OMEGA Debuts 13 New Timepieces

Including a heady slew of new Seamasters.

By Paige Reddinger 24/03/2021

Omega just launched a slew of new watches to kick off 2021 and not a single Speedmaster was in the lineup. Why? CEO Raynauld Aeschlimann told select journalists in a press conference Tuesday that the brand wanted to highlight its big new Snoopy release as a single drop earlier in January. But stay tuned: the Swiss watch company is expected to release more new timepieces later this year.

While it might be putting the brakes on its speediest market crusher, Omega still had a few noteworthy releases that should pique collectors’ interests. The highlights were mostly in the Seamaster collection with an interesting Seamaster 300 in a new bronze-gold alloy that was two years in the making, and a sleek all-black Seamaster 300M diver.

But the product wasn’t the only fresh news the brand was delivering. The company also announced that all of its watches will be Master Chronometer Certified going forward, with completion of the process expected to reach every corner of its merchandise by 2022. The certification is an in-house quality-control procedure requiring a series of eight tests for waterproof function, resistance to magnetic fields up to 15,000 gausses and precision, to name a few. The movements are still certified by the Swiss standard COSC procedure, but afterward, the cased and finalized product is put through the in-house process and ultimately approved by the Swiss government-controlled METAS agency (or the Federal Institute of Metrology in English).

Aeschlimann says most clients don’t necessarily know everything about the process, but the brand feels it’s an important matter of transparency for those that do. “I think transparency is one of the key issues of today’s new generation,” he told Robb Report. “They want to know, because everything is transparent today on the internet. We don’t really expect people to know [about it], but in our stores and in our communication we very much insist on this because we want to tell the client, ‘Listen, look at what we have done for you.’” He also expects it to raise quality standards in the industry as a whole and act as a distinguishing factor for the brand.

But in the end, the product speaks for itself. Here are 13 new watches you might consider putting to the test.

Seamaster 300

Omega Seamaster 300 Watches

Omega Seamaster 300 Watches Courtesy of Omega

The Seamaster 300 has been a brand pillar since it was introduced in 1957 during an era when recreational diving was becoming increasingly popular. Fast forward 64 years and many of the original elements are just as stylish today as they were in their infancy. The latest editions tip their hat to the earliest models with vintage-style open Arabic numerals, which first appeared in the ’60s. And a small but charming retro detail is the reintroduction of the lollipop design from 1959 on the central-seconds hand on the stainless-steel editions.

Unlike previous iterations, however, are the new sandwich dials which include a base layer of Super-LumiNova (albeit of the vintage variety) and a second plate over the top with hollowed recesses for the hour markers and numerals. The new 41 mm pieces are also slimmer than more recent editions at 14.4 mm tall. Using domed sapphire crystal glass—a popular construction of the past that was used as the solution to withstand water pressure at profound depths—made this possible. Despite a slim profile, the dial opening has been enlarged to 30.4 mm from 29.5 mm by decreasing the width of the case body and the bezel ring so that the new lineup of Seamaster 300s look larger on the wrist than the previous generation, despite the fact that the 41 mm diameter remains the same.

The stainless-steel bracelets have also been updated, and now measure 21 mm between the lugs tapering to a thinner 16 mm for the polished and brushed clasp, with new finishes inspired by early models. With leather straps, it will set you back $9,425; on-bracelet versions will go for $9,900.

Highlight: The showpiece, which comes with an arrow-tipped central seconds hand instead of a lollipop, is the new bronze-gold cased version (pictured above left). In a nod to old diving helmets, for which the moveable features were made of bronze due to its resistance to saltwater corrosion, Omega created a new bronze alloy that combines 50 per cent copper, more than 37.5 per cent 9-carat gold and touches of silver, gallium and palladium. (It’s said to be inspired by ancient Corinthian bronze, which used a similar combination of materials to help prevent discolouration). The material, which has a patent pending and was over two years in the making, was created so that it could be worn directly on the skin without oxidizing and excreting toxic material. But it’s also claimed to age slower, retaining its natural patina for longer. While bronze watches are typically revered and collected because they develop a patina, Omega is confident collectors will be drawn to this alloy’s slower fade and unique hue that is less matte without the greenish undertones typical to standard uses of the alloy. It retails for $17,675, and while it is only available on a strap for now, Omega says it may produce a bronze-gold bracelet in the future.

