What It’s Like to Stay at Higashiyama Niseko Village, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, a one key Michelin Guide Hotel in The Heart of Japan’s Hokkaido ski fields.
Welcome to Checking In, a new review series in which our editors and contributors rate the best new (and revamped) luxury hotels based on a rigorous—and occasionally tongue-in-cheek—10-point system: Each question answered “yes” gets one point. Will room service bring you caviar? Does your suite have its own butler? Does the bathroom have a bidet? Find out below.Higashiyama Niseko Village, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, Japan.Describe the hotel in three words: Exclusive, relaxed and sophisticated.What’s the deal?On the page the hotel might sound a bit ordinary, but in reality it’s s anything but. This is an all-season alpine resort at one of Japan's top winter sports destinations in Hokkaido. The hotel opened in 2020 with little, to no, fanfare thanks to Covid, and it has two high seasons, one in summer and one in winter. Domestic tourists come for hiking and wilderness in summer and foreign tourists, who love skiing, come in the winter. YTL Hotels acquired Niseko Village for six billion yen (US$58m) in 2010 from PC One YK, a Japanese limited liability company, and they have made it one of their ultimate destination, nature reserve hotels.The ski-in/ski-out destination’s main attraction is its accessibility to 2,191 acres of skiable terrain and extensive backcountry skiing, alongside an international ski school, chairlifts and gondolas. There is also a dining and retail venue and easy access to two world-class golf courses and an outdoor activity park for children. Now the 50-room Higashiyama Niseko Village, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve is the first Japanese Ritz-Carlton Reserve and YTL's fifth destination in Niseko Village, residing at the base of Mount Niseko Annupuri. Niseko Village has been selected as the venue for some of the 2030 Winter Olympics’ events; slalom, giant slalom, super-giant slalom (super-G) and downhill.The hotel is sophisticated with panoramic mountain views. Having just 50 rooms it feels like a private home, with all the luxury you need to feel utterly spoilt. The Best RoomThe largest family suite has plenty of room for a family of 4-5 persons, plus space for an au pair. It’s exactly the same layout as the suite, with the addition of a large walk-in-robe, dressing table and lounge room with a dining table. The lounge contains a fold out sofa, for babysitter, plus plenty of room for the children to relax in the hotel after a morning of skiing.
The Rundown
Did they greet you by name at check-in? Yes, fireside check-in happens in the Ume Lounge in a comfy seat next to 6-metre high windows overlong Mount Yotei. Was a welcome drink ready and waiting when you arrived? (Bonus points if it wasn’t just fruit juice).Yes, we were welcomed by name with an exotic tea made from local flowers and herbs. I was more in the market for a whisky on this particular day, but the glass of Champagne at lunch of tempura and local sashimi at Yukibana more than made up for this.Is there a private butler for every room?Yes, the 24 hour do san concept it alive and well at this Ritz-Carlton Niseko and the message on check in is that nothing is too much trouble. Is the sheet thread count higher than 300?Yes both the beds and the bed linen are incredible. They beds are fitted with white cotton sateen 400-thread count which literally feels like 600 after a day of skiing in the cold. The Ritz-Carlton hotel whites are all 100% cotton sateen. They are impeccably crafted of pure extra-long staple cotton sateen, these hotel linens are silky soft to the touch and have a lustrous look that catches the light. The bed is so comfortable you almost don’t want to leave.Is there a heated floor in the bathroom? What about a bidet? No, bidet but the room and floor are heated. In fact sometimes the suite was too warm, when strolling around in ski gear. Are the toiletries full-sized?Yes, everthing is French full-sized and created heritage beauty brand Sothys just as in the Chasi spa. Extra bath salts are provided daily to make up for the fact that Onsen waters aren't piped up to the rooms.Is there a private pool for the room’s exclusive use? How are the spa and gym?No, private pool in the room but there is a private onsen which can be booked from the Sothy's Chasi Spa. Both the spa and gym are state-of- the-art. Everything here is sweet smelling and super clean. Do you want to spend Friday night in the lobby bar?Ume Lounge has a very elegant, minimal Armani Casa vibe. Think antler chandeliers, stacks of white birch logs, ceramics and camel pony skin rugs but it is not a party vibe.You can easily spend at least one night by the fire after dinner reading from the library, but it is not the kind of place where you get carried away with friends. It's soft lounge lighting and high end food offering makes it feels small and intimate. The mood is enhanced by the excellent food and service at Yukibana. That said, it didn’t stop some old college friends from getting stuck into bourbons one night for an evening at the bar.Is there caviar on the room service menu? If so, what kind?No, there is no caviar offered on in-room menu, but if you want a crab Eggs Benedict in bed, or prawn tempura you have come to the right place. Ditto the best raw sashimi you have ever eaten anywhere and incredible healthy food nails the east-meets-west twist at every turn. Would you buy the hotel if you could?Yes, undoubtedly. I received more spa treatments and personalised attention in one weekend than I will probably have throughout the rest of my life.Score: 8/10
What Our Score Means:
1-3: Fire your travel agent if they suggest you stay here. 4-6: Solid if you’re in a pinch—but only if you’re in a pinch. 7-8: Very good. We’d stay here again and recommend it without qualms. 9-10: Forget booking a week. When can we move in permanently?Visit Ritz-Carlton Niseko
Welcome to Checking In, a new review series in which our editors and contributors rate the best new (and revamped) luxury hotels based on a rigorous—and occasionally tongue-in-cheek—10-point system: Each question answered “yes” gets one point. Will room service bring you caviar? Does your suite have its own butler? Does the bathroom have a bidet? Find out below.
Higashiyama Niseko Village, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, Japan.
Describe the hotel in three words: Exclusive, relaxed and sophisticated.
What’s the deal?
On the page the hotel might sound a bit ordinary, but in reality it’s s anything but.
This is an all-season alpine resort at one of Japan’s top winter sports destinations in Hokkaido. The hotel opened in 2020 with little, to no, fanfare thanks to Covid, and it has two high seasons, one in summer and one in winter.
Domestic tourists come for hiking and wilderness in summer and foreign tourists, who love skiing, come in the winter. YTL Hotels acquired Niseko Village for six billion yen (US$58m) in 2010 from PC One YK, a Japanese limited liability company, and they have made it one of their ultimate destination, nature reserve hotels.
The ski-in/ski-out destination’s main attraction is its accessibility to 2,191 acres of skiable terrain and extensive backcountry skiing, alongside an international ski school, chairlifts and gondolas. There is also a dining and retail venue and easy access to two world-class golf courses and an outdoor activity park for children.
Now the 50-room Higashiyama Niseko Village, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve is the first Japanese Ritz-Carlton Reserve and YTL’s fifth destination in Niseko Village, residing at the base of Mount Niseko Annupuri.
Niseko Village has been selected as the venue for some of the 2030 Winter Olympics’ events; slalom, giant slalom, super-giant slalom (super-G) and downhill.
The hotel is sophisticated with panoramic mountain views. Having just 50 rooms it feels like a private home, with all the luxury you need to feel utterly spoilt.
The Best Room
The largest family suite has plenty of room for a family of 4-5 persons, plus space for an au pair. It’s exactly the same layout as the suite, with the addition of a large walk-in-robe, dressing table and lounge room with a dining table. The lounge contains a fold out sofa, for babysitter, plus plenty of room for the children to relax in the hotel after a morning of skiing.
The Rundown
Did they greet you by name at check-in?
Yes, fireside check-in happens in the Ume Lounge in a comfy seat next to 6-metre high windows overlong Mount Yotei.
Was a welcome drink ready and waiting when you arrived? (Bonus points if it wasn’t just fruit juice).
