Cabinet Of Curiosities: The Regent’s Qura Bar is a sensory odyssey blending rare spirits, French plates and mesmerising views

Qura Bar, which opened at the Regent Hong Kong Hotel earlier this year, has the power to win anyone over, even if they are stone-cold unromantic types. First of all, it is located in one of the city’s most iconic buildings which offers framed views of dazzling Victoria Harbour; inside a sumptuous construction is packed with vintage elements, wall-to-wall murals and opulently cosy booths. It becomes packed during peak hours, given the buzz and repute it has already garnered, yet offers solitude to anyone who steps within.

Second, Chef Rajiv Chowdhoory, is simply a culinary genius. “Much like ‘The Curator’ who has inspired the creation of Qura Bar, I too am a ‘curator’ of all things culinary,” says Chowdhoory. “I create a range of elegant and flavourful dishes which pair beautifully with our curated selection of rare spirits and exquisite wines to reflect the spirit of global culinary exploration. The cuisine is ‘approachable gastronomy’ with influences from French cuisine.”

Every food lover worth their salt will have heard whispers of Qura’s outstanding French-inspired small plates, beautifully conceived cocktails and toe-tappingly vibey atmosphere. Everything is designed for sharing, a format handy for keeping the conversation flowing.

To start, Niçoise salad, pâté en croûte and baby lamb shoulder ‘Aveyron’ are placed on our table. The Bites menu features lamb kofta kebab, inspired by the freshest seasonal ingredients, spices and flavours from around the world. In addition, elevated comfort food like lobster linguini and black truffle porcini risotto, along with reinvented classics such as beef tartar, are sure to both impress and indulge any cravings.

The ‘Catch of the Day’ – think sole meunière or seared sea bass Grenobloise – is sourced from various international waters. Pan-seared foie gras and marinated bell peppers, as well as varieties of oysters and caviar, are all designed to pair beautifully with precious pours from the beverage menu.

Browsing the vast list reveals an impressive selection of Rare & Vintage Spirits that have been carefully chosen from around the world. Uniting Nations #3 The Essence of Karuizawa, a unique 40-year-old fusion of Japanese and Scottish whisky traditions, and the historic Ferrand Distilled Before 1914, providing a taste of pre-First World War Cognac craft, are noteworthy highlights. In addition to these gems, The Character of Islay Whisky Company’s Fiona Macleod 33-year-old is a masterpiece, a monument to the mystery of the Scottish island with its deep, peat-smoked flavour.

Jose Arechabala Ron Blanco Arecha Extra white rum, a rare collector’s item from the 1960s, embodies the golden era of Cuban rum-making. Rum from Barbados has a long history, which is encapsulated in the 16-year-old single-blended Foursquare Shibboleth. Finally, Collector Gin #001, a collaboration with Hong Kong’s N.I.P Gin, is a testament to global exploration. These rare spirits are not just beverages but stories captured in bottles, brought from the farthest corners of the world to the heart of Hong Kong.

“Everything has to come with a little bit of soul, a little bit of history, and it truly is what we want to share – not just the quality of the product, but the story that comes with it,” says Xavier Schaeffer, Qura’s Director of Operations.

Bar Manager Gennaro Pucci creates a cocktail experience that reflects the search for rare and vintage spirits. He says: “All drinks, whether traditional or inventive, narrate a tale of world exploration.”

Once recovered from an alcoholic kick, take in Qura’s sensual dark yet playful Art-Deco surroundings, designed by Bar Studio. Each area of the interlinked drawing room, bar, dining lounge and cigar room is adorned with bursts of colour, texture and intriguing objets d’art – from a whimsical emerald-green parrot lamp to quirky table lamps with monkeys holding parasols and gilded monkey pirate sconces. Large vintage photos from the days of the original Regent hotel recall the rich heritage of this exclusive venue. Qura Bar is one of the most atmospheric arrivals to have graced Hong Kong in a long time.

Photos: Qura Bar Video: Jack Fontanilla

Love Parade: Tiffany and Co’s With Love, Since 1837 and Pomellato’s Pom Pom Dot Collection

Taking inspiration from the Tiffany & Co. window designer Gene Moore, the With Love , Since 1837 campaign reveals the untold stories behind the House’s most definitive jewellery collections. Through imaginative storytelling, the theatrical vignettes prove that love is the beating heart of Tiffany & Co. – the common thread that unites each collection and the jeweller’s illustrous heritage of craftsmanship. The campaign speaks to the House’s illustrious heritage, telling the origin of each collection and conferring rich meaning on indelible designs like the Lock bracelet, the Jean Schlumberger by Tiffany & Co. Sixteen Stone ring, HardWear jewellery and other creations.

The design of the Pom Pom Dot Collection from Pomellato is based on a button. A motif that forms part of the brand’s design heritage, it features a gold necklace from 1974 – an inspiring detail that conveys many messages. Transformed into a precious jewel, Pom Pom Dot is a reminder to appreciate and love the simple and everyday things that make life happy and beautiful. This positivity is expressed in the brightly coloured gemstones and diamonds, the tactile pleasure of softly contoured rose gold and the playfulness of varying proportions.

Must-Have Gadgets That Will Elevate Your Lifestyle

Showcasing two gadgets that promise to elevate the sound quality to a new level of sophistication – a floorstanding speaker system supporting all major audio formats and a versatile music system.

Play It Again

Music system reaches new heights

The dCS Lina music system promises to bring an enhanced performance in musical playback quality, an assertion based on three decades of experience in developing and perfecting advanced digital audio players. These years of accumulated know-how have encompassed putting out onto the market some of the most advanced electronic products in the music sector, adored by music lovers and top-notch studios alike. The company has always based their philosophy on creating innovative products that meet the criteria of transparently boosting the level of performance.