Seamaster Diver 300M Black Black

Omega Seamaster Diver 300M Black Black

Omega Seamaster Diver 300M Black Black Courtesy of Omega

A new watch for a new wave. While the Seamaster Diver 300M Black Black is likely meant to capture the street-savvy clientele that hits up Mad Paris and Bamford Watch Department for blacked-out customizations, it raises the obvious question: How do you read the time? And, more importantly, how do you read the time in the murky depths of a dive mission? The good news is that its black PVD indexes, skeleton hands and dot at 12 o’clock all glow in the dark in different shades to help distinguish the markings. During the day, the anthracite turns them a dark grey to contrast against the noir backdrop.

However, we suspect most clients will be rocking this for style more often on land than under the sea, so its fortunate that the design is something to behold. The 43.5mm by 14.47 mm diver ($13,200) comes in a polished-brushed black ceramic case complete with a black ceramic crown and helium escape valve on a rubber strap. And, for the first time, Omega laser-ablated the unidirectional bezel, diving scale and dial for a design created in positive relief from a single piece for extra dimension. The caseback, also in black ceramic, features a view of the brand’s patented Naiad Lock system with a wave-edged design. You can also see Omega’s Co-Axial Master Chronometer Calibre 8806, which offers 55 hours of power reserve.

De Ville Trésor Power Reserve

Omega Deville Trésor Power Reserve Watches

Omega De Ville Trésor Power Reserve Watches Courtesy of Omega

Let’s not forget that Omega, despite being known for its sports watches, can make one hell of an elegant dress watch too. Two new editions to the De Ville Trésor collection present compelling examples of its design prowess in the arena. An 18-carat yellow gold model with a white dial on a grey leather strap comes with a domed sapphire crystal highlighting polished 18-carat yellow gold hands and applied domed indexes with a view of the 72-hour power reserve and small-second subdials ($26,650). The burgundy dial version, also with domed sapphire crystal, comes in the company’s proprietary 18-carat Sedna gold with a matching strap and one subdial for the small seconds at 6 o’clock ($25,750). In both cases, the subdials are new and each is equipped with a manual-winding Omega Co-Axial Master Chronometer Caliber. More additions to the collection are expected later this year.

The burgundy version is the standout with its striking combination of a rich wine hue paired with warm Sedna gold (Omega’s version of red gold). When the occasion arises for suiting up again, this will look sharp peaking out from under a light-blue-shirt-and-navy-suit combination, and should be reason enough to open your vault and your cellar.

Constellation Small Seconds

Omega Constellations Small Seconds Watches

Omega Constellations Small Seconds Watches Courtesy of Omega

For women, the stars aligned to deliver four new models in the Constellation collection. Although the line was born in 1952, it gained solid ground with the introduction of its claws and half-moon facets in the early ’80s, and given the resurgence of the era in ready-to-wear it seems poised for a comeback. The big news here is the inclusion of a 34 mm case size and striking new dials in peacock blue on a stainless steel bracelet ($11,500), caramel on an 18-carat Sedna gold and stainless steel bracelet ($16,675), mother-of-pearl on a pink leather strap (price to be confirmed) and burgundy ($54,450 on an 18-carat Sedna gold bracelet or $34,825 on a burgundy leather strap). Each comes with diamonds either on both the dial and bezel or just the dial. Another 2021 addition: minute diamonds placed around the small-second subdial markers and, in the case of the models with diamond bezels the subdial also comes encircled in larger diamonds. Rings have also been added on the subdials and the central minute track (the burgundy dial comes with full diamonds on the ring).

The must-have is the 18-carat Sedna gold bracelet version with the burgundy dial and extra sparkle of diamonds. Gold is all the rage in women’s jewellery and the dial adds extra punch.

Seamaster Aqua Terra

Omega Seamaster Aquaterra Watches

Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra Watches Courtesy of Omega

Like the new Constellation models, the Aqua Terra offering for women also comes in a new 34mm size (with a thickness of 11.8 mm) and is offered in either stainless steel on a leather strap (24,100) or on an 18-carat Sedna gold and stainless-steel two-tone bracelet ($31,275). But the marquee feature is the dials, which are encrusted with round diamonds on the bezel and either 11 marquise-cut diamonds or rubies for the hour markers. The gems accent new wave-embossed dials in either a saccharine cotton-candy pink, for the rubies, or a champagne hue, for the white diamonds. And while some women might appreciate the useful date window at 6 o’clock, it feels like a rather sporty touch for such dressy gem-set offerings. However, going the extra mile for its female clientele, Omega offers a view of the Co-Axial Master Chronometer Caliber 8800 through the sapphire crystal, for those who appreciate a view of the mechanics in addition to the sparkle of the gems.

