If you are a regular traveler to Genève, Switzerland, you already know that a trip to Geneva is never complete unless you’ve stopped at Auer Chocolatier near the Place du Molard. Auer Chocolatier was founded in 1939 and is located on Rue de Rive 4. This five-generation family-owned chocolate maker is best known for their legendary ‘Amandes Princesses’ —princess almonds— that we can only describe as the world’s best chocolate-covered almonds.
Posts tagged #Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore
Eye Candy: Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore 44 Platinum ref. 26401PO. Heavyweight Blues.
A classic in platinum for those that know and crave the best, the Royal Oak Offshore 44 was originally introduced in 2011 by Audemars Piguet with a 44 mm diameter case and a whole new design under ref. 26400. Three years later, Audemars Piguet released the 44 mm Royal Oak Offshore in platinum 950 reference 26401PO we have here. Now officially discontinued, the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore 44mm Platinum ref. 26401PO.OO.A018CR.01 features a blue dial and a blue alligator strap that is somewhat reminiscent of the platinum Royal Oak Offshore Rubens Barrichello II.
Experience: Salvatore Ferragamo Groove 2 Double Gancini Slide Sandals. Gearing up in Style for the Summer.
When it comes to blue shoes or beach sandals, no one does it better than Salvatore Ferragamo. This quintessential brand was launched in the early 1900s by its founder Salvatore Ferragamo. Having made his first pair of shoes at age nine for his sisters to wear at their church confirmation, Ferragamo studied the art of shoemaking in Napoli where he opened a small shoe store at his parent's home. After moving to Boston in 1914—where one of his brothers worked at a cowboy boot factory— and then to Santa Barbara, California in 1919, he opened his his own boot shop to quickly become the 'Shoemaker to the Stars'.
Experience: Mercedes-Benz G550 4x4 Squared. When a 'Beast' Meets Two AP Original Royal Oak Offshore 'Beasts'.
With a size that dwarfs the regular Mercedes-Benz G Wagon, the MB G550 4×4² is one helluva a 'Beast' and a new highlight in the history of the G-Class that blends all the advantages of the model series. Drop shipped in all the way in from Graz, Austria, manufactured by Magna Steyr, the 'Geländewagen' was originally developed as a military vehicle upon request of the Shah of Iran and launched for civilian use in 1979. But what makes this Mercedes-Benz G550 4x4 Squared a real 'Beast' is its 88 inches —2.2 meters— height and its impressive ground clearance at 18 inches —almost half a meter.
Insider: Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore ref. 26470ST.OO.A028CR.01. Hands-on with 'The Real Batman'.
Just released a few months ago, the new Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore ref. 26470ST.OO.A028CR.01 with black dial and blue registers is the latest addition to the Royal Oak Offshore line and a watch that we have now nicknamed 'the Real Batman'. With its 42 mm case in stainless steel with black ceramic crown/pushers and display case back, the Real Batman is a stunner in the metal and a watch that discreetly evokes the colors of the Dark Knight in a regal combination of black and blue.
Insider: Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore ref. 26470ST.OO.A104CR.01. Hands-on with 'The Elephant' in the Room.
Released during the SIHH 2014, the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore ref. 26470ST.OO.A104CR.01 is a watch that is not as popular as we now think it should be. This particular second generation Offshore —42 mm case with ceramic crown/pushers and display case back—, wasn't our cup of tea upon its release at the SIHH 2014; nevertheless, today, it is one of our favorite second generation Royal Oak Offshores.
Insider: Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Themes 'Panda' ref. 26170ST. One of the Most Iconic Offshores with a Racing Inspired dial.
Released in 2009, the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore 'Panda' ref. 26170ST.OO.D101CR.02 quickly became an iconic Royal Oak Offshore. Fitted with a silvered dial —that depending on the light looks more like a white dial— with black chrono registers and red accents, this particular Offshore, is one that brings its racing inspired look in either matching stainless steel bracelet or black alligator hornback strap with white contrast stitching. The one we are featuring here is fitted with a black rubber strap to make it look even sportier.
Experience: Michael Schumacher's Ferrari F1-2000. The Car in Which Schumi Won his Third World Championship and the Constructors' Championship for Ferrari.
Last week, we had the pleasure of attending a special event here in Dallas with our good friends at de Boulle —featured here. This was one of those 'just because we can' type of events featuring Michael Schumacher's Ferrari F1-2000 as the guest of honor. The Ferrari F1-2000 was a Formula One car designed by Rory Byrne for the year 2000 Season. This car featuring improved aerodynamics when compared to its predecessors, is the same car that Schumi drove during the season, to obtain his third World Driver's Championship and the first World Constructors' championship for the Ferrari team in 16 years.