Lina is the latest offering in their catalogue of music systems and reaches new ground in the quality of sound output. This is a supremely versatile system that exudes sophistication, resulting in a quality of sound that is richly detailed and deeply musical. The full Lina experience can be enjoyed with a Network Streaming DAC, Class AB Headphone Amplifier and Grade 1 Master Clock. These can be obtained together or as separates.

The product was designed and hand-assembled in the UK, and engineered for musicality, performance and reliability. It was also designed to perform to the same high standard either in a two-channel system or through headphones.

The product is available at Hifi Gallery. From HK$123,000.

Wireless Wonder

Speakers evenly project glorious sound

British industrial designer Michael Young along with a team from KEF have created the LS60 Wireless, a floorstanding all-in-one speaker system that plays all major music services and supports all major audio formats. Wireless both from the source and between the speakers, the innovative technology in the design is responsible for the amazingly powerful and vibrant sound emanating from the speaker system. No one in a room will feel left out, as the crystal-clear sound is evenly projected throughout and sounds akin to the original recording, performing just as impressively across all musical genres. Lovers of jazz, classical music, rock, disco and pop will all find the tunes and melodies have most likely never sounded so good with this system’s pristine sound quality.

This coherent, immersive sound experience is created using Single Apparent Source technology, ably supported by the 12th Generation Uni-Q driver with Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT™) and revolutionary Uni-Core bass drivers, cutting-edge technology that contributes to the system’s superb acoustic accuracy. LS60 Wireless offers comprehensive connectivity including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, HDMI eARC, optical, coaxial, RCA and works with Apple Airplay and Google Chromecast. The product is available in three finishes and is available at KEF Music Gallery. From HK$41,880.

Under the hammer – Fab Four Auction Sales (May 2024)

Four amazing lots that wowed bidders at recent auctions include a beautiful 5.02-carat fancy pink diamond, a Kusama pumpkin, a Song era ceramic dish and a Magritte masterpiece.

Ring of Rose: Bidders turn to dazzling pink stone

A stunning 5.02-carat fancy pink diamond and diamond ring wowed collectors at Poly Auction’s spring sales in Hong Kong. The resplendent piece was the highlight of the Magnificent Jewels sale and its undeniable beauty caused a stir in the auction room at the Grand Hyatt, eventually securing a mammoth final bid of HK$13.2 million. “The strong price achieved for the pink diamond reflects a sturdy market demand,” commented Fung Chiang, Head of Magnificent Jewels and Important Watches at Poly Auction.

Perhaps part of the reason for the ongoing strong demand for such gemstones is their uniqueness. According to the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), only one out of 10,000 carats of fashioned diamonds displays fancy colour, such as the hue bedazzling this prized lot. In the vast majority of cases, the colour is the result of distortion in the stone’s crystal structure rather than the incursion of trace elements.

The rarity of fancy pink diamonds combined with their popularity has seen prices soar over recent years and they have become an alternative investment for some collectors. Reaching the GIA Fancy Pink level, this breathtaking pear-shaped stone is graded VS1 clarity.

Seed Money: Pumpkin work connects the dots

A brilliantly bold pumpkin sculpture by renowned Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama sent bidders at Sotheby’s auction house in Hong Kong wild with excitement. The hammer was eventually struck on a whopping winning bid of HK$36.14 million, near the high end of the pre-auction estimate. Pumpkin, created in 2019 and signed and dated by Kusama, is made of urethane on fibreglass-reinforced plastic.

The yellow and black pumpkin sculpture with its beguiling series of polka dots measures about one metre tall and wide, and is considered the epitome of optimism, serenity and joy. Such is the popularity of the Kusama pumpkin that many similar examples reside in museums around the world.

Pumpkins have been a central theme in the artist’s oeuvre over many years, and she has said that they reflect the aura of her mental state and embody the joy of living. Certainly, the ‘princess of polka dots’ developed an almost spiritual fascination with the pumpkin from childhood experiences at her family’s seed nursery. In an almost surreal memory of the moment, she has recounted how a pumpkin began to speak to her in an animated manner.

Rare Dish: Ceramics collectors go for a Song

A dainty yet magnificent ceramic from the Song era sparked frenzied bidding in a packed New York salesroom at the recent Christie’s Asian Art Week. Measuring 14 centimetres in diameter, the fine Ge foliate dish from the Southern Song-Yuan Dynasty (1127-1368) went for US$1.8 million (HK$14 million).

Part of the Linyushanren collection, this rare Ge kiln firing showing characteristic monochromatic and crackled glaze was the top lot from the Important Chinese Art Including the Collection of Dorothy Tapper Goldman auction series. Spread over two days, the sales raised a total of US$19.13 million, with more than half of the highly competitive bidders emanating from Asia. Another prized piece was a large blue and white dragon dish from the Yongzheng period (the fourth emperor of the Qing Dynasty, 1678-1735).

Commenting on the success of the auction, Christie’s Chinese art specialist Vicki Paloympis said: “Rare ceramics from private collections commanded high prices, including [this] crackle-glazed Ge foliate dish from the Southern Song-Yuan dynasty. We also continue to have great success with single-owner American collections, and a group of Song-Qing ceramics from the Alita Davis Weaver collection.” 

Bowled Over: Intimate Magritte masterpiece caps sale

An amazing piece of surrealism by René Magritte fetched an astonishing £33.7 million (HK$338.2 million) at a recent auction held by Christie’s in London. The work, L’ami intime (The Intimate Friend), shone at the auction house’s 20th/21st Century London Evening Sales, achieving the highest bid by far.