Highlight: While the pink dial with rubies on a raspberry leather strap is striking, the more elegant option is the Champagne-colored dial with white diamonds on a taupe leather strap. It’s more versatile, sophisticated and understated without forgoing a touch of glamour.

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Escape from the Ordinary

Ponant, the luxury cruise line known for its meticulously planned itineraries and high-end service, ups the ante on their upcoming European Journeys that promise an unrivalled exploration of the Mediterranean.

By Robb Report Team 19/02/2024

Not all cruises are created equally. Ponant, the luxury cruise line known for its meticulously planned itineraries and high-end service, ups the ante on their upcoming European Journeys that promise an unrivalled exploration of the Mediterranean. From the stunning Amalfi Coast to the pristine Greek Islands, the narrow Corinth Canal to the picturesque Dalmatian coast, historic Istanbul and beguiling Malaga, each destination is a unique adventure waiting to be unravelled. With Ponant, these aren’t just locations on a map; they’re experiences that come alive with the intimate knowledge and insight that their expert guides provide.

Ponant’s luxury cruises are renowned for their individuality, with no two journeys the same. This is not by chance. Itineraries are scrupulously designed to ensure that each passenger is left with a feeling of having embarked on a journey unlike any other.

Athens-Venise. Photograph by N.Matheus. ©PONANT

In 2025, their fleet will set sail for a combined 56 departures from March to October, exploring the dreamy locales of Greece and the Greek Islands, Malta, Italy (including Venice and Sicily), Croatia, France, Turkey, Spain and Portugal. These European Journeys offer an intimate encounter with the Mediterranean, its people and culture. As you cruise in luxury, you’ll dive deep into the heart of each destination, exploring historic sites, engaging with locals, sampling scrumptious cuisine and soaking in the vibrant atmospheres.

The company’s small, sustainable ships, which can accommodate from as few as 32 to 264 guests, have the exclusive ability to sail into ports inaccessible to larger cruise liners, affording privileged entry into some of the world’s most treasured alcoves. Picture sailing under London’s iconic Tower Bridge, crossing the Corinth Canal, or disembarking directly onto the sidewalk during ports of call in culturally rich cities like Lisbon, Barcelona, Nice and Venice, among others.

Photo by Tamar Sarkissian. ©PONANT

This singular closeness is further enriched by destination experts who unravel the tapestry of each locale’s history and traditions.

Onboard their luxurious ships, every guest is a VIP and treated to refined service and amenities akin to sailing on a private yacht. Whether at sea or ashore, their destination experts guarantee a fascinating experience, immersing you in the rich cultural and historical diversity of each region.

Indulge in the finest gastronomy at sea, inspired by none other than gastronomic virtuoso and Ponant partner, Alain Ducasse. Each voyage offers an expertly crafted dining experience, from a-la-carte meals with perfectly matched wines by the onboard Sommelier at dinner and lunch, to a French-inspired buffet breakfast, featuring all the favourite pastries, fresh bread and quality produce.

Chef Mickael Legrand. Photograph by NickRains. ©PONANT

For a more intimate discovery, consider Le Ponant, with its 16 high-class staterooms and suites—perfect for private charter—sailing eight exclusive routes between Greece and Croatia, offering guests unparalleled experiences both onboard and ashore. Ponant’s commitment to crafting unforgettable experiences extends beyond itineraries. Aboard their ships, the luxury is in every detail. Unwind in opulent cabins and suites, each offering private balconies and breathtaking views of the azure water and destinations beyond.

Ponant’s upcoming European Journeys are more than just cruises—they’re your passport to a world of cultural immersion, historical exploration, and unrivalled luxury. Don’t miss this opportunity to embark on the voyage of a lifetime: the Mediterranean is calling.

To book European 2025 sailings visit au.ponant.com; call 1300 737 178 (AU) or 0800 767 018 (NZ) or contact your preferred travel agent.

 

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Saint Laurent Just Opened a New Bookstore in Paris. Here’s a Look Inside.

