Tag: Bulgari

Swiss Precision: Geneva Watch Days allows Switzerland’s smaller names their day in the sun

Geneva Watch Days draws a plethora of independent manufactures to the city’s waterfront, where they shine alongside the bigger boys. The summer event acts as a platform for Swiss watchmaking and has been growing in stature since it was inaugurated in 2020 by eight prestigious brands. The number of participants has since mushroomed, and this year some 40 fine watchmakers took the opportunity to release new models or showcase their most eye-catching designs.

Take Breitling, which launched the new Navitimer 36 and 32 – two slender iterations, 36 mm and 32 mm respectively, to round out the Navitimer collection, and ideal for those who prefer a less weighty time machine on their wrists. Powered by the robust Breitling Calibre 17, the luxury models have mother-of-pearl dials studded with lab-grown diamonds and 18-carat red gold cases with cambered sapphire glass that is glare- proof on both sides. They can be worn with a seven- row traceable gold bracelet or an alligator leather strap. The 32mm version embraces the line’s first- ever powdery pink and light blue faces alongside the classic white. Using sustainable gold and diamonds vouches for the watchmaker’s integrity as well as its aesthetic credentials.

Bulgari’s watch collections combine Italian aesthetics with Swiss craftsmanship, as epitomised by novelties like the Octo Finissimo Carbon Gold Automatic and Octo Finissimo Carbon Gold Perpetual Calendar which were presented at the Geneva event. Their combination of anthracite high-tech carbon and pink gold makes them true standouts. At just 2.23 mm thick, the Automatic version sports the BVL 138 ultra-thin mechanical calibre movement, featuring a platinum miniature automatic disc with small seconds, a power reserve of 60 hours and waterproofing to a depth of 100 metres. Its forged carbon dial comes with gold-plated hands and hour makers. The more complex BVL 305 self-winding mechanical calibre of the Perpetual Calendar, meanwhile, is only slightly thicker at 2.75 mm and it likewise proudly shows a textured, anthracite carbon face with luxurious accents in rose gold.

Through its ultra-thin Octo Finissimo collection, Bulgari aims to create unique timepieces by employing techniques such as contrasting polishing or monochrome treatment on a variety of materials like stainless steel, gold and ceramics. Models are consistently striking with round bezels against octagonal surfaces.

Interestingly, and highlighting the significance attached to Geneva Watch Days, year-old brand Byrne released the Gyro Dial Zero in pink gold and its limited-edition set with diamonds. This updated version follows the original rotating-indices watch concept released at the same event last year, in which the dial changes every day on either the stroke of midnight or noon according to the whim of its wearer. This unique attribute occurs as the dial’s four cardinal indexes (at 3, 6, 9 and 12 o’clock) pivot in a flash to reveal a different face. The rose gold-encased Zero offers a new stylish, pared-down beauty exposing the magnificent mechanism within.

By contrast, Girard-Perregaux, founded in 1791, is one of the oldest fine-watch manufactures still in operation and maintaining all the required horological skills in-house, it has more than 100 recorded patents. It displayed the Laureato Absolute Chronograph 8Tech, the latest model in an ultra-modern collection that uses the best solutions in materials technology. Formed of a carbon/titanium composite in octagonal parts via the 8Tech method, the case creates a random structural pattern. Indeed, the whole watch is made from a combination of differently shaped components and materials playfully juxtaposed together, with its splendid swirl decoration adding further interest. The GP03300-1058 automatic movement can be spied through a smoked sapphire-crystal caseback.

Russian watchmaker and inventor Konstantin Chaykin, known for his unique timepieces and artistic creations, auctioned a selection of his amazing monster-face watches and their accompanying sketches at the event. These included the Smilodon, which takes its inspiration from the prehistoric sabre-toothed tiger and boasts some unique functions; the limited-edition Joker Five, which features a distinctive day of the week indicator; and the prototype of his latest Wristmon, a jovial and optimistic-looking character.

Ulysse Nardin brought out the new Blast Free Wheel Marquetry, a watch which showcases the aesthetic qualities of silicon aside from its undoubted technical specifications. Ergonomically strong with pronounced geometric lines, the 45mm timepiece has an escapement wheel, anchor and balance spring in silicon and uses blades technology. Its ultra-glass box design reveals the avant-garde movement, with a flying tourbillon commanding attention at 6 o’clock. The white-gold case is satin- finished and polished and opened at back with sapphire glass. To top off the unconventional look of the piece, it comes with a distinctive blue matte and polished silicon marquetry dial. The backplate is matte silicon, too.