Painted in 1958, the masterpiece appeared at auction for the first time in more than 40 years. It was offered from the New York-based collection of Gilbert and Lena Kaplan, who themselves acquired the work in 1980. The iconic painting depicts a man in a bowler hat looking directly ahead over a sunlit landscape while a glass of water and baguette appear to be floating in mid-air right behind him. Perhaps part of the immense appeal of this canvas is that it could be considered to cover three genres simultaneously – figure, landscape and still life.

Widely adorned by men during the artist’s youth, the dapper felt hat was a common theme for Magritte, and here its precise dimensions are a striking feature of the painting. Further works by the influential Belgian surrealist also performed above pre-sale expectations.

Lost Property: Disputed colonial-era treasures long held by museums in the West begin the journey home

From the late 15th century when the Western colonial powers held sway over vast swathes of the world, hordes of precious artefacts were seized as spoils of war or amassed in other ways. Many were sold privately and larger numbers still ended up in the great encyclopaedic museums of Europe.

As territories gained their independence following the Second World, they began to voice a desire for the return of cultural treasures that had been looted, purchased or gifted. Arguments about the legitimate ownership of such heritage pieces are long and complex, but in recent years Western governments and institutions have begun to heed a groundswell of public opinion and make accommodations for some to head back to their original home.

In the UK, the issue is complicated by a law that prohibits national museums from permanently handing over items in their collections. To circumvent this legal hurdle and find common ground, a collaborative approach is required.

Contested marbles

It was reported last year that the British Museum had engaged in talks with Greece over the fate of the Parthenon sculptures. The Elgin Marbles, as they are known in the UK, are perhaps the most famous of the contested colonial artefacts in the museum’s collection. The Parthenon, ancient Athens’ most important temple, sat atop the Acropolis and was decorated with marble statues and a sculpted frieze depicting heroes and gods at a festival in honour of the goddess Athena.

The exact circumstances surrounding permission in 1801 for British ambassador Thomas Bruce, the Earl of Elgin, to remove “some pieces of stone with old inscriptions and figures”, as he put it, have been debated ever since. At a UK parliamentary committee convened in 1816 to investigate the possible purchase of the marbles from Lord Elgin and assess their worth, British sculptor John Flaxman called them “the finest works of art … [and] the most excellent of their kind that I have ever seen”.

Cultural commentators are divided on the issue of important national symbols – as the Parthenon Marbles are to the Greeks – residing in institutions that belong to another country. Many believe there is a strong moral argument for the repatriation of cultural treasures acquired during colonial times. Indeed, in a poll last year, the majority of the British public supported the marbles’ return to Greece in a cultural partnership.

British sociologist Tiffany Jenkins, author of the book Keeping their Marbles, believes the Elgin Marbles perform a valuable service by sitting in the British Museum, where a reported 75% of visitors are from overseas. When viewed there, in context with galleries showing artefacts from the Roman Empire, for instance, it is possible to see the influence the Parthenon had on other cultures.

The Greek government has sought the return of the marbles from Britain for more than 40 years. The remaining Parthenon sculptures reside in a state-of-the-art museum next to the Acropolis, where a place has been reserved for those removed by Elgin. It is thought the Greeks wanted to strike an agreement that would mean masterpieces like the mask of Agamemnon could be shown in the UK for the first time.

Regalia return

The British Museum and the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A) announced details in January of a long-term loan agreement whereby gold and silver regalia from the ancient Asante royal court will be displayed at the Manhyia Palace Museum in Kumasi, Ghana. These artefacts are of cultural, historical and spiritual significance to the Asante people and the announcement was greeted with joy by Ghanaians; many of the objects will be seen in the country for the first time in 150 years. The collaboration follows an official visit to London by the Asantehene (King of Asante) Otumfuo Osei Tutu II in May last year.

“We are delighted to be lending these beautiful and significant cultural objects for display in Kumasi in this the Asantehene’s Silver Jubilee year and the 150th anniversary of the Anglo-Ashanti war, and to be doing so through a collaboration with Manhyia Palace Museum and the V&A,” said Lissant Bolton, Keeper of Africa, Oceania and the Americas at the British Museum.

Items from the British Museum collection include those looted during a later conflict, in 1895-1896, as well as gifts to the museum presented during trade negotiations in the early 19th century. Among them are the Mpomponsuo sword of state and a small gold ornament in the form of a lute-harp (sankuo).

For its part, the V&A is lending 17 objects, including all 13 pieces of Asante royal regalia it acquired at a Garrard auction in 1874. Standouts are a gold peace pipe and three gold soul-washers’ badges (akrafokonmu) that were worn around the necks of court officials responsible for cleansing the king’s soul.

Moot loot

A report commissioned by French President Emmanuel Macron in 2018 called for thousands of African artworks in French museums taken without consent during the colonial period to be returned to the continent. France duly gave back 26 objects to Benin from a collection known as the Abomey Treasures that were looted by French forces in 1892 – including statues, portable altars, palace doors and a throne. The gesture was part of French moves to improve its image in Africa and allow Africans access to their heritage.

Belgium is also making strides to repatriate many items taken during its colonial occupation of the Congo. King Philippe recently handed over a magnificent large wooden mask to Félix Tshisekedi, President of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Other items are set to follow.

