https://www.scmp.com/rss/12345/feed Pin Lee is Deputy Editor on the Specialist Publications desk. She works on various lifestyle publications, and primarily focuses on high jewellery and luxury watches. en https://assets.i-scmp.com/static/img/icons/scmp-meta-1200x630.png https://www.scmp.com In Hong Kong, it is not unusual for parents to feel anxious about giving their children a head start in education, right from kindergarten. Although preschool education is not mandatory in Hong Kong, most parents enrol their children in an early-learning programme because of the city’s competitive educational system and the high expectations that accompany children’s preparations for formal schooling. Getting your child into a good kindergarten is paramount, so the thinking goes, because it can... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/education/article/3173209/what-are-hallmarks-high-quality-kindergarten-education-and?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/education/article/3173209/what-are-hallmarks-high-quality-kindergarten-education-and?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 08 Apr 2022 04:00:27 +0000 Maintaining and improving the health of its citizens is one of the most important functions of any government at any time as the world struggles to curb the spread of Covid-19. The current pandemic has made clear the importance of quality health care, and more specialists are needed globally. A career in public health is a rewarding one since the work has a positive impact on society, not to mention it typically provides financial stability. According to the World Health Organization (WHO),... https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3165418/hong-kongs-universities-address-future-public-health-care-needs?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/article/3165418/hong-kongs-universities-address-future-public-health-care-needs?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 14 Feb 2022 02:00:12 +0000 Pantone has called Greenery - a “fresh and zesty yellow-green shade that evokes the first days of spring when nature’s greens revive, restore and renew” - as this year’s “it” colour. Signifying new beginnings and the freshness of spring, it seems to be the right choice as people try to find respite from the noise and pressures of daily life, and the desire to reconnect with nature. Even in the world of fine jewellery, green is reinforcing its enigmatic appeal, radiating elegance and royalty... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/watches-jewellery/article/2094076/emerald-jewellery-exudes-elegance-and-enigma?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/watches-jewellery/article/2094076/emerald-jewellery-exudes-elegance-and-enigma?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 15 May 2017 00:45:00 +0000 Gübelin Gem Lab has launched an Emerald Paternity Test - new traceability technology enabling independent proof of provenance for emeralds. We asked Raphael Gübelin, CEO of Gübelin, what this means for the industry. What is the significance of this test? This new technology allows a truly independent proof-of-provenance testing for emeralds. We have been able to customise DNA-based nanoparticles enabling traceability of emeralds back to the exact place of mining. In other words, [it is] a true... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/watches-jewellery/article/2094121/emerald-paternity-test-can-verify-its-source-says?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/watches-jewellery/article/2094121/emerald-paternity-test-can-verify-its-source-says?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 12 May 2017 08:45:45 +0000 The hi-tech looking Colt Racer from Breitling makes its debut at Baselworld. Fulfilling all the functions of a tool watch, comfortable, durable, legible, and reliable, this high-performance timepiece with a military background – it’s reminiscent of the MXS-R “Skyracer”, the high-performance plane on the Breitling Racing Team flown by aerobatics rising star Mika Brageot in the Red Bull Air Race World Championship – retains all the qualities of an authentic instrument for professionals and hopes... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/article/2080495/breitling-unveils-its-hi-tech-looking-wonder-colt-racer-baselworld?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/article/2080495/breitling-unveils-its-hi-tech-looking-wonder-colt-racer-baselworld?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 27 Mar 2017 00:30:45 +0000 As an haute couture house developing a strong identity in timepieces, Dior holds quite a unique position with a profile shared by only a handful of other companies. The brand’s star is the Dior VIII Grand Bal, which was introduced in 2011 with a striking feature – a decorative and functional rotor placed on the front of the dial. In movement, it reflects the whirling full skirts of the ball gowns that helped make couturier Christian Dior’s reputation in the 1950s – hence the name. Since then,... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/article/2080475/dior-timepieces-show-exquisite-craftsmanship-and-details-baselworld?