Another Geneva Watch Days highlight was the launch of two models by luxury watchmaker H. Moser & Cie: the minimalist Endeavour Centre Seconds Vantablack and the Endeavour Tourbillon Concept Vantablack. Composed of super-dark carbon nanostructures, which absorb 99.965% of light that hit them, the Vantablack dials can claim to have the effect of a black hole, sucking in all light in mesmerising contrast with their red-gold cases.

Also Read: Retro Revolution: Old and new harmonise in contemporary re-editions with a vintage vibe

Neck’s Best Thing: Stunning décolleté dazzlers for this season’s soirées

There’s no stronger way to make a statement than to adorn your neck with a stunning, sparkling necklace. Whether it’s a thick choker-style design like Bulgari’s Mediterranean Queen necklace, open-worked creations like Van Cleef & Arpels’ Trésor Astral number or dangling dazzlers like Chanel’s Allure Céleste necklace, there are attention-grabbing bejewelled bijouterie for every special occasion.

To ensure your statement necklace does all the talking, opting for the right neckline is key. Strapless, off-the-shoulder or v-neck gowns or tops are a must when it comes to showing off your chosen accessory to perfection. Avoid clashing with strong patterns or detailing. Rather, monochromatic ensembles can pair perfectly with a strong necklace, provided that it is form-fitting and one colour throughout. However you choose to match your stunning piece of jewellery, with these gorgeous creations, all eyes are sure to be on you.

In the photos:

  1. Van Cleef & Arpels Trésor Astral
  2. Graff New Dawn
  3. Buccellati Étoilée
  4. Bulgari Mediterranean Queen
  5. Harry Winston Blue Python
  6. Chanel Allure Céleste
  7. Gübelin Dancing Dunes 

(Text: Tenzing Thondup)

 

Also Read: The sensual dual-appeal of transformable jewellery

Buyer’s Guide: 7 impressive hyper-accurate tourbillon watches

When it was invented in the twilight years of the 18th century, the tourbillon was lauded as a revolutionary piece of horological engineering. Created to turn the escapement and balance wheel continuously within a rotating cage, it negated the effects of gravity on the commonly worn pocket watches of the era and thus ensured the heightened precision of the timepiece.

Today, with wristwatches now dominant, tourbillons are no longer critical to maintaining timekeeping precision. Yet, they continue to grace high-end wrist adornments as a testament to a watchmaker’s skilled craftsmanship. Here, we highlight seven recent creations that have eye-catchingly incorporated this mechanical marvel.

1. Vacheron Constantin Les Cabinotiers Grande Complication Bacchus

Gilded Cage Hyper-accurate tourbillons gafencu watch luxury timepiece vacheron constantin les cabinotiers grande complication bacchus

First is Vacheron Constantin Les Cabinotiers Grande Complication Bacchus. A stunning ode to fine watchmaking, this statement timepiece features a staggering 16 complications, including calendar and astronomical indications as well as a minute repeater. The tourbillon proper takes pride of place at six o’clock on the front dial, while sidereal time is displayed at the back. The 47mm case is also etched with intertwining grapes and vines as a tribute to the Roman god of wine.

2.Girard-Perregaux La Esmeralda Tourbillon “A Secret” Eternity Edition

Gilded Cage Hyper-accurate tourbillons gafencu watch luxury timepiece Girard-Perregaux’s La Esmeralda Tourbillon “A Secret” Eternity Edition

Another prime example of haute-horological skill comes courtesy of Girard-Perregaux’s La Esmeralda Tourbillon “A Secret” Eternity Edition. Based on the prize-winning La Esmeralda pocket watch that debuted at the 1889 Exposition Universelle in Paris, its blue enamel dial similarly features three dominant gold bridges, with the tourbillon positioned at the bottom. The equine inspiration of yesteryear has also been revived in this 18-piece limited edition, with two hand-engraved galloping horses straddling the dial. A further three horses punctuate the blue enamel caseback, which opens to reveal the GP09600-1506 self-winding movement underneath.

