The Story of The 1968 “Bullitt” Ford Mustang

Recently many people were surprised by the identity of the 1968 Bullitt Ford Mustang and its astonishing history, as it was once driven by Steve McQueen in the critically acclaimed movie “Bullitt”.  The car was very important to Mr. McQueen for personal reasons, and he didn’t wish for it to be restored as he wanted it in its original condition from the film.  Being a automobile enthusiast and racer, Mr. McQueen just had to buy the 1968 Ford Mustang, especially because of the epic chase scene the car was in during Bullitt.

“The rediscovery of the Bullitt Mustang is huge in the car world, said McKeel Hagerty, CEO of Hagerty (the world’s largest classic car insurer), as he tells us more about the significance of the Bullitt Mustang. Many people consider the chase scene featuring it to be one of the best, if not the best, car chase scenes of all time. The mystery of where it’s been for 40 years only adds to its allure. There were only two Mustangs used for filming, and this was the one actually driven by Steve McQueen, the ‘King of Cool.’ Everyone probably assumed it was gone for good, and now it turns up in mostly unrestored condition, modifications made for filming, and with the original interior, including the seats McQueen himself sat in. That’s remarkable.”

McKeel added, “valuing a vehicle that is among the most cherished movie cars of all time is difficult, if not impossible. It’s ultimately worth what someone will pay for it. Steve McQueen is such an icon in the car world, though, that we expect a lot of interest in owning it, which will increase its price, if in fact the owner sells it. We saw the same thing happen with other iconic TV and movie cars like the original Batmobile, which sold for $4.6M in 2013, and the James Bond Aston Martin DB5, which sold for $4.1M in 2010. It would not be surprising if the Bullitt – were it to come to auction – would be in a similar range.”

Though Mr. McQueen wrote a letter to buy the car, his offer was refused; after more than four decades since it last surfaced, that legendary car has again reemerged in the world with an incredible story to tell.  To learn the full story of the car and why it has been such a long time since it attracted the spotlight, visit:  Hagerty.com

Image credit: Casey Maxon

Hockney: Retrospection over a Retrospective

Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York. 

After a particularly fortuitous astrological alignment, we have finally made it to the David Hockney retrospective at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, after having missed it in both London and Paris. The retrospective has been organized in conjunction with the Tate and the Pompidou, and will be on view in New York until February the 25^th, 2018. This exhibit is a major retrospective for the octogenarian artist, spanning some sixty odd productive years. Hockney is best known for being a major figure of the British pop art movement of the 1960’s and for his iconic imagery of poolside Los Angeles best encapsulated in the 1967 work the Bigger Splash (the keystone piece of the exhibit). The retrospective itself is divided into a series of rooms offering comprehensive groupings of Hockney’s oeuvre that leave visitors with a keen sense of Hockney’s fearless engagement with both his materials and his responses to wider art history.

The exhibition begins chronologically with two rooms devoted to Hockney’s student days, ranging from the late 1950’s through to the early 1960’s. Hockney was already making splashes (you’ll forgive the pun) at the Royal College of Arts in London for bending rules (refusing to write essay exams for example; making the rather fair point that his medium was painting not word-smithing) and for actively engaging with his sexuality through his artwork (homosexuality was decriminalized in the United Kingdom by the Sexual Offenses Act of 1967). These early works draw inspiration from a diversity of source material but notably from Francis Bacon, both methodologically and topically. Hockney establishes early on that his true passion as an artist lies in the figural and landscape genres, running contra to the prevailing trend of the day for abstract expressionism. Where some artists of the era were marginalized for not embracing abstract expressionism as a doctrine, Hockney found a way to balance his more classical impulses and present them in an engaging way that resonated to a modern audience.

David Hockney, Rubber Ring in a Swimming Pool, 1971. Acrylic on Canvas.

We see this clearly in the third room of the exhibition, where diluted layers of acrylic ripples on swimming pools walk the thin line between abstraction and representation to evoke the iconic plasticity of Los Angeles. Leaving aside A Bigger Splash, we note less recognizable works such as Rubber Ring in a Swimming Pool. Hockney indicated that without the point of reference of the title, this work can be considered wholly abstract, and dreamily tells us the scene reminds him of Max Ernst. There is something equally wonderful and cinematic about pieces like Lawn Sprinkler and Savings and Loan Building that are able to imbue drama into such static frames. Indeed this sense of static drama is present throughout Hockney’s work if we consider his Play Within a Play, a portrait of his art dealer John Kasmin inspired by frescos attributed to 17^th century Italian baroque master Domenichino. These Domenichino frescos served as a conceptual inspiration for Hockney, painted to look like tapestries adorning the walls. This double-reality (inception) led Hockney to do the same in his portrait pressing his rather harangued looking gallerist in between a hyper-flattened periwinkle tapestry and in a Baconian fashion, a layer of Plexiglas. Bacon notably included layers of glass in many of his works to add a distortive element to the composition, here Hockney’s diluted and dry paint treatment is subtle enough that in fact even a trained eye does not immediately spot the seam of the glass entrapping Mr. Kasmin.