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/article/2080475/dior-timepieces-show-exquisite-craftsmanship-and-details-baselworld?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 26 Mar 2017 02:30:30 +0000 Zenith is one of the premium Swiss watch brands which has been in operation since 1865 and today is a subsidiary of the luxury group LVMH (Bulgari, TAG Heuer and Hublot). Zenith produces all watch movements in-house and is famous for the 1969 El Primero calibre, one of the first automatic chronograph calibres. The El Primero is not only the world’s first automatic chronograph but also the first to beat at the highly precise frequency of 36,000 vph. After more than 150 years boasting more than... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/article/2080492/zenith-launches-heritage-146-baselworld-2017?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/article/2080492/zenith-launches-heritage-146-baselworld-2017?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 26 Mar 2017 02:30:30 +0000 Diamond company Graff has amazed visitors over the years with some of the most expensive watches. This year, some of the brand’s offerings hark back to nature and, this time, its craftsmanship is stealing the limelight. At this year’s Baselworld, the Graff Princess Butterfly Secret Watch is an example of how the company uses fabulous gemstones and turns them into exquisite timepieces that are stylish, of high quality and a superb show of workmanship. Graff’s artisans have created an intricately... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/watches-jewellery/article/2080509/graff-once-again-produces-masterpiece-graff?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/watches-jewellery/article/2080509/graff-once-again-produces-masterpiece-graff?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 24 Mar 2017 06:00:30 +0000 Extreme thinness in horology is a complication in itself and Bulgari has pushed the boundaries of its watchmaking skills to meet this challenge. The maison has already scored two successive world records for creating the slimmest timepieces – for the Tourbillon in 2014, and the Minute Repeater in 2016. This year, the watchmaker unveils the Octo Finissimo Automatic, the slimmest ultra-thin self-winding watch on the market to date, measuring just 5.15mm in total thickness, while its self-winding... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/article/2080505/bulgari-launches-slimmest-self-winding-watch-market-octo-finissimo?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/article/2080505/bulgari-launches-slimmest-self-winding-watch-market-octo-finissimo?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 23 Mar 2017 09:15:45 +0000 Florence Kong is the founder of FAB-A-MATTER and a chartered and registered architect in Hong Kong and Britain. She worked for Zaha Hadid Architects London, Foster + Partners, and KPF London before starting her own design studio. She lectures in architectural design and interior design at the University of Hong Kong. Hong Kong-based Kong discusses her passion to build smart homes. Q. What was the inspiration behind the design of this apartment? A: I adopted a modern interpretation of traditional... https://www.scmp.com/native/lifestyle/topics/premier-living/article/2079344/smart-home-control-your-fingertips?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/native/lifestyle/topics/premier-living/article/2079344/smart-home-control-your-fingertips?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 21 Mar 2017 01:15:15 +0000 A sneak peek at some of the timepieces on show at this year’s Baselworld Fair. Bulgari Octo Finissimo Tourbillon Skeleton The Octo collection, unveiled in 2012, is a mainstay of Bulgari’s men’s watches. Recognisable by its eight-sided case and topped by a round bezel, Octo will see several new interpretations this year, notably the Octo Roma and the ultrathin Octo Finissimo models. The new Octo Roma has some updated features, but they are so subtle, one would be forgiven for not noticing... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/watches-jewellery/article/2078765/6-luxury-watches-look-out-baselworld-2017?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/watches-jewellery/article/2078765/6-luxury-watches-look-out-baselworld-2017?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 15 Mar 2017 00:30:45 +0000 Swiss watchmakers, jewellers, and their suppliers are fine-tuning their latest creations ahead of Baselworld, from March 23 to 30. Baselworld has given watch fans and connoisseurs remarkable insights into the world of horology since 1917. It is one of the most important shows in the watch and jewellery industry, as it is the only one that attracts all the key players from watchmakers to jewellers and from diamond, pearl and gemstone dealers through to machines and the supply industry. Last year... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/watches-jewellery/article/2073393/watch-baselworld-offers-horology-and-jewellery?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/watches-jewellery/article/2073393/watch-baselworld-offers-horology-and-jewellery?