The Courtauld Collection: A vision for impressionism – an exhibition at the Fondation Louis Vuitton

This year the Fondation Louis Vuitton presents the Courtauld Collection, from the 20^th of February until the 17^th of June, 2019.  With more than 110 impressionist artworks, this exhibition is undoubtedly a major event in the art world.

For anyone living in London, the name “Courtauld” is most likely familiar. The Courtauld Gallery, located in the Somerset House on the Strand, is one of the most important museums of the capital. Indeed, it is exhibiting the art collection of the Courtauld Institute, created in 1932, by English industrialist, philanthropist and Huguenot descendant, Samuel Courtauld who lived from 1876 to 1947. This prestigious collection of more than 530 canvases is particularly known for its impressionist (and post-impressionist) paintings.

It is part of this impressionist collection that the Fondation Louis Vuitton decided to showcase for their new exhibition. Manet, Seurat, Cézanne, Gauguin, and even Van Gogh; many iconic painters can be found in the Courtauld Collection.

Claude Monet. Effet d’automne à Argenteuil, 1873. Oil on canvas 55 x 74,5 cm. The Samuel Courtauld Trust, The Courtauld Gallery, London

The first two rooms, which are breathtaking, constitute the heart of this exhibition. The white walls and the soft but bright light reveal the canvases to the public. The meticulous, but also spontaneous touches of the impressionist painters are displayed to the eyes of the visitors very clearly. Several of Edouard Manet’s masterpieces are present in the first space, and it is almost like a waltz for the eyes; right away, the visitors are face to face with the waitress from the “Bar aux Folies-Bergère”, then they are outside in fresh air for a “Déjeuner sur l’herbe”. After, they can meet the eye of a lady in a blue dress at the “Coin de café-concert”. The second space, much larger than the first one regroups mostly landscapes painted by Claude Monet, Eugène Boudin or Camille Pissaro. Here again, the impressionists’ bright colors and poetry are astonishing, like in the painting of “Antibes” (a French town of the Riviera), by Monet.

In the third space, visitors can appreciate some much smaller canvases from George Seurat. His technique of pointillism is very interesting on these small surfaces because of his exceptional precision. Following the exhibition, visitors are given the opportunity to view Samuel Courtauld’s compilation of letters and correspondences from the artists, which are bringing a voice and an even more personal dimension to this collection.

Letters from Paul Cézanne to Émile Bernard. The Samuel Courtauld Trust, The Courtauld Gallery, London

In conclusion, the Courtauld’s collection at the Fondation Louis Vuitton is a must-see, and it is difficult to talk about it without being tempted to reveal the many surprises it holds. One important element to remember is that the Courtauld collection testifies of a man’s taste and sensibility for French art and culture. Anyone even remotely interested in this topic will certainly be impressed and impacted by some of these masterpieces.

Oceanco Unveals New 105-meter concept at The Dubai International Boat Show

Famed Dutch shipyard Oceanco unveiled their 105 Metre (345ft) concept dubbed ‘Esquel’ during the 2019 Dubai International Boat Show. Esquel takes its name from a meteorite that struck the Earth near Esquel, Argentina. Much like the concept yacht, the meteorite is exceptionally beautiful.

The vessel was conceptualized through a collaboration of Timur Bozca Design, interior designer Gina Brennan, Lateral Naval Architects and Engineering, and the exotic yacht travel specialists at Pelorus. The notion, which influenced the yacht’s design, was the fact that eighty percent of yacht activity is confined to only twenty percent of our world’s oceans. With that said, Oceanco’s diesel-electric propelled Esquel concept demonstrates what could be achieved for those of us who desire to explore the world’s most exotic and difficult to reach destinations.

With a striking design, strengthened full displacement hull, Polar classification, and plumb bow; Esquel is perfectly capable of entertaining her owner & guests in lavish style whether she is anchored in Alaska or St. Tropez. And with a Draft of just 4.3 metres (14.1ft), Esquel is well suited for cruising in shallow seas.

“…At the same time, she offers all the aesthetics, amenities, interior and exterior finishes and attention to engineering detail seen onboard all Oceancos,” says Dirk de Jong Commercial Director at Oceanco.

A perfect harmony of elegance and utility, Esquel is one of the most exciting expedition yacht concepts to date. The yacht’s 200 square metre main deck is defined by an enclosed area aft with pool and spa surrounded by walls of glass allowing for stunning panoramic views. A 230 square metre tender garage allows for storage of fast rib tenders, varietal tenders, watersports toys, and dive gear. Additionally, Esquel is capable of carrying two submarines, an SUV, motorbikes, and a helicopter.