Now scattered in museums in the UK, the US, Germany and elsewhere, the Benin Bronzes are another collection of artefacts whose repatriation in some form have been urged. These superb royal and personal objects crafted from the 16th century onwards at the behest of the court of the Oba (king) in Benin City (in modern-day Nigeria) include elaborately decorated cast plaques, commemorative heads, and animal and human figures.

The 1860 plunder of Yuanmingyuan (the Old Summer Palace) in Beijing left a treasure trove of Chinese art and artefacts in British hands. Years later many were sold at auction houses and found their way into museums. Unesco has estimated that about 1.6 million Chinese relics are in the possession of 47 museums worldwide, including about 1 million looted from Yuanmingyuan. Chinese antiquarians believe more than 10 times that number are in the hands of private collectors. Some of these precious heritage objects are now being bought by wealthy Chinese and returning to China. The fate of the remainder is open to speculation.

India pride

India has been hankering since independence in 1947 for the return of the Koh-i-Noor diamond acquired by Britain during colonial times from the 10-year-old Maharajah of Punjab. Following its arrival in Britain, the Koh-i-Noor was eventually cut by Dutch master craftsmen in perfect symmetry with 33 facets on top and the same number underneath. Widely lauded for its dazzling beauty, the diamond was set in successive royal crowns, most lately that of Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother. Pakistan has also laid claim to the jewel.

One interesting development, which organisers are hoping will provide a new model for sharing art across borders, is an exhibition at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya in Mumbai, India of items on long-term loan from the British Museum, the Berlin State Museums and J. Paul Getty Museum in Los Angeles. On display until 1 October 2024, Ancient Sculptures: India, Egypt, Assyria, Greece, Rome brings great works of antiquity from Western museums to an Indian audience and helps shed light on the interconnectivity between religions and cultures since ancient times.

“We see the exhibition as a unique and important educational endeavour that provides our Indian audiences and children with new ways of viewing their own culture as a result of seeing it in relation to other societies and geographies,” said Sabyasachi Mukherjee, director general of the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya, Mumbai, also noting that a high percentage of India’s young people might never have the opportunity to travel and experience the art and culture of other parts of the world.

Pillow Talk: Throw down a cluster of covetable cushions to change up your interiors

Cushions are essential accessories that elevate décor, bestowing a room with a cosy, charming ambience as well as a touch of elegance. Providing tonal and textural contrast, they are surely the easiest, most affordable and arguably most fun way to add style and personality to your living space. Whether you are sprucing up your living room, den or bedroom, they can change the vibe of your entire interior experience.

No matter the size of your home, there’s always room for a cushion or two to brighten the interiors. Choose vibrant patterns as cheerful accents to scatter onto sofas or bedspreads in solid colours or monotone throw cushions that instil calm in colourful furniture. With so many hues and style options available, you are bound to find ones that complement your unique home style.

Goods of Desire

Fondly called G.O.D., Goods of Desire is quintessentially Hong Kong. Founded in 1996 by local designer and artist Douglas Young, the heritage design and lifestyle brand has grown from a small boutique in Ap Lei Chau into an iconic, multifaceted international retailer. G.O.D. presents Hong Kong to international audiences by creating premium products with a distinct look and feel inspired by the city’s vibrant history and culture, where East meets West, and age-old traditions converge with cutting-edge technology.

Young’s designs embrace humour and creativity, turning everyday subjects into truly extraordinary objects – including an extensive array of cushion covers that infuse your living area or bedroom with Hong Kong whimsy and a burst of colour. The Sai Kung Series is one of its most iconic collections, featuring trails, nature and island scenery. Traditional handcrafts are celebrated in a range of satin-silk embroidery prints usually associated with Chinese jewellery pouches. These appear as a patchwork design on the front of the cushion with a solid silky colour at the back. god.com.hk

Staunton & Henry

Hong Kong-based homeware retailer Staunton & Henry prides itself on offering beautiful and eclectic decorative items that don’t cost the earth and cannot be found elsewhere. They have a showroom in Central, but their online store ships worldwide, delivering finesse from their collections and bespoke products for customers who want unique items. Notable among their various cool, modern home accessories is a wide range of cushions and throws.

Offering style and comfort, cushions are available in a myriad of themes from Scandinavian to bohemian and contemporary. The Herman Art Deco Throw Cushion lets you add visual interest and a pop of muted colour to your interiors. Realised in lush shades of taupe and cream, their angles, shapes and lines nod to Art Deco’s bold yet sleek geometric patterns, and add elegant depth to any seating arrangement. Handmade with an intricate woven pattern, the Nordic Chunky Weave Throw Cushion Cover imparts interest and texture. The soft and subtly fuzzy feel of the knit cotton can help make a room feel cosier.

Staunton & Henry’s Teal Oriental collection is embellished with floral and fauna prints inspired by Chinese and Japanese bird paintings. Crafted in satin, these cushion covers have an elegant serenity and shine. Available in two sizes, the Amrin Stitched Blue Throw Cushion looks ultra-chic in its tone and depth, imbuing a sense of moody luxury wherever you place it. stauntonandhenry.com

F&P Interiors

Established more than 20 years ago under the name Fabrics and Papers, this UK specialist in designer wallpapers, curtains and upholstery is a great option for anyone looking for bespoke services. They can create personalised scatter cushions, bench cushions, outdoor cushions and floor cushions in any size and shape covered in your favourite fabrics. The F&P range leaves clients spoiled for choice; it spans all interior styles from contemporary to country cottage, and includes vintage linens, printed velvets, outdoor fabrics and embroideries.

Made using traditional sewing techniques with careful attention to detail, each cushion can be individually customised by their expert team and is made to last. Designing a made-to-order piece becomes a simple and enjoyable process. From choosing the fabric to adding those unique finishing touches, items are handmade to your exact measurements and specific requirements with their talented team assisting at every step.