The chic new outpost is located on the city’s arty Left Bank.

By Rachel Cormack 14/02/2024

Saint Laurent is taking over even more of Paris.

The French fashion house, which only just opened an epic new flagship on Champs-Élysées, has launched a chic new bookstore on the Left Bank. Located in the 7th arrondissement, Saint Laurent Babylone is a mecca of art, music, literature, and, of course, fashion.

The new outpost is a tribute to the connection that Yves Saint Laurent and partner Pierre Bergé had to the Rue Babylone, according to Women’s Wear Daily. (In 1970, the pair moved to a 6,500-square-foot duplex on the street.) It is also inspired by the house’s original ready-to-wear boutique, Saint Laurent Rive Guache, which opened in the 6th arrondissement in 1966.

The exposed concrete in contrasted by sleek marble accents. SAINT LAURENT

With a minimalist, art gallery-like aesthetic, the space is anchored by a hefty marble bench and large black shelves. The raw, textured concrete on the walls is juxtaposed by a soft blue and white rug, a wooden Pierre Jeanneret desk, and sleek Donald Judd stools.

The wares within Saint Laurent Babylone are the most important part, of course. Curated by Saint Laurent’s creative director Anthony Vaccarello, the collection includes everything from photos by British artist Rose Finn-Kelcey to books published by Saint Laurent itself. Some tomes on offer are so rare that white gloves are required for handling.

The store also offers an enviable selection of records that are no longer being pressed. Highlights include Sade’s Promise, Kate Bush’s Hounds of Love, and the debut studio album of electronic band Kraftwerk.

Other notable items on the shelves include Leica cameras, chocolates made in collaboration with pastry chef François Daubinet, prints by Juergen Teller, and brass skull sculptures. You’ll also find an assortment of YSL merch, including pens, lighters, and cups.

To top it off, Saint Laurent Babylone will double as an event space, hosting live music sessions, DJ sets, book readings, and author signings over the coming months.

Saint Laurent’s latest endeavor isn’t exactly surprising. With Vaccarello at the helm, the Kering-owned fashion house has entered new cultural realms. Only last year, the label established a film production company and debuted its first movie at Cannes.

The space is fitted with a Pierre Jeanneret desk and Donald Judd stools.
SAINT LAURENT

Perhaps Saint Laurent film reels and movie posters will soon be available at Babylone, too.

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The Best Watches at the Grammys, From Maluma’s Jacob & Co. to Jon Batiste’s Vacheron Constantin

Music’s biggest names sported some outstanding watches on Sunday evening.

By Rachel Mccormack 08/02/2024

Weird yet wonderful watches punctuated this year’s Grammys.

The woman of the moment, Taylor Swift, who made history by winning Album of the Year for an unprecedented fourth time, wore an unconventional Lorraine Schwartz choker watch to the annual awards ceremony on Sunday night. That was just the tip of the horological iceberg, though.

Colombian singer-songwriter Maluma elevated a classic Dolce & Gabbana suit with a dazzling Jacob & Co. Astronomia Tourbillon and a pair of custom, diamond-encrusted Bose earbuds, while American musician Jon Batiste topped off a stylish Versace ensemble with a sleek Vacheron Constantin Overseas Tourbillon. Not to be outdone, rapper Busta Rhymes busted out a rare Audemars Piguet Royal Oak for the occasion.

There was more understated wrist candy on display, too, such as Jack Antonoff’s Cartier Tank LC and Noah Kahan’s Panerai Luminor Quaranta BiTempo.

For the rest of the best watches we saw on the Grammys 2024 red carpet, read on.

Maluma: Jacob & Co. Astronomia Tourbillon

Maluma busted out some truly spectacular bling for this year’s Grammys. The Colombian singer-songwriter paired a classic Dolce & Gabbana suit with a dazzling Jacob & Co. Astronomia Tourbillon and a pair of custom, diamond-encrusted Bose earbuds. The sculptural wrist candy sees a four-arm movement floating in front of a breathtaking dial adorned with no less than 257 rubies. For added pizzaz, the lugs of the 18-karat rose-gold case are invisibly set with 80 baguette-cut white diamonds. Limited to just nine examples, the rarity is priced at $1.5 million.