Esquel’s design is complemented by a versatile layout which can be altered to provide extra multi-purpose cabins, first response units, seminar areas, and research spaces. The yacht is well suited for marine biology and ocean conservation uses such as ‘coral aquaculture —creating reef farms aboard to help restore our world’s dying reefs.’

Timur Bozca Design, which has offices in both Turkey and the U.K. was chosen to design this concept as a result of his championing of several different design awards in the past few years. Mr. Bozca is celebrated for winning the Young Designer of the Year Award. A design competition sponsored in part by Oceanco.

“Our vision is to create solutions by considering human factors, technology and aesthetics,” says Bozca.  “We design everything for a reason—not just for the sake of designing. We believe that we must not only create for tomorrow, but also for the day after.”

Although Esquel’s exterior design is certainly defined by it’s sleek modern utilitarianism, the yacht’s interior is an entirely different dimension. London based Gina Brennan accomplished an open, stylish, and very homey interior design which perfectly contrasts Esquel’s modern exterior.

“The ambition for the look and feel of Esquel’s interior is geared towards depicting the life, influences and home of a young explorer,” says London-based interior stylist Gina Brennan. “Visible will be an eclectic mix of antiques and artifacts collected on his/her travels.”

Esquel’s Diesel-Electric system allows for a top speed of 16.5 knots and a cruising range of 7,000 nautical miles. Thoroughly impressive figures for a 5,000 gross ton expedition yacht with a beam of 17.5 metres (57.4ft).

“In order to truly realize her expedition potential, Esquels’s naval architecture has been executed to provide maximum redundancy for the lowest possible maintenance.” said James Roy, Managing Director of Lateral

The experts on exotic yachting destinations at Pelorus educated Esquel’s design team on the ‘true nature of adventures in remote places such as Greenland and Patagonia.’ As yacht owners become more and more intrigued with yacht’s capable of remote cruising; designs such as Esquel will allow for journeys to remote locales whether that be Oman or Papua New Guinea.

Images courtesy of: Oceanco

The Most Expensive Home in San Francisco

San Francisco’s most expensive home for sale is currently a $45 million dollar compound with stunning views of the San Francisco Bay, the East Bay Bridge, Alcatraz Island, Angel Island, Downtown San Francisco and Coit Tower. The property dubbed Residence 950, is located in the desirable Russian Hill neighborhood and offers buyers the chance to enjoy a spacious approximately 9,500 square foot residence and garden set on over 3/10 of an acre in the heart of San Francisco. The compound, which was brought to life by real estate investment firm Troon Pacific, Inc is said to feature a garden so large that you feel as if you are in a private park with breathtaking ocean views.

Stand-out amenities of the environmentally friendly built home are said to include a two story art gallery, which can transform into a nightclub, a wellness center/spa, and a ‘Bat cave-style garage.’ The main residence is made up of three bedrooms, two guest bedrooms, and six and one half bathrooms. Located on the grounds is also a completely restored historic one bedroom one bath guest cottage with a full spa that includes a steam room, sauna, outdoor shower, and a Jacuzzi with ultraviolet filtration.

Indoor-outdoor entertaining was at the heart of the project’s design. An outdoor entertainment area allows for screening films with a projector on a retractable screen while enjoying the unique ambiance of the garden’s lush secluded grounds, century-old olive trees, lemon trees, and native flowers. A cantilevered infinity pool, surround sound system and luxurious dinning area complete the property’s generous outdoor space which benefit from the full city block sized lot.

“A home like Residence 950 is an impossible find in San Francisco, a virtual oasis in the heart of the city,” said Troon Pacific CEO Gregory Malin, a luxury home creator for nearly 20 years. “We designed 950 Lombard as though it were our own dream home. It was essential for us to provide a home that is truly unique, has the most sought-after amenities and materials, and remains understated from the street and then reveals a rare level of amenity and openness. To maintain Troon’s signature level of quality, we truly applied our mission and core values to this project of design, responsibility and creativity. Responsibility includes both environmental sustainability for the planet, as well as thoughtful wellness amenities for the human soul. Our mission of creativity allows for flexible, future-proof layout so that new owners could make it their dream home and adapt it to their preferences and lifestyle.”

Residence 950’s main level is characterized by a custom-made steel-and-wood floating staircase and extensive natural light, which flows from a skylight down through a glass elevator and shaft. The main level’s living spaces are comprised of a spacious living room with an elegant wet bar, formal dining room, and last but not least a gourmet kitchen with bespoke Boffi cabinetry, Calacatta marble countertops, and Mandarin white limestone floors.

