Luxury
Boulevard presents our exclusive shoots, interviews and previews of the latest high jewellery collections, bespoke timepieces, luxury auto, private yachts, rare wine, jet-set travel and more…
— Featured in Boulevard Magazine —
New release
The House of Suntory unveils its oldest blended whisky yet
This year, the House of Suntory introduces its oldest blended whisky yet, the Hibiki 40 Year Old. This expression is set to be launched at Oncore by Clare Smyth in Crown Sydney on 24th October. This exclusive gathering offers guests the opportunity to be part of the first tasting of the Hibiki 40 Year Old in Australia. Individuals are also invited to experience the bespoke five-course menu designed by Chef Clare Smyth at the Michelin-starred restaurant.
Showcase
Beyond rarity: The allure of coloured diamonds in high jewellery and wealth preservation
Geopolitics, scarcity, and soaring auction prices – coloured diamonds hold a unique fascination for collectors and connoisseurs alike.
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When flawless doesn’t cut it: Diamonds show perfection can be perfected upon
The world’s worst kept secret is undoubtedly the fact that diamonds are really not as rare as De Beers would like us to believe. Nevertheless, astute collectors know that there are some rarefied categories of diamond that continue to increase in value.
Icons: The signature emblems of the world’s greatest jewellery maisons
With nary a logo in sight, these signature design emblems have come to define the essence, and the desirability, of these hallowed jewellery maisons. So how did these timeless symbols come to be?
Interview
The interview: Dickson Yewn, jewellery artist, on defining luxury, Chinese history and inspiration in his work
Dickson Yewn has become a leading contemporary jewellery designer over the years. Deeply inspired by Chinese history, antiques and culture, the jewellery artist's unique expressions make use of a wide range of gemstones, pigments and wood. Here, the designer talks us through finding sources of inspiration, his polymathic approach to jewellery art and living as a literatist.
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The power and prestige of the latest Ferretti Yachts 860
In 1968, brothers Alessandro and Norberto Ferretti and Norberto Ferretti founded the Ferretti company as a small boat manufacturer. Demonstrating their proficiency over decades, the Italian outfit would eventually turn their boat crafting talents towards luxury yachts.
Review
Review: The seven-speed manual Porsche 911 Carrera GTS
Talk to enough car enthusiasts around the world about their modern-day gripes and chances are there’ll be two opinions that take centre stage: 1) “New cars are edging closer and closer to resembling an oversized smartphone you sit in.” 2) “New cars are too fast to be enjoyable.” Thankfully, not all is lost – there is at least one new car that solves the problems of these modern-day automotive woes. Enter: The Porsche 911 Carrera GTS, arguably the purest and most enjoyable road car on the market.
The interview: Lex Pedersen, Co-Founder of Chrome Temple
A nondescript warehouse in Sydney’s Northern Beaches is not the likeliest HQ for a flashy new investment fund – and gives away few clues as to the riches within. Inside, it’s a different story: row after row of high-gloss, high-octane supercars fill the space, some on full display; most, tantalisingly hooded and double-stacked. It’s just one of three sites housing the luxury auto assets in Chrome Temple’s growing portfolio.
— Latest Luxury Features —
The art of the chronograph
Though ubiquitous, the chronograph demands exceptional skill to create. These watches showcase the pinnacle of horological achievement.
Interview
The interview: Eric Martel, CEO, Bombardier
The CEO of Canadian aircraft manufacturer Bombardier, Eric Martel says saving time is the ultimate luxury.
Poetic and philosophical – artist Janet Laurence’s latest exhibition at Cassandra Bird Gallery
Set within the backstreets of Sydney’s colourful and ever-cosmopolitan Potts Point, Cassandra Bird gallery opened its doors in October 2023 under the direction of art dealer and curator, Cassandra Bird, and her partner, artist, set-designer and exhibition maker, Fabian Jentsch.
Partners in time: Maximilian Büsser on the collaborations behind MB&F’s legendary timepieces
'MB&F' stands for 'Maximilian Büsser and Friends'. Since its inception in 2005, from the moment the business name was registered, this watchmaker and purveyor of mechanical art objects has had collaboration at its core. Essentially, it’s a vehicle for founder Büsser to partner with individuals possessing specialised skills, in order to make innovative horological concepts and out-there inventions a reality.