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 23 Feb 2017 07:00:15 +0000 Not too long ago, women used to buy timepieces to be worn day and night, winter and summer and year after year. They were meant to last forever, like diamonds. I inherited my mother’s Omega Constellation – the only watch she had ever owned and worn for more than 30 years. Today, watches have evolved to complement a women’s wardrobe even though they had always enjoyed a place in the fashion industry. They are as important a fashion accessory as a handbag or a scarf. And, as in fashion, there are... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/watches-jewellery/article/2069480/creative-luxury-watch-straps-make-myriad?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/watches-jewellery/article/2069480/creative-luxury-watch-straps-make-myriad?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 09 Feb 2017 08:00:00 +0000 I was spellbound the first time I saw Jaquet Droz’s Charming Bird at the 2012 Baselworld fair. The miniaturised automaton bird inside the 47mm-diameter watch turned, flapped its wings, moved its head and tail, and opened its beak to chirp, all driven by an intricate mechanism set against an even more intricate hand-decorated dial which depicted the Swiss countryside. Priced at US$450,000 then, this wristwatch was way beyond the budget of ordinary watch-lovers but I could see why it would be a... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/watches-jewellery/article/2061565/timeless-metiers-dart-watches-continue-defy-trends?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/watches-jewellery/article/2061565/timeless-metiers-dart-watches-continue-defy-trends?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 12 Jan 2017 07:15:30 +0000 How did Manufacture Royale come about, as it is quite a niche brand known mostly by watch connoisseurs and collectors? Manufacture Royale is relatively new to the scene of independent watchmakers even though it has nearly 250 years of existence. We only started operation in 2010. The name comes from an 18th-century watchmaking enterprise that French philosopher Voltaire developed in Ferney, a French town in the Jura Mountains. Voltaire’s workshop produced mechanical winding movements and watches... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/people-events/article/2060817/manufacture-royale-keeps-innovating-while-maintaining?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/people-events/article/2060817/manufacture-royale-keeps-innovating-while-maintaining?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 10 Jan 2017 04:45:00 +0000 Fashion designer Dorian Ho is known for his wedding-gown designs and glitzy dresses. His eponymous label is well-known among Hong Kong’s A-list celebrities. He is also one of the few Hong Kong designers to have successfully launched a men’s collection. Lately, I’ve been … introducing a cross-over jewellery collection with Arte Madrid. My next big project is to design a watch collection, as I’m a big fan of watches. Describe yourself in three words …. aggressive, determined and ambitious. To me,... https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/special-reports/christmas-magazine/topics/christmas-magazine/article/2049759/fashion?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/special-reports/christmas-magazine/topics/christmas-magazine/article/2049759/fashion?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 01 Dec 2016 04:19:37 +0000 The big year for diamonds was 1932. The great Coco Chanel, whose first love was costume jewellery, turned her formidable design gifts to diamonds. Chanel said: “In my profession, any means is legitimate, provided it is only used in the true spirit of fashion. I started creating costume jewellery because I felt it was refreshingly free of arrogance, during a period that tended towards ostentatious displays of luxury.” So what changed? The Great Depression, that’s what. Chanel lent her support to... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/watches-jewellery/article/2050136/how-coco-chanel-saved-diamond-industry-during?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/watches-jewellery/article/2050136/how-coco-chanel-saved-diamond-industry-during?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 29 Nov 2016 09:45:15 +0000 Sport is known as a great social equaliser – it transcends social, cultural, language and ideological barriers – and luxury watchmakers are aware of its influence. Brands associating themselves with sports can reach huge audiences who share a common passion. One marquee brand that has successfully tapped into the association between human achievement and excellence in sport is Rolex, particularly in tennis. The brand and professional tennis first joined forces in 1978 when it became the official... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/watches-jewellery/article/2047191/rolex-aligns-excellence-sport-through-tennis?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/watches-jewellery/article/2047191/rolex-aligns-excellence-sport-through-tennis?