The home’s top level houses the plush master suite with its private foyer, vaulted ceilings, en-suite bathroom, walk-in Boffi closets, and balcony which overlooks the garden. Two additional en-suite bedrooms are located on this level.

Located on the lower level of Residence 950 is an entertainers paradise and a car collector’s dream garage. A two story art gallery is perfectly suited for large scale gathering and is accented by a modern wine wall. To support grand entertaining this level offers a catering prep area. When the gallery is not being used for entertaining it can be converted to a sports court or fitness center. Parallel to the gallery is the four car garage constructed in a Bat Cave style and features an integrated sound system, LED lighting, and an automotive turntable for added convenience. Additionally, the lower level includes a grand parlor, mudroom with dog wash area, and two guest suites.

Photographer Credit: Jacob Elliot, images courtesy of Troon Pacific

Talking Art: Interview with Phoebe Dickinson

Meet one of the 21st century’s most gifted classical painters, London based Phoebe Dickinson. The 34 year old artist is turning heads with her quintessentially timeless portraits, which evoke a feeling of Gilded Age nostalgia. Probably best known in the United Kingdom, the artist has been heralded for her painting of Carson from Lord Julian Fellowes’ hit series Downton Abbey, as well as for her painting of the Cholmondeley children at Houghton Hall, which was selected for the 2018 BP Portrait Award exhibition at the National Portrait Gallery in London.  Phoebe’s training includes stints at Charles H Cecil Studios in Florence as well as the London Fine Arts School. Since the days of John Singer Sargent, the world has seen few truly gifted artists with an affinity for classic portraiture, however we feel that Phoebe’s brush certainly revives an art form which is too often underappreciated in our fast paced world. We were given the privilege to catch up with Phoebe just ahead of her exhibition at the Royal Society of Portrait Painters.

Tell us about how you first became interested in art, and what initially attracted you to portraits, still lifes, and landscapes?

“My father is an art dealer and because of this I grew up in a house hung floor to ceiling with paintings.  As children we were constantly taken around galleries and told interesting stories about the artists and their subjects.  I think since my father is an old masters art dealer I became more interested in representational art and that is [what] drew me to a traditional training and then on to painting portraits and still life.  The love of landscape painting came later for me and I enjoy it so much because it allows much more freedom than portraits and still life and gets me out of the studio and in to nature.”

Who are some historic artists that you look up to for inspiration?

“For portraits my go to reference is always John Singer Sargent.  For still life, I love William Nicholson and for landscapes I’ll look at Corot.”

In a few words how would you personally describe your work?

“Classic and representational, but with a contemporary touch.”

You’ve just been selected for this years Royal Society of Portrait Painters Exhibition. With that said, what do you believe makes a truly remarkable portrait?

“For me the most important thing is what makes a beautiful painting and one that is interesting whether you know the sitter or not.  In the perfect world I also think the setting should add interest.”

Do you have a special routine to get your creative process started?

“Not really….I actually think its quite important to be flexible and be able to adapt to any environment.  The only routine I have is in what I listen to in my studio whilst I paint.  In the late afternoons if I am lagging sometimes I put on dance music to keep me going.”

What do you feel are the greatest challenges of being a portrait painter today?

“People don’t have the time on their hands that they would have had 100 years ago, so getting people to sit is harder.  Studios with North light in central London are very expensive and hard to come by now and they all get developed into swanky flats, which is a shame.  I also think our typical everyday clothing is not nearly as glamorous or beautiful to paint.”

Take us through a day in the life of Phoebe Dickinson.

“A typical winter day starts with stories in bed with my 2 year old and husband followed by breakfast and maybe a few e mails.  I then go up to my studio and paint until lunch time when I take a break to eat with my daughter and au pair.  After lunch I usually go straight back to painting and if I do have any meetings I always try my best to arrange them for the late afternoons when the light starts to fade and my energy is waning.  Towards the end of my day I do more admin and then I do bath and bedtime with my daughter while my husband cooks something delicious for our dinner.  In the spring and summer we travel a lot more and my day would be pretty different and involve walking or driving to find beautiful landscaping spots or picking flowers from my mother’s garden to paint.”

Tell us more about your upcoming painting course at Villa Cetinale?

“Villa Cetinale is a 17th century Italian villa renowned for both its beautiful architecture and gardens.  I feel so lucky to be able to teach there.  The course is primarily a plein air landscape course, although there is the option of doing still life or interior paintings.  There is a day in the middle of the course for people to explore the surrounding towns of Sienna and Florence if they wish and there are masses of amazing activities for non-painting partners.  It really is the ultimate luxury to stay at Villa Cetinale and have a glorious day of painting peppered by delicious meals with the incredible local produce and Italian wine and 5 star service.  The October 2019 course is now fully booked, but we plan to do two more weeks in spring 2020.”