Luxury watchmakers that redefined the times
It’s almost difficult to recall the state of horology only a few decades ago, when high watches were elegant, svelte, timeless. How things have changed. These are the brands that blazed the trail.
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The most complicated watches of recent times
Watch complications, though no longer strictly necessary, serve more than a utilitarian purpose. They embody ingenuity, an enduring respect for tradition, and a blend of smart mechanics and design finesse.
Jewellery, watch or work of art?
From ancient and intricate techniques to rare stones and breathtaking designs, jewellery watches are at an all-time high.Shot on location at Roche Bobois
Interview
The interview: Yohei Akao, founder of interior design firm Strickland, on his transformation of the Grand Hyatt Singapore
Strickland founder and designer director Yohei Akao talks us through his meticulous transformation of the Grand Hyatt Singapore, bringing together nature, city and brand heritage in the iconic Orchard hotel.
Review
Aston Martin DB12 review: The marque’s most accomplished sportscar yet
Coming from a long line of cars dating back to 1948 and etched into our cultural fabric thanks to James Bond, the new DB12 not only builds upon the beauty and athleticism of its lineage, but also heralds an entirely new era of Aston Martin.
Interview
Rolls-Royce Spectre review: The long-standing pursuit of serenity
The Rolls-Royce Spectre has silence, sophistication and elegance at the forefront.
Boulevard’s Fireside makes its debut in Australia in partnership with Chrome Temple
Boulevard's private event concept, ‘The Fireside’, debuted in Sydney with an evening hosted by LexPedersen, co-founder of supercar fund Chrome Temple.
New release
The Bugatti W16 Mistral opens a new chapter in unmatched roadster legacy
For over a century, Bugatti has bestowed the world with some of its amazing roadsters ever created. This includes the Type 40 A, the Type 41 Roadster Esders, the Type 55 Roadster and the iconic Type 57 Roadster Grand Raid Gangloff. To add to its already impressive lineup is the W16 Mistral, which sets a new benchmark for Bugatti's open-top performance icons.
New release
Remy Martin celebrates its legacy with the 300th Anniversary Coupe
Since its inception in 1724, the House of Remy Martin's cognacs have been a staple among the most important gatherings in France and the rest of the world. Its name has always been synonymous with prestige, world-class blends and an exceptional legacy that only a few cognac-makers have attained.
New release
The Sunseeker Superhawk 55 is a striking motor yacht with unparalleled agility
Popularly known as one of the leading brands of luxury performance motor yachts, Sunseeker offers a wide range of jets that each boast a different personality to suite any owner. The Superhawk 55 is one of these yachts that deliver the best performance, as well as an unparalleled agility, perfect for luxury cruising.
New release
The epitome of quiet luxury: Hermès unveils its Spring and Summer 2025 collection
Popularly known for its Birkin and Kelly handbags, as well premium quality and handcrafted leather clothing, Hermès has been the epitome of French luxury fashion that have always kept up with the trends. One of the trends it applied in its newest Spring and Summer 2025 collection is quiet luxury, which is a minimalist yet timeless approach to fashion.
New release
McLaren W1: The fastest-accelerating and fast-lapping road-legal supercar yet
The new McLaren W1 is the marque's latest creation that surpasses the groundbreaking achievement created by its F1 and P1™ successors. It integrates both the comfort of a hybrid car on road, as well as the impressive performance of a supercar on track, thanks its cutting-edge aerodynamic structure and all-new V8 engine.
New release
Wolf celebrates its 190th year anniversary with new limited-edition collections
Wolf is a renowned British-based luxury brand that curates the most exceptional watch winders and jewellery boxes. It has gone through five generations of the Wolf family line and has continuously operated since its inception in 1834. This year, Wolf celebrates its 190th anniversary by releasing five limited-edition collections, each inspired by its five generations.
Interview
The interview: Sarah Crowe, winemaker and general manager of Yarra Yering, on honouring heritage and embracing winemaking innovations
Yarra Yering is one the oldest vineyards in Victoria's Yarra Valley, but is also one of the youngest in the region to hold a Langtons Classification. Heralding a legacy of more than five decades, the brand's winemaker and general manager Sarah Crowe talks us through its heritage, evolving practices and how the Langtons Classification have enhanced their reputation in the winemaking industry.
