The Released Patek Philippe Cubitus

Welcome to the 59th 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!

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On this week’s agenda:

1. The Released Patek Philippe Cubitus

2. Art Basel Paris 2024: A Triumph at the Grand Palais

3. Ferrari Unveils 2000HP F80

4. Two New Six Senses in Milan and Lake Como

5. Gucci Announced Cruise 2026 Show Location

The Released Patek Philippe Cubitus

Last week, I shared an exclusive preview of Patek Philippe’s highly anticipated Cubitus collection, slated for release on October 17, 2024. This marked the renowned brand’s most significant new series since the Aquanaut in 1997. As predicted, the collection features a blend of sophisticated design and practical functionality with a modern twist, aimed at appealing to a broad spectrum of watch enthusiasts.

This week, following the official unveiling, I bring you updated details directly from the launch event in Munich, where I had the privilege to view the collection firsthand and speak with Thierry Stern, President of Patek Philippe.

The Collection Breakdown

As anticipated, the Cubitus collection introduces three new models, each meticulously crafted to uphold the legacy of Patek Philippe's innovative design:

1. Reference 5821/1A – Stainless Steel with Green Dial: This model quickly emerged as the most sought-after piece. It features the iconic bracelet reminiscent of the Nautilus, complete with a newly introduced micro-adjustable clasp. Its square case continues the brand’s tradition of impeccable finishing, combining vertical satin-brushed and polished surfaces. The dial sports an olive green hue with a horizontal ribbed pattern, enhancing its visual appeal while maintaining functionality with a date window at three o'clock.

2. Reference 5821/1AR – Stainless Steel & Rose Gold with Blue Dial: This elegant two-tone model combines stainless steel with rose gold, offering a luxurious alternative. The deep blue dial provides a striking contrast, making it a standout piece for collectors and new enthusiasts alike.

3. Reference 5822P – Platinum with Blue Dial and Grand Date: This platinum model introduces a new level of complexity with its grand date, day, and moon phase features. It represents a pinnacle of horological engineering, with a movement that includes six new patents related to its innovative date display mechanism.

   

Event Insights and Stern’s Vision

During the event, Thierry Stern shared his vision for the Cubitus collection, emphasizing its role in attracting a younger demographic and setting a new standard within the luxury watch market. Stern’s commitment to maintaining the brand’s heritage while innovating for future generations was palpable.

Pricing and Availability

The collection is priced starting at $41,243 for the stainless steel model, reflecting the brand’s positioning in the luxury segment. The watches are available for purchase immediately, ensuring that enthusiasts won’t have to wait to own a piece of this new chapter in Patek Philippe's history.

Reflections on the Launch

The launch of the Cubitus collection is not just about introducing new models; it’s about marking a milestone in Patek Philippe’s journey through the world of haute horologerie. Each piece in the collection reflects a blend of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary innovation, setting the stage for the next generation of luxury watches.

Stay tuned for further updates as we continue to follow the impact of this exciting release on the world of luxury watches.

Art Basel Paris 2024: A Triumph at the Grand Palais

As Art Basel unveiled its first edition at the Grand Palais on October 17, 2024, Paris basked in almost summery weather, enhancing the splendor of the event. Returning to its historic location after the temporary Grand Palais Éphémère, Art Basel Paris 2024, previously known as Paris+ par Art Basel, felt more connected to its prestigious roots, now imbued with a Parisian flair.

The fair, featuring 195 galleries from 42 countries, represents an increase from last year's 154, adding 53 first-time exhibitors. This year also saw the introduction of the Emergence and Premise sections, focusing on solo presentations of emerging artists and highly singular curatorial proposals, respectively. Notably, the Art Basel Shop also made its Paris debut, offering branded merchandise like tote bags and selfie sticks.

Sales and Highlights of the Opening Day

The opening day was marked by robust sales, with Julie Mehretu’s piece at White Cube’s booth fetching a remarkable $9.5 million. The fair's vibrant atmosphere and the high caliber of artworks led to numerous early sales, demonstrating the strong market presence and international interest in the event.

Best Booths at Art Basel Paris 2024

1. P·P·O·W (Booth B52): Showcasing a blend of historical and contemporary artists, P·P·O·W highlighted its diverse gallery program. Ann Agee’s ceramic vases were particularly notable, each uniquely shaped and richly detailed, demonstrating both classical and innovative styles.

2. Pace Gallery (Booth A30): Curated by artist Paulina Olowska, the booth explored themes of witchcraft and mysticism through works by Louise Nevelson, Kiki Smith, and Lucas Samaras, among others. The booth’s thematic cohesion and strong sales underscored its success.