Experience: Ferrari F430 Scuderia and the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Chronograph ref. 26470OR Rose Gold. Absolute Perfect Pairing.
What best way to showcase the new Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore ref. 26470OR.OO.A002CR.01 than to feature it along with one of the most amazing supercars out there. We are talking about the Ferrari F430 Scuderia. The new Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore line in 42 mm unveiled at the SIHH 2014 as we presented it to you here, was slightly redesigned 20 years after its launch in 1993. Today, the new Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore features beefier crown guards, ceramic crown and pushers, new dial options, straps with pin buckles and display case backs. Thankfully, the watch didn't lose much of its original essence and Audemars Piguet needs to be congratulated for that. We all know how bad it is when iconic watches get redesigned and they end up being so far from their original designs that they become a completely different timepiece.
Macros: All The New Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshores in 42mm from SIHH 2014. Stunning Under the Lens.
Nothing better than a short post with some powerful images for a relaxing Sunday morning. Enjoy these macros that we took during the presentation of the new Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore 42mm collection at the SIHH 2014 last month. These images shows the beauty behind these new models in a very special way. Now, enjoy the eye candy!
For more info on Audemars Piguet click here.
Experience: A Full Week At Grand Velas Riviera Maya with an Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Diver
For all of our beach loving watchlifestylers, we are featuring the luxurious Grand Velas Resort in Riviera Maya. Riviera Maya is a tourism paradise located in the eastern side of the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico. This secluded beach destination is located between Puerto Morelos and Playa del Carmen in the state of Quintana Roo, Mexico. Grand Velas is only 25 miles south of Cancun and 5 miles away from Playa del Carmen.
Grand Velas Riviera Maya opened in 2008 as the first and only luxurious all-inclusive resort in the area. We know what most of you think when we say 'all-inclusive'; however, it is actually nothing like what you might be imagining. This exclusive resort features five chef-inspired 'haute cuisine' restaurants and one buffet restaurant that can compete with any Michelin rated restaurant in the world. The names and specialties of the restaurants include Frida —gourmet Mexican—, Cocina de Autor —Spanish molecular gastronomy—, Piaf —traditional French—, Sen Lin —gourmet Asian fusion—, Lucca —Italian and Mediterranean— and Azul —international buffet that even includes sushi and sashimi.
Grand Velas offers superb service, a tranquil beach without crowds and upscale guests from all over the world. If you are looking for a resort where the world and Mexican elite hang out, then this is the place.
Once you drive in through its majestic doors, you will feel the serenity of 80 acres of protected mangroves. Upon arrival at the main hotel lobby for the Ambassador and Grand Class suites, you will be greeted by their friendly staff with hibiscus infused beverages and a nice cold face towel. The lobby features a modern super-sized 'Palapa' with beautiful decor and the comfiest couches where your check-in takes place. Upon check-in, you will be assigned a personal concierge to take care of all your needs during your stay, even if that includes purchasing some Vilebrequins in case you forgot to bring yours.
Now, if you are looking for an even more relaxing experience at Grand
Velas, you can book your suite within the Zen Grand suites area that is
completely secluded and located in the heart of the mangroves. The
downside is that you will be at least 10-minutes away from the beach and
the majority of the restaurants. The upside, is that you are next to the world-class spa at this resort. There you can experience their amazing 'Water Journey' treatment as you go through different pools with different scents, waterfalls and even temperatures.
At this exclusive resort, expect for the phrase 'your wish is my command' to become the norm. Whatever and whenever is the motto of their employees. Ultra premium and premium liquors are included and some of the most fascinating Mexican seafood dishes like 'Aguachile de Camarón', 'Ceviche de Pescado' and 'Coctél de Pulpo' are at your disposition whenever you want a serving poolside.
Regarding the accommodations, expect a very large suite with an ultra comfortable bed, Molton Brown amenities, fresh flowers, in-room all-inclusive dining service including breakfast on your terrace —make sure you order 'Huevos Rancheros' and 'Chilaquiles Verdes'— and even a bottle of Tequila to enjoy during your stay. What a perfect retreat!
A full day by the beach includes a shallow waist high stretch of beach with serene warm waters, snorkeling opportunities just a few feet from your beach chair, a few visits to 'Azul' and some of the best prepared drinks you won't find at any other resort.
By the way, the beaches are very private, somewhat secluded and with talc-like sand to pamper your feet.