David Hockney, Play Within A Play, 1963. Oil and Plexiglass on Canvas.

Moving past the swimming pools, the exhibition proceeds with a room of beautiful double portraits that represent a mature and refined Hockney, these works continue to display Hockney’s interest in using geometry as a staging device to create psychological energy. They are primarily portraits of Hockney’s social circle. We are particularly drawn to the portrait of Fred and Marcia Weisman in American Collectors. We see them here in Hockney’s portrait having a super chic palm spring moment looking as artful as their collection and home. For those of you in the Los Angeles area, the couple’s rather fabulous Holmby Hills home makes for an interesting afternoon outing. There is also within the same set of double portraits, a lovely depiction of groovy designer Ossie Clark and his wife Celia Birtwell, and their cat Percy (loathe to be excluded it seems). From double portraiture we abruptly depart to engage with photography, collages and cubism. We confess it took us a moment to recalibrate to these offerings from the 1980’s. We take Hockney’s point, however; that photography is an excellent medium for cubist exploration as we consider My Mother, Bolton Abbey, Yorkshire, Nov. Photography allows for the compositing of various angles to be worked into an overall super structure. We also love Yorkshire. Our adventures with Hockney close with the winding landscapes in bright synthetic colours, representing the artists most recent work. Hockney continues to be active, and this retrospective is a delightful ode to his career, one we hope has many more years still to unfold.

David Hockney. My Mother, Bolton Abbey, Yorkshire, Nov. 1982. Photographic Collage.

Bentley Motorsport adds Jules Gounon

Just recently Bentley Motorsport has welcomed the addition of 22 year old French driver, Jules Gounon, into their ranks for the 2018 season. Mr. Gounon’s titles include champion of the 24 Hours of Spa; the Frenchman will now be racing alongside teammates such as Guy Smith and Steven Kane of Great Britian, as well as Andy Soucek of Spain, Maxime Soulet of Belgium, and Vince Abril of Monaco.

This year, the six drivers will be taking part in the Blancpain GT Series Endurance Cup with second generation Bentley Team M-Sport Continental GT3s.  Although this is Bentley’s fifth season at the race, the team is set to complete the entire Intercontinental GT Challenge for the first time.

Jules Gounon

Bentley’s Director of Motorsport, Brian Gush, comments: “Consistency is key for endurance racing so to have five of our drivers back to continue their long-standing relationships with us allows us to get stronger year-on-year and is testament to the loyalty within our team.”

Brian adds, “Jules [Gounon] has shown that he has the pace and maturity to fit in to a leading team, despite only being 22 years old, and we’re looking forward to supporting him as he develops his career. We’re all looking forward to arriving in Bathurst in February and getting 2018 underway.”

Bentley Motorsports 2018 season will begin at Bathurst 12 Hours, and will be completed with the present day Continental GT3, in an effort to conform to current regulatory standards.  The debut of the teams all-new Continental GT3, based on the new Continental GT production car, will take place in Monza at the opening round of the Blancpain GT Series and will also be used to complete the Intercontinental GT Challenge races at Spa-Francorchamps, Laguna Seca and Suzuka.

Top Luxury Ski Destinations for this Winter

Copyright of “Gstaad Saanenland Tourismus”

You are probably wondering where to go to spend a unique and pampering weekend/vacation in order to enjoy and release all the stress that has accumulated from this overwhelming world of responsibilities and boring routine work. If you are not sure of where to go and you are also a risk-taking person, skiing is your best choice! But the question would be “Where to ski?” Leave this job to me, as I introduce you to the best ski destinations where you can fully immerse yourself in this interesting seasonal sport that works on elevating your self-esteem to a higher level in addition to triggering a super active metabolism. With an incredible amount of skiing destinations to choose from, these top three resorts in particular are the best ski havens that boast the most adventuresome experience possible while also giving guests an adrenaline-rush like never before on the slopes.