What is the most important item in your studio?

“My paintbrushes without a doubt.  I could get away with using bad quality paints, canvas and easel, but the paintbrushes are incredibly important.  Other than that….my father gave me a very special little pallet in the shape of a fish, which he bought at auction and was said to have been carved and used by Joshua Reynolds as a boy.”

Of all the commissions that you have completed, which has been the most challenging?

“I recently painted ‘The Bamford grandchildren at Daylesford House.’  It is the biggest canvas I have ever painted and I could only just get it in to my house.  It was too big to get in to my studio and the painting consisted of 7 figures and complicated architectural details.  On top of all that I had terrible morning sickness throughout painting it and so it was incredibly challenging, but I was really pleased with the end result.”

If you were remembered for just one piece of your work, which piece would it be and why?

“I think at the moment it would be my painting of the Cholmondeley children at Houghton Hall because it is currently hanging in the National portrait gallery of Scotland after touring the UK as part of the BP portrait award exhibition.  The painting is of three very attractive children in what has to be one of the most outstanding rooms in the world.  I think this is the painting I have done that sticks in peoples’ minds the most, but I am excited to see the reactions to the painting of the childrens’ mother ‘Rose at Houghton’ which is going to be in the Royal Society of Portrait Painters Exhibition.  This is in fact my favourite of my paintings and I hope people like it as much as they seemed to like the Cholmondeley children.”

Where to next?

“I’m staying put for the time being because I’m about to have a baby, but this summer we have plans for painting travels in Italy and Spain and then of course we will be off to Villa Cetinale in the autumn.”

Where can we follow you?

“You can see regular updates from me on my instagram: [@phoebedickinsonart]. And if you sign up to my newsletter through my website (www.phoebedickinson.com) you get news of future exhibitions, recent work and teaching workshops.”

Featured Image Photo Credit: Alex Lloyd

The Most Luxurious Ford Bronco

We’re sure all of you off-road enthusiasts have heard about Ford’s upcoming revival of the famed Bronco planned for 2020. However with that said, all of those with a disposition for classic 4x4s may want to stick to a restored or even modified classic Bronco. The off-road experts at Velocity Restorations have created what can only be described as the most luxurious Ford Bronco. The vehicle was crafted with the attention to detail desired by the most discerning of off-road enthusiasts.

Standout features added to this 1969 Bronco include a custom black PPG paint with matching wheels, heated & ventilated seats, an interior covered in Italian leather, Kicker sound system with a Pioneer Digital Head Unit , and a 2.9 liter Whipple Supercharger which allows the Ford 5.0 Coyote Engine to really get up and go.

“This is the most luxurious  Bronco we’ve built to date,” said Brandon Segers, Velocity Restorations Co-Owner.  “We wanted to offer the most opulent original Bronco on the market and build a vehicle that can be both a daily driver and a show car.”

Other unique rewards of the 2,000 hour project include power retractable steps to allow for effortless entry and exit from the Bronco’s high-frame. Velocity has also improved the vehicle’s safety by the addition of a six point Roll Cage with Frame tie-ins and LED dome lighting, modern LED headlights, and an LED-illuminated instrument panel to allow the driver to easily read the instrument panel in the darkest of night.

Over the course of one year the team at Velocity conducted an enormously in depth and intricate frame-off restoration and modification of this Ford Bronco. This project was twenty five percent more time consuming than Velocity’s normal restoration and modification process for other Ford Broncos due to the additions of the aforementioned features. The Restomod as Velocity likes to call it was conducted in a series of four phases. Planning and design was followed by Rust Repair and Metal Fabrication, Paint and Body, and Mechanical. Each phase corresponded to a specialist department of individuals at Velocity Restorations who only work within their designated department.

Images courtesy of:  Jarrod Holland at Publicity Factory

Davidoff Launches New Limited Edition Winston Churchill Cigar: The Traveller

Last month, Davidoff Cigars launched yet another Limited Edition Winston Churchill cigar with multi-origin blends. This Robusto cigar embraces a multitude of tobaccos from Nicaragua, Mexico and the Dominican Republic. It is available for only a limited time and can be purchased together with limited edition accessories. The accessories are characterized by Churchill’s diversified number of facets – The Traveller. Davidoff releases the cigars alongside the brand’s very first Duty Free exclusive limited edition, which includes fives of the Churchill cigars in a unique format and packaging option.