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 18 Nov 2016 04:15:45 +0000 Watchmaking was in the spotlight at the 16th Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève’s (GPHG) prize giving at Théâtre du Léman in Geneva, Switzerland. The jury, composed of 27 international experts, announced the 15 winners and awarded the “Aiguiile d’Or” Grand Prix to Ferdinand Berthoud for the Chronomètrie Ferdinand Berthoud FB 1 model. PRIZE WINNERS: “Aiguille d’Or” Grand Prix: Ferdinand Berthoud, Chronomètrie Ferdinand Berthoud FB 1 Ladies’ Watch Prize: Piaget, Limelight Gala... https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/business/topics/timepieces/article/2046847/ferdinand-berthouds-fb-1-takes-top-prize?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/business/topics/timepieces/article/2046847/ferdinand-berthouds-fb-1-takes-top-prize?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 17 Nov 2016 04:08:10 +0000 Sport is known as a great social equaliser – it transcends social, cultural, language and ideological barriers – and luxury watchmakers are aware of its influence. Brands associating themselves with sports can reach huge audiences who share a common passion. One marquee brand that has successfully tapped into the association between human achievement and excellence in sport is Rolex, particularly in tennis. The brand and professional tennis first joined forces in 1978 when it became the official... https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/business/topics/timepieces/article/2046837/masterful-branding-rolex-taps-association?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/special-reports/business/topics/timepieces/article/2046837/masterful-branding-rolex-taps-association?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 17 Nov 2016 03:42:42 +0000 November 2015: Christie’s Geneva auction room is hushed as bidding just goes up, and up, and up. The largest cushion-shaped vivid pink diamond ever auctioned is on the block. The hammer comes down on the 16.08ct ring-set gem at 28.7 million Swiss francs (HK$230 million). The successful bidder is Hong Kong billionaire Joseph Lau, who named the diamond Sweet Josephine. The scene is repeated the next day at Sotheby’s where a 12.03ct blue diamond is sold to Lau for 48.4 million Swiss francs – it is... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/watches-jewellery/article/2046580/natures-gift-pink-blue-or-green-these-rare?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/watches-jewellery/article/2046580/natures-gift-pink-blue-or-green-these-rare?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 16 Nov 2016 09:30:45 +0000 FARE Chinese fare with a twist. AMBIENCE Pleasant and spacious, the décor of this two-storey bar-cum-restaurant harks back to the days of the tai-pan dynasty with Chinese artworks and dark wooden furniture with hints of modern touches here and there. COST HK$648 per person for new weekend dim sum brunch with a free-flow GH MumM Champagne. WHO TO BRING Anyone who loves to eat and drink (it’s free-flow after all). TURN-ONS The long list of starters - which include several classic dim sum... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/good-eating/article/2046038/tycoon-tanns-new-weekend-dim-sum-brunch-free-flow-champagne?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/good-eating/article/2046038/tycoon-tanns-new-weekend-dim-sum-brunch-free-flow-champagne?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 16 Nov 2016 01:30:30 +0000 Emeralds have been prized since ancient times for their majestic green colour and rarity. Helen Molesworth, managing director of Gübelin Academy, explains why. Why are emeralds so coveted? Because they are the best and best known of the green gems. They have been valued as long as any coloured gemstone, and the unique gems from Colombia can show an extraordinarily well-saturated vivid gem green. Colombian emeralds rank in the upper echelons of top quality gemstones, and quality is the main focus... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/topics/jewellery/article/2043035/emeralds-are-miracles-nature-special?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/topics/jewellery/article/2043035/emeralds-are-miracles-nature-special?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 07 Nov 2016 17:15:00 +0000 Diamonds make you feel good. They’re up there with chocolates and Champagne. Investing in diamonds has a powerful psychological edge over your tech start-up company shares or natural gas futures beause they are so desirable on such a personal level. Is this a good basis for an investment decision? There are diamonds, and there are diamonds. Collectable diamonds – of exceptional size, quality and sometimes colour, perhaps associated with a celebrity or historical figure – are fetching... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/topics/diamonds-investment/article/2018932/natural-high-investing-diamonds?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/topics/diamonds-investment/article/2018932/natural-high-investing-diamonds?