1. Courchevel, France:

Existing in the “bourgeois” country of France, Courchevel embodies attractive ski spots for tourism where ultimate, luxurious chalets are found. The destination is rich and diverse in terms of restaurants and high-ranking hotels. It is literally a place for the wealthy to gather, spending delightful time with their children who are able to discover and improve their ski skills through proper guidance provided upon request. Courchevel offers a ski experience that is completely safe for beginners in specific zones (half of the area is easy runs), which means that there’s no need to worry or fear this unique chance of learning. However, the advancement of the ski level elevates for experienced skiers where they put their skills into examination.

This ski resort offers the widest ski area worldwide, enhanced with lifts which makes the journey all the more exciting. Courchevel is divided into areas that were recently united, however their names were based on their length and Courchevel 1850 is known for being the biggest as well as the heart of the huge paradise “Les Trois Vallées”.  To start planning your holiday visit the following link and have a look on its breath-taking ski chalets and prices:  scottdunn.com

2. Mzaar Ski Resort, Lebanon:

Lebanon is a multi-seasonal land, so Mzaar Kfardebian ski resort can only be visited on winter seasons (December to March). It’s a source of pride for Lebanon, with it being the largest ski area in all of the Middle East. Essentially, the area is formed of hills which is what makes skiing easier for beginners by giving them room to test their abilities and re-build familiarity with the slopes after a long time off the snow. However, the highest peak “Mzaar” is for professional skiers to challenge and bring out their true skiing prowess.

What makes this resort special is that it’s not only for the incredibly wealthy, it’s also there to serve everyone from any class, where prices are more economical in contrast to other destinations. Mzaar offers extremely comfortable hotels and chalets for those with low budgets. Furthermore, there are many other activities than typical skiing to enjoy. Visitors have the opportunity to practice ski-doo, night skiing, and snow boarding, in addition to witnessing live ski shows. As soon as the resort opens, winter sports enthusiasts and people who want to enjoy the fresh snow start racing to book their spots, thereby forming unbearable traffic. For more information visit the following link:  skimzaar.com

3. Gstaad, Switzerland:

Copyright of “Gstaad Saanenland Tourismus”

It is no wonder why Paris Hilton described Gstaad as”an oasis of calm”. The charming alpine village is truly a piece of heaven, perfectly dropped in the Swiss Alps. Gstaad is well regarded as being one of the finest ski destinations as well as one of the most prestigious in Europe. Consisting of 9 ski areas, it will take you at-least 7 days with the help of a vehicle to cover all of Gstaad’s ski area and seize the time to tour around for shopping and après ski in the village.

The destination offers an old world village atmosphere that embraces deluxe 5-star hotels and restaurants, which suit a wide variety of budgets. So, if you are planning to spend a fancy night, then Greengo Nightclub at the 5 star Palace Hotel would be the perfect choice. There are tremendous amounts of other things to do in this splendid resort such as bowling, cinema, watching live musical performances and cabaret fun.  The town’s elevation raises beyond 3,000 metres, however it’s well equipped with snow making facilities if needed, otherwise skiing is guaranteed throughout the season. Skiing in Gstaad favors all levels especially intermediate level where eight ski schools with over 200 ski teachers are there to help.

Interview with Executive Chef Claudio Chinali of Eataly

Situated in Istanbul, a well-known Italian chain, Eataly, offers patrons the peerless Bosphorus view. Eataly Istanbul combines Jazz music with the composition of the traditional Turkish breakfast and the indispensable Italian specials every Sunday between 11:00 – 13:00 in Bar Terrazzo, which offers an exclusive ambiance. Meet the Executive Chef, Claudio Chinali, one of the creators of the inspiring concept.

What is the most interesting part of adapting an Italian kitchen for traditional Turkish breakfast?

“In Turkey, we serve eggs most commonly for breakfast, but we do not prefer eggs in Italy for breakfast. It is generally preferred for lunch or dinner in Italy. In addition, the olives are always served as an aperitif in Italy, where eating them during breakfast is perceived as unusual. Indeed, Turkish specials and Italian specials do not have that disparate tastes. More specifically, there are many Mediterranean motifs both in Istanbul and the Aegean region of Turkey. Consequently, the tastes are similar. For instance, scrambled egg with tomato is highly popular in Italy, and Menemen, which is a similar traditional special of Turkey (and is included on the menu). Italians eat butter with jam, while Turkish people prefer Kaymak, which is a product made by cream of milk, with honey. The similarity of Italian and Turkish tastes is comprehensible.”

Photo: The Executive Chef is putting salt on the special OMELETTE

Would you agree that customers care very much for breakfast? Is breakfast important in Turkey?