Yes, we were welcomed by name with an exotic tea made from local flowers and herbs. I was more in the market for a whisky on this particular day, but the glass of Champagne at lunch of tempura and local sashimi at Yukibana more than made up for this.
Is there a private butler for every room?
Yes, the 24 hour do san concept it alive and well at this Ritz-Carlton Niseko and the message on check in is that nothing is too much trouble.
Is the sheet thread count higher than 300?
Yes both the beds and the bed linen are incredible. They beds are fitted with white cotton sateen 400-thread count which literally feels like 600 after a day of skiing in the cold.
The Ritz-Carlton hotel whites are all 100% cotton sateen. They are impeccably crafted of pure extra-long staple cotton sateen, these hotel linens are silky soft to the touch and have a lustrous look that catches the light. The bed is so comfortable you almost don’t want to leave.
Is there a heated floor in the bathroom? What about a bidet? No, bidet but the room and floor are heated. In fact sometimes the suite was too warm, when strolling around in ski gear.
Are the toiletries full-sized?
Yes, everthing is French full-sized and created heritage beauty brand Sothys just as in the Chasi spa. Extra bath salts are provided daily to make up for the fact that Onsen waters aren’t piped up to the rooms.
Is there a private pool for the room’s exclusive use? How are the spa and gym?
No, private pool in the room but there is a private onsen which can be booked from the Sothy’s Chasi Spa. Both the spa and gym are state-of- the-art. Everything here is sweet smelling and super clean.
Do you want to spend Friday night in the lobby bar?
Ume Lounge has a very elegant, minimal Armani Casa vibe. Think antler chandeliers, stacks of white birch logs, ceramics and camel pony skin rugs but it is not a party vibe.
You can easily spend at least one night by the fire after dinner reading from the library, but it is not the kind of place where you get carried away with friends. It’s soft lounge lighting and high end food offering makes it feels small and intimate. The mood is enhanced by the excellent food and service at Yukibana. That said, it didn’t stop some old college friends from getting stuck into bourbons one night for an evening at the bar.
Is there caviar on the room service menu? If so, what kind?
No, there is no caviar offered on in-room menu, but if you want a crab Eggs Benedict in bed, or prawn tempura you have come to the right place. Ditto the best raw sashimi you have ever eaten anywhere and incredible healthy food nails the east-meets-west twist at every turn.
Would you buy the hotel if you could?
Yes, undoubtedly. I received more spa treatments and personalised attention in one weekend than I will probably have throughout the rest of my life.
Score: 8/10
What Our Score Means:
1-3: Fire your travel agent if they suggest you stay here. 4-6: Solid if you’re in a pinch—but only if you’re in a pinch. 7-8: Very good. We’d stay here again and recommend it without qualms. 9-10: Forget booking a week. When can we move in permanently?
There’s another BMW roadster you can buy if you don’t want to wait for the upcoming Skytop.
A stunning 1958 507 Roadster Series II will be auctioned off by RM Sotheby’s next month in Paris. Nearly seven decades after rolling off the line, the sleek two-door remains one of the best-looking vehicles ever built by the German luxury marque.
Like the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL and Porsche 356 Speedster before it, the 507 owes its existence to the American car importer Max Hoffman. In the mid-1950s, the businessman convinced BMW that American enthusiasts were eager for a convertible version of the 501 and 502 coupe. The plan was to build and ship thousands of examples of the open-top grand tourer to the U.S. each year, but an unexpectedly exorbitant sticker price sunk any chance the project had of catching on and only 252 cars would be built between 1956 and 1959.
Photo: Maximilian Vogl/RM Sotheby’s
The 507 offers up ample proof that (immediate) commercial success isn’t indicative of a vehicle’s worth. The roadster is easily one of the finest sports cars to come out of the post-war period. Its sophisticated design, which was penned by Albrecht von Goertz, combines smooth lines with the ideal proportions. But the 507 is more than just a car to be seen in. It also delivers more than respectable performance, thanks to a 3.2-litre V-8 that makes 111 kilowatts and pushes the vehicle to a top speed of 196 kph. It’s little wonder the car served as the inspiration for one of BMW’s most beloved modern-day models, the Z8.
Inside the 507 Roadster Series II Maximilian Vogl/RM Sotheby’s
The 507 that RM Sotheby’s is selling, chassis no. 70136, left the factory in Ivory White, and was shipped to Havana. It spent three decades in the Cuban capital before being returned to Germany in the late 1980s. In the years since, it was the recipient of a thorough restoration and was repainted in a glossy coat of black that matches its folding soft-top (there’s also a rare hard-top) and center-lock Rudge wheels. The interior—which because the car is a Series II example has more room—has grey leather seats and door cards. Just as striking is the period-correct is eight-cylinder under the hood. It may not be the numbers-matching original, but that mill comes with the lot too.
1958 BMW 507 Roadster Series II Maximilian Vogl/RM Sotheby’s
The 507 Roadster will cross the block as part of RM Sotheby’s upcoming Paris sale, which will be held on February 4 and 5. The auction house has high hopes for the sports car, which is unsurprising considering its condition and rarity. It’s expected to sell for between $2.1 million and $3.2 million.
Click here for more photos of the 1958 BMW 507 Roadster Series II.
Next to the fig leaf, linen might be humankind’s oldest covering. It’s turned up in the wrappings of Egyptian mummies and was even worn as armor by Alexander the Great. So how is it that modern men still son’t know quite what to make of it?
Anthony Keegan, creative director of the luxury essentials menswear brand Bugatchi, has a theory. “It’s a sophisticated material, and I don’t think you grow up wearing linen. It’s something the well-dressed man learns about.” But once the well-dressed man—or woman—becomes wise to its charms, it’s hard to go back.
Lilly Lampe’s aha moment with linen came while traveling in Southeast Asia during summertime. “It was this wake-up call that everything we’d read about linen was true,” she tells Robb Report. “It has amazing moisture-wicking properties and a beautiful, visually appealing natural texture. There are just so many reasons why it’s historically been a big part of warm weather garments, and also had other utilitarian uses throughout time.”
So impressed was Lampe that in 2015, she and her husband Alex Robins founded Blluemade, a unisex, workwear-inspired apparel line built around the fabric’s unique performance qualities.
How Does Linen Perform?
J. Mueser
Robins, who refers to linen as “ancient performance technology,” sees it as a natural alternative to engineered textiles. “It’s technical fabric from Egypt, in a way,” he tells Robb Report. Its ability to breathe easily, wick away moisture and dry quickly goes back to the cellular structure of flax (the plant from whic it is derived). Unlike cotton—which Robins likens to a “solid rod”—linen has a hollow core, which proves to be advantageous when wet. “It literally sucks up moisture like a straw,” he says.
Just don’t mistake the hollowness for fragility. Linens are also highly durable, a quality that made it the de-facto labor uniform for much of history. “Before the introduction of denim, it was the go-to workwear cloth,” Robins say.
What Makes Quality Linen
Crop of newly harvested golden flax stems left to dry under a warm French sun. Crop of newly harvested golden flax stems left to dry under a warm French sun. Getty Images
Not all linen is created equally. A key differentiating factor is the length of the fibers, with long flax fibers resulting in a stronger linen that’s softer and less prone to deep creasing, whereas short fibers render a textile more coarse and wrinkle-prone.
Blluemade’s linen comes exclusively from the Flanders region of Belgium, where a rainy, cloudy and temperate climate results in linen strands measuring between two and four feet. Lampe compares this to linen grown in drier and hotter environments, whose strands measure as little as two to four inches.
Other climes blessed (or perhaps cursed) with similar weather tend to produce quality linen, notably Ireland and the Normandy region of France.