F&P Interiors’ outdoor cushions are a particular treat. Styled to make your garden or balcony seating more comfortable and stylish, and to continue looking its best for longer, they are woven using threads designed to withstand the wear and tear of outside entertaining. fabricsandpapers.com

Khushi Kantha

If eco-friendly and sustainable living is important to you, then Khushi Kantha shares your values. It was founded by British mother Laura Rana, who moved to Bangladesh and revived a centuries-old upcycling tradition through collaboration with local women who knew the handicraft. From stitching patchwork cloth from rags to designing blankets, cushion covers and bags, the venture is based on a beautiful blend of cultures and styles.

The word kantha refers to both the stitching and the final cloth, and it evolved from the thrift of rural women in the Bengali region of the Indian subcontinent. One of the oldest forms of embroidery originating from India, its origins can be traced back prior to 1500 BCE and it became a canvas for ordinary women to tell stories of their everyday life. Khushi, meanwhile, means happiness, an emotion that comes when you behold products made out of love and devotion.

Their cushion covers feature bright colours, heritage patterns and scenes, and animals and birds like peacocks that celebrate nature, all brought to life through traditional stitching. They are handmade from 100% cotton handloom fabric, hand-dyed using Oeko-Tex Eco Passport-certified dyes, and lined with upcycled deadstock 100% cotton fabric. Presented in a reusable cotton drawstring bag, handcrafted from a vintage sari offcut, with a packaging insert explaining Khushi Kantha’s social-enterprise mission, they make great gifts. Bespoke services include embroidering names and personal details to make each cushion a unique and happy story. khushikantha.com

Time & Tide: Models for aqua men and women to sail accurately into the sunset

Sailing is one of the most intense outdoor pursuits and watches designed to cope with the rigours of the highly competitive sport need, at the very least, to be hardwearing and waterproof. Better still, they should possess ultimate accuracy, countdown timers for the start of each race, and tools to indicate tide level. An essential compass, a barometer showing air-pressure variation and multiple time zones are also worthy attributes.

Rolex’s association with the world of sailing stretches back to the 1950s, and its Oyster Perpetual Yacht-Master series is considered essential regatta gear by many. The timepieces have a range of features tailored to the demands of sporting life on the ocean wave. For instance, the bidirectional 60-minute graduated bezel, hewed from either gold or platinum or fitted with Cerachrom insert in matt black ceramic, is marked by polished graduations and numerals which are raised to enable the wearer to read time intervals, for instance between two buoys, accurately.

The sailing watches come with either a paramagnetic escape wheel (calibre 2236) or a Chronergy escapement (calibre 3235) movement. The latter has strong anti-magnetic properties and is known for its high energy efficiency. Crucially for sailing, its Parachrom hairspring made of a paramagnetic alloy not only strengthens resistance to shocks but also enhances stability under variable temperature conditions. This stability is ably supported by high-performance Paraflex shock absorbers.

The dials feature large hour markers and broad hands filled with luminescent material that boosts legibility under all sailing conditions by emitting a glow lasting longer than traditional phosphorescent materials. The scratchproof sapphire crystal features a Cyclops lens at 3 o’clock for the ultimate in visual enhancement. Bracelets are equipped with patented Oysterlock safety clasps to prevent accidental opening, which could be critical in a racing environment.

Omega’s 45.5 mm Seamaster Planet Ocean chronograph watch pays homage to the turquoise colours of Emirates Team New Zealand, which will compete at the America’s Cup in Barcelona in August. Contrasting the deep black that dresses the rest of this large model, the aqua hue appears on the indicator hand, subdial ring, minute track, number 12 and seconds, brushed black ceramic pushers, helium escape valve and Omega logo on the crown. A countdown indicator with a flagged start appears at 3 o’clock.

More than 200 years ago, Abraham-Louis Breguet invented the tourbillon to counteract the effects of gravity seen in standard vertically held timepieces of the era. The excellence of his chronometers at sea was lauded by the French navy. Joining Breguet’s seafaring line, the Marine Tourbillon 5577 pays tribute to the early invention of the manufacture with an ultra-thin tourbillon positioned at 5 o’clock and rotating in 60 seconds – the traditional concept that acts to cancel out gravitational errors. Water resistant to 100 metres and constructed of materials that provide resistance to corrosion and wear, plus gravitational fields, the self-winding movement with peripheral oscillating weight is visible through a sapphire caseback.

The spirit of exploration and designing watches that can withstand the most challenging and inhospitable of environments lies behind the Montblanc 1858 Geosphere Collection. The latest addition to the line – Montblanc 1858 Geosphere 0 Oxygen South Pole Exploration – features a sfumato iced-blue glacier-patterned dial created using a special layered technique called gratté boisé that involves more than 30 steps. Here it creates the impression of staring at the oxygen-free blue-toned Antarctic ice. In a reaction to this harsh environment for which the watch was designed, the titanium case is devoid of oxygen internally, preventing oxidisation and fogging. The components are thus rendered far more durable to foster long-lasting precision.

Another interesting attribute is a complication of turning Northern and Southern hemisphere globes at 12 o’clock and 6 o’clock with a 24-hour scale and day and night indication, meaning it is possible to see the time anywhere across the globe quickly and easily.

Chopard’s Happy Ocean is a chic water-sports model with a steel and 18-carat rose gold case. Aided by a rose gold screw-down crown, it offers water resistance all the way down to 300 metres, where visibility is assisted by applied gilded hour-markers enhanced with Super-LumiNova. As expected of this watch line, its galvanic-treated wave-pattered blue dial features five dancing diamonds.