“Turkish people care for breakfast service extraordinarily. Maybe, Sunday breakfast is the most important meal for them. I mean, you pay too much attention and it is amazing. There are unimaginable numbers of special types only for Turkish breakfast. At the same time, it is also too hard to start the day without having breakfast for staff members of Eataly. Sunday breakfast is more important. Considering that people are shopping and going out on Saturdays. Sundays, after those eventful Saturdays, are spent relaxing with as many friends as possible at the sweetest of times. Because eating is a social activity.”

Photo: Turkish Tea served with croissant

Where was the idea of “Jazz Breakfast” derived from? Do you have any specific implementation process in order to be more effective with the menu during Jazz Breakfast?

“As I have mentioned many times, breakfast is really important in Turkey. Maybe, we can agree to say that it is even more important than lunch and dinner. In Italy, lunch is more important. Moreover, the breakfast on Sunday is precious in Turkey. We have considered that we have a charming terrace, the unique Bosphorus view of Istanbul, and delicious ingredients here, in Eataly Istanbul. It would have been a shame not to turn it into a concept. “Why Jazz Breakfast?” Because, I think that listening to Jazz music is a pleasant beginning to have a nice day. Jazz music’s aftermath helps you to feel the ease of Sunday, at the same time, it also assists in relieving the Monday morning syndrome.

I enjoy eating and listening to Jazz music very much. Our customers coming to Eataly Jazz Breakfast have an enjoyable experience with this fascinating atmosphere accompanied along live Jazz music. It is extremely popular among Turkish people. I am certainly inspired with the help of Turkish culture in order to formulate the menu since Italian breakfast unfortunately does not have a wide variety. While I am preparing the breakfast menu, I prefer to use Turkish ingredients. We prefer to drink espresso, cappuchino or orange juice with a croissant when we have breakfast outside and we eat cornflakes, milk, yoghurt, jam and butter at home in Italy. Simply, the Italians have a sugary taste of breakfast style rather than a salty taste. It sounds really interesting to eat cheese, olives and tomato for breakfast as in traditional Turkish breakfast style.”

Are the ingredients used in your current dishes from Italy? Have you benefited from Turkish fruits and vegetables?

“We source most of our ingredients locally, such as fresh fish, vegetables, fruits and eggs, etc… There are two reasons behind this. First of all, it is for sustainability. Can you imagine if all of the ingredients were transported from Italy? The environmental impact would be considerable. The second reason is that certainly and fortunately, Turkey is in the top 5 countries producing high-quality food products in Europe and the Mediterranean. Why wouldn’t we take the advantage of this supremacy? I want to give an example that we have many types of Italian foods with cherries, and 50% of the cherries, which we are using in those dishes, are imported from Antalya city of Turkey to Italy.”

Photo: Ezgi Ayçe Kızıldere, Gökhan Pamir and Serkan Aydın

What is the most essential part of Eataly Jazz Breakfast? Why should people experience it?

“Quality is an absolutely crucial part for us. Our specials and the ingredients are not easily obtainable. In my point of view, quality means healthy as well as offering a special flavor. There are many reasons that compose the fame of an Italian kitchen in the world. In relation to this, the content of the meals is more plain and clean in Eataly where we take quality as one of the principles. In addition, we have this beautiful ambiance which people pay attention to. I mean that all of these are reasons, which reflect Eataly Jazz Breakfast as an attractive experience.”

For more information visit:  Eataly.com

Rolls Royce Unveils Crystal Blue: a Groundbreaking Yacht Concept

Just recently unveiling a new groundbreaking luxury yacht concept dubbed Crystal Blue, Rolls Royce has proven their unrivaled craftsmanship and ingenuity yet again by equipping the ship with advanced intelligence solutions and hybrid propulsion that’s based on LNG fuel and battery power.

First introduced during the Global Superyacht Forum (GSF) in Amsterdam, Rolls Royce adopted the 62-metre Crystal Blue yacht and it’s 42-metre attendant support vessel Blue Shadow for fresh ideas on yacht design and propulsion by improving the yacht’s super structure, resulting in more room for guests to use in even greater comfort.

At the time of the GSF event, when the concept’s development was announced in a keynote speech, Oskar Levander, Rolls-Royce SVP Concepts and Innovation said: “Crystal Blue has been designed specifically to show how new technology can meet the yacht sector’s increased demand for higher performance, greater operating ranges and increased levels of guest comfort, without impacting the environment.”

The Rolls-Royce Blue Ocean team integrated a couple of novel safety features into the design, i.e. a ‘safe room’, which would serve as the ship’s stronghold for guests and crew to take shelter at in the case of an unauthorized boarding.  Once inside the safe room, the crew can override the controls and operate the yacht either remotely or guided via a shore-based centre to pilot the vessel.