Maison Hellard founder Nathan Hellard, whose eponymous firm turns Norman flax into tailor-ready linens, deploys an appropriately Gallic metaphor. “Just like wine, if you have good soil and a good amount of rain and sun, then you have the longest possible fiber in the end. And that’s the biggest difference between a low-quality linen and a high quality one,” he tells Robb Report.
Should you not have the opportunity to measure the strands yourself, Hellard says that quality can be detected visually, too. While linen is a naturally slubby textile, inferior linen will appear far slubbier and fuzzier due to their short fibers, whereas superior linen is smoother.
You can make linen from gold prize-winning flax and it will still wrinkle. That’s simply a product of how its strands meet together, and the fact that it is a vegetable fiber lacking the natural elasticity of wool.
“The wrinkles are part of the job,” says Keegan, laying out the facts. “And if you have been brainwashed into no wrinkles, period, then you’re going to have to grow into this.”
However, some linens will “bounce back” from wrinkles better than others. Lower quality or lighter weight linens are susceptible to long-lasting creases, whereas heavier linens and those made from longer fibers or with particular finishes will merely rumple rather than buckle. “It’s not that it won’t crease, it’s how it creases,” Hellard clarifies.
Linen’s wrinkle factor should be considered when forming an outfit. With a linen suit, Keegan prescribes a crisp oxford shirt to create contrast, and would avoid linen shirting and its resultant “wrinkle-on-wrinkle” effect. Jake Mueser, founder of the West Village tailor J. Mueser, nixes wool jackets with linen pants, but not its opposite. Mueser is an expert on wearing suiting in the summer without breaking a sweat.
“A crisp, light wool trouser with a linen jacket—that is a good combo,” he tells Robb Report.
How Does Linen Tailor?
Matthew Woodruff, creative director of J. Mueser, wearing an ivory linen suit from the tailor. J. Mueser
Mueser, whose Christopher Street atelier is thronged with linen suit-wearers in summer, highlights the choices available to those commissioning a linen suit.
“Like wool, there’s a lot of variety to linen. You can have a lighter weight, softer, more Italian linen that’s going to have more give and more wrinkle. You can have stiffer Irish linens, more washed and treated linens like Solbiati,” he says, referring to the linen-centric Italian mill purchased by Loro Piana in 2013. “There’s a big variation.”
Indeed, it’s the treated linens that increasingly make for interesting, paradigm-breaking commissions. To take just one example, the Hong Kong and Taipei-based tailor The Anthology has championed a “sueded” linen with a unique finish that leaves it soft to the touch on the exterior, yet crispy and springy on its reverse.
Anthology co-founder Buzz Tang in the brand’s sueded linen suit. Anthology
“I think this specific linen is quite unique, because it sits right between the most traditional of Irish linens and the Italian ones,” says Anthology founder Buzz Tang. “It lends the Italian softness to the cloth, but at the same time, it still has a certain integrity in terms of drape and hang.”
An undeniable part of the fabric’s appeal at the present, dressed-down moment is its inherently casual appeal, a factor Mueser takes advantage of by often sporting his linen suits with a crewneck tee or Western shirt underneath. However, he doesn’t believe that it must be confined to the most casual side of tailoring and recalls seeing linen used in more structured suits and even dinner jackets to great success.
“Just because linen feels more casual, it doesn’t have to be patch pockets and deconstructed,” he says. “I think there’s a charm to taking linen and building it up more.”
Caring for Linen
Chalk stripe deconstructed linen blazer and leisure fit linen trousers. Brunello Cuccinelli.
For linen garments that can be machine washed, Lampe sounds a warning: no detergents with enzymes.
“If you spill ketchup or food on your clothes, it’ll eat away at that,” Lampe says of the additive’s advantages. “But linen is also natural, and so enzymes will eat away at that. And once you eat away at the outer lining of a hollow core material, you have a hole.”
In the interests of keeping linen hole-free, she instead recommends an enzyme-free detergent, such as the one produced by Le Blanc. For those taking the dry-cleaning route, Mueser suggests a similarly careful touch—perhaps skipping the actual dry cleaning altogether.
“I tell people all the time, take your suit to the dry cleaner, tell them to just steam it and press it. It comes back looking and feeling fresh and new, and it doesn’t need to have a chemical bath,” he says.
And finally: does a guaranteed-to-wrinkle garment ever need an ironing in the first place? Keegan says no. “I actually think it would be more of a steam than an iron… steaming is, for something like linen, a really good way to get it to its natural state.” That means crisp, cool, comfortable—and just the perfect amount of wrinkled.
U-Boat Worx’s just-launched, ruby-red flagship may have more in common with the original 1950s Superman than the color of his cape. The Dutch submersible builder has released images of one of the world’s fastest personal subs, with maneuvering capabilities that should make it a natural for the next Bond movie.
The three-person submersible has a “droplet-shaped hull,” according to U-Boat Worx, and “advanced wing configurations” that deliver a top speed of 10 knots (most personal subs do about three knots and dolphins about seven knots) and the ability to make steep 45-degree climbs and sharp turns at depth. That’s like comparing the speed and maneuverability of a supercar to the family SUV. Besides basic forward, up, and down movements, the Super Sub can also move laterally, which gives it more precise handling on approaching objects like reefs or wrecks, or in a current.
“It’s a first-class ticket to explore the ocean like never before, combining speed, safety, and sophistication in every dive,” said U-Boat Worx marketing manager Roy Heijdra in a statement.
he design has the lithium batteries and thrusters at the rear so the pilot and passengers can enjoy the view. U-Boat Worx
Hyperbole aside, the Super Sub is an advanced design, starting with the cockpit, which has two front passenger seats behind the large acrylic bubble for exceptional viewing in all directions. The pilot is seated behind, so the guests or owners can enjoy the best view. The seats have five-point harness seatbelts because the ride can get kind of wild at full tilt.
The Super Sub’s touchscreen display shows all relevant navigational data as part of the U-Boat Worx Information System (UIS). Safety features such as Maximum Depth Protection, which prevents the sub from descending beyond its 300-metre (1,000-foot) depth limit, and the Deadman’s Switch (which a passenger can trigger to automatically ascend if the pilot is incapacitated) give some sense of the technology behind the design. The sub also has an “auto-heading” feature, equivalent to autopilot, which keeps the submersible on its current heading over long stretches.
The cockpit blends comfort and technology. U-Boat Worx
Compared to the bubble look of most submersibles, this stealthy, cylinder-shaped vessel looks cool, with its large propellers and rear hydrofoils that combine to improve maneuverability. The thrusters, powered by an electric motor and 62 kWh lithium battery have a total power output of 100 kW—with enough juice to also power the air-conditioning.
The cylindrical shape is faster and more efficient than smaller, bubble-shaped personal subs. U-Boat Worx
Beyond personal use, the speed and handling of the Super Sub could also make it a candidate for search and rescue and research missions.
In yachting, as elsewhere, “sustainability” has become a go-to buzzword, typically more bluster than breakthrough. Alternative methods of propulsion—hydrogen fuel cells and green methanol for superyachts, say, or diesel-electric power for vessels under 100 feet—have been discussed for years yet are often dismissed by builders as too complex and expensive.
But now a band of pioneering yards and owners are designing never-before- seen eco-friendlier systems with the technical bona fides to be legitimate game changers. They not only reduce emissions but also offer other tangible benefits over the status quo, from silent anchoring to smoother maneuvering. Here, five yachts charting a course for the future, today.
