Bell & Ross BR 03-92 BLACK CAMO : Nocturnal Camouflage

Bell & Ross has over time become a reference in the instrument watch field. Since its inception, the brand has produced exceptional models in its dedicated pursuit of superior perfor- mance. As part of this quest, it has forged links with the world of the military – one of its key domains. Bell & Ross works regularly with professional  elite units such as GIGN (Special Operations Unit of the French National Gendarmerie) and RAID (Search, Assistance, Intervention,  Deterrence Unit of the French National Police Force), whose missions often depend on the strictest  timing. The Phantom concept, launched in 2007, and the Commando collection of 2009, fit perfectly into the professional military milieu. The launch of these watches, which are inspired by aero- nautical instrumentation, heralded a foray into new territory. These avant-garde timepieces were among the first to use a camouflage coating in a horological setting. The new BR03-92 Black Camo (short for camouflage) represents another link in the Bell & Ross camouflage watch series and completes the Bell & Ross camouflage family.

BR 03-92 Black Camo completes the “family of camouflage models” by Bell & Ross Camouflage was first used by the army during First World War. Its purpose was to hide or disguise men or objects. Green, khaki, brown, black and grey are the most commonly used colors. The matte treatment of these colors is a mandatory condition imposed by the military. The Phantom concept, one of Bell & Ross’ iconic collections, is now celebrating its tenth anniversary. It made a huge impact when launched in 2007, and it was one of the first to use the full black military coating. It features an antireflective matte black coating reminiscent of the surface of a stealth plane. Its numerals, indices and hands are covered with a photo luminescent coating to guarantee legibility even at nighttime. The Commando collection appeared in 2009, two years after the Phantom. It is part of the same lineage of avant-garde camouflage instrument watches and features a military-inspired bicolor coating. Its cases, numerals and indices are covered in deep matte black, and its dial in matte grey. This collection is aimed at the elite units, the famous military commandos, and the response teams who operate covertly. Their equipment must be as efficient as undetectable. The new BR 03-92 Black Camo is the latest addition to the successful series of Bell & Ross camouflage watches. For this model, the brand has developed an original military-type tricolor coating. Its dial is covered with a patchwork of matte greys, its case and strap in matte black. This high-tech timepiece is practically undetectable, especially at night. Its matte-treated colors also avoid the risk of undesirable reflections. This means it can be worn during tailing missions or operations in hostile territory with no risk of detection. The BR 03-92 Black Camo retains all the amazing technical features: its display is perfectly legible both day and night thanks to the photo luminescent coating on its hands, indices and numerals. Elite units must be able to read the time easily and accurately during missions.

MARNI 2017 Eyewear Collection

MARNI CROMO (ME604S)

Juxtaposition of bold colors and classic hues are perfectly in balance between avant-garde spirit and tradition. The sophisticated color scheme includes Black/Red, Black/Ice, Green/Havana and Azure/Havana.

MARNI HORIZON (ME609S)

The perfection of a circle in a pair of glasses characterized by a soft, rounded silhouette and balanced hues. The color scheme includes Green/Blue, Blue/Grey, Bordeaux/Havana.

MARNI GHOST (ME610S)

This frame plays with chromatic contrasts and futuristic geometric shapes, while mixing artisanal research and an unconventional design. Available in Black/Havana, Green/Blue and Bordeaux/Havana.

MARNI CURVE (ME101S)

The round lenses are inserted on a squared brow line, unique with precious contrasting details and creating an interesting shape. Unusual color palette: Green/Rose Gold, Blue/Brown, Red/Plum and Ochre/Blue.

PARMIGIANI FLEURIER Presents The Birth Of Its Toric Chronometer In Hong Kong

 As the first watch designed by Michel Parmigiani, founder of PARMIGIANI FLEURIER, the Toric Collection makes an understated return by introducing the Toric Chronometer, which combines innovation and fine craftsmanship with a unique heritage from the brand history. PARMIGIANI FLEURIER presents the birth of its Toric Chronometer in Hong Kong recently.

The event kicked off with a warm welcoming remark by Steve Amstutz, Vice-President and Chief Commercial Officer of PARMIGIANI FLEURIER by introducing the Toric Chronometer, the latest addition to the very first watch family created by the brand founder, via a presentation by Mr. Amstutz, followed by a close-up watch appreciation session.

“The Toric Collection is not only a watch but also a part of PARMIGIANI FLEURIER's history. With the latest Toric Chronometer, we extend the outreach of our proud Swiss watchmaking craftsmanship to watch lovers.” Amstutz remarked.