Another unique novel feature of the vessel is the use of an intelligent dynamic positioning system that allows for automatic control towards the twin azimuthing thrusters and a TT1100 bow thruster.  This addition piece of technology on the ship is customarily only seen on offshore support vessels, in which it maintains a close proximity of just a few meters to oil rigs.  However, when this technology is applied on board Crystal Blue the yacht can become completely still in the water – without the use of an anchor – which allows the yacht to follow the sun transversely through the sky thereby granting sunbathers the “optimum tanning angle” while lounging on deck.

Levander adds, “our ship intelligence and remote-control concepts have allowed us to design a yacht for the future that has the bridge located below the bow, inside the vessel. The crew is able to monitor and control the vessel using sophisticated sensors, cameras, display screens and situational awareness technologies; but an internal bridge frees up the traditional area of the bridge in the forward part of the superstructure to let owners and guests enjoy a panoramic vista that is traditionally only enjoyed by the crew.”

Crystal Blue’s bridge console utilizes Rolls Royce’s Unified Bridge design, which has been delivered to a number of ship types including large super-yachts.  Accommodating up to 12+ passengers and a crew of 12, Crystal Blue is based on a composite or aluminum hull operating a power plant that garnered inspiration from the Rolls-Royce hybrid LNG/Battery SAVe-CUBE system configuration.  Thanks to the twin LNG-fuelled 16V4000 MTU M65-N generator and the two low-weight carbon Azipull thrusters that provide propulsive power, the vessel achieves a maximum service speeds of 20 knots.

“We have dimensioned Crystal Blue fuel tanks for a range of 3000 nautical miles without refuelling but with the Shadow’s additional fuel capacity, the range increases to 4400 nautical miles, meaning that most of the typical yachting areas are accessible.”

The yacht’s steel-hulled support vessel, Blue Shadow, can be remote-controlled and used for transporting as well as launching the mother ship’s tender or helicopter.  This also helps designers make better use of the aft area of Crystal Blue for guests, offering possibilities such as an infinity pool, or a beach area to the yacht’s layout.  In addition, Blue Shadow doubles up as the owner’s personal LNG bunkering barge.

For more information visit:  Rolls-Royce.com/marine

The $67 Million Girasol Estate on St. Barts has sold

Girasol, the former Saint Barts retreat of Benjamin de Rothschild, was just sold for an undisclosed sum, though, the asking price at the time of the sale was $67 Million USD. The sale was announced just two months after Hurricane Irma stormed across the Island.

Sibarth Real Estate, Christie’s International Real Estate’s exclusive affiliate on the Island, held the prestigious listing.  Girasol first made it’s way onto the international market in February with a sale closing in November.  Hurricane Irma hit the island on September 6th, and left St Barts as one of the most impacted islands across the Caribbean.

“The structures on the estate weathered the storm,” says Christian Wattiau, Managing Partner of Sibarth Real Estate. “The new buyer visited Girasol after it passed through and was pleased to proceed with the sale, a strong show of confidence in the enduring appeal of St. Barth’s as a destination market to purchase real estate.”

The Girasol Estate was originally designed and constructed by Benjamin de Rothschild, a financier and prominent member of the Rothschild Banking dynasty.  Most recently the property has undergone massive improvements by macro-investor, Bruce Kovner.  Spread across over seven acres, Girasol offers a resort like atmosphere with six bedrooms contained within two villas, an opulent pool, personal office, gym, and over 500 feet of beachfront.

“Hurricane Irma was a force to be reckoned with,” says Rick Moeser, Executive Director of Christie’s International Real Estate. “But even that historic storm couldn’t dampen the resolve of the island’s citizens and of international buyers looking to live among the splendor of St. Barth’s. While there is still work to be done, the island will recover and is already recovering, as evidenced by this significant sale.”

Featuring forever views of the majestic Atlantic Ocean, Girasol is situated on Marigot Beach within an area that’s waters are classified as a protected preserve, and include a quintessential 1.2 acre coconut grove.

Image courtesy of: Christie’s International Real Estate

Meet Sabrina Percy

Meet London based Artist and Illustrator, Sabrina Percy. Fresh from her days at the London College of Fashion, the 27-year old Tatler ‘It Girl’ is making a name for herself as a shining star on the illustration scene.

