In our weekly TWIL series, we bring you the latest in luxury news from around the world. This week’s highlights: Leica debuts its 60MP black-and-white camera, Alfa Romeo’s re-entry into the Malaysian market, a recent Bonhams’ auction of two watches with Malaysian roots, and more.
The Leica Q3 Monochrom Is Dedicated To Black-And-White Photography
Recently released, the second-generation camera in Leica’s Q collection has a 60MP monochrome sensor with Triple Resolution Technology—and no colour filters. It is capable of shooting B&W photos at 18, 36, and 60MP, with an ISO range from 100 to 200,000, as well as capturing video at up to 8K resolution. The Q3 has a 5.76MP OLED viewfinder, and with its IPS52 rating, can handle some dusty and wet annoyances. The design of the camera—proudly made in Germany—itself is monochromatic too: all metal body, lens hood finished in black, engravings in black or grey, and without the iconic red Leica logo for a minimalist design. It is now available for RM34,990.
Alfa Romeo Relaunches In Malaysia
DLSB Partners Sdn Bhd, a member of Atlantis Motor Group, is the driving force behind the return of the beloved Italian automotive brand in Malaysia. Pricing will be announced early next year, but the first two models as part of this comeback are the Giulia Veloce sedan and the Stelvio Veloce SUV. Both models are powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine, but the Giulia has 276bhp, 400Nm of torque, and a (limited) top speed of 240km/h, while the Stelvio has 276bhp and a Q4 all-wheel-drive system. Casa Alfa Romeo, the flagship showroom, sales gallery, and service centre, will be opening next month in TREC KL. The brand also says that a wide variety of events and initiatives will be launched soon to enhance the Alfa Romeo experience, such as track days, grand tours, and other concierge services. Interestingly, Alfa Romeo has plenty of history and heritage with Malaysia. For instance, in 1969, the Malaysian-assembled Berlina was the first-ever Alfa Romeo to be built in Asia; and, from 1970 to 1979, the Royal Malaysian Police was the first outside Italy to use Alfa Romeo cars for its fleet.
A Patek Phillippe Double Eagle Coin Watch Gifted To Tunku Abdul Rahman Sold For HK$217,600
During a Bonhams auction earlier this week, this very rare watch—gifted to His Highness Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra Al-Haj to celebrate his birthday on 8 February 1969—fetched a price that exceeded its estimate of HK$100,000 to 200,000. The Patek Philippe reference 803 is a very rare timepiece, one of only 40 pieces (approximately) ever traced. The 35mm timepiece in 18k yellow gold was forged in 1895 from an American 20-dollar Double Eagle gold coin, and features Liberty on the front of the case back, while a bald eagle is on the reverse side. Its provenance is established by the written engraving on the inner case back, which reveals that Tun Datuk Toh Puan, wife of the first Chief Minister of Sabah, Tun Mustafa bin Dato Harun, presented this to Tunku. He had the watch until 1976, before it was gifted to his granddaughter for her 16th birthday.
A Richard Mille RM011 “King of Badminton”, A Collaboration With Lee Chong Wei, Sold For HK$1,401,000
During the same Bonhams auction, this limited-edition timepiece (of only 30 pieces) sold for a price as impressive as Dato’ Seri Datuk Wira Lee Chong Wei’s badminton career. The 42mm by 50mm watch, launched in 2014, is in 18k pink gold and brown ceramic, and features a “Lee C.W.” engraving on the side of its transparent case back. It has more than 500 components, an automatic movement, and 55 hours of power reserve. In true Richard Mille fashion, it is very lightweight yet can withstand shocks of up to 5G. The bright yellow strap and inner bezel accents as well as the red chronograph hands reflect the dynamism and passion of badminton and the Malaysian sporting legend.