Toric Chronometer

With alternating gadroons and knurling, the unique aesthetics of the white gold or red gold case is inspired by Ancient Greek columns. The masterpiece features a PF331 proprietary caliber and the dial is available in black opaline or a delicate white grained version.

This hand-crafted finish consists of a unique textured background by brushing the surface of the dial with a mixture of salt and silver powder. It is brought to life by two long Javelin hands, a date, a very subtle minute track around the circumference, and Arabic numerals, completed with a black alligator strap.

Cartier New Sunglasses Collection @ The Santos De Cartier

Rivoli EyeZone Presents the all new Cartier's Santos De Cartier Sunglasses collection that is designed for a man who loves to move forward. He radiates unmistakable strength, shares his convictions, and is never short on daring. Everything is a question of perspective for this lover of detail, who finds the confidence to guide him across the world within the flawless design of the Santos de Cartier sunglasses. Aviator style or rectangular, featuring a double bridge enhanced with a touch of tortoiseshell, and lenses that are brown, grey, polarised and graduated, or adorned with a slight flash coating. This is an eyewear collection conceived to define a way of being: a matter of curiosity, a question of desire. The special limited edition collection is available at Rivoli EyeZone stores.

Furla Celebrates 90th Anniversary By Re-Opening ifc Store

Furla hosted a cocktail reception to celebrate its 90th anniversary and the re-opening of the ifc store recently. Re-opened after a thorough makeover, the prestigious retail space is defined by an elegant layout, encapsulating the Italian brand’s DNA that infuses stylish sophistication and spirited playfulness in its design concept. Champagne coloured satin-finish details complement wood and other natural materials to create a warm and inviting atmosphere for customers to enjoy a one-of-a-kind shopping experience in the beating heart of the city.

The re-opening also introduced nine bags from the 90th Anniversary Collection. A new limited edition which represents a journey through the 90-year history of Furla, incorporating the iconic Metropolis bag and the customizable flap ‘MyPlayFurla’ concept in nine exciting bag styles representing nine creative milestones in Furla’s decades. Nine distinctive zeitgeists are illustrated in a constellation of iconic musical elements from different eras, accentuating the timeless design of the collection that transcends time and space, with a nod to the brand’s 90 years of design excellence.

#furla90anniversary 

#furlaifcopening

Calvin Klein Summer 2017 Swimwear

Calvin Klein Summer 2017 Swimwear introduces a sexy take on athleticism with strong, streamlined forms built for performance and style. Intense Power applies the logo waistband to classic swimwear silhouettes, with one and two-piece options for her and logo shorts and trunks for him.

Intense Power+ features the special addition of striking monochrome mesh and logo combinations. Long mesh pants for her are paired with a cropped halter, both emblazoned with the brand’s logo. A halter one-piece features black mesh panels contrasted against a white front and back. Men’s logo shorts in black relay a sense of understated cool. Cutting-Edge Calvin plays with perforation and layering.

For her, two-piece swimsuits in white or dark grey feature a classic bottom and molded bralette layered beneath a cropped top with perforated cap sleeves. For him, white swim trunks in perforated fabrics feature a minimalistic logo and contrasted black drawstring.

Dolce&Gabbana @ The Preservation Of Venice

Dolce&Gabbana collaborates with Save Venice Inc. and Venetian Heritage, two of the most recognised charitable associations dedicated to raising funds for the preservation of the artistic, cultural, and historical patrimony of Venice. 2017 marks the fourth consecutive year in the relationship between Dolce&Gabbana and Save Venice Inc. supporting the restoration and preservation of the art and architecture of Venice. Their joint efforts have contributed to the ongoing restoration of the 16th-century church of San Sebastiano (1548), which houses the world’s largest concentration of works by Renaissance master Paolo Veronese, and Vittore Carpaccio’s nine-canvas Saint Orsola cycle (c.1488-1495) in the Accademia Galleries. Dolce&Gabbana continues their support by sponsoring Save Venice Inc.’s 15th biennial Gala in Venice, June 25-28, which attracts guests from around the world for a four-day celebration to raise funds for restorations in Venice.

Furthermore, Dolce&Gabbana and Venetian Heritage also announced their new collaboration to reinforce efforts to perpetuate the venetian patrimony. This announcement took place during a lunch at the Loggia Foscari of the Palazzo Ducale, masterpiece of Gothic art and symbol of La Serenissima, one of the city’s historical landmarks. To honor the city of Venice, its patrimony and on occasion of the opening of the new Dolce&Gabbana boutique in Calle XXII marzo, the fashion house has created a special collection of silk scarves. The emblematic images of La Serenissima printed on each scarf, from St. Mark’s Church and Venice’s romantic gondolas to the Winged Lion and the city’s famed Carnival masks, celebrate the beauty and uniqueness of the city. Part of the proceeds from sales will be donated to the two institutions.