3.Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Selfwinding Flying Tourbillon Openworked

Hyper-accurate tourbillons gafencu watch luxury timepiece audemars piguet royal oak selfwinding flying tourbillon openworked

For a more streamlined – though no less mechanically impressive – design, look no further than Audemars Piguet’s Royal Oak Selfwinding Flying Tourbillon Openworked. Produced to mark the Royal Oak’s 50th anniversary, this 41mm stainless-steel timepiece is burnished with the brand’s first self-winding flying tourbillon open-worked movement – the Calibre 2972 – showed off to perfection by its skeletonised motif. Eschewing any unnecessary elements, it boasts an almost industrial appeal.

4.Bulgari Octa Roma Blue Carillon Tourbillon

Hyper-accurate tourbillons gafencu watch luxury timepiece bvlgari octa roma blue carillon tourbillon

Similarly boasting an open-worked aesthetic – though with a sleek blue on platinum and white gold vibe – is Bulgari’s Octa Roma Blue Carillon Tourbillon. Visible beneath its fascia is the hand-wound calibre BVL428 movement, replete with a tourbillon minute repeater whose chiming is the product of three hammers and gongs. In a smart move, the grille-like accents on its dial are designed to have as few obstructions as possible in order to allow clear passage of sound from within.

5. MB&F Legacy Machine Flying T Allegra

Hyper-accurate tourbillons gafencu watch luxury timepiece mb&f legacy machine flying T allegra

Bulgari also teamed up with renowned independent label MB&F to create the Legacy Machine Flying T Allegra. Blending high-end horology with haute joaillerie, this opulent design – available in white or red gold and limited to 20 pieces each – sees the eponymous flying tourbillon take centre stage beneath a distinctive domed dial. The pavéd diamond hour-and-minute subdial, meanwhile, is propped against it at a slant. Almost every visible inch of this bejewelled creation is carpeted with gemstones, as the likes of topaz, amethyst, tsavorite and tourmaline punctuate the plentiful diamonds.

6. Bovet Virtuoso VIII Chapter Two Reimagined DLC-SLN

Hyper-accurate tourbillons gafencu watch luxury timepiece Bovet Virtuoso VIII Chapter Two Reimagined DLC-SLN

Another exquisite limited-edition wrist implement is Fleurier-based Bovet’s Virtuoso VIII Chapter Two Reimagined DLC-SLN – the reimagining and the abbreviations involve a grade 5 titanium case coated in black Diamond Like Carbon. Its fascia features two subdials (a 10-day power reserve indicator on the left and another with a date aperture and model number on the right), while the tourbillon is visible at six o’clock. Just eight pieces each of six colourways – blue, salmon, turquoise, violet, green or yellow – will be made.

7. Roger Dubuis Excalibur Gully Monotourbillon

Hyper-accurate tourbillons gafencu watch luxury timepiece Roger Dubuis Excalibur Gully Monotourbillon

Rounding out our list of top tourbillon designs is Roger Dubuis’ Excalibur Gully Monotourbillon – a collaboration with French graffiti artist Gully. Here, his interpretation of the Excalibur Monotourbillon’s iconic star motif is evidenced by abstract angular accents, some in a riot of colourful accents. It’s a deft touch, as the multihued touches also spell out his name, with the ‘U’ neatly ringing the tourbillon in question. Adroitly fusing haute horologerie with street art, this outré timepiece playfully explores new bounds of watchmaking without ever once skimping on precision engineering.

 

Bloomin’ Marvellous: A cornucopia of spring-inspired jewelleries

As cool weather gives way to warmer climes and the seductive scent of spring begins to emerge, it’s time to turn our attention once more to that most consistently alluring of seasonal trends – floral jewellery.

Indeed, Mother Earth has long inspired the leading haute joaillerie maisons of the world, leading to the creation of some truly stunning garden-themed creations – Chopard’s decadent Red Carpet Collection 2021 choker and the Manhattan Party necklace by Bulgari, to name but two.

It would be folly, however, to assume that such flower-inspired jewellery has only recently become in vogue. Indeed, such adornments date back to many ancient civilisations, and have traditionally been worn in such elaborate ceremonies as Indian weddings. More recently, this trend has been adopted by the West, with summer brides opting for veils adorned with floral headpieces in a bohemian chic style.

Today, however, the floral fad is used not just for weddings but for every imaginable occasion, great or small. What’s more, they come in a riot of hues, shapes and sizes, making them just the perfect addition be it to subtly enhance your outfit of the day or grab attention at your chosen soiree.