Asake: Hublot Big Bang Essential Grey

Nigerian singer-songwriter Asake may not have won the Grammy for Best African Music Performance for “Amapiano,” but did wear a winning Hublot Big Bang at Sunday’s proceedings. Released in 2023, the Essential Grey model is made purely of titanium for a sleek, uniform feel. The 42 mm timepiece was limited to just 100 pieces and cost $37,000 a pop.

John Legend: Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Selfwinding

Multihyphenate John Legend wore a legendary Audemars Piguet with silky Saint Laurent on Sunday evening. The self-winding Royal Oak in question features a 34 mm black ceramic case, a black grande tapisserie dial, and striking pink gold accents. The watchmaker’s signature is also displayed in gold under the sapphire crystal. The piece will set you back $81,000.

Jon Batiste: Vacheron Constantin Overseas Tourbillon

American musician Jon Batiste received four nominations but no wins at this year’s Grammys. The “Butterfly” singer can take solace in the fact that he looked ultra-sharp in Versace and Vacheron Constantin. A tribute to the spirit of travel, the Overseas Tourbillon features a 42.5 mm white-gold case, a bezel set with 60 baguette-cut diamonds, and a blue dial featuring a dazzling tourbillon cage inspired by the Maltese cross. Price upon request, naturally.

Fireboy DML: Cartier Santos

Fireboy DML’s outfit was straight fire on Sunday night. The Nigerian singer paired an MCM wool jacket with a Van Cleef & Arpels bracelet, several iced-out rings, and a sleek Cartier Santos. The timepiece features a steel case, a graduated blue dial with steel sword-shaped hands, and a seven-sided crown with synthetic faceted blue spinel.

Noah Kahan: Panerai Luminor Quaranta BiTempo

Best New Artist nominee Noah Kahan wore one of Panerai’s best new watches to Sunday’s festivities. The Luminor Quaranta BiTempo features a 40 mm polished steel case and a black dial with luminous numerals and hour markers, a date display at 3 o’clock, and a small seconds subdial at 9 o’clock. The timepiece can be yours for $14,000.

Busta Rhymes: Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore

Legendary rapper Busta Rhymes busted out a chic Audemars Piguet for this year’s Grammys. The Royal Oak Offshore Chronograph in question is distinguished by a 42 mm rose-gold case and a matching pink méga tapisserie dial with an outer flange for the tachymeter scale. The face is fitted with three black subdials, large black numerals, and a black date display at 3 o’clock. You can expect to pay around $61,200 for the chronograph on the secondary market.

Jack Antonoff: Cartier Tank Louis Cartier

Producer of the year Jack Antonoff took to the red carpet with a stylish Cartier on his wrist. The Tank Louis Cartier in question appears to be a large 33.7 mm example that features an 18-carat rose-gold case, a silvered dial with black Roman numerals and blued steel hands, a beaded crown set with a sapphire cabochon, and a brown alligator strap. It’ll set you back $19,900.

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This 44-Foot Carbon-Fiber Speedboat Can Rocket to 177 KMPH

The new Mayla GT is available with a range of different powertrains, too.

By Rachel Cormack 03/02/2024

We knew the Mayla GT would be one of the most exciting boats at Boot Düsseldorf, but a deep dive into the specs shows it could be downright revolutionary.

The brainchild of German start-up Mayla, the 44-footer brings you the blistering performance of a speedboat and the luxe amenities of a motor yacht in one neat carbon-fiber package.

Inspired by the go-fast boats of the 1970s and ‘80s, the GT sports an angular, retro-futuristic body and the sleek lines of a rocket ship. Tipping the scales at just 4500 kilograms, the lightweight design features a deep-V hull with twin transversal steps and patented Petestep deflectors that help it slice through the waves with ease. In fact, Mayla says the deflectors decrease energy usage by up to 35 percent while ensuring a more efficient planing.

The range-topping GT can reach 185 kph. MAYLA

The GT is also capable of soaring at breakneck speeds, with the option of a gas, diesel, electric, or hybrid powertrain. The range-topping GTR-R model packs dual gas-powered engines that can churn out 3,100 hp for a top speed of more than 100 knots (185 kph). At the other, more sustainable end of the spectrum, the E-GT is fitted with an electric powertrain that can produce 2,200 horses for a max speed of 50 knots. The hybrid E-GTR pairs that same electric powertrain with a 294 kilowatt diesel engine for a top speed of 60 knots (111 km/h/69 mph). (The GT in the water at Boot sported two entry-level V8s good for 650 hp and a top speed of over 70 knots.)