The scarves went on sale starting Friday May 12th, at the boutique in San Marco 223/226 and from the end of May in the new Dolce&Gabbana boutique located in calle XXII marzo as well. The new boutique, designed by architect Eric Carlson of the Carbondale studio in Paris, seeks to provide visitors with an unprecedented aesthetic experience by way of a fascinating play of contrasts between history and modernity. The boutique is part of the international grand tour that Dolce&Gabbana has undertaken, opening boutiques all over the world, each with a unique layout designed expressly for the site, combining the signature features of the brand with those of the host city.

G-STAR 2017 Eyewear Collection

 Leading edge construction technology, industrial code and unique detailing – iconic logo and screw, perforated temple tip, straight cut lenses, structured rim and a particular GS Nosepad – characterize the industrial style of G-Star RAW, a symbol of clean, functional aesthetics and superior craftsmanship.

GS115S - Flat Metal GSRD Marek
The G-Star RAW signature design features a thin, minimalistic metal frame, characterized by a light rectangular shape and can be customized with adjustable nose pads and temple tips in contrasting colors. Available in Matte Black, Matte Dark Blue, Matte Dark Green, and Semi-matte Silver.

GS116S - Clasp Stormer
With this style, the unisex pantos silhouette comes in metal and is characterized by the contrasting designs of the flat front and the temples with cut-out details. The refined, contemporary style is enhanced by matte colors and shiny mirror lenses. The palette includes Matte Black, Matte Burgundy and the Matte Dark Gray.

GS648S - GSRD Stormer
The rounded shape featured in the new advertising campaign comes in a vibrant, versatile color palette. The light, thin shape of these unisex sunglasses are enhanced by the keyhole bridge design and the shiny mirror lenses. The iconic G- Raw logo is positioned on both temples. Available in Black, Amber, Champagne and Light Havana.

GS650S - Shaft Hedrove
This unisex model features round shaped straight-cut base 2 lenses emphasized by the double metal bridge. The temples are defined by a particular material mix of metal and plastic, with a special “stitching” effect that evokes the world of denim. The palette includes Black, Havana and Army Green.

GS2650 - Fat Revent
Featured in the new advertising campaign, these refined women’s opticals are distinguished by an acetate cat-eye style. The silhouette is enhanced by a well-balanced combination of different shapes, with a thick top and thinner line around the lenses. The range includes styles with contrasting temple tips and models in clear acetate to emphasize the core wire. The palette includes Black, Light Mint, Blue and Light Havana.

Jennifer Lawrence In Tiffany's Elsa Peretti Mesh Scarf

Jennifer Lawrence was spotted on the streets of New York wearing Tiffany's Elsa Peretti Mesh scarf necklace recently.

L'OCCITANE Introduces The Verbena Frappe Body Cream

Stay Fresh & Cool This Summer!

L'OCCITANE Introduces The Verbena Frappe Body Cream that is even fresher when kept in the fridge and makes your summer much more cooler. Enriched with an organic verbena extract from Provence, this light-as-air cream melts into thirsty skin like a fragrant sorbet, to leave it feeling fresh and hydrated.

Transformers @ The Last Knights

How much louder is enough to challenge the 7.1 surround sound inside the movie theater and how much more action is needed in one movie within 150 minutes? And yet, Transformers diehard fans will challenge you on such cacophonous action packed saga that is never enough to satisfy their anticipation. and don't want it to come to an end. It is toxic really, audiences have already begun to get bored for its repetition blitzkrieg of blah and bludgeoning effects.

 <Transformers : The Last Knights> marks Director Michael Bay's fifth installment and even takes you back to the medieval dark ages battle that shatters the core myths of the transformers franchise and redefines what it means to a hero where secrets were buried in the past hidden history of transformers on earth. The hunted will become heroes, heroes will become villains. Can these battling space robots be explained and possibly comprehended in such anachronisms and even in relation to King Arthur? He may possibly be crawling out from his grave, rolling his eyes for What The Hell is going on here......

Such a complex and incoherent story makes it so hard to follow and there are some parts of the movies go by too fast and characters were simply too brief yet uninteresting. Thinly predictable plotted story is nothing new and we all know that the budget was squandered to boast the state-of -art special effects. It is a total waste of Sir Anthony Hopkins's talent by playing an English Lord who guides the events while trying to impart some humor in between the action for a moment of silence that doesn't really work.