New release
Grand Seiko unveils a daybreak version of the Kodo Constant-force Tourbillon
In 2022, Grand Seiko released the first Kodo Constant-force Tourbillon, a complication that houses a tourbillon and a constant-force mechanism as one unit on a single axis. It was the first time in horological history that one timepiece holds both complex mechanisms, which is the reason why it garnered the Chronometry Prize at that year’s Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève. This year, Grand Seiko unveils its daybreak counterpart to complete the portrayal of light and dark in its Kodo collection.
New release
The new Flying Spur is Bentley’s most powerful sedan yet
The Flying Spur is arguably one of Bentley's proudest creations that boasts an amazing performance that a combustion engine provides, as well as the efficiency that an electric motor holds. While most of the core components and upgrades are similar to its third-generation predecessor, the all-new Flying Spur becomes the most powerful four-door supercar the marque has ever created yet.
The Gulfstream G400 is a premier choice for business aviation
Following Gulfstream's recent success with the G700, the largest and farthest range jet yet in its class, the aviation company finally releases its business jet counterpart, the Gulfstream G400. It stands out in its class, combining luxury, performance and advanced technology to meet the demands of today’s corporate travelers.
New release
The 2025 McLaren Artura Spider achieves more with less
Among the many pleasant surprises that came with the 2025 McLaren Artura's launch is the introduction of its Spider open-top sibling. Interestingly, the design and meticulous lightweight packaging of the original Artura was said to have presented quite the engineering challenges for the Spider.
Aston Martin reimagines the iconic Vanquish equipped with the latest V12 engine
When Aston Martin first unveiled the 2001 version of the Vanquish, it instantly gained multiple praises from collectors and enthusiasts alike, more so because of its iconic appearance in the 007 film, but also because of its impressive performance on the road.
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Out for blood: The allure of radiant rubies
Rarer and more expensive than diamonds, Myanmar’s famous ‘pigeon blood’ rubies have long been the most coveted stones on the market – but rubies from other origins are now gaining in popularity...
Macallan celebrates 200 years of milestones with the Time: Space Collection
The Macallan is celebrating its 200 years with two new expressions that pay homage to the craft of whisky making. With it comes the Time: Space Collection, which, as Master Whisky Maker Kirsteen Campbell says, is unique in the sense that it takes individuals into a journey through time. The distillery selected two whiskies that look at its storied past and would lay the foundation for future whisky makers and consumers alike.
Review
Review: The Bentley Batur
Bentley's bespoke division, Mulliner, revealed its most formidable car yet, a coupé that would simultaneously act as a continuation of the marque’s 100 years of coachbuilding and a swan song for the W12, arguably the most successful twelve-cylinder engine in history. Limited to 18, the Batur is a two seater coupé, hand-built by Mulliner, and the most powerful Bentley in history. Hinting at what the future of coach-built cars might entail, it is also the most innovative when it comes to materiality and customisation.
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Timeless elegance: Trudon commemorates 380 years with the enchanting Tuileries collection
Heritage brands don't come much more storied than the legendary French candlemaker-cum-perfumer, Trudon. The ancient house is currently celebrating its 380th year, and over the centuries has graced many of the great palaces and cathedrals of Europe. (We’re told that Versailles’ quintessential Hall of Mirrors consumed no fewer than 50,000 Trudon candles – each week.)
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D&A Jewelry unveils a dazzling universe of gemstones for Singapore’s discerning collectors
The world of gemstones spans a kaleidoscope of colours beyond the big four. D&A Jewelry is on a mission to introduce this universe to Singapore’s sophisticated collectors.
The interview: Bombardier’s Jean-Christophe Gallagher on fast-paced change in private aviation
“We’ve seen a tremendous change in business aviation usage,” says Jean-Christophe Gallagher, “pre- and post-pandemic.” Bombardier’s executive vice president of aircraft sales & defense appears to be invulnerable to jet lag, having touched down at 7 am that September morning after travelling halfway across the world from the United States – and looking none the worse for wear.
