Hublot x Takashi Murakami Limited Edition MP-15 Tourbillon

Welcome to the 60th edition of Maximalist! Dive into the ultimate guide, filled with insider insights into the world of fashion, art, real estate, travel, jewelry, and horology.

The world of luxury is never boring, and this week is no exception. Let’s dive in!

Markets

On this week’s agenda:

1. Hublot x Takashi Murakami Limited Edition MP-15 Tourbillon

2. Sotheby’s to Auction Artwork by Humanoid Robot Ai-Da

3. Rolls-Royce Unveils Phantom Goldfinger

4. Capri Holdings Stock Drops 50%

5. Corinthia Hotels Open The Surrey in NYC

Hublot x Takashi Murakami Unveil Limited Edition MP-15 Tourbillon

Hublot and Takashi Murakami have announced the limited return of the MP-15 Tourbillon Sapphire Rainbow, a continuation of their collaborative effort. This launch follows last year’s introduction of two unique MP-15 models, including one for the Only Watch 2023 auction and a more subdued variant released a few months thereafter.

This latest model is noted for its dazzling, intricate design and a distinctively 'kawaii' appeal, featuring Murakami’s signature flower motif. The watch is constructed from polished sapphire crystal which provides transparency into the inner workings of the watch beneath its unconventional floral shape, measuring 42mm in diameter. Each petal is uniquely set with a gemstone corresponding to its matching hour marker, differing from the Only Watch edition which displayed a continuous rainbow gradient across the petals.

Central to the watch’s design is Murakami’s renowned smiley face, which is laser-engraved on the domed sapphire crystal at the center of the dial. Below this is the HUB9015 manual-winding tourbillon movement, presented in a skeletonized style to enhance the illusion of the mechanism floating.

The previous one-of-a-kind piece crafted for Only Watch fetched 420,000 CHF (approximately $484,473 USD) at auction. The new release, however, will be available as a 20-piece limited edition, each priced at $374,000 USD. Further details can be found on Hublot’s official website.

Sotheby’s to Auction Artwork by Humanoid Robot Ai-Da

Sotheby’s is set to auction the first piece of art made by a humanoid robot on October 31, 2024, marking a significant moment in the fusion of technology and art. The artwork, titled "A.I. God. Portrait of Alan Turing," was crafted by Ai-Da, a robot developed by British gallery owner Aidan Meller. Ai-Da, who is equipped to perform tasks ranging from drawing to speaking at a TED talk, is described by Meller as a reflection of the complexities of our digital and physical interactions.

This mixed-media piece, measuring 60 x 90 inches, offers an almost Impressionistic view of the famed British computer scientist Alan Turing and carries a pre-sale estimate of $120,000 to $180,000 USD. Michael Bouhanna, Sotheby’s vice president and head of digital art, after discussions with art and technology collectors, notes a strong market interest for this unique work, citing its significance in the AI art domain.

The auction, part of Sotheby's Digital Art Day, will not only feature Ai-Da's work but also include pieces from artists like Refik Anadol and DesLucrece, celebrating a milestone in the storied auction house’s history since its establishment in 1744.

Rolls-Royce Unveils Phantom Goldfinger

Rolls-Royce has introduced a unique Phantom Goldfinger edition, crafted to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the iconic 1964 James Bond film "Goldfinger." This special edition vehicle mirrors the yellow-black color scheme of the movie's notable car and is equipped with 21-inch wheels designed to mimic the smooth disc wheels of the original film car.

In a tribute to the luxury seen in James Bond's world, the 2024 Phantom Goldfinger features exquisite 18-carat gold plating and silver accents, reflecting the golden aesthetics associated with 007. The car's interior is just as lavish, featuring an 18-carat gold bar shaped like a Phantom, integrated into the front center console. Both the front and middle consoles are adorned with gold lining, and the glovebox bears a memorable quote from the film: “This is gold, Mr. Bond. All my life, I have been in love with its color, its brilliance, its divine heavenliness.”

The vehicle also sports navy leather seats and walnut wood details, enhancing its sophisticated interior. In homage to the film's cinematic elements, the car’s ceiling is fitted with 719 stars and eight shooting stars, replicating the night sky above the Furka Pass on July 11, 1964—the last day of filming "Goldfinger" on location.

This one-of-a-kind Rolls-Royce Phantom Goldfinger has already been delivered to a premier client in England and will not be duplicated, maintaining its exclusivity.

Capri Holdings Stock Drops 50%

Capri Holdings' stock plummeted by approximately 47% in early trading on October 25, 2024, following a U.S. judge's decision to block its $8.5 billion acquisition by Tapestry, the owner of Coach. The court ruling was delivered by U.S. District Judge Jennifer Rochon, who cited concerns over reduced competition in the accessible-luxury handbag market. This decision was highlighted in a Yahoo Finance report which quoted Rochon's statement that "antitrust has come into fashion."

The thwarted merger had been set to combine six major fashion brands: Tapestry's Coach, Stuart Weitzman, and Kate Spade with Capri's Versace, Jimmy Choo, and Michael Kors. Despite the blockage, Tapestry's shares saw a 14% rise in early trading on the same day.

Following the court's late Thursday decision, Tapestry announced plans to appeal, emphasizing the dynamic and competitive nature of the industry, claiming the merger would promote competition and benefit consumers. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC), which had sought a preliminary injunction against the deal in April, expressed that the merger could harm consumers by diminishing competition for affordable handbags and potentially affecting worker wages and conditions.

The injunction was granted by Judge Rochon on Thursday, with further proceedings by the FTC pending. This development allows all involved parties an opportunity to present their arguments before the FTC. Henry Liu, the director of the FTC’s Bureau of Competition, remarked that the decision supports competition and benefits consumers seeking quality, reasonably priced handbags.

The case remains under the spotlight as it progresses through the FTC, with a potential impact on the landscape of the accessible-luxury handbag market in the U.S

Corinthia Hotels Open The Surrey in NYC

Corinthia Hotels has officially opened its first North American establishment, The Surrey, situated on New York City's prestigious Upper East Side. Owned by Reuben Brothers, the 16-story building was designed by Martin Brudnizki of MBDS and boasts 70 guest rooms, 30 suites, and 14 private residences. The Surrey also introduces the first New York outpost of the acclaimed Casa Tua restaurant and a tranquil spa by Sisley Paris.

Pradeep Raman, managing director of The Surrey, envisions the hotel as a dynamic cultural center for the neighborhood. Simon Casson, CEO of Corinthia Hotels, expressed pride in this venture, highlighting the hotel’s embodiment of the company’s familial and warm hospitality. The design of the hotel by MBDS integrates historical elements with modern elegance, inspired by the nearby Central Park bridges, and offers suites with luxurious amenities including complimentary butler service.

Casa Tua, started by Miky and Leticia Herrera-Grendene, brings its celebrated blend of Italian and Mediterranean dishes to New York, housed in a space that marries Florentine influences with contemporary luxury. The Surrey Spa, partnered with Sisley Paris, provides a variety of treatments aimed at rejuvenation and relaxation, featuring a steam room, sauna, salt relaxation room, and sensory shower.

Additionally, The Surrey houses a curated art collection from VISTO Gallery, showcasing pieces by local and international artists as well as those drawn to New York’s dynamic energy.

As Corinthia’s first venture in North America, The Surrey joins other Corinthia properties in cities like London, Lisbon, and Budapest, with plans for future developments in Rome, Brussels, Bucharest, Doha, and Riyadh.

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