<Transformers : The Last Knights> makes other bad movies look good and this is possibly the worst among the previous four Transformers' movies. Bay knows this well that this is certainly not a morning mischief and it is finally coming to an end for his version of Transformers. Perhaps the next best thing for such series to be carried on would be having a new film director who is more ambitious and with new ideas. Otherwise, you may chuck this mess on the scrapheap.

Review: 1.5/5

Opens Citywide: 22 June 2017

Moncler x Jean-Philippe Delhomme @ SS2017 POSTCARD Series

 Moncler tells its story in the SS2017 through the POSTCARDS series, realized in collaboration with the Parisian artist Jean-Philippe Delhomme. The three exclusive prints that Delhomme have presented are inspired by the most famous beaches of all, from Venice Beach to Saint Tropez, taking in Capri and Positano along the way. 

Jean-Philippe Delhomme is a Paris based illustrator, painter and cultural writer. As painter and an illustrator, Jean-Philippe Delhomme has contributed to numerous important magazines around the world. He has painted a mural for the iconic Parisian club chez Castel. His work has been internationally exhibited with shows at Colette in Paris, Wright Gallery and Lucien Terras Gallery in New York, Rocket Gallery in Tokyo, the French Institute in Berlin and in Munich, the Festival International de la Mode et de la Photographie in Hyères – France, the Fashion Illustration Gallery in London.

Perfectly in tune with the spirit of the SS2017, the three subjects realized by Delhomme illustrate a segment of the collection which revolves around a joyful colour palette of sand, sunny yellow, bright blue, scarlet red and white.

The result is a mood which unites technology and research verging on craftsmanship with function and metropolitan practicality. The special embroideries made after the digital printing process give the fabric a three-dimensional effect. This undergoes resin coating before being printed, washed and, last but not least, embroidered.

Bell & Ross BR-X1 Chronograph Tourbillon Sapphire

The launching of the BR-X1 marked the beginning of a whole new chapter in Bell & Ross’ saga. This high-tech chronograph, with a sporty look and robust sophistication, heralded an inspirational new line in horological excellence. Revolutionary in design and inspired by aeronautical flight instruments, the BR-X1 line stretched its wings in 2015 with an exceptional new Haute Horlogerie version: the BR-X1 Chronograph Tourbillon. This watch combined the extremely virile esthetic codes of the brand with technical refinement. Yet the thrill of a further development was still to come. True to its relentless quest for excellence and performance, Bell & Ross boldly set forth to achieve the ultimate expression of this already iconic design: a skeleton movement enhanced as a rare treasure.

Through a transparent exterior, the BR-X1 CHRONOGRAPH TOURBILLON SAPPHIRE reveals its fascinating secrets: it is built around a Flying Tourbillon master grand complication and Bell & Ross has added an ultra elegant mono-pusher chronograph. This unique and exclusive Haute Horlogerie caliber is prepared to be roused by the exquisite poetry of its movement. The chronograph complication is visible and provides a privileged window into its many intricacies. Even the casual observer can admire the column wheel under the dial at 12 o’clock, the semi instantaneous jumping hand (rather than a traditional sweeping hand), and the power reserve indicator of 100 hours (at least 4 days) at 9 o’clock.

Masculine through and through, the main plate and pillars have been machined from a single block of metal. The perfectly executed skeletonizing of the movement, in a stunningly contemporary style and finish, allows the exceptional mechanics of this “horological turbine” to be observed when starting, stopping and resetting. True aficionados will appreciate the extreme sophistication of the BR-X1 CHRONOGRAPH TOURBILLON SAPPHIRE with its 30-minute counter at 10 o’clock and 60-second counter at 2 o’clock for the chronograph functions. These are engaged by the mono-pusher rocker –positioned at 2 o’clock– which controls the Start, Stop and Reset functions. A treat for the eyes, this outstanding timepiece offers breathtaking views into its inner workings. The power reserve differential and the barrel are also visible on the back. In a similar theatrical fashion, the flying tourbillon cage with the logogram “&” can been seen from every angle. Sapphire is an iconic precious gemstone. To the world of Science, it’s a mineral known as Corundum, the second hardest material on earth after diamond, and almost impossible to scratch. Herein, lies the beauty of this once-in-a-lifetime creation by the master horologers at Bell & Ross.

The extreme transparency of sapphire allows the eye an unequaled opportunity to virtually travel inside the movement and see the ingenious interactions in all their glory. Cutting a watchcase from a solid block of sapphire is an extremely difficult process. It takes long hours of machining, then polishing, to produce one. The BR-X1 CHRONOGRAPH TOURBILLON SAPPHIRE case is cut from 9 blocks of sapphire: middle piece, back, top, crystal and the four bumpers and is assembled with screws. The complexity of the case construction is a challenge to technical mastery and makes it an exceptional and striking timepiece.