“After the successful launch of the Winston Churchill “The Original Collection” in 2014, and the great success of the more intense “The Late Hour” line, with the industry’s first, unique scotch cask-aged blend, our Master Blenders have taken on the challenge to create another complex multi-origin blend inspired by Winston Churchill’s rich character.” Says Sybille Johner, Head of Brand Marketing at Oettinger Davidoff AG. “Sir Winston was an explorer, a Traveller, all the time widening his horizons, exploring new places and trying new things. We wanted this limited edition to celebrate this facet of his character and our Master Blenders have done an amazing job at crafting a beautiful, extremely balanced Robusto cigar that will take aficionados on an exciting sensory journey”.

Davidoff’s newest Limited Edition cigar, The Traveller, is built with a Robusto 50 x 5 format, which offers cigar aficionados multi-layered notes of wood and earth in the beginning that is then closely followed by a sweet and spicy tanginess. Midway through, the taste buds are introduced to the piquancy of creamy sweetness alongside notes of coffee, leather, and traces of cinnamon spice. Aromatic flavours of wood and leather that are topped off by salted caramel notes, marks the finale to the much enjoyed cigar. The multitude of flavours and pleasant taste is a testament to Winston Churchill’s affluent nature as well as the signature destinations he had been remembered at.

Davidoff offers the Traveller limited edition in order to provide cigar lovers with a compound, but balanced cigar. These Robusto cigars are limited to 8,000 boxes internationally. Each box derives inspiration from leather travel cases and features a Boveda humidification device that transforms it into a travelling humidor – the perfect companion for any adventurous, cigar aficionado. Cigar enthusiasts can take with them their most treasured cigars to their all-time favorite travel destinations thanks to the travelling humidor.

The icon that is illustrated on every cigar box depict only a few of the places Sir Winston Churchill had been in his life. In particular, cities like London, Washington and Marrakesh, which were places Churchill was most remembered at, are distinctively present on the box. Furthermore, the icon can be found on 4,500 limited edition packs of five Corona cigars that are procurable only at select Duty Free locations across the globe. Although both the potency and flavors of the Robusto format is always the same, the aromas the cigar gives off is marginally stronger as a result of the smaller ring gauge.

Your limited edition cigars can’t be without their limited edition accessories. Davidoff is presenting a wide-range of accessories, including two humidors, a cutter, an ashtray and a cigar case, which pays homage to Winston Churchill’s strong spirit for travelling around the world.

The humidors are available in two separate sizes: Ambassador for 70 to 80 cigars and Primos for up to 35 cigars. Both of the humidors are crafted with reconstructed wood that has been broken down and then restored in new textures and colours that are unique in design. The silhouette of Winston Churchill is prominently displayed on the cover of the humidors along with icons of each of the many places he had travelled to.

The ashtray is one of the most profound accessories that captures the likeness of Sir Winston Churchill as it imprints his silhouette in the centre of the piece. The ashtray, which was crafted in a French atelier in Limoges, is a spectacular item that can hold two cigars – the perfect accessory to use when entertaining a fellow cigar aficionado.

No respected cigar aficionado can be without his double-blade cutter, because like the fine cut of a suit, the fine cut of a cigar makes all the difference. Constructed using stainless steel, the Traveller’s trusted cutter is capable of cutting a cigar with a ring gauge of anywhere from 22 to 58 smoothly and evenly. These double-blade cutters are made in Germany and feature the Winston Churchill silhouette, while stamps of Churchill’s destinations are atop the silhouette.

The availability of these Limited Edition cigars and accessories began in January at select Davidoff Appointed Merchants and Flagship Stores. The launch dates, however, may vary per country.

Images courtesy of: Davidoff

Surgeon General Warning: Cigar Smoking Can Cause Cancers of the Mouth And Throat, Even If You Do Not Inhale.

Oceanco’s 106.7m Black Pearl Champions Design & Innovation Awards

The three masted Black Pearl is one of Oceanco’s most exceptional achievements. At 106.7 metres or 350 feet long, Black Pearl is the world’s longest sailing yacht. Philippe Starck’s Sailing Yacht ‘A’ is significantly longer than the Black Pearl, however ‘A’ is defined as a “sail assisted motor yacht” according to many expert sources.

It is impressive, yet unsurprising that Black Pearl has won top honors at the 2019 Boat International Design & Innovation Awards. This year the event occurred on the 27th of January in Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy. Black Pearl has been widely identified as a complex standout yacht partially due to her significant and diverse development team. Oceanco has shared that Black Pearl’s owner, who is an engineer, facilitated a successful collaboration of designers, builders, engineers, naval architects, and project managers to deliver perfection in the completed vessel. Not even the most insignificant detail escaped the attention of the yacht’s owner.