Also Read: Flower Power: Sparkling high-end jewellery inspired by nature

Haute Joaillerie houses embrace stunning rainbow hues in their designs

In contemporary times, the rainbow has come to symbolise hope and new beginnings, so it’s no surprise that haute joaillerie houses the world over have embraced this motif during the current Covid-dominant times. Gone are the days when single-colour styles were in vogue, and in their place are a veritable treasure trove of prismatic designs, pieces that unabashedly embrace a multi-hued appeal.

Subtler creations are imbued with an ombré effect, one that utilises precious gemstones of similar colours to create a graduated look. A prime example of this is the stunning necklace from premium Japanese brand Tasaki’s latest High Jewellery collection, and Tiffany & Co.’s Colors of Nature necklace.

More outré designs that truly reflect the kaleidoscopic nature of rainbows, meanwhile, are also on offer from such luxury labels as Bulgari, with its vivid, gem-studded Multicolore necklace, and Boucheron’s multifaceted ring.

  1. Boucheron ring
  2. Bulgari Multicolore necklace
  3. Piaget Extraordinary Lights earrings
  4. Harry Winston Sparks earrings
  5. Robinson Pelham Synchronicity Rainbow Ray Inner ring
  6. Rosior multicolour earrings
  7. Tasaki High Jewellery necklace
  8. Tiffany & Co. Colors of Nature necklace

 

Father’s Day Gift Ideas: Gafencu’s top picks for every dad

Make this Father’s Day memorable with a gift that speaks volumes about the beloved man in your life. With the special occasion just a week away, we’ve made shopping for dear dad easier with a curated list of gift ideas for every possible type of father. From whisky lovers to well-dressed gentlemen, these are Gafencu’s top picks for Father’s Day gifts…

gafencu luxury Father's Day Gift Ideas Gafencu's top picks for every dad johnnie walker blue label

For whisky lovers:
A Father’s Day special Johnnie Walker Blue Label masterminded by award-winning Master Blender Jim Beveridge and his team makes the perfect personalised gift for whisky-loving dads. Featuring a limited-time only complimentary engraving service to customise each bottle of this exceptional tipple — making your heartfelt gesture everlasting. The blend boasts an exceptional combination of flavour and character, revealing fruity, citrusy notes punctuated with spice and vanilla sweetness with every sip and finally round out in a smoky chocolate finish.
Price: HK$1,350
Where to get it: liquidgold.com.hk

gafencu luxury Father's Day Gift Ideas Gafencu's top picks for every dad harry winston zalium cufflinks

For the well-dressed father:
If you’re at a loss for gifts to give the fashionable dad in your life this Father’s Day, then look no further than American luxury house Harry Winston‘s Zalium cufflinks. Fashioned from white gold and Zalium — one of the lightest and most durable material — and set with round-brilliant diamonds. It is the perfect blend of modern sophistication and cutting-edge style to dress the mighty father with a tender heart.
Price: HK42,900
Where to get it: harrywinston.com

 gafencu luxury Father's Day Gift Ideas Gafencu's top picks for every dad montblanc Meisterstück around the world in 80 days

For the writer:
Let the writer in your life know how special he is with an exceptional writing tool that will inspire him to embark on his writing journey with awe. Introducing a classy and sophisticated fountain pen courtesy of German luxury goods manufacturer Montblanc‘s Meisterstück Around the World in 80 Days collection — perfect gift to mark this Father’s Day as a memorable one.
Price: HK$15,400
Where to get it: montblanc.com 

gafencu luxury Father's Day Gift Ideas Gafencu's top picks for every dad bose quietcomfort

For the father on the go:
Get the leading man in your life a gift that he won’t see — or hear — coming. The Bose QuietComfort earbuds are a pair of sleek ultra light and comfortable audio accessory that is sure to impress the fatherly audiophile. Featuring an impressive patented Acoustic Noise Cancelling mode that is effortlessly adjustable on three levels, from complete noise cancellation to full transparency, by simply double tapping on the left earbud. Available in triple black or white soapstone colour.
Price: HK$2,299.00
Where to get it: bose.com

gafencu luxury Father's Day Gift Ideas Gafencu's top picks for every dad tudor black bay ceramics