Sanlorenzo 50 Steel | 164 feet
Reformer fuel-cell technology
Sanlorenzo’s executive chairman, Massimo Perotti, has been so resolute about sustainability that he built the world’s first methanol-powered prototype for himself, as proof of concept. His 50 Steel Almax, a four-year project with Siemens Energy that features a stylish split-level layout and retro-chic interior from Lissoni & Partners, converts green methanol into hydrogen using a device called a Reformer. The resulting hydrogen then feeds the fuel cells, producing enough electricity to power 90 percent of the yacht’s hotel load. The engine-and-generator room occupies about 72 sqm under the aft beach club, while the 118-square-foot fuel-cell cluster is located toward the bow. Perotti sees his boat as a starting point. “Considering the pace of innovation,” he says, “it’s likely that within 10 years, we’ll see the arrival of a 100 percent methanol-powered propulsion system.”
Feadship Project 821 | 390 feet
Hydrogen storage and fuel-cell technology
The largest yacht ever launched in the Netherlands, Feadship Project 821 presents a host of amenities that surpass what’s offered on many other custom gigayachts, including an underwater lounge, a four-story atrium, 14 balconies, a library, a medical center, and a multilevel owner’s deck, all packaged in a strikingly contemporary design. But the true paradigm shift is found in the magnitude and complexity of its new propulsion system. Double-walled cryogenic storage tanks, which maintain 4,400 kilograms of compressed liquid hydrogen at minus 217 degrees celsius, feed 16 fuel cells and electric motors to power all onboard hotel needs. Meanwhile, the exhaust-recovery system heats the vast interior down to the bathroom floors. The vessel is also able to travel at a speed of 10 knots in zero-emissions mode or remain silently operational—without a diesel generator—while at anchor for a week. Of the five-year build, Jan-Bart Verkuyl, CEO of Feadship’s Van Lent yard, says, “Our aim was a new, clean technology—not just for this project, but for the world.”
Azimut Seadeck 7 | 72 feet
Hybrid propulsion
The new Azimut Seadeck 7 showcases Volvo Penta’s latest hybrid system, pairing two IPS 1350 diesels with dual Danfoss 160 kW electric motors and battery banks. The combination of hull shape and hybridization is claimed to deliver a 40 percent reduction in carbon emissions, but, unlike other one-off hybrids, the real breakthrough is the full-system warranty. “IPS [inboard performance system] features such as joystick docking and GPS positioning can now be used in both electric and diesel modes,” says Johan Inden, president of Volvo Penta Marine.
The Seadeck 7 can cruise in electric mode at 11 knots or offer silent anchoring for up to 12 hours. Environmental consciousness was integral to more than just propulsion, as evidenced by the interior carpets made from recycled plastic and the exterior’s cork floors. But according to Giovanna Vitelli, chair of the Azimut-Benetti Group, the boat “is not only about sustainable materials but also a contemporary, minimalist design that will look good in 10 years.”
Vripack Project Zero
Zero-Combustion Engines
In 2019, Dutch design agency Vripack was handed a uniquely challenging brief. It entered into what became an international development team, tasked with designing a head-turning 69m sailing superyacht—with one major catch. It was to be the world’s first non-fossil-fueled superyacht: zero combustion engines, zero emissions, zero vibrations, zero tanks. There would be a final—and crucial—difference to every yacht built before it. Instead of sailing through choppy waters of NDAs, total secrecy and tight schedules, Project Zero would be a 100-percent open-source science project.
By sharing technological achievements and energy data, Project Zero promises to be not just a superyacht, but “an entirely new platform that can power future yachts,” says Vripack’s co-creative director Marnix Hoekstra. “It could bring forward the era of fossil-free cruising by 2 or 3 years because (by accessing the costly R&D gratis) now manufacturers have no excuses.”
The original brief asked for a high-performance ketch with two weeks of luxurious off-grid cruising. In terms of energy consumption, Project Zero had to reinvent the wheel. Power was harvested via solar, wind and—most pivotally—hydrogenation as submerged turbines span through the rushing waves. As battery tech evolved during the six-year project, new possibilities of weight, size and range opened up. As did the internal layout. “We don’t have an engine room anymore but a technical room,” explains Hoekstra. This isn’t an oily, noisy, vibrating inferno, but a smaller clean space that hums with the promise of futuristic cruising. Technically it could be placed anywhere on the yacht. On Project Zero it made sense to tuck this electro-Prometheus underneath the main salon.
Lürssen Project Cosmos
Gigayacht Powered by Fuel Cells
The first Lürssen yacht to use fuel-cell technology is Project Cosmos. Renders of this 374-foot-long explorer style gigayacht may not exist—the image above is the yacht being moved from a nearby shipyard for final fitout, and the inset is a rendering of what the fuel cell might look like. “But you can be assured,” states Lürssen, “The final yacht will look completely different than what you normally expect.” The vessel has been styled inside and out by Marc Newson, the industrial design genius behind the Apple Watch.
Project Cosmos isn’t entirely fossil fuel free. It is a prototype that also has traditional diesel engines. “We are building the first yacht with this technology,” explains Michael Breman, Lürssen’s sales director, “and when you do research, you also have to be prepared to fail.”
The one-megawatt cells still pack an almighty electrical punch. To explain simply: these polymer electrolyte membrane cells, or PEMs, use methanol to split molecules into protons and electrons, creating a constant stream of power. After the expected launch in late 2025, Project Cosmos should be able to stay at anchor for around two weeks, or cruise about 1,000 nautical miles, without using the generators. In other words, emissions-free yachting.
This proof of concept bodes well for future Lürssen launches. “For the same range you need more fuel,” says Breman, “but there is actually less space needed in an engine room.” This is because fuel cells require “no exhaust after treatment, no complex fuel preparation, no complex storage and no soundproof cabin.” That also means more freedom in designing the interior.
It’s one of Australia’s most prestigious clubs, a pillar of society located at one of Sydney’s premier addresses.
But in recent years the Royal Automobile Club of Australia (RACA)—founded in 1903 and located in a grand, eight-storey, state heritage-listed building near Circular Quay—has been quietly idling. Despite its considerable charms and being the spiritual home of motoring in Australia, like many legacy clubs RACA had fallen out of view—a burnished bastion of old-world discretion in a flashy, influencer-led era.
That is, until now. In a move to set hearts—and minds—racing, the RACA has shifted into top gear with approval granted to renovate the sprawling ground floor, once again beckoning discerning guests into one of the city’s best kept secrets.
And in news demonstrating the time-honoured institution has its eyes firmly on the road ahead, RACA has partnered with Citizen Kanebridge, our new private members’ community with a country residence Citizen Kanebridge Lodge in Berrima and ties to RR1 (the global Robb Report Club) on a series of exciting new initiatives.
Key to the collaboration is the unveiling of the exclusive new members’ only destination—the fully refurbished Robb Report Rooftop, accessible to RR1 and RACA members, offering unrivalled views of the harbour. In addition, on ground level, there will be a discreet space for members and guests to relax and interact, with each other and the world’s leading luxury brands, in specially curated experiences.
“The Royal Automobile Club of Australia harks back to an era of prosperity, exclusivity and refinement,” said Horacio Silva, editor-in-chief of Robb Report. “It’s a perfect fit for Robb Report, which is similarly focused on connoisseurship and culture.”
The union, Silva continued, offers his discerning readers the “clubby refinement and august permanence” that they crave, and helps the RACA cultivate a new generation of members. More importantly, he stressed, it is a way for the Club’s members to engage with the ideas and brands that resonate with today’s luxury-conscious voluptuaries.
“Robb Report already works with the world’s top luxury brands to connect with our community in meaningful ways,” said Silva. “The ability to do so in front of such a discerning audience in a magnificent location is powerful. It’s an exciting turning point for Robb Report and the premier club in Australia.”
The partnership with RACA sits under Citizen Kanebridge Club, our new private members’ community with a country residence at Citizen Kanebridge Lodge Southern Highlands and ties to RR1, the global Robb Report Club.
If you’re more interested in the après-ski part of a ski vacation, this list may be worth paying attention to.
