In our weekly series, we bring you the latest in luxury news from around the world. This week’s highlights: Bid on the first Pontiac Firebird ever made, Britain goes to Macau and RBT’s Tabletop Corkscrew
The House of Hungarian Music is opening in 2021
Why you should care: Winning the World’s Best Use of Music in Property Development, The House of Hungarian Music is slated to be the next symbol of Budapest. Beyond being a beacon of Hungary’s rich musical traditions, the building also merges urban and green spaces, making it a picture of modern green architecture. It’s set to be joined by a host of other cultural destinations, bringing new life to Budapest’s largest public park.
Doll up your wrists with the new Van Cleef & Arpels’ Ballerines Musicales collection
Why you should care: This handmade work of art has been seven years in the making, and there are only three available so far. Reminiscent of the ballet Jewels, the watch plays the ballet’s music and is accompanied by an animation of curtains opening, revealing dancing ballerinas. The caseback is delicately engraved with a ballerina and quote, and the 18-karat gold case comes with 7.92 carats of diamonds. Coming with a dark grey, green or red strap, this watch is the picture of art and luxury – perfect for the modern woman. Prices are available upon request.
Get a taste of Britain in Macao’s newest resort, The Londoner
Why you should care: If you’re an anglophile missing Britain, maybe it’s time to go to Hong Kong! Enter The Londoner, Sands China’s latest integrated resort that’s approximately $2 billion. Its exterior is modelled after the UK Houses of Parliament and a life-sized Big Ben. It’ll be stocked with 600 luxury suites, with 14 “Suites by David Beckham” that’ll occupy the top two floors. The rest of The Londoner’s attractions will be British-themed as well. Think West End inspired restaurants, Churchill’s Table and the Changing of the Guard display. Perhaps the 14-day quarantine is worth it. You decide.
The Aspark Owl is a super sustainable supercar
Why you should care: Powered by a four-electric motor setup, this EV produces 1,985 hp and 1,475 lb-ft of torque, making it the world’s fastest accelerating car. Charged by a 64-kWh lithium-ion battery pack that can be charged in 80 minutes, the Owl has a driving range of 451 km. Aside from its impressive mileage, its sleek McLaren F1-inspired exterior is proof that sustainable can be cool, too. With only 20 Owls released in the Asian market, get yours here for US$3.56 million (S$4.68 million).
RBT’s Tabletop Corkscrew is the classiest wine opener for wine lovers
Why you should care: This tabletop wine-opener is the perfect addition to your home. With its minimalist exterior and firm base that is stable on any flat surface, this might just be the newest household staple. It also features brass and wood detailing that would complement your wine and wine glass collection. But beyond its pretty exterior, it’s also functional. The standard 750ml or 1.5l wine bottle fits like a glove, and the sleek hand lever uncorks your wine in a single motion. Yours for US$150 (S$197).
Moncler celebrates the Year of the Ox with Leslie Zhang
Why you should care: Moncler’s kicking off the Lunar New Year by collaborating with renowned Chinese photographer Leslie Zhang. The result is a spectacular shoot, drawing inspiration from Kung Fu, uniform and traditional Chinese architecture. Vibrantly red, the special capsule embodies the strength and energy tied to the year of the ox. Now available in Moncler boutiques, get ready to paint the town red.
Bid on the first Pontiac Firebird ever made
Why you should care: With serial number No. 001, this is the real deal. Richard Rawlings has restored the classic red 1967 Firebird convertible, revamping the interior’s seats, steering wheel and simulated wood trim. But don’t worry about authenticity – the factory L30 326cl V8 is fitted with a two-barrel Rochester carburettor that’s attached to the original column-shifted Powerglide two-speed automatic transmission. If that isn’t reassurance enough, then maybe the 80,389 “believed-original” miles on it is. The Firebird will be at the Kissimmee show until 17 January 2021.
In case you missed it:
Must-see hotels of 2021
Lauren Ho takes us through the best luxury hotels to visit this year.
Tiffany & Co. is creating its most expensive jewellery piece ever
It debuts in 2022 with the opening of its Fifth Avenue flagship store.
All aboard the Orient Express at its pop-up at Gardens by the Bay
Hear exclusively from our interview with Claude Mollard, curator and general commissioner of the pop-up.