Interview
The interview: Tamara Grischy, general manager of Langtons, on the globalisation of Australian fine wine
For more than three decades, Langtons Classification has served as the ultimate form guide for connoisseurs. It has found, recorded and predicted how demand, preferences and wine styles have ebbed and flowed over the years, as well as the emerging influence of Australian fine wines globally.
A look at Molteni&C’s most celebrated hotel design collaborations
As an Italian heritage brand, Molteni&C's pursuit of exceptional design has led to some key collaborations with titans like Angelo Mangiarotti, Tito Agnoli and Luca Meda. The Italian furniture maker, after all, has always sought out creative partnerships that exercise its artisanal vision and legacy of craftsmanship.
Reshaping the flagship Y Class: The new Princess Y85 has arrived
The Princess's updated Y Class range signaled a shift in the shipbuilder's direction. These yachts enjoy much more space, with their full-beam master suites, generous lounge areas, cockpits that serve as private lounges, as well as their extended hulls. With the new line also comes the brand's revamped signature glass design that encapsulates its forward-thinking contemporary aesthetic.
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A play on textures: A gentleman’s guide to Ralph Lauren
The epitome of timeless elegance, Ralph Lauren seamlessly blends preppy aesthetics with a touch of rugged refinement. His signature polo shirts, meticulously tailored blazers, and iconic equestrian-inspired motifs have become synonymous with a lifestyle that exudes casual charm and refined grace.
New release
Loro Piana’s 2024 summer resort collection whisks us away to an Italian escapade
Rare and refined are the wool and cashmere textiles of Loro Piana. The epitome of Italian luxury styling, the brand has been producing some of the most remarkable collections in the world of high fashion. And this year, the Maison is celebrating its centennial year by introducing a bohemian-inspired paradise island collection inspired by the Italian riviera.
New release
BMW XM Label Red debuts as the most powerful M model ever
Two decades ago, not many at BMW or their M performance division would have predicted that the most powerful M car today wouldn’t take shape in the form of a coupe or grand tourer, but a Sports Activity Vehicle - the modern amalgamation of the sports car and sports utility vehicle.
Piaget Reappraised: Interview with new image director Fatemeh Laleh
When Fatemeh Laleh assumed the role of International Communication and Image Director at Piaget, the company’s CEO Benjamin Comar asked her what she thought of the brand. Beyond a loose awareness of the logo, Laleh says she struggled to answer. “I’m not capable of telling you what the brand is today,” she told her new boss, with remarkable candor.
Zegna’s Fall and Winter 2024 collection unveils its new ‘formal streetwear’ icons
Zegna's Fall and Winter 2024 collection is a fitting tribute to the legendary 32 Road in Oasi Zegna. Set amidst the area's serene surroundings, the campaign draws inspiration from the brand's connection to nature, as well as a fresh approach to comfort, functionality and sophistication.
China Heights and the birth of the culture of cool
Established in 2004, China Heights was founded on an organic ethos of ‘sub-culture making’. As is often the case with taste-makers, what has now become one of the most innovative cross-form galleries in Australia began as a young art and design oriented group of peers riffing creatively in a warehouse.
The art of memorable elegance: Armani Hotels in Milan and Dubai
There’s an enveloping scent of wood, light and alpine, with just an undertow of amber, that ushers you in and ultimately defines a stay at the Armani Hotels in Milan and Dubai. Devastatingly sophisticated, but at the same time, accessible. Supremely poised, and yet welcoming – a near-paradox the Armani maison somehow effortlessly extends to every touchpoint from design and service to amenities and gastronomy.
The best of Ferretti Yachts at the 2024 Sydney International Boat Show
Back for its 55th run, the 2024 Sydney International Boat Show featured an impressive lineup of cutting-edge motor yachts, sophisticated sailing vessels and some of the most sumptuous super-yachts in the world. The four-day event at the iconic Darling Harbour brought together 185 exhibitors and 618 boats, showcasing 44 Asia-Pacific and Australian premieres and launches.
The BMW M850i Convertible is in a league of its own
In BMW's exceptional portfolio, the 8 series convertible emerges as one of its more indulgent two-door models. This is most evident in the next-generation BMW M850i, from its sharp, muscular proportions and its striking body kit to its well-appointed interiors and terrific acceleration.