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 13 Sep 2016 07:15:00 +0000 Rio Tinto unveiled one of the largest diamonds ever found in Canada in late 2015, the exceptional 187.7ct Diavik Foxfire diamond. The gem-quality rough appeared at a private preview in Kensington Palace, but it was discovered a world away in the remote Northwest Territories of Canada, 220km south of the Arctic Circle. The find is now with Excellent Facets – a New York-based company that was the successful bidder at Rio Tinto’s Specials Tender – and will likely yield at least one very large... https://www.scmp.com/specialreports/business/topics/diamonds-investment/article/2018925/rough-diamonds-are-exerting?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/specialreports/business/topics/diamonds-investment/article/2018925/rough-diamonds-are-exerting?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 13 Sep 2016 05:36:48 +0000 The big year for diamonds was 1932. The great Coco Chanel, whose first love was costume jewellery, turned her formidable design gifts to diamonds. Chanel said: “In my profession, any means is legitimate, provided it is only used in the true spirit of fashion. I started creating costume jewellery because I felt it was refreshingly free of arrogance, during a period that tended towards ostentatious displays of luxury.” So what changed? The Great Depression, that’s what. Chanel lent her support to... https://www.scmp.com/specialreports/business/topics/diamonds-investment/article/2018914/game-changer-coco-chanels-1932?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/specialreports/business/topics/diamonds-investment/article/2018914/game-changer-coco-chanels-1932?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 13 Sep 2016 05:05:57 +0000 November 2015: Christie’s Geneva auction room is hushed as bidding just goes up, and up, and up. The largest cushion-shaped vivid pink diamond ever auctioned is on the block. The hammer comes down on the 16.08ct ring-set gem at 28.7 million Swiss francs (HK$230 million). The successful bidder is Hong Kong billionaire Joseph Lau, who named the diamond Sweet Josephine. The scene is repeated the next day at Sotheby’s where a 12.03ct blue diamond is sold to Lau for 48.4 million Swiss francs – it is... https://www.scmp.com/specialreports/business/topics/diamonds-investment/article/2018900/natures-gift-pink-blue-or-green?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/specialreports/business/topics/diamonds-investment/article/2018900/natures-gift-pink-blue-or-green?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 13 Sep 2016 04:30:45 +0000 LITTLE CREATURES 5a New Praya Road, Kennedy Town, 2833-5611   From the ambience to the portions, everything is big at this amped-up microbrewery/restaurant. Little Creatures - from Fremantle, Perth - subscribes to the craft beer movement. It occupies 6,000 sq ft of a former flour and sugar warehouse that faces the sea. Spacious and lofty, it has an industrial warehouse look with huge exposed pipes running across the ceilings. An open kitchen offers all-day dining and large rectangular wooden... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/good-eating/article/2010704/little-creatures-craft-beer-and-big-portions-make-winning?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/good-eating/article/2010704/little-creatures-craft-beer-and-big-portions-make-winning?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 06 Sep 2016 12:02:47 +0000 TICKETS Tickets to the 2016 FORMULA 1 SINGAPORE AIRLINES SINGAPORE GRAND PRIX start from: S$78 (HK$665) (Friday Zone 4 Walkabout), S$168 (Saturday Zone 4 Walkabout) to S$198 (Sunday Zone 4 Walkabout) while three-day tickets start from S$298 (Bay Grandstand). These tickets offer great value for money, with the Circuit Park slated to open from 2.30pm to 12.30am daily over the race weekend. Ticket holders can catch the Formula One action from strategically located bleachers; three support races... https://www.scmp.com/business/article/1996021/singapore-grand-prix-guide-zone-4-walkabout-tickets-facts-about-track?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/business/article/1996021/singapore-grand-prix-guide-zone-4-walkabout-tickets-facts-about-track?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 28 Jul 2016 07:30:00 +0000 OKRA 110 Queen’s Road West, Sai Ying Pun, 2806 1038   Don't let the name deceive you into thinking this is a vegetarian restaurant. Okra - a modern Japanese restaurant - serves a variety of seafood and meat dishes. Located near Sai Yin Pun MTR, its entrance is marked by a sliding door resembling a cross section of a cut okra. The restaurant rocks, literally, as it only plays hard rock music. The menu is divided into smaller bites and larger plates with an extensive sake list from Japan. We... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/good-eating/article/1975848/eatery-rocks-okra-sai-ying-pun?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/good-eating/article/1975848/eatery-rocks-okra-sai-ying-pun?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 20 Jun 2016 15:10:52 +0000 KYOKU G/F, 38 Haven Street, Causeway Bay, 2156 9888   Nestled at the end of Haven Street in Causeway Bay, next to a high-end service apartment block, Kyoku's stylish entrance provides a hint of what lies inside. The interior of more than 3,000 sq ft has a sushi and teppanyaki counter, and three private rooms. Décor is minimalist, subscribing to a zen aesthetic with wooden counters around the two food preparation areas, while service is attentive. The extensive dinner menu includes set meals... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/good-eating/article/1975839/kyoku-offers-haven-hope-lovers-japanese-cuisine?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/good-eating/article/1975839/kyoku-offers-haven-hope-lovers-japanese-cuisine?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 20 Jun 2016 15:10:51 +0000 One of Jaquet Droz's highlights at this year's BaselWorld is the whimsical yet ultracomplicated Charming Bird watch which has become the signature of the Jaquet Droz brand. This watch celebrates the spirit of innovation and aesthetic refinement of its founder Pierre Jaquet-Droz, a maître horloger since 1738, who became famous all over the world in the Age of Enlightenment for his automata. Charming Bird made its debut in 2014. When it was perfected in the following year, the watch promptly won... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/article/1960042/jaquet-droz-launches-new-charming-bird-watch?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/article/1960042/jaquet-droz-launches-new-charming-bird-watch?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 31 May 2016 03:30:30 +0000 FARE Japanese omakase set dinner. AMBIENCE Spacious (6,800 sq ft is rare in Hong Kong for an eatery) and comfortable with simple wooden chairs and tables. It is also relatively quiet compared with other big restaurants. Tables by the side get a nice view of the city. COST Five-course meal for two is about HK$1,800 without alcohol. WHO TO BRING Family and friends. TURN-ONS Entrusting the chef to serve us the best he has to offer, we eagerly anticipate the omakase that is to come. And when the... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/good-eating/article/1924623/spacious-eatery-shiki-zen-serves-omakase-fresh-sea-handmade?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/good-eating/article/1924623/spacious-eatery-shiki-zen-serves-omakase-fresh-sea-handmade?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 22 Mar 2016 14:45:00 +0000 Wellendorff has been a relatively quiet brand in Hong Kong and mainland China. But, lately, there has been an effort to boost its profile. Why is this happening? We already have well-established boutiques in Germany, North America and Japan. Hence, it makes sense for us to not only focus on the markets that we are already in, but to also open a little bit more in the Greater China market. Now we have a boutique in Beijing and two in Hong Kong. Secondly, the behaviour of Chinese consumers is also... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/article/1885858/wellendorff-focuses-creating-meaningful-and-timeless-jewellery?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/article/1885858/wellendorff-focuses-creating-meaningful-and-timeless-jewellery?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 10 Dec 2015 15:00:19 +0000 Time has become a precious commodity for veteran jeweller Tayma Page Allies who is known for her one-off handmade pieces using rare coloured gemstones. Her swanky boutique in Landmark Prince's Building is a testament to her hard work and determination to succeed. "I had no financial backing and I didn't speak the local language when I first started," says Malta-born Allies, recalling many instances when things didn't go well with her business. "Looking back, I was brave, but this journey to the... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/article/1880160/veteran-hong-kong-jeweller-tayma-page-allies-gem-designer?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/article/1880160/veteran-hong-kong-jeweller-tayma-page-allies-gem-designer?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 18 Nov 2015 09:00:15 +0000 Richard Mille, president and CEO of his eponymous brand, always looks forward to Watches&Wonders. “I really enjoy the atmosphere and the interest people show. It is different from other shows, because people are prepared to ask questions, engage, be amazed and to experience wristwatches with an open mind.” In a pre-show interview, Mille had promised “something spectacular that is going to make big waves; a timepiece that is a mechanical marvel and at the same time an instrument of delicious... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/article/1863159/richard-mille-displays-passion-innovation-technique-and-design?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/article/1863159/richard-mille-displays-passion-innovation-technique-and-design?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 01 Oct 2015 06:00:15 +0000 Cartier illustrates how the appeal of a great maison spans   generations, with models such as Clé de Cartier and Rotonde   de Cartier resonating as much with young consumers as with   the older generation.   Youthful consumers may consult their phones to tell the   time, but that does not mean they do not appreciate great   watchmaking. “We at Cartier firmly believe that you buy a watch for an   emotional reason,” says CEO Stanislas de Quercize. “Purchasing a   Cartier creation means... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/article/1862611/cartier-displays-its-latest-mysterious-movement-and-flying?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/article/1862611/cartier-displays-its-latest-mysterious-movement-and-flying?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 30 Sep 2015 01:45:45 +0000 Pampas G/F, 36 Elgin Street, SoHo, 2868 4077   FARE Argentinian steakhouse. AMBIENCE The décor is simple cantina style with closely spaced tables and dim lighting, creating an intimate atmosphere. COST A three-course dinner for two with two glasses of wine is about HK$900. WHO TO BRING Friends, romantic dates, or anyone who favours meat. TURN-ONS The long list of starters was interesting and varied. We were impressed by the generous portion (definitely for sharing) of the entradas frias mixta,... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/good-eating/article/1854080/hearty-steaks-argentinian-steakhouse-pampas?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/good-eating/article/1854080/hearty-steaks-argentinian-steakhouse-pampas?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 08 Sep 2015 14:16:03 +0000 FARE French bistro AMBIENCE Spacious with indoor and outdoor seating - a lovely terrace wraps around the exterior with lounge seating - albeit with a slightly obscured view of the harbour and cityscape. COST HK$900 for two, including a glass of wine each. WHO TO BRING Food lovers and it is perfect during happy hours. TURN ONS The menu is extensive, portions are generous and there's something for everybody. For starters, the Quayside salad awakens the palate. We love the sweetness of the figs... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/good-eating/article/1814483/quayside-has-extensive-menu-and-portions-are-generous?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/good-eating/article/1814483/quayside-has-extensive-menu-and-portions-are-generous?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 09 Jun 2015 14:30:45 +0000 Vietnamese restaurants are common in Hong Kong, but a "luxe" street-style eatery is rare. Three cheers, then, to Viet Kitchen on Connaught Street. It is difficult to find, tucked away in an office building that shutters down after sunset. Seating up to 88 people, the décor - corrugated roofing, playful straw masks, street-style chairs and tables, and a metal gate - evokes busy Hanoi. There is also an open kitchen and a small, chic bar. The menu is basic, with a selection of pho (HK$68)... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/good-eating/article/1814488/hidden-gem-viet-kitchen-central?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/good-eating/article/1814488/hidden-gem-viet-kitchen-central?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 09 Jun 2015 14:29:25 +0000 SAAM 51 Graham Street, SoHo,2645 9828 www.saamhk.com   You may miss SAAM on Graham Street if you don't pay attention. Its entrance is elegant and quiet, unlike some of the noisy eateries in the SoHo area. SAAM, which means "together" in Afrikaans, provides an international culinary experience without fuss. The restaurant's décor - simple and minimalist - seems to reflect this philosophy, with large wooden tables and an open kitchen filling the space. The staff is friendly and attentive. Despite... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/good-eating/article/1740262/world-flavours-without-fuss-saam?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/good-eating/article/1740262/world-flavours-without-fuss-saam?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 24 Mar 2015 14:39:02 +0000 Q: This year Patek Philippe celebrates its 175th anniversary. How do you feel? A: We are certainly very proud. But my vision has never wavered - the most important thing for me is to be able to maintain the quality that has been associated with everything that is Patek Philippe - the brand, its watches, the way we do business and to keep the bar as high as we can. Being 175 or 180 is not important to me because I'm always working three to five years ahead. In my head, I'm in the future already... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/article/1600249/thierry-stern-president-patek-philippe-enjoys-designing-high-quality?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/article/1600249/thierry-stern-president-patek-philippe-enjoys-designing-high-quality?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 02 Oct 2014 14:45:00 +0000 Q: What do you think of other watchmakers that dabble in high-end jewellery and how will Harry Winston compete? A: I say good luck to them. Everybody can try and do jewellery. You have many high-end brands out there and everybody's competing with each other. It's up to the customer to choose. Harry Winston's edge is its history. We are Harry Winston, and we will always be Harry Winston. We will not change the brand. We don't look to see what other brands are doing. We will develop new products,... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/article/1562756/harry-winston-continue-producing-quality-high-jewellery-while?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/style/article/1562756/harry-winston-continue-producing-quality-high-jewellery-while?