia straddles the equator, yachts can sail pretty much sail and charter year-round, with April typically allocated for Sequoia’s annual maintenance.
The popular summer hub is Komodo National Park, about 200nm east of Bali. A UNESCO World Heritage Site and among the New 7 Wonders of Nature, it’s well known for its namesake dragons and on-land attractions while also being ranked among the globe’s best for coral and marine life, with over 60 dive sites.
To the west, also among the Lesser Sunda Islands, is Sumbawa, home to Mount Tambora crater, site of the largest eruption in modern history. East of Komodo is Solor Alor, a chain of 95 islands with over 70 dive sites in an area boasting 1,200 species of coral reef fish and 500 species of colourful coral.
Come winter, Raja Ampat in West Papua province is among the most popular destinations. The ‘Amazon of the Sea’ is widely recognised as one of the world’s top dive locations, with the most biodiverse marine life.
Guests can also head southeast to Kaimana and Triton Bay for more exceptional diving, including with whale sharks, then west to Maluku province and the Banda Islands, where the renowned ‘Spice Islands’ offer great underwater life but also great insight into the country’s history of trade and its colonial era.
“Komodo National Park and Raja Ampat/West Papua are considered the most spectacular dive and snorkel locations on earth,” Yessi says. “In either of these world-renowned venues, the kaleidoscope of colours found in both the soft and hard coral and schools of fish is incomparable.”
Land activities are also diverse and can include paddling or kayaking around coastlines featuring macaque monkeys and flying foxes, exploring tropical rainforests, birdwatching and hikes up mountains and volcanoes.
Coral Triangle Safaris can also arrange cultural experiences with village communities, as well as picnics and romantic dinners on a beach. It all depends on what guests want to do.
“Guests can customise their daily schedule and there are multiple activities for all to enjoy both above and below the water line,” Yessi continues.
“The coral reefs in these multi-million-hectare national parks are the main attraction but island cultural visits, exploring islands by speedboat, and sampling some of the world’s finest cuisine also rank highly.”
Good Taste
The meals prepared by Sequoia’s chef are of the highest order and typically involve the sourcing of fresh, local ingredients, many of which are found in the surrounding seas.
The cuisine is matched by the settings. Just imagine dining alfresco on the sky deck and enjoying otak-otak (ground fish with spices in banana leaf) as a starter and prawn sambal for mains. It’s as good as it sounds.
Like everything on the charter, the menu is designed around guests, with all diets catered for. Furthermore, Sequoia’s all-inclusive rate includes wine and spirits, with an additional wine cellar stocked with vintages from the Napa Valley and Burgundy.
“The culinary experience aboard Sequoia is unmatched and a critical aspect of our success. Our guests have dined in the best restaurants in the world, so the bar is high,” Yessi says.
“We’ve invested heavily in this aspect, with a state-of-the-art kitchen, employing five-star chefs and using the finest ingredients available. Our menu is crafted with some of the leading chefs in Indonesia. The availability of unique ingredients, particularly fish and spices, means Sequoia offers a perfect venue to create world-class dishes.”
All in all, Sequoia allows guests to do as little or as much as they want, with the emphasis on spending quality time together, whether it’s on the yacht, in a kayak, on a beach, in the water or up a mountain.
“As we offer highly customised ‘sea safaris’, we first understand what the guests hope to experience, then adjust our staff, itinerary and activities,” Yessi says.
“Ultimately, our greatest achievement is bringing families together to enjoy brilliantly coloured reefs and fish, seascapes of unimaginable beauty, exotic dishes and a cinema under the stars.”
This article first appeared on Yacht Style.
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The post Sequoia: Hosting Family Adventures in Indonesia appeared first on LUXUO.
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