For the watch enthusiast:
There’s no better way to let dad know you love him by supporting his passions. Swiss watchmaker Tudor recently launched the Black Bay Ceramic, a combination of the brand’s most beloved models’ design cues from vintage Tudor dive watches, noticeably the watchmaker’s hallmark angular hands — coined as “snowflake” hands and its familiar domed dial with applied hour markers. Powered by Manufacture Calibre MT5602-1U, the self-winding bidirectional chronometer boasts distinctive performance within a 41mm matte black ceramic case — a unique hue for the Black Bay collection, offering the passionate watch-loving dad a sleek, lightweight addition to his stock of precious timekeepers.
Price: HK$35,500
Where to get it: tudorwatch.com

gafencu luxury Father's Day Gift Ideas Gafencu's top picks for every dad bulgari man glacier eau de parfun

For nature lovers:
Introducing a sumptuous elemental fragrance for the nature-loving father in your life, the Bvlgari Man Glacial Essence by Italian luxury brand Bulgari liberates with a breath of fresh air. Featuring a rejuvenating crisp and icy olfactory experience, this eau de parfum lends its alp-inspired aromatic expression to active dads who love to triumph over the rough landscapes of nature. Previous aromatic expressions in the brand’s line of mens perfumes are the sensual, neo-oriental Fire and Wood, a dynamic interplay of fresh, sparkling and spicy notes.
Price: HK$975 /100ml
Where to get it: bulgari.com

Tourbillon and on: The continual rise of the world’s favourite gravity defying watch…

When renowned watchmaker Abraham-Louis Breguet invented the tourbillon back in 1795, it was rightly hailed as a revolution in the horological arts. After all, this tiny mechanism – a genius bit of engineering that houses the escapement and balance wheel in a continuously rotating cage – counteracts the effects of gravity by continuously correcting any positional errors. This innovative mechanism ensured that the popular pocket watches of the day – worn vertically and hitherto susceptible to gravity-derived inaccuracies – told precisely the right time no matter where they were positioned.

gafencu time gmhk gravity defying watch tourbillon

In the contemporary, wristwatch-favouring era, of course, tourbillons are inevitably a little less indispensable. This, though, has in no way diminished their appeal to the more discerning collector, with haute horology houses subsequently never more keen to unveil ever-more ornate iterations of the original design. While their numbers truly are legion, seven in particular merit especial consideration…

gafencu time gmhk gravity defying watch tourbillon De Bethune DB Kind of Two Tourbillon

First up is the somewhat unconventional DB Kind of Two Tourbillon, a relatively new offering from independent Swiss watch manufacture De Bethune, which boasts not one but two distinct faces on its 42.8mm titanium pivoting case. On one side lies a traditional blue-on-white guilloché watch face with Arabic hour markers ringed by a seconds indicator. The reverse dial, though, is all about contemporary appeal, with a lovingly crafted titanium Ultra-light De Bethune 30” tourbillon taking pride of place at 6 o’clock. Blending the past and present with true aplomb, extra-supple alligator straps complete its appeal.

gafencu time gmhk gravity defying watch tourbillon Chopard Mille Miglia Lab One

A more futuristic twist, meanwhile, comes courtesy of Chopard with its new Mille Miglia Lab One. Conceived as a concept watch and a homage to the high-performance race cars of Italy’s famous Mille Miglia race, this stunning timepiece has been crafted from ultra-lightweight black bead-blasted titanium. The brand’s first self-winding tourbillon chronometer, under the hood of this 20-piece limited release can be found a Chopard 04.03-M movement, effortlessly powering a titanium tourbillon at 6 o’clock.

gafencu time gmhk gravity defying watch tourbillon Bulgari Octo Roma Carillon Tourbillon

Similarly opting for an ever so cool all-black aesthetic is the Octo Roma Carillon Tourbillon, which is now available from the indisputably luxurious Bulgari brand. Fetchingly, its noir fascia comes fitted with an open-worked metallic grille, allowing a fascinating glimpse of its new BVL428 manual-winding movement. Housed in a black DLC titanium case, this 44mm timepiece effectively combines both a tourbillon and a three-hammer case while maintaining a minimalist – almost industrial – flair.