The GT is suitable for more than just high-speed jaunts, of course. The multipurpose cockpit, which can accommodate up to eight passengers, features a sundeck with sliding loungers, a wet bar and BBQ, and a foldaway dining table for alfresco entertaining. Further toward the stern, a beach club sits atop a garage with an electric transom door.

The garage has an electric transom door. MAYLA

The GT is even fit for overnight stays. Below deck lies a cabin with a double bed, sofa, wardrobe, vanity, and en suite. You can also expect a high-tech entertainment system with TVs and premium audio.

As for price, the GT with the entry-level powertrain will cost between $2.7 million and $2.9, depending on the final configuration. (You can fine-tune the layout, hull color, and interiors, naturally.) Interested buyers can set up a sea trial with Mayla, with test-drives set to begin this spring in Europe.

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Red Centre

First Nations artist Shaun Daniel Allen joins forces with Chopard to create a timepiece inspired by the Australian landscape.

By Horacio Silva 29/01/2024

Shaun Daniel Allen does not look like your typical collaborator on a prestige watch. For one, Shal, as he prefers to be known (“There are many Shauns but only one Shal,” he explains), is more heavily tattooed than your average roadie. His youthful appearance, bad-boy ink and all, belies his 38 years and leads to a disconnect. 

He recounts being recognised on the street recently by a journalist, who, unable to remember his name, shouted out, “Chopard!” “I was with a friend,” Shal says, holding court in his apartment in Sydney’s inner city, “and he’s, like, ‘What the hell? Does that happen to you often?’”

Perhaps because of his body art, he reasons, “People don’t put me and Chopard together.” It’s not hard to understand the confusion, Shal adds; even he was taken aback when Chopard reached out to him about a potential collaboration a little more than a year ago. “When I first went in to see them, I was, like, I don’t know if I’m your guy. I’m not used to being in those rooms and having those conversations.”

He’ll have to adapt quickly to his new reality. Last month Chopard released Shal’s interpretation of the Swiss brand’s storied Alpine Eagle model, which in itself was a redo of the St. Moritz, the first watch creation by Karl-Friedrich Scheufele (now Co-President of Chopard) in the late 1970s. 

Previewed at Sydney’s About Time watch fair in September, to not insignificant interest, and officially known as the Alpine Eagle Sunburnt, the exclusive timepiece—issued in a limited edition of 20—arrives as a stainless steel 41 mm with a 60-hour power reserve and a burnt red dial that brings to mind the searing Outback sun. Its see-through caseback features one of Shal’s artworks painted on sapphire glass.

When the reputable Swiss luxury brand approached Shal, they already had the red dial—a nod to the rich ochre hues of the Australian soil at different times of the day and gradated so that the shades become darker around the edges—locked in as a lure for Australian customers.

Shal was charged with designing an artful caseback and collectible hand-painted sustainable wooden case. After presenting a handful of paintings, each with his signature abstract motifs that pertain to indigenous emblems, tattoos and music, both parties landed on a serpentine image that evoked the coursing of rivers. “I have been painting a lot of water in this last body of work and the image we chose refers to the rivers at home,” he says, alluding to formative years spent at his grandfather’s, just outside of Casino.

It says a lot about Chopard, Shal points out, that they wanted to donate to a charity of his choosing. “Like everything else on this project,” he explains, “they were open to listening and taking new ideas on board and it actually felt like a collaboration, like they weren’t steering me into any corner.”

In another nice touch, a portion of the proceeds from sales of the watch will go to funding programs of the Ngunya Jarjum Aboriginal Corporation—an organisation, established in 1995 by Bundjalung elders, whose work Shal saw firsthand after the 2022 eastern Australia flood disasters ravaged their area. “Seeing Ngunya Jarjum suffer from the floods,” he says, “and knowing how much they do for the community on Bundjalung Country was heartbreaking. I want to see Bundjalung families thriving and supported.”

So what’s it been like for this booster of Australian waterways to be swimming in the luxury end of the pool? “I’ve done a few things with brands,” he offers, referring to the Louis Vuitton project earlier this year at an art gallery in Brisbane, “but nothing on this scale. It’s definitely fancier than I’m used to but I’m not complaining.” Neither are watch aficionados.

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