Ulysse Nardin has had a long association with marine chronometers and continues to craft timepieces suitable for the ardours of the ocean. Two recent additions, Diver Net Azure and Diver X Skeleton Azure, offer increased durability and increased usage of recycled materials to nurture the health of the ocean by reducing plastic waste. The former’s central case, bezel, caseback and movement mount are manufactured from 95% recycled steel, while its side case and caseback ring meld 60% Nylo recycled fishing nets and 40% Carbonium upcycled carbon fibre from the aeronautics industry.

New red gold or grade 23 titanium watches bring lustre to the Blancpain 42 mm Fifty Fathoms Automatique diving line. The red gold version has undoubted aesthetic appeal, while grade 23 titanium provides a sporty look; it is also lightweight yet robust with anti-scratch and anti-corrosion qualities.

Timepieces from Harry Winston’s Ocean Collection are specifically designed to facilitate adventurous activity. Some come with cases hewed from zalium, a zirconium-aluminium alloy developed by the house which is ultra-lightweight and possesses anti-corrosion and anti-scratch properties. The dials of the 36mm models feature ocean-sourced mother of pearl. Water resistant to 100 metres, their Swiss-made movements display functions to track the time with the utmost precision.

The IWC Schaffhausen Aquatimer Perpetual Calendar Digital Date-Month comes in two versions, boasting either red or blue luminescence on the dial and hands. Water resistant to 10 bars, they feature a Ceratanium case and caseback ring, black dial, black hands and black rubber strap with Ceratanium pin buckle. Based on a special titanium alloy, this material is forged to IWC’s specifications and offers enhanced hardness and scratch resistance, making it suitably desirable for rigorous outdoor activities on the water.

Against the Odds: A gambling addiction can destroy your health, wealth and personal relationships

Gambling as a form of recreational activity has been pursued for millennia, but its harmful effects when undertaken in a reckless and irresponsible manner are only now being fully considered. When gambling crosses from a fun occasional pastime into a behavioural addiction, it can manifest as a chronic mental health condition. The need for a proper understanding of the risks involved has grown urgently with the vast proliferation of forms of gambling and its increased accessibility due to the widespread penetration of the internet.

Devastating online craze

Online gambling can easily escalate into a compulsion which harms not only the player but also their family, friends and society at large. One alarming recent example to hit the headlines was the teenager in Henan province who frittered away his father’s life savings after becoming addicted to a lottery game on the short video app, Kuaishou. The game cost 100 yuan a go, with the enticement of bagging 20,000 yuan. The boy only bet small amounts at first, a few hundred yuan at a time, but over three months the amounts grew exponentially until nothing was left of the 200,000 yuan (about HK$200,500) his father had in the bank.

Understandably devastated by his son’s actions, the father appeared on a television programme in a bid to undo the loss. It was revealed that the 15-year-old was able to access his father’s bank account as it shared the same password as the Kuaishou app, plus the ‘teenager mode’ on the app which limits daily usage was easy to turn off.

Families destroyed

This sorry story illustrates how this addiction can impact families. In some instances, it can destroy relationships and careers, and end in prison terms.

Consider the awful case of Tony O’Reilly from the Republic of Ireland whose marriage and life fell apart after his gambling addiction unravelled. Initially, he tasted some success, betting correctly on the exact score of a 1998 World Cup match between the Netherlands and Argentina and who would score the first goal (Patrick Kluivert). This whetted his appetite, and he began to bet regularly on football and horse racing as a fun recreational activity. Once he secured an online account, though, compulsive behaviour took hold. His betting was conducted in secret and became increasingly reckless and desperate.

Theft to feed the habit

By the time of his wedding, he was effectively broke, but one last gamble paid off when a horse at the Epsom Derby came from nowhere to win. New costs and new risks then arose after the couple had a baby, and he started stealing from his employer to pay off his debts. His continual thieving amounted to a whopping EUR 1.75 million (HK$14.63 million) binge, and he went on the run when the auditors arrived.

But O’Reilly could not hide forever; he ended up doing time for his crimes and losing everything – his job, his marriage and his home. But one bright spot from a tale of woe is that he became a gambling addiction counsellor and now lectures in schools and clubs about the dangers of betting.

Forms of gambling

Addictive gambling behaviour has been described over the years as compulsive gambling or pathological gambling, though today it is more commonly called problem gambling. It is classified as a mental disorder if certain diagnostic criteria are met. It should be noted that there are many forms of gambling, and not all of them are prone to addictive behaviour. They mainly fall under four categories: gaming, betting, lotteries and speculation.

Gaming is the exchange of money on the outcome of a game, which could be cards, fruit machines and other slot machines, video-poker machines and casino games such as baccarat and roulette. Betting is staking money on the outcome of a future event, such as horse races or football matches. Lotteries are the distribution of money by ‘lot’ or number and can take the form of scratch cards, bingo, sweepstakes and raffles (for physical or cash prizes) as well as lotteries. Speculation is gambling on business, insurance or stock markets.

What is known for certain is that different types of gambling present different levels of risks of leading to problem gambling. Two factors are thought to play a major part here – the opportunity to place single large bets (such as in horse racing or casinos) or frequent small bets over relatively short periods (such as in fruit machines or online gambling), where the interval between play may be less than 20 seconds.

Phases of addiction

Problem gamblers such as O’Reilly tend to pass through three phases of gambling addiction: the winning phase, the losing phase and the desperation phase. The initial fun winning phase may lead to fantasies about winning more and more as the pastime is perceived as an easy way to earn money.