Master Ultra Thin Tourbillon Moon

Deservedly meriting our fourth slot is the stunningly slim Master Ultra-Thin Tourbillon Moon from Jaeger-LeCoultre, which comes complete with a classic white-on-rose gold motif. Unashamedly taking tourbillon stylings to a new height – quite literally – this elegant wrist adornment’s flying tourbillon is paired with a moon phase aperture ringed by a jumping date indicator at the top of the dial. The design’s thinness – something of a signature look for JLC – belies the complexity of its engineering and measures a scant 12.1mm.

gafencu time gmhk gravity defying watch tourbillon Audemars Piguet’s Code 1159 by Audemars Piguet Selfwinding Flying Tourbillon

Another precision engineering masterpiece setting its sights on the skies is the Code 11:59 by Audemars Piguet Selfwinding Flying Tourbillon, with its 18K pink gold case – burnished with a shimmering black aventurine dial reminiscent of a star-lit night sky – making it a real standout. Equipped with a Calibre 2950 movement that combines a flying tourbillon with a central rotor, this 41mm timepiece is also available as a white gold-blue aventurine avatar.

gafencu time gmhk gravity defying watch tourbillon Vacheron Constantin’s Traditionnelle Tourbillon Qilin

For those in search of something a little more outré, German luxury label Montblanc’s new Star Legacy Exo Tourbillon Skeleton Limited Edition 8 skeletonised tourbillon timepiece delivers in spades. Its innovative open-worked approach, for instance, affords direct views into the inner workings of its Calibre M B M 18.69 movement – a mechanism comprising 188 disparate parts, all lovingly handcrafted by the maison’s skilled artisans. Its dial proper, meanwhile, has been neatly bisected, with an off-centre hour-and-minute dial at 12 o’clock perfectly balancing the Exo Tourbillon on its southern hemisphere. As its name suggests, this fine example of haute horology is available in a limited edition of just eight.

gafencu time gmhk gravity defying watch tourbillon Montblanc’s Star Legacy Exo Tourbillon Skeleton LE8

A true statement timepiece, however, concludes this month’s round-up – Vacheron Constantin’s recently-unveiled Traditionnelle Tourbillon Qilin. Launched to welcome the Lunar New Year, its hand-guillochéd black dial comes elaborately burnished with a pair of matching hand-engraved Qilin – the mythical hooved chimeric creature of Chinese legend. The tourbillon proper at 6 o’clock, meanwhile, comes fitted with a small seconds indicator and sits beneath a gold-accented power-reserve indicator. A perfect blend of precision engineering and gorgeous aesthetics, this is a future collector’s piece in waiting.

Romantic afternoon teas to enjoy this Valentine’s Day

With social distancing measures still firmly in place and dining out for dinner all but a pipedream, you might think that Valentine’s Day this year will be something of a muted affair. But while post-6pm meals might not be on the agenda, some of the city’s favourite eateries have come together to serve up a slightly different but no less romantic offering: Valentine’s Day afternoon teas. Be it an exclusive pink-embellished tea set with a limited-edition fragrance from Bulgari or a floral-inspired dim sum cruise along the coast of Hong Kong island, here are some of our top picks:

gafencu magazine Sumptuous Valentine's Day afternoon teas to treat you and your significant other the langham bvlgari bulgari

The Langham X BVLGARI Rose Goldea Afternoon Tea

The Langham Hotel, long a hotspot for afternoon tea aficionados, has recently partnered with luxury brand Bulgari for a special Valentine’s Day experience in the form of The Langham X BVLGARI Rose Goldea Afternoon Tea. Inspired by the essence of Bulgari’s limited-edition Rose Goldea fragrance, executive pastry chef Jean-Marc Gaucher has tailor made an afternoon tea menu for two in the hotel’s iconic sweet pink shade. Boasting a vibrant assortment of sweet and savoury treats, for a limited time only, guests who partake will even be given a miniature bottle of the perfume per booking for two. 
Price: HK$688+ for two guests
Contact: +852 2132 7898

gafencu magazine Sumptuous Valentine's Day afternoon teas to treat you and your significant other tiffany blue box

Tiffany Blue at Tiffany Blue Box Cafe

Forget about breakfast at Tiffany’s, now you can celebrate the season of romance with a sumptuous afternoon tea at the much-anticipated extension of the new Tiffany & Co. flagship store, Tiffany Blue Box Cafe. Serving up divine selections of sweet pastries such as lychee mousse, rose strawberry jelly and a kataifi nest with marshmallow and chocolate eggs, the special menu also features caviar and chorizo-laden savoury bites.  
Price: HK$788+ for two guests
Contact: +852 2362 9828

gafencu magazine Sumptuous Valentine's Day afternoon teas to treat you and your significant other aqua luna