“The owner drove us to new heights“, says Marcel Onkenhout, CEO of Oceanco. “It was an absolute pleasure to work with an owner who was so passionate and dedicated even to the smallest details of the build.”

Just one of the Black Pearl’s incredible forward thinking technical innovations is the ability for her rig to be fitted with solar sails when they become available in the future. Solar sails have not yet been fully developed, however, when fitted to the Black Pearl they will be able to not only serve as a driving force, but also harness solar radiation and power a considerable amount of on-board electrical systems.

“Being an engineer, I have a natural inclination and curiosity about new systems and innovative technology. Eco consciousness is vital for the future of our planet. I wholeheartedly support research that will drive us to more sustainability and I have ensured that green technology was very much a part of the creation of Black Pearl,” said the owner.

Ken Freivokh of Ken Freivokh Design was responsible for the Black Pearl’s breathtaking design. Freivokh is celebrated for his design of another massive and modern sailing yacht, the Maltese Falcon. From the early stages of design, Freivokh worked to create a yacht with simply controllable sails as the foremost method of propulsion. The vessel’s Dynarig is distinct and serves as the ‘raison d’etre’ of the realization of Black Pearl’s layout. Integrating the rig’s structure called for freestanding masts, which became an essential part of the design.

“The challenge was to achieve volume and handsome headroom whilst still retaining a sleek and well-proportioned yacht. To this effect, we developed a high ‘waistline’, effectively bringing the apparent hull up to the upper deck for a significant part of the yacht’s length. The result is continuity of line and long sightlines.” said designer Ken Freivokh.

Nuvolari Lenard joined the design team to refine the layout and make minor changes to the final exterior design. “We wanted to ensure that this very large vessel maintained her appearance as a graceful sailing yacht rather than looking like a ship, which can often happen on vessels that are so large.” said Carlo Nuvolari of Nuvolari Lenard.

French architect and designer Gerard Villate and Valentina Zannier of Nuvolari Lenard worked closely with the owner of Black Pearl to craft a classical interior with modern elements. Elegant materials including crystal, Elm burr, mahogany, marble, onyx, gilded bronze, silk, and ebony inlays were incorporated throughout the yacht’s interior design scheme.

The centerpiece of Black Pearl’s interior is a central atrium spanning multiple decks, which features a spiral staircase alongside Black Pearl’s central mast. The central atrium allows for perfect harmony throughout all of the yacht’s many decks. The Black Pearl features a central elegant salon with high ceilings on the main deck, with a casual salon/media room on the upper deck. The interior includes a full-beam dinning room with panoramic balconies on both sides of the room. A sumptuous beach club also features dual balconies to enjoy the ocean.

In contrast to the Dynarig’s size, the behemoth can be operated by just one crew member. Unique to Black Pearl’s sail area are the collection of smaller, lesser loaded sails, which can automatically be deployed within six minutes at the touch of a button. This feature is thoroughly impressive for a yacht with 2,900 square metres of sail area.

“The biggest challenges were to achieve a proper sailing balance and to figure out a system to increase the tacking performance”, says Thys Nikkels, Managing Director of Dykstra Naval Architects, the firm who handled the Black Pearl’s naval architecture, DynaRig optimization, and sail plan. “We achieved this by a faster rig rotation and by designing a very responsive rudder.”

One of the most significant demands made by Black Pearl’s owner was to limit the vessel’s environmental foot print. While Black Pearl was undergoing sea trials, her speed from sail power reached 14 knots, which allowed the vessel to regenerate enough energy to make the generators unnecessary while ‘under sail’.

“We didn’t want to see equipment on the foremast”, said the owner’s representative team. “Many hours were therefore spent researching with all the equipment suppliers to achieve optimal performance of equipment being installed up the rotating and flexing masts. This includes additional Gyro’s installed in the masts and specialist cables to cope with the bending of the cables due to the cable management system at the base of the mast. The yacht sails better than predicted. She tacks very well with little reduction in speed and overall performs superbly under sail.”