Courchevel, the French alpine ski resort, is the most Michelin-starred resort town in the world. That’s according to a new ranking from the international food magazine Chef’s Pencil, which looks at the number and cost of Michelin-starred restaurants at ski destinations around the globe. With seven Michelin-starred spots and 12 Michelin stars in total, Courchevel is the clear leader.
If you’d rather ski in the Swiss Alps, you’d do well to visit either the second or third locales on the list: Saint Moritz and Zermatt both have four Michelin-starred establishments, although Saint Moritz edges out the latter when it comes to total number of stars (six versus four). Switzerland actually rounds out the top five, too, with Bad Ragaz and Andermatt both home to three Michelin-starred restaurants.
When it comes to cost, Saint Moritz slightly edges out Courchevel. The average tasting-menu price in the former is $750, compared with Courchevel’s $700, according to data from Chef’s Pencil. But Courchevel wins out when looking at the most expensive tasting-menu option, with Sylvestre Wahid–Les Grandes Alpes offering a 495 euro ($900) prix fixe. Da Vittorio St. Moritz isn’t too far behind, though—its seven-course white Alba truffle menu costs 460 Swiss francs, or about $1000.
Olivier Chassignole/AFP via Getty Images
In total, Switzerland leads the way when it comes to ski resorts with Michelin-starred restaurants. There, 27 different resort towns boast at least one Michelin star. Italy comes next with 21 starred resorts, then France with 18. Notably, the United States is the only country not in Europe to appear on the Chef’s Pencil list, with Aspen’s Bosq sporting one Michelin star.
To arrive at these figures, Chef’s Pencil looked at both alpine and cross-country ski resorts, along with mountain resorts within 10 miles of major ski areas. The average prices do not include drinks, gratuity, or service charges. And the magazine did exclude Germany’s Baiersbronn ski resort, which has four Michelin-starred restaurants, including two three-starred spots; it was omitted because the ski areas nearby are small and have low elevation, making them incomparable with the other towns on the list.
While the skiing in these places may be superb, it sounds like the restaurants you’ll be dining at after a day on the slopes may be the real highlight.
Most red wine lovers start out the same way. They begin their love affair by admiring with the muscular structure of a Cabernet Sauvignon, then slowly they welcome the bright fruit of a spicy, Shiraz. Over time, as their tastes grow and change they inevitably become drawn to more the subtle qualities of Pinot Noir.
This grape’s irresistible combination of complex cherry and scents of game, or earth make it a world class wine. So much so, that many find high-end, luxury examples of Pinot Noir downright addictive.
Slowly and surely, sophisticates come to appreciate the more subtle fruit on these wines. Pinot-philes start out longing for the nuance of exotic spices, mushroom and forest floor that can be found in its complex profile and from there imbibers develop a deeper interest in the long-ageing quality of Pinot Noir.
They come to respect for the mysteries of its mouth-feel where there is often a stone-like or graphite quality to Pinot’s silky tannins and at the same time something unspeakably feminine. Paired with that its easy to drink, and its more versatile than bigger bolder reds.
But after you’re hooked on Pinot Noir, where to next? Whither shall you wander? If you have already splurged on a case of Felton Road from Central Otago or indulged in some fine Burgundy to age, you might be ready for something new.
After all there’s something refreshing about branching out and finding new pastures to play in. So to capture the same cherry and strawberry fruit, ethereal lightness, and suppleness read ahead for 8 new wine suggestions that will each appeal to a dedicated Pinot Noir-lover. But be warned, once you stray, there may be, no turning back.
2020 Munjabeel VA Nerello Mascalese
If you love good French Burgundy, try this instead. Frank Cornelissen is an Austrian winemaker who makes wine in the North Valley on Etna, Sicily. Etna’s primary varietal Nerello Mascalese is marvellous in the hands of this maker who really looks to the volcanic soil here to deliver wines of incredible complexity and distinction. Nerello Mascalesesits somewhere a Pinot Noir and Nebbiolo; Think complex, light bodied, with lush fruit and expression of terroir. Munjebeel; around $290; Sometimes Always
2022 Morgon Côte du Puy
A two year old Beaujolais with lots of lovely character, this is a light, mouth filling wine that will please even the fussiest drinkers. A benchmark maker from Beaujolais Jean Foillard has a cult following for producing wines of texture and clarity. Here you will find fine tannins and group combined with lush, lightly layered fruit. $95; A Different Drop
2012 Vietti ‘Barolo’ Villero
If you haven’t started drinking Nebbiolo, it’s the natural next step on from excellent Pinot Noir. On this wine your can find dried cherries, tar and pomegranate, with notes of rose petals, citrus and a few floral or lilac-like undertones. Still this isn’t all perfumed fruit on display, it has great structure, chunky tannins and a tobacco-accented finish. 2012 Vietti Barolo Villero; $950 Prince Wine Store
Graci Etna Rosso
Graci’s Etna Rosso is a go-to, never fail wine for social occasions. Like Pinot Noir it is medium bodied and is also made from the delicious Italian variety Nerello Mascalese. Like all Sicilian wines it goes terrifically well with the Mediterranean foods we all the time like pasta, pizza and cheese. It comes from grapes grown on the sandy volcanic soils in Passopisciaro, which is also —surprise, surprise— found on the Northside of Etna in Sicily. This wine has a lovely fruit profile full of red fruits and herbs, but it is also very well-structured and offers a persistent finish. Hold back the Pinot Noir for once and treat your guests to some Sicilian wine. Around $50; Vintagecellars
Vietti Langhe Nebbiolo Perbacco
Popping over to someone’s place for dinner? Need a barbecue wine that will impress? Try this Langhe Nebbiolo which is great with lamb, T-bones, Tomahawks and more subtle vegetable dishes even like char-grilled vegetables or ratatouille. This premium maker in Castiglione Falletto offers 100% Nebbiolo of great consistency. It has a lifted perfume, and a really light -that belies its delightful complexity. It’s essentially a Barolo without the eye watering price-tag. You’ll find something familiar in the generous dark-fruits with spice and leather coupled with a really great structure. Around $60-70; Best Cellars
Mammolo by Koerner
If you love Australian red but don’t fancy the big fruity, rich, and oak driven styles of shiraz and cabernet anymore it might be time to catch up on the output of modern wine makers like Koerner in the Clare Valley. This wine, like Pinot Noir can be drunk on its own but is also a perfect accompaniment to food. Rarely seen as a single variety, Mammolo Sciacarello is another excellent Italian grape that can stretch in all directions. The flavour profile is light, bright, aromatic and spicy but also super juicy. This sells out quickly so make a note to register for indent next time they make it. Around $50; Koerner
2023 COS Frappato
Think Pinot Noir with a Sicilian wildcat attitude. This Frappato is a native Italian variety comes from 15 year old vines grown in South Eastern Sicily. The nose of this wine is deceptively floral, but the palate is equal parts smoke, fruit, and stone. A little closer to a Nebbiolo that an Pinot Noir this wine well worth trying as a light summer red that offers lovely complexity. $60.00; A Different Drop
2022 Jane Eyre Fleurie
If you love Pinot Noir, then a natural next step is Gamay. Gamay is the brilliant drink now grape that forms world famous Beaujolais. Fleurie is a sub region of Beaujolais, and it’s really a short hand way of describing a style that’s light fruity and fresh. This 2022 Jane Eyre Fleurieis an intoxicating mix of crimson and purple in the glass, with a light and fresh front palate that has more substantial fruit hiding behind a big bouquet of strawberries. Think white pepper layered over cherry with a good sound structure. Around $67; Fiveways Cellars
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can Pinot Noir age?