At night, after a full day of relaxation and indulgence by the beach, be prepared to savor the best international and Mexican cuisine in its different restaurants. If you like places like Daniel, Le Bernardin, Jean-Georges, Le Cirque or Asiate, we promise you won't be disappointed by their food.
After you've relaxed for a whole week at this fantastic place, rest assure you will not want to leave. At this resort you get world-class amenities with an amazing and personable service staff and some of the best dining experiences in this part of the world.
Room rates start at approximately $700 USD per night in double occupancy. For more info click here.
Encounter: Maybach 62S. One of the Last Ones Ever Made.
Seeing a Maybach in New York City is as common as having a cupcake from Crumbs by Bryant Park. This time, we stumbled upon this elegant vehicle right next to the Murray Hill area. The watch on our wrist, a classic Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore ref. 25721ST.OO.1000ST.01.
Maybach is an ultra-luxury car brand founded in 1909 by Wilhelm Maybach and named Maybach Motorenbau in 1912. The company became famous during WWI and WWII as the company was responsible for manufacturing the engines for zeppelins, tanks, trains and tanks for the German army. In 1960, the company was purchased by Daimler-Benz and it's currently owned by Daimler AG out of Stuttgart, Germany.
After failed attempts to compete against Rolls-Royce, it has been announced that Maybach will cease operations this year. The company leaves behind approximately 3,000 vehicles that were made since its revival back in 2002. The last Maybach was produced in December of 2012. Now, could the car in the picture be the very last Maybach ever made?
During the past 11 years, Maybachs have been sold in two different lengths under the model names 57 and 62 —the model number reflects the length of the vehicle in decimeters. Additionally, there are two other less popular models: the Landaulet and the Guard. The Guard is an armored version of the 62 that is the perfect automobile for those watchlifestylers seeking protection everywhere they go —especially while cruising the streets of Mexico or Colombia.
Fitted with electronic curtains, fully reclining climatized backseats, 19" cinema screen, automatic transparent partition for full privacy, intercom system to communicate with the driver when the partition is closed, duplicate instruments for rears passengers —in order to stay informed regarding the speed, time and exterior temperature— and individual rear seat entertainment system, the 62S is Powered with a 6.0L V12 Bi-Turbo engine with 620 hp.
In addition to all of its luxurious features and superb design, the Maybach 62S is characterized by outstanding engineering and effortlessly superior performance. An exceptional car created for true connoisseurs. For those that are savvy enough, a Maybach can be spotted from a block away. If you feel like making a grand entrance on your next dinner at Lavo, make sure you arrive in one of these amazing automobiles.
Last know Sticker Price $467,600 USD. For more info on this fabulous car click here.
Insider: Porsche 964 Racing Car. Cruising the Racetracks of America Since 1990.
A few days ago, we were invited by one of our watchlifestyler friends to take a closer look at some of his Audemars Piguet watches and his Porsche 964 Racing Car. This gorgeous racing car is a 1990 964 that started its life as a regular street car before turning into a podium maker.
The previous owner started tracking it on open lap days until he decided to finally race it and make it into a full blown race car. This Porsche 964 bearing the race number 971 has a long history of races and victories. Initially raced at Road America, this powerful six-cylinder made its way to other important tracks including Gingerman Raceway, Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course, Putnam Park Road Course, Sebring International Raceway and Daytona International Speedway.
Purchased in 2006 by our friend, the car has seen numerous changes along the way. From an engine rebuilt —as a piston had scored the inside of a cylinder wall— to the fitting of adjustable shocks —JRZ race type— and the installment of a full computer to gather and report full AIM race data including lap times, break pressure, track GPS info, steering angle, oil pressure and temperature, acceleration, RPM and everything else that goes on with the car performance while racing.
Currently, this beauty races in the G-Class Prepared category in the Porsche Club of America. It's in the Prepared Class —not the Stock Class— because several modifications have been done including the addition of Turbo 911 brakes, a different transmission ratio, a rear wing and a front splitter and also considerable weight reduction. This car has over a dozen podiums and it's very competitive in its class. Additionally, Patrick Long —a Porsche works driver— has driven this car as well.
The car features a flat six-cylinder 3.6L fuel injection engine that provides 290hp with an acceleration from 0-60mph in just 5.5 seconds. The car comes with all the racing gear necessary to conquer the tracks including a carbon fiber rear wing, extra-wide slick tires, ABS brakes, a Recaro Hans driver seat, a Recaro Pole Position passenger seat, adjustable suspension, full interior cage rollbars and a detachable Momo steering wheel. Our friend is an experienced driver that races this car with the pedal to the metal while keeping track of his lap times with an Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore 25721ST.OO.1000ST.01
If you feel like turning your street legal Porsche into a racing car click here.