In a world which lacks the sophistication of icons such as Grace Kelly and Audrey Hepburn, the ever so stylish British aristocrat is refreshing, and can easily be dubbed today’s queen of class, with a style reminiscent of days long gone. Sabrina is often found gracing the runways of Dolce & Gabbana in Milan or working in her London Studio to create illustrations for fashion brands such as lululemon and British marques like Rolls Royce. And on her days off, she is no stranger to a quintessential adventure in the Scottish Highlands or a holiday in southeast Asia.

Though very much to the contrary of many young artists, Sabrina’s creativity is somehow different, there is a certain “je nais se pais” to her work that is completely unique, yet, all of her work flows together in a meaningful and harmonious fashion. It can almost become addicting to see her next piece of work. Sabrina’s imagination certainly knows no bounds and can only be considered remotely equal to her passionate entrepreneurial drive.

This Holiday season we were given the exclusive privilege of speaking with Sabrina on her deeply energetic and personal work as an artist in addition to her pursuit of excellence in style and world travels.

How did you first become interested in a career as an illustrator? Was it an encounter with fashion or art in your childhood, or through family or school?

“When I was very young my mother was a fashion designer, and she used to take me to the factory where the clothes were made. I saw her fashion sketches and was inspired to draw myself. I am very dyslexic and so art was something I was actually quite good at – and I held it as a strong point. I enjoyed it and it lead me to gain an art scholarship to my secondary school, then onto my degree in Fashion Illustration from London College of Fashion.”

What have been some of your favorite Illustrations that you have created so far?

“I am still particularly proud of the painting I did for the Kings Road lululemon store. It took me about 6 months to complete as it is just over 8 feet tall. It was so tall I had to work the whole painting on the floor, as it wouldn’t stand up in my flat. Another is a picture of a baby Rhino – I met the little thing while I was out in Kenya. Even so young, it’s grey skin was so wrikly and textural. The piece was created to be the logo for the event launch of the Borana Conservation trust. Then the original was sold in the auction of the event, and all the money was donated toward the charity.”

Do you have a preferred medium for illustrating?

“I think my favorite is pencil, because I believe it behaves the best for me – but I love the vibrancy of colours in ink. I recently discovered digital drawing with a stylus and a tablet, which is my new obsession. I’m not very good yet, but practice makes perfect.”

In addition to your passion for art, you are also a gifted model and fashionista. Do you ever see yourself combining your love of fashion with your illustrations to become a designer? 

“It’s funny because my mother was a fashion designer, I have dipped my toe in a bit of small projects with her, which leads me to discover that the pages are my happy place, not the pattern cutting table. I’m in awe of people who can create a garment from scratch with all of the math and textile rules. If someone could work with me to realize my drawings into fabric form, then that would be great – but won’t be handling a sewing machine anytime soon.”

To what do you credit the inspiration for your inherently unique and very classy style? Are there any particular style icons that you look up to? 

“I was very keen on Audrey Hepburn when I was younger. I love Olivia Palermo’s style, but I’m yet to meet a girl who doesn’t. I think Poppy Delevigne has great style and fashion sense as well.” 

Who are some of your preferred fashion labels at the moment?

“I love Dolce & Gabanna, their clothes are so playful and fun that you feel the emotion as soon as you put them on. I feel that Stefano and Domenico’s energy always makes it’s way into the clothes. Their energy and good vibes are infectious. I also love Burberry for it’s classic English heritage, it feels like my home brand.”

Tell us more about your relationship with Dolce & Gabbana, and what initially started your love affair with the quintessential Italian fashion house?

“In September I received a request to walk in their Millenials ‘secret show’ in Milan. My boyfriend and I where whisked out there and the whole team was such a pleasure to work with, you really get the sense of family with them. The clothes were beautiful and everyone there was so lovely and so passionate, it was impossible not to fall in love. Then we worked together again in November, where they did the Harrods take over and we walked the catwalk in the Harrods food hall. I was over the moon to be reunited with the team, to wear even more beautiful clothes and party the night away with them eating their pasta – Dolce and Gabanna really know how to live la dolce vita.”

Being a rather frequent traveler, what have been some of your favorite destinations this year?

“This year started for me in the mountains in Japan at Gala-Yuzawa, which was incredible. I was surprised how different it was in sport and culture to European skiing. The sport is more leisurely and the long skiing lunches are not a thing! But it’s beautiful and their Onsen culture is amazing in the mountains with natural hot volcanic springs everywhere. Antigua is always a beautiful destination – crystal clear water and the vibe is very laid back. Perfect holiday…  It was my first time to Florence this year and I was lucky enough to go twice as we had two different weddings there. I love Italy for the beautiful architecture and the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore was breathtaking.”