The Grands Crus Pinot Noir made from the Côte d’Or, in the heartland of Burgundy produce arguable some of the best wine in the world. These wines have made Pinot Noir a wine makers Holy Gail, a template for brilliance, long ageing, mouthfeel and magnificent fruit.
What is Pinot Noir know for?
Pinot Noir is widely known as the fashionable, cool climate varietal made famous by its expression in the region of Burgundy in France. Pinot Noir is known for being thin-skinned and difficult to grow. It impresses most when farmed in low yields and at best can reveal a textured, interesting and sexy expression of both the fruit and terroir. However when poorly farmed from the wrong regions it results in vapid, flabby wines with little structure and not fruit definition. This is why it pays never to drink low cost Pinot Noir. Look for cool climate expressions with a high price point.
Why is Pinot Noir more expensive than other varietals?
Pinot Noir is always more expensive than other single varietals because it is notoriously fickle and difficult to cultivate. Being a very thin-skinned grape, it is sensitive to both winter frost, botrytis, bunch rot, and to downy and powdery mildew that occurs in wet growing seasons.In Australia Pinot Noir is the fourth largest red variety, but accounts for less than 3 per cent of the national crush due to tricky growing. It produces the best results in temperate climates, when yields are kept very low and in Australia it does best in cool climate regions where vineyards benefit from the impact of maritime breezes or higher altitude.
What are Australia’s best regions for Pinot Noir?
Tasmania, Yarra Valley and the Adelaide Hills are the best places to source Pinot Noir. The Central Otago and Martinborough in New Zealand also make excellent Pinot Noir.
What are the most popular styles using Pinot Noir?
The best part of Pinot Noir is it transparent nature. It has an ability to communicate terroir, or the subtle differences in the grape-growing environment. Even close adjacent plots in a vineyard may show the different impacts of a micro climate. For example wines grown in Les Amoureuses vineyard in the village of Chambolle, taste distinct from the majestic Le Musigny next door. This expression also extends to how Pinot Noir is used as one off the main grapes in Champagne where roughly a third of the region is planted to Pinot Noir.
As Australia’s premier private members’ club, with locations in Circular Quay and the Southern Highlands of New South Wales, Citizen Kanebridge is an exclusive professional and lifestyle community tailored for today’s captains of industry.
More than just a club, Citizen Kanebridge—brought to you by Kanebridge Media, the publishers of Robb Report ANZ—delivers access to the inaccessible through life-enhancing experiences, from world-class events to investment seminars and opportunities.
Other membership benefits include a health concierge and reciprocal access to more than 250 of the world’s finest clubs.
We’ve been working hard to create an exceptional calendar of events designed to connect and excite our members. With the transformation of the Vault House in Berrima into Citizen Kanebridge Lodge, coupled with the Robb Report Rooftop and Members Lounge at the prestigious Royal Automobile Club of Australia, we’re excited to introduce a refined experience, tailored to your needs.
Our lead off event programme offers something for everyone and includes the following:
Citizen Kanebridge Golf Open, February 21
Tee off at Mount Broughton Golf Course on February 21st, from 8 am. All food and drinks are included, followed by an exclusive dinner and after-party at Citizen Kanebridge Lodge.
Sydney Harbour Concours d’Elegance, February 28 – March 2, 2025
Immerse yourself in automotive excellence at the Sydney Harbour Concours d’Elegance on Cockatoo Island. On Sunday, 2nd March, Citizen Kanebridge members are invited to an exclusive gathering set against the stunning backdrop of Sydney Harbour.
Prepare for an extraordinary showcase of luxury vehicles and a series of unforgettable experiences and activations.
Citizen Kanebridge Private Event
Members Only
Sunday, 2nd March 2025
Singapore & Maldives Getaway, February 26 – March 5, 2025
Start your adventure in the vibrant city of Singapore, where dazzling lights and exquisite cuisine await. Next, escape to the serenity of the Conrad Maldives, a true island paradise where you’ll enjoy unique experiences like dining in the world’s first underwater restaurant.
This 9-night experience has it all, from relaxing signature hammam spa treatments to secret tours of historical cities.
Itinerary: Marrakech > Taghazout > Rabat > Tangier
Accommodations: Fairmont Hotels
Group: 16 members + an RR1 Host
Join us for an exclusive VVIP experience at Watches & Wonders Geneva, limited to just 8 members. The 5-night itinerary includes a private guided tour of the Patek Philippe Museum, a potential manufacturer’s tour of their expanded facilities, and exclusive activations with top watch brands such as Audemars Piguet, Breguet, FP Journe, Vacheron Constantin, A. Lange & Söhne, Parmigiani, Panerai, Van Cleef & Arpels, and MB&F.
The best menswear collaborations are often unexpected, blending a synergy and dichotomy that, somehow, simply work. While collabs can be hit or miss—some feel forced, others fantastic—the best ones retain each party’s authenticity and bring out their unique strengths.
That’s precisely what menswear creative and designer Aaron Levine and British luxury brand Drake’s have achieved with a brand-new, very limited capsule. Drake’s by Aaron Levine combines Aaron’s edgy, Americana-inspired, vintage aesthetic with Drake’s regal British heritage trad style, resulting in garments that are equal parts refined, rugged, and rakish. Designed for travel, the collection features Drake’s top-notch textiles and garments, while the silhouettes, hues, and prints bear Aaron’s unmistakable signature.
Drake’s hardly needs an introduction. The premium British heritage brand masterfully melds traditional aesthetics with luxury textiles, revitalising classic style with a modern, wearable twist. Since 1977, this luxury label has built a loyal following in the U.S. with iconic pieces like printed scarves (often featuring archival nature motifs), tweed blazers, exceptional outerwear, wool flannel trousers, rich velvets, plush moleskin, and luxurious corduroy. Renowned for craftsmanship and heritage, Drake’s garments transition effortlessly between formal and casual settings, capturing elevated British luxury tailored for today.
Then there’s Aaron Levine—one of the most respected and genuine figures in menswear, with a resume to match. When I worked at Esquire, Aaron would politely ask to dig through our archives for inspiration and research for his designs at Abercrombie & Fitch. His dedication was unmatched; he respects the history of menswear and understands much of it is often rooted in military origins. I still proudly wear my Abercrombie military green parka, one of his designs that feels as relevant today as it will a century from now. Aaron helped revive the brand, creating pieces guys wanted to wear. So, when he became the lead designer at Madewell, it was no surprise those garments would be equally as understatedly cool. His work there produced edgy staples and foundational garments that felt both current and timeless—like the popular ’90s jeans’, chunky cable knits, and cardigans, all inspired by archival designs.
Aaron has a rare talent for crafting clothes that make you feel instantly cooler, blending a contemporary edge with a nod to the past, so this limited capsule collection with Drake’s inherently feels like a natural fit. Both Aaron and the British luxury label share a deep reverence for heritage, history, and authenticity—qualities that make this collaboration both intentional and distinct. Aaron’s moody, effortlessly cool “I woke up like this” vibe, paired with Drake’s refined British aesthetic, produces a collection that’s as unique as it is wearable.
Levine sporting his Drake’s collection. Drake’s
This limited-edition capsule collection is crafted for life on the go, fitting if you follow Mr. Levine and his trademark airport selfies. Featuring a refined palette focussed on black (a rarity for Drake’s), Aaron collaborated closely with Creative Director Michael Hill, exploring the Drake’s archives and incorporating a few of his own favourite vintage influences. The result is a 20-piece collection designed with versatility in mind, covering all the essentials for a few days of travel: a suit and tie for meetings or dinners, rugged denim, a weather-ready jacket for exploring the city, and a cotton jersey, a cap, and comfortable shirts for time spent in airports and hotel lobbies.