Boulevard’s latest edition of Fireside focuses on longevity led by Andrea Maier
Boulevard had the pleasure of hosting another successful edition of Fireside. Industry thought leaders in design, luxury, art, cars, wealth, wellness and beyond came together at a private shophouse in Singapore to discuss the latest in longevity and wellness.
The future of fashion: Zegna X weaves together art and science in luxury clienteling
Zegna's bespoke collections have long redefined Italian luxury styling. It displays hand-sewn, fully canvased materials peerless in their quality. From Australian merino wool to Superfine and Trofeo tailoring cloths, its selection of fabrics is exceptional and always thoughtfully curated, something that tailors, craftsmen and, of course, the most discerning customers appreciate.
Sub-Zero’s next-generation Class Series Refrigeration introduces revamped technology and design options
Since the '80s, Sub-Zero's Class Series Refrigeration has made a name for itself as the pinnacle of food storage. Often found in the world's most exceptional homes, the collection is revered for its aesthetics, peerless quality and longevity. Recently, Sub-Zero introduced the Fifth-Generation Class Series Refrigeration at the Lee Garden Three Flagship showroom in Singapore, offering a glimpse of its next-gen features.
Inside the inaugural edition of Boulevard’s Fireside
Boulevard had the privilege of hosting the inaugural edition of Fireside, an exclusive gathering of industry thought leaders in design, luxury, art, cars, wealth, wellness and beyond, at a private shophouse in Singapore.
Rimowa’s Hammerschlag collection is a modern reinterpretation of a 1966 classic
Rimowa is often associated with elevated travel and for good reason. As one of the oldest German luggage brands around, it would continue to reshape the industry throughout its 125-year existence. In 1937, for instance, it would pioneer the aluminum suitcase and from there, the Maison would go on to produce some quintessential designs.
The Pagani Huayra R virtual simulator is a faithful reimagining of a racing marvel
As far as legends go, the Pagani Huayra R is one of most disruptive hypercars in the world (so much so that it's even banned in some countries). Its performance levels, powered by an aspirated racing engine, are among the most powerful in its class. This is a supercar made for the best circuits around, one that needs a professional pilot to maneuver.
The new Custom Line Ferretti Navetta 38 is a chic superyacht with classic style
Rare are the pairings as inseparable as Custom Line and Ferretti. With a standing fleet of more than 300 yachts sailing in the world, the collaboration has produced some of the most coveted bespoke yachts. Each of these vessels are known to exhibit a sense of classic luxury with distinctive Italian styling.
Interview
The interview: Goh Kar Lung, managing director of Focal / Naim Singapore, on achieving high-fidelity sound
Set amidst the Kevin Roche-designed Millenia Walk mall, the lately opened Focal / Naim showroom represents the celebrated hifi brand’s first dedicated space in Singapore. Audiophiles are invited to immerse themselves in unbelievably crisp, rich and high-fidelity sound that blends superb acoustics with some of the most sophisticated audio systems around.
Showcase
Once in a blue moon: Unveiling the allure of blue sapphires
Collectable blue sapphires are becoming increasingly rare, due to depleting mines and a glut of treated stones on the market. Experts reveal the secrets to discerning truly exceptional blue sapphires.
Leica Cine 1: From behind the lens to the centrepiece of the living room
The legendary Leica name has conquered the world of personal photography and is now moving into bold new territory. First, it was with timepieces and today it’s with the debut of the German brand’s first-ever cinematic television for the quintessential home, the Leica Cine 1.
Interview
The interview: Wade Pearce, founder, Singapore International Yachting Festival
BOULEVARD: Congratulations on the launch! It must be a thrill to see so many people out here – and a welcome sign of the growing interest in yachting coming out of Singapore.
The interview: Kristian Tear, CEO, Bang & Olufsen
One of the key responsibilities of a CEO is keeping their team motivated, engaged and inspired. The inspiration element is especially important at a brand like Bang & Olufsen, which is both a producer of state-of-the-art electronic equipment, and a company that makes beautifully designed, handcrafted objects. Boasting nearly 100 years of tradition, this is a business which, nevertheless, existentially depends upon remaining on the technological cutting edge.