Cartier Unveils Chapter 2 Of Its High Jewellery Collection, En Équilibre
Forming the essence of each haute joaillerie creation by the maison is its unique ability to sculpt light, colour, and form, and masterful savoir-faire. The highlight of the mesmerising collection is the Panthères Reflexio necklace, where a 74.10-carat green tourmaline and a 14.91-carat coral drop meet in a dramatic red-green dialogue—colours that have been a hallmark of Cartier for more than a century. Here, a duo of Cartier’s iconic panthers come face to face, every inch of them glittering including their emerald eyes, black-spotted coats, and even onyx-tipped paws. Another noteworthy masterpiece is Haliade, where curved lines paved with diamonds punctuated by a series of transverse bars set with diamonds or calibre-cut sapphires result in the appearance of moving waves. At its nucleus is a 41.85-carat, deep-blue sapphire from Madagascar, a gem that captivates all who fall within the wearer’s gaze.
Bakhache Fine Collection Introduces The Art Deco Collection
The house pays homage to the enduring allure of the Art Deco era with a curated collection of exceptional pieces—each one a celebration of geometry, opulence, and the bold spirit of the Roaring Twenties. Defined by sleek lines, balanced forms, and luxurious materials, the collection embodies the distinctive aesthetic of the early 20th century—an age when design was daring, modern, and unapologetically sophisticated. From intricate diamond bracelets and bold cocktail rings to stylised brooches and statement earrings, every creation showcases refined craftsmanship and artistic ingenuity. Whether worn as a statement or cherished as an heirloom, each creation within the Art Deco Collection is a wearable work of art—a glittering reflection of an era where fashion met innovation.
Rimowa’s Essential Collection Now Comes In Two More Colours
Inspired by the beauty of nature, the luxury travel brand launches the iconic Essential collection in Clay and Terracotta. Like the colour of mouldable, raw clay, the former is a timeless colour, symbolising the beginning of transformation, whereas Terracotta is a bolder, subdued earthy red, reminiscent of kiln-fired ceramics, signifying the final expression of transformation. The full collection is now available at Rimowa stores worldwide and online.
Fodor’s Proclaims Banyan Tree Krabi As The Finest Hotel in Thailand
Fodor’s Finest Hotels 2026 has been released, highlighting the 100 most exceptional properties worldwide. Only 15 in Asia made the cut, and just one in Thailand: Banyan Tree Krabi. Fodor’s editors praised the resort for its standout service, design, amenities, and “sustainability that goes hand in hand with comfort and luxury”. Managing Editor Rachael Levitt, who reviewed the property, highlighted its exceptional hospitality, commitment to the community, locally sourced artisan products, and acclaimed dining at Saffron, The Naga Kitchen, and Bird’s Nest. The resort’s serene location on Tubkaek Beach—framed by the Andaman Sea’s limestone cliffs and a lush hillside—was also pointed out. The accolade follows the resort’s recent award of Two Michelin Keys.
For more information or reservations, contact +66 075 811 888, email [email protected] or visit the website.
Preferred Hotels & Resorts Launches A Once-in-a-Lifetime Private Jet Experience
“Legendary Journeys”, the first-ever private jet expedition by Preferred Hotels & Resorts and Bucketlist Xperiences, is set to offer a once-in-a-lifetime adventure for the most discerning of travellers. The 17-night trip (6 to 23 October 2026) offers seamless luxury aboard a custom VIP airliner with lie-flat seating, a private chef, curated wines, VIP airport access, luggage concierge, and a dedicated 17-member service team. The itinerary spans Singapore, India, Rwanda, Kenya, Greece, Morocco, and London, featuring extraordinary experiences such as gorilla trekking in Rwanda, a royal celebration in Jaipur, sunset sailing in Santorini, and more. Guests will stay in top-tier properties, including several from Preferred’s elite Legend Collection. The journey is limited to 29 couples, with prices starting at US$133,500 per person. Participants also receive I Prefer Titanium status and one million I Prefer points, redeemable for more than 10 complimentary nights worldwide.
For more information or to secure your experience, visit the website. To make a booking, contact Preferred Hotels & Resorts’ VIP Desk at +1708-416-8404.
Minotti Releases Saki, A New Seating Collection For Indoors And Outdoors
Crafted by the Japanese design firm, Nendo, the concept of this new collection was drawn from a single word: saki—the process of blooming. According to chief designer Oki Sato, one of Saki’s standout features is the contrast between the outer solid panel and soft interior cushion. Its wavy curves are another interesting attribute that adds dynamism to the space. During the making of Saki, the versatility of the outer panels also inspired the creation of a complementary outdoor collection.