Standout pieces in this collection include a washed black MKII Games suit in heavyweight cotton, Goodyear-welted Charles loafers in soft black suede, a waxed cotton canvas trucker jacket, black Japanese denim, and both a classic poplin and a relaxed brushed cotton plaid work shirt, all crafted in Drake’s Somerset factory.
Aaron adds a unique twist to Drake’s classic prints with scarves featuring motifs like Genghis Khan’s horse riders and retro playing cards—a bold, eclectic aesthetic that complements the darker colour palette. A printed white T-shirt with an illustration of a bucket-hat-wearing guy on the phone has a Parisian flair, while the navy tonal rugby exudes cool, traditional style. Each piece merges Aaron’s edgy vibe with Drake’s heritage craftsmanship, offering a collection for those who value style that’s refined and functional.
Aaron and Michael chatted with Robb Report about how this collaboration came to life, their mutual admiration, a few cultural reflections, and some personal favourite pieces from the capsule.
Please Tell us briefly how this collaboration came about.
Aaron: We had been talking about doing something together for a bit as we had done a shoot or two together. At one point, I met the team at Corner Bistro in the village for a burger, and things started to really click. We bonded and came out of that with a renewed vigor to make something happen.
Michael: Like any good collaboration, things happened organically over a few beers and a burger at Corner Bistro.
Aaron, please tell us a little about your history with Drake’s.
Aaron: I love that team. They are such great people. I think they make beautiful things, and I have wanted the opportunity to work with them for a long time. I’ve admired them for years. To be able to work with them is amazing.
What did you want to bring to this collab that was distinctly yours?
Aaron: It sounds silly. I was just like, “black”. I wanted to bring a little black sheep to Drake’s.
Michael, what do you think Aaron brings to this collection that makes it unique?
Michael: I think Aaron’s innate ability to mix different influences and create a sense of purposeful discord sits nicely with our aesthetic – we design our clothing to harmonise, and some of his ideas have taken that idea and run with it in a way we wouldn’t normally have thought. It is certainly a fresh take, but respectful of the way we like to do things.
Aaron, what did you want to retain of Drake’s DNA?
Aaron: Oh, everything. They do such a wonderful job. I didn’t want to mess with their brand at all. I wanted to bring a little bit of punk to it—Drakes, but darker.
Your elevator selfies have become an Instagram trademark. Is that why travel was so important to this collection?
Aaron: When I travel, I often do multiple things. I’m in the city, I’m in the country, and I’m with friends hanging out in the evening. I wanted to be able to work with them on putting a small collection together that could get someone through five days away, no matter the scenario.
Michael, please tell us what you admire about Aaron’s designs and his approach.
Michael: Aaron’s passion for design borders on obsession, but there’s also a discipline there. You can tell he designs clothing not just with a concept in mind but with the intention of wearing it himself, and at that, wearing it into the ground to boot.
I love that you went a bit edgier and darker with the palette here, as Drake’s is often known for its more jewel tones and neutrals. Tell us why you went a bit moodier here.
Aaron: Out of step. Ghost in the machine. Bee in the bonnet. I like pushing a bit, and I’m just grateful they were into it.
Is this the highest-priced (premium) line you’ve collaborated with? And how did that affect your approach?
Aaron: I’ve worked with many premium brands in the past. My approach doesn’t change with price. It’s the bones that matter. Does this feel emotional? Does it offer something new to the customer? Is it potentially a new customer? Does it feel right? Regardless of price, the priority is tapping into the awesome. Does this feel good?
Michael, were there any guidelines you had for Aaron, or was it carte blanche? Did Drake’s have any input on the designs?
Michael: We essentially opened our entire design archive to Aaron, and together, we sat and went through it until we came across a certain piece that sparked a conversation between us. When we had that, we knew we were on to a winner.
This was a wholly collaborative effort from initial conception to the final fit sessions. Seeing the process through a new perspective is always refreshing, and Aaron is a very capable pair of hands.
Drake’s started as a tie brand. Tie sales are up nearly 30%. Do you have any predictions for a return to the classics and any thoughts on the current state of neckwear?
Aaron: We don’t have a crystal ball, and I don’t really want one, frankly. The general consensus is that there’s a bunch of “stuff” fatigue. The adage of less but better is thrown around a lot.
The reality is that different people want different things, and it’s important to keep evolving. Nothing is static. As a customer myself, I know that when brands move away from things that I love buying from them, it’s frustrating. There’s a lot of fine-tuning involved.
I love classics, but I don’t think the word “classic” means we have to regress and dip into what once was verbatim. Everything naturally moves forward, around, up, or down. I enjoy tapping into things that came before and just shaking them up a bit.
Both, what are your favorite garments from the collection, and why?
Aaron: I love our shorter waxed jacket. It’s super versatile and functional, and I think it looks great on everyone who wears it.
Michael: My favorite piece has to be the D-77 parka. We’ve only done it once before, and I still wear mine on rainy days.
Drake’s is known for its heritage and does not often collaborate. Would this appeal to your core base and bring in a new clientele?
Michael: I think it will appeal to new and existing customers alike. The palette is a step-out for us, so it will be interesting to see how it resonates.
We are always scouring the web for the most amazing watches currently available, and each Friday Shopping Time shares five standout timepieces with you.
It’s a mouthful: integrated-bracelet sports watch. But it’s also what one says when talking about what has inarguably been the hottest category of wristwatch for the past seven or eight years. In fact, data shows us that the integrated-bracelet sports watch has gained as much as 300 percent in value over the past two decades, with prices peaking during the pandemic and only softening in the past couple of years. We’ve considered a few of these watches in particular here in our Collecting Time column, like the Patek Philippe Nautilus, the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak and even the Royal Oak Offshore.
What we haven’t covered, however, are the wonderful offerings from Vacheron Constantin, especially the revered 222, and the Chopard Alpine Eagle, which is one of those unsung watches that, once it’s on your wrist, has you singing its praises.
Right now isn’t a bad time to be buying, largely due the aforementioned softening of prices. We’ve curated five of the very best integrate-bracelet sport watches available on the market right now. Let’s dig in.
Vacheron Constantin Les Historiques 222 in Yellow Gold | Price Upon Request
In 2022, Vacheron Constantin stunned fans with the release of a new 222 in Les Historiques form. The full yellow gold execution beautifully recalled the original design language penned by Jorg Hysek in 1977. While much of the charm and form was retained, Vacheron opted to use their own caliber 2455/2 (rather than the ultra-thin JLC based calibre 920), increasing the thickness by around a millimetre. Still, a slightly more robust watch measuring 37mm x 7.95mm is nothing to scoff at. Vacheron nailed the small details with this release, from the fit and finish of each integrated link, to the luxurious dial making for a monotone appearance. The only question was whether or not we’d see it return in steel, which it officially did this week. Still, the full gold option is as compelling as ever.
This example of the Vacheron Constantin Les Historiques 222 comes to us from Analog Shift, where it appears to be in virtually unworn condition. With the market status of the new steel example as yet unknown, the full gold variation has made its mark, and this is about as nice of an example as you’re likely to come across. In many years time, the full gold 222 will likely remain the benchmark.
Audemars Piguet Royal Oak 5402 A Series | $191,649
Naturally, we can discuss integrated bracelet sport watches without referencing the original from 1972, the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak reference 5402 designed by Gerald Genta. The Royal Oak was something of a revelation, and while it may have taken some time to fully catch on, it would go on to do just that. The earliest examples of the 5402 are denoted by the ‘A’ on their caseback, and they are easy to identify thanks to the placement of the ‘AP’ at six o’clock on the dial. This was (and is) a wonder of craftsmanship thanks to the beautifully designed and produced integrated bracelet by Gay Freres. It’s a watch that simply melts on the wrist, and it remains even more influential today.