Experience: Montecristo No. 3. One of the Finest Habanos in the World.
As we were getting ready to enjoy another sunset at the Ritz-Carlton Grand Cayman down in the Cayman Islands, we pulled out an Habano to enjoy the moment even more. Really, there's nothing better than a good cigar on the beach, wearing a nice watch and contemplating a beautiful sunset.
This time, we enjoyed a Montecristo No. 3 —a hand rolled Cuban cigar that is typically used as the benchmark when rating other fine cigars.
Montecristo has set the bar quite high for almost 80 years since its launch in 1935. Its name was taken from Alexandre Dumas' novel 'The Count of Montecristo'. The story accounts that when the factory first opened, the manager used to read the novel to the 'torcedores'—rollers— and they liked the novel so much, that they wanted to immortalize the main character of the novel by naming their fine cigars 'Montecristo'.
The Montecristo No. 3 only includes leaves from the region of 'Vuelta Abajo'. This Cuban region is home to the best tobacco leaves in the world. From fillers to binders and wrapper, all are 'Vuelta Abajo' leaves. 'Vuelta Abajo' is located in the western tip of Cuba in the province of 'Pinar del Río' by the towns of 'San Juan y Martínez' and 'San Luis'.
This region is also the main source of tobacco for Habanos, and the only region that grows all types of leaf. But even in this amazing region, less than a quarter of the tobacco growing land enjoys the 'Vegas Finas de Primera' status that is required for the Habanos.
Montecristo No. 3 is a Coronas measuring 5 5/8" in length with a 42 ring gauge. With hints of leather, coffee and ambergris, this cigar is rich and powerful. Flavor profile stays even for the first two thirds of the cigar and becomes stronger on the last third. Around 50 minutes of burning time in a perfectly rolled cigar with perfect draw and almost perfect even burn —went out just once, possibly due to the strong evening sea breeze.
While this cigar is a joy to smoke, we only recommended it for more experienced smokers. Due to its intensity, we feel it might be too much to take for someone looking to try a cigar for the very first time.
Experience: Petrus Pomerol 2000. Celebrating 20 Years of the Royal Oak Offshore.
The year 2013, marks the 20th anniversary of the launch of the Royal Oak Offshore; another milestone in Audemars Piguet's history. Contrary to the Royal Oak, the Royal Oak Offshore was not a response from the manufacture to any particular request from a particular market. Stephen Urquhart, Audemars Piguet's Managing Director at the time, felt it was time for the Royal Oak to have a sibling.
In 1989, he asked Emmanuel Gueit to come with a design to commemorate the Royal Oak's 20th anniversary. Emmanuel, based his design on the observation that women were already wearing men's watches back then and he felt it was time for the Royal Oak to move up a notch in size. Initially scheduled to be launched in 1992 —right at the time of the Royal Oak's 20th anniversary—, the Royal Oak Offshore ref. 25721ST was pushed back another year.
Since the Royal Oak was partially inspired by the maritime world, it was natural for the new watch to be named Offshore. The other name that could've been used was 'Challenger'. We really think that 'Offshore' suits this watch way better.
To celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Royal Oak Offshore, there's no other wine out there as iconic as the Petrus Pomerol. A perfect match to the iconic Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore.
Petrus is a Bordeaux wine from the Pomerol Appellation near the border with Saint-Èmilion. Petrus is produced by a very small winery that belongs to the Moueix family and Christian Moueix has been in charge of the winery since 1970.
Today, Petrus is widely regarded as the most outstanding wine and one of the world's most expensive wines you could buy. Petrus vintage 2000, is a complex merlot grape wine with a bright ruby red color. Smooth but with a thick body, Petrus will leave hints of truffle and liqueur on the palate. A remarkably impressive wine that will finish with strong tannins. While the 2000 vintage is nowhere near 1998's vintage, this wine will be better enjoyed by the time the Royal Oak Offshore turns 40, just like the Royal Oak turned 40 last year.
Sticker price $4,700-5,000. For more info on the Royal Oak Offshore click here.
Encounter: Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Shaquille O'Neal and the Arnold's All-Stars. Stumbling Into Two Giants.
Some time ago, while visiting Las Vegas, we stumbled upon these two fantastic Royal Oak Offshore limited edition references from Audemars Piguet. It had already been a day full of surprises while watch shopping, but running into these two watches was quite an experience.
Honestly, how often do you run into these two pieces at the same time?
Two real giants, not only in terms of size —both the ambassadors and the timepieces— but also, because of their desirability, collectability, limited quantities and wrist presence.