Photographer Credit: Francisco Martinez, Courtesy of: Oceanco

Video courtesy of: Oceanco

Davidoff’s Seventh Chinese New Year Cigar: Year of the Pig

In what officially marks the seventh time Davidoff Cigars has celebrated the Chinese New Year by crafting a one of a kind cigar, Davidoff offers exclusive Limited Edition cigars and accessories commemorating the Year of the Pig. 2019 kicks off with the Year of the Pig, which is the zodiac sign symbolizing luck and wealth as well as compassion and generosity. It is said that those who are born on the Year of the Pig are gifted with a knack for success and the people around them have both luck in fortune and strength in spirit. It can also be said that when a person possessing this zodiac sign steps into a room, the mood immediately becomes brighter – much like the lighting of a savory Davidoff cigar.

This exclusive Davidoff cigar, which is an intense pigtailed Gran Toro, reflects the Pig’s nearly “pig-headed” determination of concentrating on nothing but the prize. When a Pig chooses its path to take, it will never fail in completing its mission. The Pig is a good representation of friendship and undying loyalty. If you manage to befriend a Pig, it might just share with you its luck, a fine bottle of spirit, or a palatable Limited Edition Davidoff cigar if your luck is high enough.

Sheltered in a polished and lustrous wrapper from the Yamasá area, the Gran Toro 6 x 56 format with its pigtail evokes silky notes of pepper and wood once lit-up. The cigar’s finespun, balanced, and aromatic blend is the result of the Sumatra binder from Mexico in tandem with an oily Habano 2000 leaf wrapper from Ecuador and the finely-aged filler tobaccos (San Vicente Ligero, San Vicente Mejorados Visus, Piloto Visus, Piloto Volado and Yamasá Visus tobaccos) from the Dominican Republic. Brimming with flavor, as soon as the cigar touches your lip you are welcomed by notes of liquorice, vanilla, cream, leather and spice.

The number of these limited edition cigars ($39 each/$390 per box) are in short supply with only a total of 9,300 boxes internationally, wherein each box accommodates just ten Gran Toro cigars. The prominent, lavishly lacquered Asian-inspired red box is also a masterpiece in of itself as it proudly serves as a sanctuary for the cigars within as well as a quick collectable. A simple Pig is depicted in gold on the cover of the box; while inside the box there is another identical depiction of the Pig as well as a paper insert that tells the story of the Year of the Pig.

In addition to the cigars and their boxes, Davidoff is also offering its special edition Year of the Pig ashtray and double-blade cutter. The Italian made round aluminium ashtray ($395) is encased with dynamic red leather to create a stunning contrast between it and the ashtray’s deep mocha colour. To honour the Year of the Pig, the ashtray portrays the generous nature of the Pig by having a stable holder for two cigars. Additionally, the Davidoff logo is engraved on it and is limited to 300 pieces.

On the other hand, the double-bladed cutter is a german made, lightweight cutter that is engraved with an elegant design. The cutter’s surface is made up of impermeable, stainless steel – allowing for an easy clean and protection against corrosion. A perfect cut on both sides of the cigar is guaranteed thanks to its double-blade, while the interspersed spring system imparts a balanced blade movement. Another key feature is that the blades lock when it is not being used, which is an excellent safety precaution for the owner. Limited to only 300 pieces, the cutter is capable of trimming anything from a 22 to a 58 ring gauge.

For More Information Please Visit: US.DavidoffGeneva.com

Surgeon General Warning: Cigar Smoking Can Cause Cancers of the Mouth And Throat, Even If You Do Not Inhale.

Oceanco’s 109 Metre MY “Bravo Eugenia”

The 109 Metre (357ft) “Bravo Eugenia”, rumored to be owned by Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones, was one of the most remarkable 100+ metre launches of 2018. Built by celebrated Dutch Shipyard Oceanco, Bravo Eugenia marks a milestone for the Omani owned shipyard; whose ever increasing fleet of remarkable yachts has made the firm one of the most sought after builders.

“Project Bravo” as the yacht was then known while under construction, is characterized by her LIFE Design; that stands for Lengthened, Innovative, Fuel efficient and Eco-friendly. All of which characteristics stand at the forefront of cutting edge Giga Yacht design.

Bravo Eugenia’s particular standout features include a unique slim hull design with a 16.3 metre (53’6ft) beam, which still benefits guest accommodations by offering generously proportioned living areas. The vessel also enjoys a single level, yet very long engine room that is a result of the yacht’s slender hull. This hull design allows for superior propulsion and reduced power demand.

With a sharp exterior design by the world class team at Nuvolari Lenard, Bravo Eugenia is certain to turn heads around some of the world’s most prestigious ports. Naval Architecture and engineering for the vessel was completed by Lateral. Bravo Eugenia completed sea trials with flying colors in rough Winter conditions back in November, and was delivered to her owner over the holiday season.