Having just recently returned from a trip to Northwestern India, do you have any tips for those of us who are looking to visit the country?

“I think it very much depends on when you go, but when we were there in November it was great. Warm in the day and cooler in the evening. You cannot go wrong with a visit to India, just explore as much as possible. In Udaipur be sure to visit lake Pichola, the City Palace is unbelievably beautiful, and surprisingly completely man made, inspired by Venice.”

What do you believe sets London apart being your locality of choice?

“I would say it’s the diversity. The people, the areas, the styles, it’s a complete melting pot of the best of everything. I challenge someone to find a style of food that cannot be found in London and I don’t think there is another city that can match that array of amazing cuisines and quality, all in one city. I think no matter who you are or what you’re into, you should be able to find your tribe here. Each borough is like it’s own little village with a unique culture and feel. If you looked around enough I would say you are sure to find your own little community.”

Where can we follow you?

My personal instgram is @sabrinacpercy

If you’re just after my artwork, best to go to @sabrinapercyart

And for my website at:  www.SabrinaPercy.com

Where to next?

“I am heading to Kenya for the New Year, which will be amazing. Most importantly, I have to get my calendar out, pick a date, and commit to my first exhibition.”

The All New Tesla Roadster

Tesla Motors will soon be producing an all new Roadster for 2020, which based on the announced specifications, should give the best lot of supercars a good run for their money.  The launch of the new Roadster will also go hand in hand to fulfill Tesla Chief Executive, Elon Musk’s dream of creating the best cars in the world, quoted as saying “the point of this is to give the hardcore smackdown to gasoline cars.”

Not long after Mr. Musk presented his groundbreaking electric semi-truck; an all new super sports car was shown on stage to steal the spotlight.  Tesla claims the new roadster will go from not to sixty in under two seconds, and complete a quarter mile in just under nine. An exact top speed has not yet been announced, though, 250 miles per hour is a conservative estimate, easily placing the Roadster among today’s highly coveted Hyper Cars.  Yet, the Roadster’s most unique feature is that it will seat four individuals in relative comfort. Cargo room will be plentiful in this convertible, and a 620 mile range powered by a 200-kilowatt hour battery pack is nothing short of incredible.  A starting price of $200,000 USD also makes for class leading value, feel free to reserve yours for a deposit of $50,000 right now.

The original Tesla Roadster was produced from 2008-2012, and was instrumental in the fact that it was the first highway legal all-electric vehicle powered by a lithium ion battery.  The original roadster was also the first all-electric vehicle to travel over 200 miles on a single charge.  Production figures were just under 2,500, and were most popular in continental Europe.

For more information on the all new Tesla Roadster visit:  www.tesla.com/roadster

Images courtesy of:  Tesla, Inc.

The Third Annual Peninsula Classics Best of The Best Award

Celebrating their third year, the Peninsula Classics Best of The Best Award, also know as the leading motoring accolade for the most outstanding classic car, will be officially making its debut in Paris sometime in February 2018.  While it may be some time before the winner is declared; we can still share with you the eight classic cars that were worthy enough to be acknowledged as this year’s chosen contenders.

These eight selected concours “Best of Show” winners are credited as the most revered in the motoring world of today.  On Thursday, February 8th, 2018, The Peninsula Classics Best of the Best Award winner will be announced at a private dinner at The Peninsula Hotel in Paris.  The private dinner will also be taking place during the celebrated Rétromobile event, where international motoring connoisseurs gather each year, hence making the night a very sociable and enjoyable one for those in attendance.  In addition, as the only five-star luxury property in the city that incorporates an underground garage, there will be an exclusive reveal after-party for additional guests following the private announcement in the lower level of the hotel.

“We are delighted to have the opportunity to bring The Peninsula Classics Best of the Best Award to Paris in 2018, which I trust will further promote this distinguished honour on the concours circuit,” said The Hon. Sir Michael Kadoorie, who as well as being the co-founder of the award and Chairman of The Hongkong and Shanghai Hotels, Limited, is also the owner and operator of The Peninsula Hotels.

“Concours d’Elegance originated in Paris in the 17^th century, and we are delighted to bring the modern equivalent back to this beautiful city; a fitting venue for such a distinct honour,” said Sir Michael Kadoorie. “The award recognises excellence in masterful craftsmanship, attention to detail, tradition and ingenuity, and we look forward to celebrating the world’s most exceptional motor car at this prestigious event.”