However, luck never lasts and the losing phase then kicks in, with gamblers starting to lose more money than they can afford in an attempt to chase their losses. During this phase gamblers may become secretive, start borrowing unsustainably and neglect home life. The third and final desperation phase sees the gambler caught in a never-ending cycle of chasing losses and bigger and bigger debts. It is at this stage, studies have suggested, that some 60% of compulsive gamblers will commit a non-violent crime such as theft, passing dud cheques, shoplifting and embezzlement or misappropriation of company funds.

Telltale signs

Ultimately, problem gambling is often accompanied by numerous behavioural, psychological, financial and health signs. The gambler may stop doing things they previously enjoyed, or experience changes in patterns of sleep, eating or sex. They may start to frequently borrow money or ask for salary advances. Unpaid bills will be an issue, as well as cashing in savings and insurance plans prematurely.

Telltale health signs include headaches, stomach and bowel problems, and excessive eating or complete loss of appetite. Conflicts with other people may arise and misuse of alcohol or other drugs may develop. As well as lying, secretive and irritable behaviour, the problem gambler may develop suicidal thoughts.

Treatment and recovery

Treatment interventions include psychological therapies, medications and self-help initiatives. Scientific research has highlighted how antidepressants may be effective in reducing the symptoms of pathological gambling, even if the person evidences minimal symptoms of depression or anxiety. Cognitive behavioural therapy has shown to be effective after six to 12 months following intervention. Many countries around the world operate self-help groups so gamblers can help each other to recover.

Top Of The Pops: Uncorking a bottle of Champagne is a slice of the finest things in life

Champagne is synonymous with sparkling wine the world over, but the uniqueness of its precious provenance is stringently protected. Only sparkling wine made and bottled in the Champagne region in the traditional method can be called Champagne and no other bubbles come close as symbols of luxury and celebration.

Sara Checchi, Group Head Sommelier and Beverage Manager of restaurant group Maximal Concepts, has always been intrigued by Champagne due to its unique history, terroir and production techniques. The 50 years from 1670 to 1720 were a turning point for the region as this was when specific techniques for making sparkling wines were developed. Legendary Benedictine monk Dom Pierre Pérignon played a significant role in perfecting the méthod Champenoise, or the traditional method, in which wine undergoes a second fermentation in the bottle to produce carbon dioxide and thus the effervescence essential for its sparkling quality.

Aside from the fascinating history of the area, Checchi also adores the beauty of the landscape, its villages and “the breathtaking panoramic view over the vineyards”. The hillsides, houses and cellars of Champagne were added to the Unesco World Heritage list in 2015.

Climate impact

Checchi says Champagne benefits from a unique combination of both oceanic and continental climatic influences, being neither too cold in winter nor too hot in summer, in which grapevines used in making the region’s famed pour – predominately Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Meunier – thrive.

The soil in the area, located 90 miles east of Paris, also contributes in an incisive way. “Deep in Champagne subsoil are layers of sedimentary rocks composed of chalk, marl and limestone. This type of subsoil allows for good drainage,” explains Checchi.

She does warn, however, that the continental influences can lead to freezing temperatures in winter, bringing frosts that can be devastating for the vineyards, and this occasional occurrence makes Champagne a challenging wine-growing area.

Salon salute

Asked for her Champagne of choice, Checchi unhesitatingly plumps for Salon. “It is definitely my favourite Champagne!” she exclaims. “It is produced from a single grape variety, namely Chardonnay, and comes from a single great terroir – Le Mesnil-sur-Oger Grand Cru in the Côte des Blancs.”

This exceptional Champagne is only made in years when conditions are perfect. “Salon is produced just in the best vintages; little more than 35 vintages were produced in a whole century!” she says. “Doubtless this is not a bottle for daily consumption because of its price and the difficulty of its availability in the market.”

The thought of this rare pleasure makes every sip of “the experience memorable, every single time I get the chance to drink it”. She believes the wine has a magical, almost potent effect: “If eternal youth exists, Salon definitely knows its secret recipe!”

Despite Salon’s rarity, Checchi has savoured the tipple on enough occasions to be able to compare different vintages. “Even though I have had the honour of drinking many vintages from the maison, the one that is still in my heart is Salon 1997,” she reveals. She was extremely impressed by its youth when she tasted it in January 2020, yet “the nose is complex”.

Describing some of the tastes and aromas of her favourite vintage, she enthuses: “The 1997 is wonderfully refined, its minerality complemented by hints of white flowers. A salty note enhances aromas of bread crust, brioche with a little hint of green apple, and hazelnut.” Her appreciation becomes more infectious as she describes the mouthfeel, which “shows the very essence of Salon, dynamic and energetic. The mousse [sparkling-wine foam] caresses the tongue with the sensuality of silk, and there are rich and persistent flavours of ripe peach, honey and smoked tea.”

Prime Time King: Johnathan Chan, co-founder of watch-collecting community The Horology Club, cherishes the new complications in his life

A horological revolution is underway, spearheaded by Johnathan Chan and his cohorts’ passionate pursuit of timepieces. What began as a friendly fascination with watches has budded into the establishment of Hong Kong’s first inclusive community for watch collectors, aptly named The Horology Club. A commitment to individualism and a desire to break free from the uniformity often associated with the city’s watch culture has led to a haven for people to share their love for distinctive timepieces.