“The excellent sea keeping and performance demonstrated during Bravo’s sea trials confirmed that the LIFE Design qualities are indeed embedded in Bravo’s DNA,” stated James Roy, Managing Director of Lateral. “Coupled with her hybrid propulsion system, Bravo delivers exceptional performance and is configured to offer multiple operational modes, each matched to the variable operating profile of a yacht designed to adventure autonomously across the world’s oceans.”

Although Bravo Eugenia is massive in size, Nuvolari Lenard has created a stunning yacht with proportions that remind us of the firm’s work with Palmer Johnson. The sharp aggressive lines and low profile standout in a segment of yachts that typically consist of massive width and height. “This new style will certainly create a new design stream,” said Carlo Nuvolari of Nuvolari Lenard.

Little is known of Bravo Eugenia’s Reymond Langton designed interior, however, we do know that the yacht’s modern and sophisticated interior showcases ample use of light maple wood, white pearl lacquer, and contrasting accents of walnut and ebony throughout. Bravo Eugenia’s lower deck offers guests a luxurious beach club, gym, and spa that includes a massage room, steam room, sauna, and plunge pool with rain shower.

“We worked very closely with the Owner to find the perfect artisans and craftsmen in creating bespoke artworks, fabrics and signature furniture pieces that reflect the Owner’s style and essence and combine to create a warm, inviting environment for all on board,” said Pascale Reymond of Reymond Langton Design. 

Additional stand out features of Bravo Eugenia include two helicopter landing platforms fitted to both the foredeck and the aft deck, as well as an over sized tender garage to accommodate a large collection of water toys.

“Oceanco credits the success of this extraordinay new benchmark yacht to the dedicated team effort of all individuals at Oceanco, Lateral, both design studios, Burgess, and the Owner’s team”, said Project Director Edske Smit of Oceanco.

Image credit: Francisco Martinez, courtesy of: Oceanco

Video courtesy of: Oceanco

Most Prestigious Car in the World: 1937 Alfa Romeo 8C 2900B Berlinetta

Earlier this month the iconic 1937 Alfa Romeo 8C 2900B Berlinetta was dubbed the most prestigious car in the world at the fourth annual The Peninsula Classics Best of the Best Award Ceremony at The Peninsula Paris hotel. The event, which has become one of the most well respected in the automotive community, was founded in 2015 by the Hon. Sir Michael Kadoorie, Chairman of the Hong Kong and Shanghai Hotels, Limited.

This exciting development comes just months after this Alfa Romeo was named “Best of Show” at the 2018 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. Eight different “Best of Show” champions from the most respected concours competed for the award. Judges remarked that “the Alfa Romeo was the stand-out choice”.

“The winning Alfa Romeo is a perfect example of the type of car that inspired us to create this award,” said William E. (Chip) Connor, Chairman and CEO of William E. Connor & Associates Ltd, and co-founder of The Peninsula Classics Best of the Best Award. “To provide an opportunity for car lovers to pause a moment and celebrate flawless design and engineering of this calibre is truly an honour each year.”

The vehicle was unveiled using a ‘Shutter-Effect’, which allowed individual slats to be turned in sync to reveal the Alfa Romeo resting prominently on a bespoke up-lit pedestal.

The winning 1937 Alfa Romeo belongs to David and Ginny Sydorick, who are based in Southern California. In response to the car’s award, David Sydorick stated: “As an avid auto-collector, having two cars in the running for this year’s award was truly remarkable. It goes without saying that Ginny and I are ecstatic at the result – a proud moment for us both.” 

For many years regarded as the quickest grand tourer, the vehicle in racing trim was engineered to perfection by Ingegner Vittorio Jano. The initial intention for the 8C 2900 was to compete in the Mille Miglia, which it captured first place in during the 1935, 1936, 1937, 1938 and 1947 competitions.

The winning car, which is build number 412020 is regarded as the first of only five known Berlinettas crafted on the Lungo chassis, marking the beginning of the Superleggera model. The Milanese coach-builder, Carrozzeria Touring, was founded in 1925; it was unique in the fact that they initially contracted Charles Weymann’s system of fabric-covered lightweight bodies and then conceived their own ‘Superleggera’ construction. The Superleggera’s frame is constructed from small-diameter steel tubes covered by thin alloy body panels that fit perfectly within the automobile body’s shape.

Well known personalities who attended the Peninsula Classics Best of the Best event included On-Camera Personality, Hannah Bronfman along with her DJ husband, Brendan Fallis; as well as actor Luke Evans of ‘Beauty and the Beast,’ ‘The Alienist,’ and ‘Girl on a Train’.

Image credit: @janacallmej provided by JMPR Public Relations