Let's start talking about the Royal Oak Offshore Shaquille O'Neal reference 26133ST.
This massive watch comes with a stainless steel over-sized case measuring 48mm. It is fitted with a beautiful contrasting hornback black crocodile strap with red stitching and a gorgeous black mega tappiserie dial with red accents on the flange, silver Arabic numerals and the numbers three and two in red —appearing in reversed order to celebrate the athlete's jersey number 32.
While most of you would think that this watch can only be worn by watchlifestylers as tall as Shaquille O'Neal —7' 1" in height—, we can tell you that after trying it on, that is not the case. Actually, it is very comfortable even if you are only 5' 10'' tall.
As you can appreciate in the pictures, the design behind this watch definitely evokes the greatness of the athlete. Audemars Piguet even created a wooden box shaped as a basketball to sell this fantastic watch. Sticker price of $35,000 if you can find one, remember this limited edition of 960 pieces is pretty much sold out everywhere. The Royal Oak Offshore Shaquille O'Neal is also available in 18K white gold with a diamond encrusted bezel —sold as reference 26134BC— in a limited edition of 96 pieces and a sticker price of $88,600.
Now, let's talk about the other giant. The Royal Oak Offshore Arnold's All-Stars After-School Adventures reference 26158OR comes also in a 48mm case but in 18K rose gold. Just as expected, the precious metal on this Royal Oak Offshore makes this watch ultra heavy and a real stunner. Fitted with a brown crocodile strap with cream stitching and a matte chocolate brown dial —with a combination of mega tappiserie and concentric circles right where the Arabic numerals in rose gold are applied—, this limited edition of 350 pieces has a sticker price of $83,100 and is not easy to find either.
Both timepieces feature the same type of case design —like that on the 'End of Days' Offshore—, rectangular chrono pushers, tang buckles on their straps and solid case backs with the ambassador's names and respective limited edition information.
For more info on other Audemars Piguet limited editions click here.
Experience: Rolls-Royce Phantom EWB in Beijing
It is 3:13pm in Beijing and we are beyond exhausted from an almost 14-hour flight all the way from Chicago. Lucky enough, we have a Rolls-Royce Phantom Extended Wheel Base waiting for us at the airport. After such a long flight, nothing like the comfort of the best car in the world. As we get in the car, the legroom is hard to miss, the smell of the leather and wood inside the car are captivating and we are now inside the quietest ride in the world. Mr. Ogilvy's advertising campaign for Rolls-Royce delivers on its promise with the tagline that reads: "At 60 miles an hour the loudest noise in this new Rolls-Royce comes from the electric clock". So true!
As we head into the heart of Beijing in such a quite ride, it almost feels like we are inside an audio recording studio and not in a car. The attention to detail that comes with a vehicle of this caliber, is just above the rest. The wood trim, the clock, the windows, passenger controls and comfort of the seats are just some of the things that makes a Rolls-Royce the most elegant car in the world. Our final destination in Beijing, The Peninsula Hotel —located just a few blocks away from where watch shopping paradise is located in the Wangfujing area.
Sticker price on this car approximately $475,000 USD. For more info on Rolls-Royce click here.
Experience: A Full Week at The Peninsula Beijing. It Doesn't Get Any Better.
Traveling to China is one of the most fascinating experiences anyone can have. Staying at The Peninsula in Beijing is bringing the experience to another level.
The Peninsula Beijing is located in the heart of the city within walking distance from Wangfujing, Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City. A few blocks down the street you can shop at the exclusive Jinbao Place mall.
Just like at any other Peninsula hotel, VIP transportation is no problem as they have a very nice assortment of vehicles to choose from, including several Rolls Royce Phantoms, BMW 7 Series and Audi A6. Upon arrival, you will be greeted by their iconic white-suited porters. Spending eight nights at this majestic hotel made us feel like we were home and not homesick at all. The linens, the amenities, our room and every detail inside the hotel has been carefully taken care of.
Inside the hotel there's an atrium with several stories of very high-end shopping including Hermès, Louis Vuitton, Piaget, Tom Ford, Brioni, Burberry and Armani amongst others.
There are three fantastic food options inside the hotel. Huang Ting a traditional Chinese cuisine place meant to replicate the look of a 'hutong', Jing an international cuisine restaurant/buffet and the Lobby Lounge where high-tea is served.
After a few days of sightseeing and walking around the city and the Great Wall, we decided to check their spa and receive some well deserved pampering. The spa facilities are impeccably designed with serenity, peace and harmony in mind.
For more info on this hotel click here.