As for his own wrist rewards, Chan opts for well-tuned and elevated classics in keeping with his status and style as one of the club’s three co-founders, as well as choices that may turn heads. “Ever since I was a child, I have always been a bit of a non-conformist. I always enjoyed going against what was supposed to be the ‘right’ path,” he recollects. “Well, that’s a nice way to put it; basically, I was a rebellious child! I think this has carried on to my taste with watches, I derive enjoyment from picking watches that might be off the beaten path.”

When we meet in his smart Hong Kong residence, Chan is deep in his work zone. The 36-year-old millennial is an alpha male in appearance but radiates affability and approachability, tempered today perhaps by a hint of jetlag – only 24 hours ago he was in Geneva for Watches and Wonders 2024. He wears a beige sports jacket, white button-down shirt and dress shoes with the same sense of nonchalance and ease as he does T-shirt, jeans and sneakers. Not surprisingly, he is well-versed in interviews, especially when they revolve around watches.

“It was crazy busy in Geneva,” he exclaims, happily. “I’ve been doing this [talking about timepieces] for the past few days. Non-stop. So I guess Watches and Wonders helped me prep for today!”

Once Upon A Time

Truth be told, watches have run Chan’s life for a relatively short time. He has clocked up a decade and a half in finance, and it was only five years ago that a relaxed afternoon with a buddy changed everything. On his Instagram account – where his handle is, fittingly, @watchbruh – a recent post of multiple monitor screens attests to his last working days of living the dream as an equity derivatives trader.

Black sweater top by Zara, grey pants by Suit Supply, Greubel Forsey Double Balancier S2

“I have worked in the finance sector for 15+ years and for the last 12 years, I was an equity derivatives trader, trading mostly for Hong Kong markets. I got into the world of watches through a good friend Helbert Tsang, who is also one of the co-founders of The Horology Club,” he says. “I have him to blame for being on the verge of financial ruin, as he was the one who introduced me to this hobby!”

Their chat sparked a desire on his part to own a unique timepiece that resonated with his personal style, and that quest led him to select the Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Control Geographic as his first watch. Its sector dial and second time-zone complication captured his imagination, setting the stage for his horological odyssey.

Hour Legacy

Today, a number of more off-beat collectibles show the depth of his new-found connection with watches. There’s the Greubel Forsey Double Balancier Convexe S2; a vintage Vacheron Constantin Chronograph; the MB&F x Urwerk C3H5N3O9 ‘Nitroglycerine’ ZR012 Experiment; and a custom design Laurent Ferrier Micro-rotor, the only one in the world made in tantalum. In between posing for the camera, he explains the technical attributes of each piece and how it speaks to him as a collector. His passion is crystal clear and very endearing.

Chan’s collection is impressive, running the gamut from unusual cult classics to instantly recognisable icons. “I truly believe a watch is like an extension of your personality, and so when you are spending so much money on something that will be on your wrist all day, often the last thing you want is to wear the same thing as everyone else. Naturally, it leads to my pursuit of timepieces that are generally rarer and more unique.”

Denim shirt by Zara, white T-shirt by COS, denim pants by Levis and MB&F x Urwerk C3H5N3O9 “Nitroglycerine” ZR012 Experiment

At the other end of the spectrum, he also owns a Cloche de Cartier nicknamed ‘Belle Pêche’ (Beautiful Peach), a special order for The Horology Club that he personally designed. Key to this piece is the versatility of its unique bell-shaped case: it’s elegant enough to be worn with a suit or tuxedo, while still sufficiently sporty to match more casual outfits. It’s an effortlessly cool watch, not unlike the man himself.

“For me, emotion is the most important characteristic when it comes to deciding the value of a watch,” he says. “Oftentimes, when I decide to purchase a watch, it’s actually down to the relationship I have with the people behind the brand. These relationships have led to The Horology Club Creations, where we have a hand in the design of the watch. Naturally, this evokes strong emotions when seeing the end product – almost like it’s your own child, and that feeling is irreplaceable.”

Complication Relationships

In addition to organising regular events and devising content to enrich the watch-collecting experience, The Horology Club has given rise to smaller subgroups that explore other shared interests such as sports, photography, art and wine. By fostering these connections beyond the realm of watches, the club creates a sense of camaraderie and provides a welcoming environment for members to engage in meaningful conversations and forge lasting friendships.

“The most rewarding aspect has definitely been the people; I’ve been able to meet some of my closest friends through the club and these are relationships that I’ll cherish for the rest of my life,” he shares. “Also, it’s about being able to provide a platform for people to find out more about their own tastes. At our events, people are able to see watches they might not ever see. When you try these on, sometimes you realise something you never thought was suitable for you might be a perfect choice!”

Blue polo sweater by COS, denim pants by Levis, unique piece Laurent Ferrier Micro-Rotor in Tantalum watch and white sneakers by Common Projects

With Chan’s leadership and the passion of its members, The Horology Club is poised to shape the future of watch culture in Hong Kong. And in their case, in contrast to other fast-growing communities, the more complications the better.

“The culture at The Horology Club is a draw as we highly emphasise on the openess and inclusiveness of the watch family. Everyone is on a different path with different tastes and it doesn’t matter what or how you collect. Every story and watch is worthy of hearing. This culture of being kind is at the heart of our community.”

As our shoot and interview draws to a close, Chan checks his watch and looks relieved. A tennis match, his next session of the day, awaits. He smiles and gestures with air quotes. “That was fast. We’re right on ‘time’.”

Interview, Text and Art Direction by: Joseff Musa Photographer: Jack Law Videographer: Jack Fontanilla Cover: Beige sport jacket and white shirt by The Armoury, grey pants by Zara, watch by The Horology Club Special Order Cartier Cloche and black dress shoes by Johnston and Murphy