This remarkable 5402 A series is available from Wind Vintage, and the case and bracelet appear to be un polished, with original age marks throughout. This feels like a well-loved and respected time capsule, and represents an increasingly rare opportunity to own a piece of history. Even setting aside the considerable lore around this watch, you’re left with a truly joyous experience on the wrist, transcending its hype cycles by an order of magnitude.
Patek Philippe Nautilus ref. 3800 | $125,619
It’s difficult to articulate just why some of these integrated bracelet sport watches work so well in full monotone gold precious metal configurations. But they do. The other member of the original integrated sport watches, also designed by Gerald Genta, is of course the Nautilus. The reference 3800 is the second execution, which brought a new, smaller size to the table in an effort to reach a broader audience. It may not get the spotlight that the original 3700 gets, but you could easily argue it’s just as good. Especially taken in full 18k yellow gold with a champagne dial. It’s about as charming as you’ll find within the Nautilus family, and the smaller 37.5 mm case tucks in all the neater in use.
This Nautilus reference 3800 comes to us from The Keystone, and hails from the year 1983. Overall condition is listed as excellent, with an extract from the Patek Philippe archives thrown in for good measure. This is an interesting example of a historically significant watch that comes from an unexpected place, and that makes it all the better in my book.
Chopard Alpine Eagle XPS | $34,625
History is rife with all manner of interesting integrated sport watch designs, and some come from brands you might not expect. Such is the case with the Chopard Alpine Eagle, a modern integrated bracelet sport watch based on an original design from 1980 called the St. Moritz. The design came from the brand’s own proprietor, Karl-Friederich Scheufele as he was entering the family business. This watch stood apart from its unusual bezel design, a feature retained in the modern Alpine Eagle, though it’s been smoothed out a bit to better align with modern tastes. What makes the Alpine Eagle so compelling is Chopard’s use of dial textures and colours, as well as their willingness to tap into their movement innovation.
That’s exactly what we find here with the XPS Alpine Eagle that showcases a brilliant salmon color dial with a spiral design that evokes the interior of an Eagle’s eye, naturally. While this model clocks in at a healthy 41 mm, it’s also a mere 8 mm in thickness, making for a surprisingly pleasant experience on the wrist. This example, from the European Watch Company, is listed in like new condition, and comes as a full kit. It’s an impressive, and unexpected entry to the list that deserves a second look.
Vacheron Constantin 222 Two-Toned | $23,850
Finally, we’re closing with another Vacheron Constantin 222, this one from the mid ‘80s representing a rarely seen side of the watch’s history. This is a mid-sized 222 that measures 34mm in diameter, and most importantly, gets a two-toned case consisting of steel and yellow gold. This configuration is controversial, but due to the design of the 222’s bracelet, it stands apart as an utterly unique take on the concept. This also means it can be had for a far more reasonable sum, and just as importantly, you’re unlikely to come across another at your local meetup.
This 222 comes to us from Tropical Watch, and features a beautifully preserved case with sharp lines and chamfers intact. If you love the idea of a 222 but want to get off the beaten path a bit, this is the watch for you. This watch comes with a VC leather box, and a bracelet that will fit up a 6.9 inch wrist.
Picture this. You’re sitting at the Sky Bar on the Scenic Eclipse II. It’s freezing outside, but you’re warm and dry, sipping a delicious glass of pinot noir as you watch a colony of penguins play on the ice sheet. Is this a dream? Or just another incredible moment from the 6-star ultra-luxury discovery yacht Scenic Eclipse?
It may sound too good to be true, but Scenic has over-engineered their two major Polar ocean-going vessels (Scenic Eclipse & Scenic Eclipse II) to offer up mind-blowing opportunities to connect to untouched nature. While the White Continent continues to hold pride of place on most people’s bucket list, few will ever experience it in such refined style.
Scenic Eclipse Helicopter, Antarctica
With just 200 guests on board in Antarctica for more landing opportunities, Scenic has decked out their vessels out with 6-star hotel facilities, and equipped them with luxury tech toys to satisfy even the most restless traveller.
They offer an impressive close to one-to-one staff-to-guest ratio, up to 10 dining experiences , as well as two state-of-the-art on board helicopters^, Zodiacs and a custom-built submersible^ for further discovery in the destination. Paddle boards and kayaks are deployed regularly (conditions permitting), and guests are provided with polar boots for land-based snow treks.
This is not a floating hotel but a discovery yacht for the discerning traveller. Daily plans are shaped around the weather and sea conditions. A typical day can include a leisurely breakfast and visit to the 550sqm Senses Spa#, morning and afternoon discovery excursions, lunch in your venue of choice or in your suite, and a delicious on board culinary experience for dinner before heading to your spacious suite with verandah to unwind.
Scenic Neptune II
When not out with the expert polar Discovery Team relax in the Observation Lounge or indulge in a sauna and massage in the 550sqm Senses Spa# wellness retreat. For your daily entertainment there are whales, penguins, orcas and seals to observe and document.
The two major trips that depart for East Antarctica from our part of the world in the next several months are Mawson’s Antarctica: Along the East Coast, which leaves from Queenstown, New Zealand in December and Antarctica’s Ross Sea: Majestic Ice & Wildlife which leaves from Dunedin in January 2025.
The first itinerary celebrates one of Australia’s national heroes, Sir Douglas Mawson, who occupies a place on the $100 note. This itinerary allows guests to follow in the footsteps of this intrepid explorer, retracing his travels across the continent in the name of scientific research. The trip takes in remote bays and ravishing coves, placing guest in breathtaking landscapes where wildlife reigns supreme.
Led by the expert polar Discovery Team, guests can also opt to dive below the depths of the polar waters in the custom-designed submersible Scenic Neptune II, or take to the skies in the two on board state-of-the-art helicopters (for an additional cost). Guest on this voyage will enjoy a heli-shuttle directly from the discovery yacht to view the remains of Mawson’s Hut. The Mawson 25-day all-inclusive itinerary departs from near Queenstown to Hobart on 15 December 2024 and 13 December 2025 and is priced from $39,270pp* with savings of $13,000pp* and a 50% off the Deluxe Verandah Suite upgrade.
The Antarctica’s Ross Sea: Majestic Ice & Wildlife is voyage of a similar length, 24 days, but here the journey has a very end-of-the-earth feel to it. Striking ice landscapes offer vistas of gem-like glaciers, views to towering icebergs and jagged mountain ranges that form the backdrop to epic wildlife displays.
For nature lovers, the Ross Sea represents a holy grail, one that’s absolutely teeming with whales, orcas, penguins, seals and migratory seabirds. Day trips and land excursions here are all crafted in response to weather, by the expert polar Discovery Team and Captain who know the terrain.
These are side trips and excursions that are well designed to take advantage of the close access to truly life changing experiences and each one is a show-stopper.
Once again guests can opt to book the helicopter^ excursion for an extra cost to fly off and land in the McMurdo Dry Valleys, a place like no where else on earth where the snow is void or take a dive in the submersible^ to see what lies beneath.
This all-inclusive ultra-luxury, 24-day itinerary, departs from Dunedin, New Zealand on 31 January 2025 and 29 January 2026 and the voyage starts from $38,970pp* with savings of $13,000pp* and a 50% off the Deluxe Verandah Suite upgrade .
^Flights on board our two helicopters and submersible experiences are at additional cost, subject to regulatory approval, availability, weight restrictions, medical approval and weather, ice and tidal conditions.
#Spa treatments at additional cost.
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The Best Room
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If you love Pinot Noir, then a natural next step is Gamay. Gamay is the brilliant drink now grape that forms world famous Beaujolais. Fleurie is a sub region of Beaujolais, and it’s really a short hand way of describing a style that’s light fruity and fresh. This 2022 Jane Eyre Fleurie