Aqua Luna Romantic Afternoon Tea Cruise

Craving for a romantic getaway with your significant other? Perhaps celebrating your love at sea with an open-water afternoon tea cruise courtesy of the Aqua Luna junk might be just the ticket. Setting sail on Valentine’s Day, loved-up couples can be picked up at Central or Tsim Sha Tsui ferry piers and cruise along the coast to the floating village of Aberdeen. Along the way, delectable dishes such a rose-infused dumplings, macaroons and other signature offerings from The Dim Sum Library will be served. 
Price: HK$776+ for two guests
Contact: +852 8821 2116

gafencu magazine Sumptuous Valentine's Day afternoon teas to treat you and your significant other vivienne westwood cafe

Vivienne Westwood Afternoon Tea

Luxury fashion brand Vivienne Westwood looks set to treat guests to a modish Valentine’s high-tea experience at its cafe in the lifestyle hotspot of Fashion Walk in Causeway Bay. From now until the 21st of February, the city’s first ever Vivienne Westwood cafe is offering a special Valentine’s Day tea set to treat you and your loved one to a modern classical take on British afternoon tea that features both savoury and sweet mouth-watering delicacies. What’s more, the lucky few who first book a spot for the day will even be gifted a special Vivienne Westwood necklace as a keepsake. 
Price: HK$688+ for two guests
Contact: +852 2799 5011

gafencu magazine Sumptuous Valentine's Day afternoon teas to treat you and your significant other paws for tea the archers the murray

Paws For Tea at The Murray

Nowhere does it say that Valentine’s Day is just for humans. In fact, The Murray Hotel is offering a delightful twist to the traditionally romantic occasion by celebrating love for man’s best friend instead. Its ‘Paws For Tea’ set, served at the five-star hotel’s The Arches, will have you and your four-legged pal treated to a series of sumptuous bites for you and canine-tailored treats for your pet. Your furry friend will even get a new set of snazzy apparel courtesy of the Doggie Marketplace. 
Price: HK$480+ for one guest and one pet
Contact: +852 3141 8888

 

 

 

Drop Down Gorgeous: Dangling designs that enhance your décolleté

It’s no secret that choosing the right pair of earrings can enhance or detract from your overall style. There is one particular category of these gem-studded jewellery, though, whose versatility and dazzling nature have been embraced for its ability to elevate pretty much any look – dangling earrings. 
 

Gucci Hortus Deliciarum earrings; Bulgari Serpenti earrings; Buccellati Cocktail Collection earrings; Chaumet Perspectives de Chaumet earrings; Peonia Gala Collection earrings; niin Vida amazonite drop pendant earrings; David Yurman Novella Chandelier earrings; Boucheron Plume de Jour earrings

Thanks to their elongated appeal, these flowing designs are known for their ability to create the illusion of a slimmer face and enhance the neckline. Embracing this inherent flexibility, a plethora of the world’s leading haute joaillerie maisons have served up a staggering array of these designs to suit any occasion. 

Cartier [Sur] Naturel High Jewellery Liliale earrings; Chopard Red Carpet Collection drop earrings; Graff multi-coloured diamond earrings; Boucheron Bleu Inifini earrings; Sarah Zhuang Mermaid earrings; Harry Winston The New York Collection earrings; Piaget earrings

If you’re seeking to add a subtle flourish to your daytime outfit, you could do far worse than don the sleek Bleu Infini earrings from French luxury label Boucheron. If a monochrome outfit is more your style, the multi-coloured aesthetic of Graff’s diamond-studded design is just the ticket to add a splash of colour. Finally, for the perfect statement piece to round out your glam gala look, opt for larger, bejewelled creations, such as Cartier’s [Sur] Naturel Liliale earrings or the gorgeous sapphire-and-diamond Harry Winston danglers.

 
 

Rose Gold Watches: Timepieces that embody a perfect rosy blush

Ever since Patek Philippe, watchmaker extraordinaire, crafted the world’s first wristwatch – an ornate yellow gold affair with a baguette-shaped, key-wound movement – for Countess Koscowicz of Hungary back in 1868, the use of this rare, valuable metal pretty much became the calling card of haute horology houses for crafting high-end timepieces.

