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brief_timeless_img.jpg Timeless Luxury

With a history stretching back over six decades, Rolex’s Oyster Perpetual Datejust Rolesor is one of the most recognisable watches the world has ever seen.

This year’s Oyster Perpetual Datejust II Rolesor is a welcome addition to this illustrious family. Featuring a 41mm yellow or white Rolesor case with an elegant fluted bezel, the watch is waterproof to 100m. Proving why it’s the master of chronometric precision, the COSC-certified timepiece is equipped with an inhouse designed and manufactured 48-hour power reserve calibre showcasing the anti-magnetic and anti-shock Parachrom hairspring and new Paraflex shock absorbers.

On an Oyster bracelet fitted with an Oysterclasp and Easylink extension link ensuring ergonomic comfort, choose from a yellow Rolesor case with a slate or black dial, or a white Rolesor case with a white or rhodium dial. This horological masterpiece has viewed numerous incarnations over the years, as it remains forever modern. Its origins lie in the incorporation of three iconic Rolex innovations.

Firstly, the Oyster, the first waterproof and dustproof wristwatch exclusively crafted by Rolex in 1926.

Secondly, the movement is powered by the Perpetual rotor, the first self-winding mechanism with a free rotor, created in 1931.

And finally, the Datejust featuring a date aperture on the watch dial, first launched in 1945. The result is a reliable, waterproof and self-winding officially certified Swiss chronometer with date display.


brief_giorgio_img.jpg The New Classic

If it ain’t broke don’t fix it, and in the highly fickle world of designer fashion, the Giorgio Armani suit is one rare, and highly sought after, constant.

The Armani suit remains a staple for fashion-conscious men, and the designer didn’t disappoint this season. Sending a slew of perfect tailoring down the runway — worn close to the body and with sharp shoulders — Armani delivered a youthful Italian style filled with gravitas.

“It’s a renewed image of classic,” the designer said. While he did experiment with silhouettes and textures, he didn’t betray his signature blend of comfort and elegance. That meant a variety of flowing velvet drawstring pants paired with fitted tailored blazers or snug knitwear and silky shirts in muted colours such as grey, navy and truffle browns.

With its natural shoulders and ample helpings of cashmere, flannel, and velvet, Armani’s latest has all the deconstructed luxury that first made him a star in the early 1980s. Then, as now, men were reaching for soft tailoring to ease their way out of the economic doldrums, and now, as then, they’ll find it in Armani.

So yes, the collection offered no big surprise, but isn’t that what buying Armani is all about? “I know how to change men’s fashion without shocking.” And we’re all extremely thankful for that.


brief_hotseat_img.jpg Track To Success

Owning a Formula One team is prestigious and good for branding, but is Singapore ready to sponsor one? Alex Yoong, Former F1 driver and ESPN Star Sports commentator thinks the focus should be on less glamorous pursuits, for now.

The Singapore Grand Prix is one of the best – if not best – races of the year in Formula 1. But Singapore needs to know that hosting the F1 is not enough if it wants to have a flourishing motorsports culture. Grassroots racing needs attention and a smaller permanent racetrack is a must.

I can see Singapore having a F1 driver within five to 10 years. There are more kids participating in go-karting events with the support of wealthy families to push them all the way. The challenge is to have a steady stream of youngsters making it into international motorsports. To do that, you need a strong grassroots programme.

A Singaporean F1 team at this stage would do nothing to enhance Singapore’s credentials, except in image alone. This is a sport where teams make their own cars with multi-million dollar budgets. It is an unparalleled technical challenge. It would ultimately be a European team, as you cannot have a F1 team without being close to the action in Europe.

So, I believe it’s better to develop the motorsports culture within your own borders — just like in Japan or the US.


September 2009 Issue
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