The below lists the finalists that are under this year’s consideration for The Third Annual Peninsula Classics Best of the Best Award:

• 1939 Alfa Romeo 8C 2900B Spider by Touring: Amelia Island Concours de Sport

Being one of the most technologically advanced cars of its time, this impeccably restored vehicle is apart of the same class as the most sought-after Alfa models of the 1930s.  Based off the oppressive racing version and featuring coachwork by Carrozzeria Touring of Milan, this elegant Alfa Romeo is one of just seven Touring Spiders that were assembled with the long-wheelbase 2.9-litre chassis.

• 1951 Ferrari 212 Export Cabriolet by Vignale, design by Giovanni Michelotti: The Gran Turismo Ferrari Cup, Cavallino Classic

Based on a model constructed mainly for competition, this small-bodied, right-hand-drive, open-top Ferrari was constructed for the Portuguese Ambassador in France, Jorge da Cunha d’Almeida Araujo. Its uncomplicated charm and elegance was actualized by Vignale, after a sketch drawn by consultant stylist Giovanni Michelotti.

• 1936 Bugatti Type 57 SC Coupé Atlantic, design by Jean Bugatti: Chantilly Arts & Elégance Richard Mille

Powered by a supercharged engine and also considered by many to be the first supercar ever made, the iconic rivets on this automobile penned by Jean Bugatti, Ettore’s son, are a result of the inability of the magnesium-alloy body panels to be welded for fear of them catching fire. Under the care of the Mullin Automotive Museum, this Bugatti Coupé, which was limited to only three models, remains one of the most elegant crown jewels on the automotive circuit.

• 1957 Alfa Romeo Giulietta Sprint Speciale Prototipo by Bertone, design by Franco Scaglione: Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este

The extraordinary dark red streamlined prototype was shown at the Turin Motor Show in 1957. Its historical calibre lies in its famous place as a link between Franco Scaglione’s legendary Alfa Romeo Berlinetta Aerodinamica Tecnica design studies and the production version of the Giulietta Sprint Speciale models that followed. Complementing the fluid body lines was a highly-tuned, lightweight aluminium 1.3-litre engine that can distribute 100 horsepower.

• 1933/35 Lancia Astura Aerodinamica Coupé by Castagna: Concours of Elegance UK

Lancias were brilliantly engineered cars and Vittorio Mussolini, son of Benito, wanted to enter their latest model, the V8-engined Astura, in racing. He then ordered a body built by Castagna, which was initially prepared for an Alfa Romeo, to replace the original body fitted on this car after having suitably modified the vehicle’s chassis. This one-off was reborn following its seven-year restoration and has just recently won several awards on the concours circuit.

• 1957 Ferrari 250 GT Cabriolet by Pinin Farina: Goodwood Cartier Style et Luxe Concours d’Elegance

The 250 series established the Ferrari legend. Berlinettas and spiders completely dominated racing, whilst coupés and cabriolets were sold to prominent clients who enjoyed their Gran Turismo capabilities and did not mind displaying their wealth. Pinin Farina had become Ferrari’s favourite coachbuilder and penned this supremely elegant open two seater that was a perfect match for the music of its 3-litre, V12 engine.

• 1929 Mercedes-Benz S Roadster by Barker: Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance

This stunning car is the result of German engineering combined with British craftsmanship. Built together with lightweight tourer coachwork by Barker of London while sporting a Ferdinand Porsche designed 7-litre supercharged engine, it is the vision of the British race car driver Lord Howe; which actually explains the striking Curzon Blue hue (the Howe family colour). It has since been restored by it’s current owner to the exact specifications of the noble family.

• 1964 ATS 2500 GTS Coupé by Allemano, design by Franco Scaglione: The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering

The ATS is the first Italian GT mid-engined car. It was developed by ex-Ferrari engineers who had left after a row with Mrs Ferrari. In correlation they ran a Formula One team but results were not up to the expectations and backers soon retired. Between seven and ten road cars were all that was produced, each sporting tasteful Allemano coachwork, of which this is an even rarer lightweight version with a 2.5-litre, V8 engine.

This year’s Peninsula Classics Best of the Best Award will highlight the Best of Show winners that are under consideration by 24 highly-renowned motorcar authorities, famed designers and prominent celebrities, including acclaimed TV show host, Jay Leno; H.R.H. Prince Michael of Kent; Chief Creative Officer at Pinin Farina, Fabio Filippini; Ken Okuyama; Formula One race cars and McLaren F1 road car designer, Gordon Murray; Scuderia Ferrari Formula One racer, Jean Todt; Ralph Lauren; Chief Design Officer of Mercedes-Benz and all brands of Daimler AG, Gordon Wagener; and many more…

For more information visit:  Peninsula.com