Today, despite the encroachment of more affordable silver and stainless steel materials in the art of horlogerie, yellow gold remains one of the most popular metals to be used in manufacturing sophisticated statement watches. However, the past decade has seen a new challenger rise in the luxury segment, the subtler, gentler rose gold. First brought to the world’s attention in the early 19th century when famed jeweller Peter Carl Fabergé utilised it to create his renowned Fabergé Eggs, rose gold – an alloy crafted from 24K yellow gold, copper and silver – is now seen as a luxurious alternative, one that appeals to both genders in equal measure. Below, we highlight six superlative new designs that use this blushing metal.

Rose gold watches - Breguet Marine Dame 9518

Discerning female collectors could do far worse than start their perusals with Breguet’s new Breguet Marine Dame 9518. Attractively fitted with white alligator leather straps, its rose gold case and fluted case band are further enhanced with a diamond-studded bezel. A glistening opaline mother-of-peal dial with rose gold hour, minute and second hands graces its 33.8mm fascia, while the self-winding 591A calibre movement is visible on its transparent caseback.

Rose gold watches - Bulgari Serpenti Seduttori

A more unusually shaped timepiece comes courtesy of haute joaillerie brand Bulgari, with the dial of the latest iteration of its Serpenti Seduttori watch embodying the triangular head of the brand’s iconic Serpent emblem. Crafted almost entirely from rose gold – including its hexagonal-patterned bracelet, case, bezel, crown and folding buckle – the serpentine design is at once beguilingly feminine and beautifully functional. Here, its minimalist white opaline dial is lovingly ringed with diamonds, with the cabochon-cut rubellite on its crown adding a charming touch of red.

Rose gold watches - Chopard Happy Moon

Starry-eyed femme fashionistas, meanwhile, may also give Chopard’s all-new Happy Moon a thorough look-over. Part of a 250-piece limited release and crafted from ethically-sourced 18K rose gold, it unabashedly showcases the marque’s precision engineering and aesthetic expertise. Fitted with a COSC-certified 96.25-C calibre movement and taking the stars as its central motif, its blue aventurine dial is dotted constellations as visible from the Northern Hemisphere, with the North Star taking pride of place at 6 o’clock. The snow-set diamonds set on the bezel bestow an aura of delicacy to the timepiece.

Rose gold watches - Baume and Mercier Clifton Baumatic

Gentlemen collectors are also spoilt for choice when it comes to rose gold specimens of every imaginable timepiece category. Minimalist-inclined enthusiasts, for instance, would understandably be drawn to Baume & Mercier’s new Clifton Baumatic 18K Pink Gold Automatic. Understated elegance is the central appeal here, its white-on-rose gold fascia is enticingly simple, with only a date aperture at 3 o’clock and pink gold hour markers punctuating its dial. The star in its crown is undoubtedly the Baumatic BM13 calibre, its mechanical self-winding movement that offers a  staggering 120-hour reserve and innovative antimagnetism features.

Rose gold watches - Omega Divemaster 300M

Foregoing minimalism for a more athletic appeal is renowned watchmaker Omega in the form of its blue / rose gold / stainless steel interpretation of its Seamaster Diver 300M, fictional superspy James Bond’s preferred wrist adornment (a preference shown in several instalments including Goldeneye and Tomorrow Never Dies). This modern update of the classic dive watch features a crown burnished in Omega’s proprietary rose gold – Sedna gold – with its blue ceramic dial embracing its aquatic motif by featuring laser-engraved waves that mimic the sea. Measuring 42mm in diameter, blue rubber straps round out its sporty sophistication.

Rose gold watches - Vacheron Constantin Overseas Perpetual Calendar Ultra-thin

Perhaps the ultimate rose gold statement timepiece, though, comes in the form of haute horology marque Vacheron Constantin’s super-slim Overseas Perpetual Calendar Ultra-thin. Measuring just 8.1mm thick, this intricate design not only comes equipped with a moon phase indicator at 6 o’clock, but also boasts a perpetual calendar visible on its blue lacquered dial, all housed in a fetching 18K 5N pink gold case. Powered by a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it 4.05mm-thick Calibre 1120 QP/1 movement, the perpetual calendar mechanism needs no adjustment until the year 2100, ensuring that its rose gold appeal will endure through generations.

Text: Tenzing Thondup