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 07 Aug 2014 14:30:15 +0000 Luxury brands are also making their presence felt at this year's Art Basel, creating VIP-only areas and exclusive lounges. Audemars Piguet unveils a new booth in the Collector's Lounge as part of its commitment as a global associate partner of Art Basel. This is the second year that the watch brand will be participating in this event. Created by leading French designer Mathieu Lehanneur, the new lounge is inspired by Audemars Piguet's home in Le Brassus in the Vallée de Joux, one of Europe's... https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/arts-culture/article/1511999/luxury-brands-get-art-basel-act-hong-kong?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/arts-culture/article/1511999/luxury-brands-get-art-basel-act-hong-kong?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 15 May 2014 01:30:16 +0000 CLASSIC TOUCH Anything conceived by David Tang will not be short on taste or style. China Tang, his second high-end Chinese restaurant, is another testament to his creativity. His first restaurant of the same name is at the Dorchester hotel in London. This spacious restaurant has floor-to-ceiling mirrored panels, art-deco furnishings and antique-looking granny chairs. Besides the main dining room, there are six private rooms and a bar area. On the menu is a broad selection of dim sum favourites... https://www.scmp.com/magazines/good-eating/article/1446142/plate-gains?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/magazines/good-eating/article/1446142/plate-gains?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 18 Mar 2014 14:30:00 +0000 On Tyler (left): check wool three-piece suit (HK$45,900), cotton shirt (HK$4,900), silk tie (HK$1,900) and pocket square (HK$1,500) from Tom Ford; shoes (model’s own). On Tibo: grey suit (HK$5,990) from Simon Carter at Harvey Nichols; cotton shirt (HK$2,490) from Eton at Harvey Nichols; cotton print scarf (HK$2,000) from Drakes at The Armoury; tie (price on request) from BOSS; leather shoes (HK$13,900) from Tom Ford   Check suit jacket (HK$25,600), suit trousers (HK$9,900), white cotton shirt... https://www.scmp.com/article/1309142/best-suited?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/1309142/best-suited?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 29 Sep 2013 16:00:00 +0000 Colour theory Trust Paul Smith to inject colour, whimsy and that touch of British irreverence into houndstooth. Sweater (HK$5,900); trousers (HK$3,600).         Gentlemen's agreement For the 50th anniversary of the Ermenegildo Zegna Wool Trophy prize, the Italian house created a double-breasted suit with a micro-houndstooth pattern that combines the hallmarks of classic tailoring with modern shapes. Double-breasted jacket (HK$25,600); trousers (HK$9,900).                 Mixed media You can... https://www.scmp.com/article/1309149/snappy-dressings?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/1309149/snappy-dressings?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 29 Sep 2013 16:00:00 +0000 (From left) On Dimitri: camouflage sweater (HK$10,500) from Valentino On James: navy suede blouson (HK$28,995) and T-shirt (HK$4,250) from Saint Laurent On Kamil: black mohair crewneck sweater (HK$11,300) from Gucci, coat (HK$39,500) from Louis Vuitton.   On Kamil (left): suit jacket by Saint Laurent (hk$23,550), striped polo shirt by Dunhill (hk$3,295), black pants by Louis Vuitton (price on request), vintage hat (stylist’s own). On Kulu: black and white checked jacket by Prada (hk$17,900),... https://www.scmp.com/article/1309169/casual-elegance?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/1309169/casual-elegance?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 29 Sep 2013 16:00:00 +0000 The standard dress shoe or brogue has undergone minimal updates, but with the release of several new styles, this season's footwear collection tip-toes on the line between modern and futuristic.     Valentino double monk strap shoes with studs HK$6,900         Hogan patent leather brogue-style sneakers HK$3,300         Nicholas Kirkwood cap-toe shoes with chevron details HK$10,300 at Lane Crawford         Christian Louboutin colour-blocked cap-toe shoes with chain detailing... https://www.scmp.com/article/1309156/wear?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/1309156/wear?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 29 Sep 2013 16:00:00 +0000 The 13 maisons appearing at Watches&Wonders may have individual characteristics, but they have one thing in common: recognition that Asian timepiece buyers appreciate the watchmaking process as much as the finished product. "Watches&Wonders provides a rare opportunity to meet the creators and craftsmen behind fine timepieces, and a chance to experience firsthand the cultural heritage of one of Europe's most exquisite traditions," says Fabienne Lupo, chairwoman and managing director of the... https://www.scmp.com/article/1316742/artisans-reveal-their-rare-skills?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/article/1316742/artisans-reveal-their-rare-skills?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 24 Sep 2013 16:00:00 +0000