In our weekly series, we bring you the latest in luxury news from around the world. This week’s highlights: Louis Vuitton’s new mechanical clock is a precious rendition of a hot air balloon, the 2024 Tsukuriwake Series is finally available in Malaysia, and more.
Louis Vuitton’s New Mechanical Clock Is A Precious Rendition Of A Hot Air Balloon
In 1906, Louis Vuitton created the Aéro Trunk, which was meant to be attached to the basket of a hot air balloon. This forms the inspiration for the maison’s new collaboration with noted Swiss clockmakers L’Epee 1839, resulting in the Montgolfière Aéro—a precious mechanical clock that is limited to eight pieces. The balloon is rendered with precious wood elements over a copper-beryllium structure, and incorporates a monogram flower at its heart, adorned by a 9.06-carat briolette-cut citrine. A further 1,200 diamonds complete the gemsetting. It also holds the complex, visually compelling timekeeping mechanism. Below it, representing the basket, is a miniature Louis Vuitton trunk replete with monograms and rivets—handmade, of course—and is amongst the smallest that the maison has ever created. The trunk is also set with diamonds, the first time the maison has ever done so. The clock is designed to be displayed either on a table, or suspended in the air in the way a hot air balloon is intended.
The 2024 Tsukuriwake Series Is Finally Available In Malaysia
At long last, this year’s edition of the Tsukuriwake Series of the finest Japanese whiskies from the House of Suntory is now available for purchase in Malaysia. The set comprises Yamazaki Golden Promise, Yamazaki Islay Peated Malt, Yamazaki 18-Year-Old Mizunara, and Hakushu 18-Year-Old Peated Malt. Shinji Fukuyo, fifth generation chief blender with Suntory, and his team utilised unique processes and ingredients in crafting this series of whiskies, all of which are themed on the concept of “artisanship through a diversity of making”. The 2024 Tsukuriwake Series is available at selected retailers and exclusive venues in Malaysia, including Kampachi EQ Kuala Lumpur and The Chamber. The whiskies cannot be bought individually; the set retails for RM29,999.
For more information or to make a purchase, please visit here.
Meet The Slim D’Hermès Flagship Timepiece, Limited To Only 12 Pieces
In a limited run of just 12 pieces, the ornately sculpted Slim d’Hermès Flagship echoes the themes of Dimitri Rybaltchenko’s emblematic silk scarf designs—channelling the artist’s lyrical landscape that straddles the line between surrealism and realism. Viewed through the lens of a telescope, the hull is enlightened by the storied boutique at 24 Rue du Fauborg Saint-Honoré in Paris, gliding serenely through the astral night. The bow carries the carving of an illustrious firework maker, while its billowing sails are animated by the virtuoso artisans of Hermès. After several applications of micro-paint gently brushed on and then cured in a kiln, the aventurine dial exposes a bronzed finish with noticeable gradations, parameters and layered attributes. Fully patterned with incising instruments, a cheeky star at 4 o’clock winks in time with each movement of the wrist. The eloquent timepiece is enshrined in a slim yellow gold case with a diameter of 39.5mm, and is powered by the Manufacture Hermès H1950 self-winding movement. It is paired with an abyss blue alligator strap that corresponds to the nautical-inspired dial hues.
Hennessy Commemorates Its 300th Anniversary With Its First-Ever Immersive Exhibition In Malaysia
Celebrate Hennessy’s 300 years of iconic brilliance by visiting “Crafted, by Hennessy”—Hennessy’s first-ever fully immersive showcase in Asia—at The Exchange TRX, Kuala Lumpur. Held from 25 October until 3 November 2024, the exhibition allows visitors to explore the world of Hennessy through showcases of its world-renowned cognacs, hands-on displays, and an insider’s look of the maison’s blending artistry. The exhibition also brings guests on a journey of learning about the illustrious history and global cultural impact of Hennessy, along with an exclusive masterclass session featuring a guided cognac tasting.
To secure a spot for this immersive experience, register here.
Switzerland Tourism Introduces Its New Brand Approach With An Exclusive Luncheon At Barkar KL
With a new logo and a revitalised strategy in tow, Switzerland Tourism aims to ease the pressure on overbooked destinations during peak seasons. The focus is instead shifted to showcase the country’s hidden gems and year-round experiences. Whether it’s wandering through the vibrant hues of the Alps in autumn, soaking in thermal spas with sweeping alpine views in Leukerbad, or sipping on local wines at one of Switzerland’s many charming festivals, the joy is spread across all seasons in Switzerland.
Mandarin Oriental’s Lai Po Heen Invites Guests To Relive The Nostalgia Of 1999
In celebration of Lai Po Heen’s 25th anniversary, guests will have the chance to enjoy the original dim sum menu that debuted when the restaurant first opened, complete with the prices from that era. Highlights include Steamed Lobster Dumplings with Fish Roe—highly recommended—and Deep-Fried Crispy Chicken Spring Roll with Foie Gras, offering a taste of nostalgia. Alongside these beloved flavours of the past, guests can also savour new offerings in its à la carte menu such as the Superior Fish Bone Soup in Young Coconut and Braised Free-Range Chicken with Black Truffle.
The promotion is available until 8 December 2024 only. For enquiries or reservations, call +603 2380 8888.
The Sira, A Luxury Collection Resort And Spa, Lombok Is Opening In The Fourth Quarter Of 2024
Nestled between the remarkable vistas of Mount Agung and Mount Rinjani, The Sira, A Luxury Collection Resort and Spa graces the pristine white-sand shores of Indonesia’s Pearl Island, Lombok. Here, time slows, inviting guests to savour living in the moment. Discover natural and cultural wonders, from cascading waterfalls and legendary sunsets to the majestic Mount Rinjani—an active volcano that rewards hikers with breathtaking views and a mesmerising crater lake.
For more information and updates, visit the website here.
The Sira, A Luxury Collection Resort and Spa, Lombok
Oceania Cruises Introduces A Culinary Tour In The Newest Riviera Cruise Ship In Alaska Next Year
Oceania Cruises is debuting the 1,250-guest Riviera, the first cruise ship in Alaska designed for food enthusiasts. It’s set to embark for the waters of Alaska in 2025 with immersive exploration itineraries for travellers. From May to September, the voyage will depart from three departure points—Seattle, Vancouver, and Whittier—on different days for different itineraries, with each ranging from seven- to 12-days. These itineraries allow guests to explore lesser-known and unique ports around Alaska such as Sitka, Juneau, Ketchikan, Hoonah and Homer. Guests can experience unique culinary shore excursions such as crab fishing, seaside brunch on Colt Island, or a flightseeing tour over Tongass National Forest with guidance from onboard naturalists. Guests will also be able to savour gourmet dining at seven specialty restaurants, as well as participate in hands-on cooking classes and the Alaska Explorer Youth Program for young adventurers.