Start-up Your Engines: Patrick Grove
One of Southeast Asia’s most respected start-up entrepreneurs and investors, Patrick Grove is best known for his involvement in a string of highly successful online businesses. So when this IPO panjandrum recently revealed that he’d acquired ultra-luxe Formula 1 afterparty organisation, Amber Lounge, it came as a bit of a surprise. Why the abrupt switch from mega-exit digital dealings, to decadent dance-all-night debauchery?
Sub-Zero Designer Wine Storage delivers the perfect drop
Humble beginnings can take businesses a long way. Take for example Westye Bakke, an American who began experimenting with refrigeration in the 1930s in his search for a reliable way to store insulin for his young diabetic son. He didn’t find what he was after, so in 1943 he built his first freestanding freezer out of scrap metal in his basement, bending the coils by hand.
Luxe kicks: George Cleverley bespoke sneakers
Following several years of painstaking R&D, top British luxury shoemaker George Cleverley recently launched its first sneaker. With classic, minimalist lines, these handmade luxury ‘kicks’ are available for bespoke orders in an array of exotic hides — from crocodile to ostrich, lizard to kudu — plus a rainbow of colours.
The interview: Jonathan Crockett, chairman of auctioneers Phillips Asia
Normally, the chairman of a company will oversee the board of directors, help decide on key C-suite appointments, and at regular intervals, check up on a CEO to ensure a company is running smoothly and is financially healthy. Generally, the chairman is not a day-to day role, and the chair won’t be involved in the ‘nuts and bolts’ of daily business operations.
Ice queen: Silversea unveils expedition ship Silver Endeavour
Cruising is synonymous with fun in the sun, lazy days drifting around tropical isles. Yet the more adventurous cruise aficionado will probably have advanced beyond such quotidian travels. Instead, they’ll seek journeys offering truly extraordinary experiences. Trips that are not simply vacations – they’re full-blown expeditions. For those intrepid voyagers looking to go somewhere awe-inspiring, but unwilling to sacrifice creature comforts along the way, Silversea has long been the go-to cruise line. Specialising in ultra-luxury aquatic journeys to remarkable locations, the company recently launched its most sumptuously appointed expedition ship yet, the Silver Endeavour.
The tailor: Kevin Seah on self respect and true bespoke
“I knew what I wanted to do at the age of 14 when I chanced upon a Japanese fashion magazine,” says Kevin Seah, founder of the eponymous label and one of the most sought-after tailors in Asia. “I was sketching and designing before I even started skateboarding.”
The interview: Top Australian menswear designer Patrick Johnson
Think ‘classic men’s outfitter’ and immediately, your mind will dance with visions of chestnut leather Chesterfields, dark wood panelling, oil paintings of horses, tartan-upholstered cushions and rich mahogany shelves lined with leatherbound books. What you’re picturing is an old-school Savile Row tailor’s premises — or more probably, Ralph Lauren’s sleek, romanticised remix.
JH Cutler Tailors: A Cut Above
There aren’t many businesses in the world — let alone a country as young as Australia — that have passed down from one generation of the founding family to the next for nearly 140 years. JH Cutler is one such firm.
The floating home: Benetti vice president Giovanna Vitelli talks us through Motopanfilo 37M
“People are no longer seeing yachts as luxury transportation, but more as a home with global mobility,” says Vitelli, speaking to a trend shaped both by the rise in demand for safe, intimate and open spaces, as well as by the ever more indulgent and home-like yachts on offer. Not least, this latest arrival from Benetti: the Motopanfilo 37M.
Bespoke home cinemas by Cipod
You're only ever in there when the lights are out, so does your home theatre really need a designer fit-out? Yes. Especially after seeing these bespoke cinemas by Cipod.
The safe: Buben & Zörweg’s Bugatti Grande Illusion Deluxe
This is no mere watch safe. Sure, Buben & Zörweg’s ‘Bugatti Grande Illusion Deluxe’ boasts the hardcore security tech and precision engineering you’d expect of a high-end safe, and yes it also features four watch winders atop a layer cake-like stack of jewellery trays. But the specs take a back seat to the arresting design and fabulous gadgetry that’s more at home on the set of James Bond than stashed away in an horophile’s strong room.
The best (looking) home tech for 2022
Every now and then, something really, really good looking is also devastatingly smart.