3. WHATIFTHEWORLD (Booth K24): Featured in the Emergence section, this booth presented works by Lungiswa Gqunta, exploring themes of endurance and loss through a mix of fabric and razor wire, engaging visitors with its poignant narratives and innovative material use.

1. David Zwirner (Booth B22): Always a highlight, David Zwirner’s booth was bustling, showcasing a range of works from artists like Marlene Dumas, Elizabeth Peyton, and Victor Man, whose work "K" sold for €1.2 million.

2. The Gallery of Everything (Booth P8): Focused on self-taught artist Janet Sobel, this booth offered a retrospective look at her influential drip painting technique, which had a notable impact on Abstract Expressionism.

3. Cardi Gallery (Booth D32): Presenting a dialogue between Arte Povera, Minimalism, and Transavanguardia, Cardi Gallery’s booth was a standout for its cohesive presentation and significant sales within the first two hours.

4. A Gentil Carioca (Booth A4): With a focus on music and its influence on artistic practice, this booth was vibrant and dynamic, offering a multisensory experience that was both visually striking and conceptually rich.

5. Jack Shainman Gallery (Booth C1): Known for its diverse and strong roster, Jack Shainman Gallery showcased compelling works by artists like Nina Chanel Abney and Nick Cave, highlighting their unique narratives and artistic visions.

6. Galerie nächst St. Stephan Rosemarie Schwarzwälder (Booth A41): With a focus on post-war avant-garde art, the booth featured works by Miao Ying and other artists who engage deeply with process and form, offering a thoughtful and engaging presentation.

1. Lia Rumma (Booth A2): Emphasizing Arte Povera and its contemporary resonances, Lia Rumma presented historical and modern works that spoke to the movement’s enduring influence and relevance in current art practices.

Art Basel Paris 2024 continues to celebrate art with its citywide program and special events, promising more opportunities for engagement and appreciation of global contemporary art. As the fair progresses, we will continue to provide updates and insights, showcasing the best and most intriguing of what Art Basel Paris has to offer.

Ferrari Unveils 2000HP F80

Ferrari has once again pushed the boundaries of automotive innovation and performance with the introduction of the Ferrari F80, a breathtaking supercar that merges cutting-edge technology with striking aesthetics. With only 799 units set to be produced, the F80 is positioned as a collector's dream, akin to legendary models like the GTO and LaFerrari.

At the core of the Ferrari F80 lies an advanced V6-hybrid powertrain, delivering a monumental 1200 horsepower, making it the most powerful road car in Ferrari's storied history. This engine is not just any power unit; it's a marvel of engineering, inspired by the technological advancements and successes of Ferrari's motorsport heritage, particularly the 499P’s achievements at the 24 Hours of Le Mans.

The hybrid system incorporates cutting-edge e-turbo technology, ensuring immediate throttle response and explosive acceleration. This setup enables the F80 to achieve staggering performance metrics, such as 0-60 mph in just 2.15 seconds and a top speed of 217 mph.

The design of the F80 is as much about function as it is about form. The vehicle features an active rear wing, a sophisticated rear diffuser, and Ferrari’s signature front S-Duct. These elements are meticulously engineered to produce 2200 lbs of downforce at 155 mph, optimizing the car’s aerodynamic efficiency and stability at high speeds.

The F80 is equipped with an active suspension system that adjusts to maintain optimal ground effect and road adherence at extreme speeds. This system is pivotal in balancing the car's blistering performance with the practicality required for road use, ensuring that the F80 is as comfortable on the track as it is on the street.

The interior of the F80 draws inspiration from Formula 1, featuring a unique 1+ seating arrangement that prioritizes the driver's experience while accommodating a passenger. This layout is designed to immerse the driver in a true Ferrari performance environment, providing unmatched ergonomics and a visceral driving experience.

The Ferrari F80 is not just a vehicle; it's a statement of luxury, performance, and exclusivity. While Ferrari has yet to announce the official pricing, the limited production run of just 799 units guarantees that the F80 will be a coveted item among collectors and enthusiasts. Potential buyers and Ferrari aficionados should stay alert for updates on availability and pricing through official Ferrari channels.

The Ferrari F80 represents a pinnacle in hybrid performance technology, combining raw power with revolutionary design and user-centric features. As a limited-edition model, it not only elevates the owner's prestige but also marks an exciting chapter in the evolution of hybrid supercars.

Two New Six Senses in Milan and Lake Como

InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) is set to enhance its luxury footprint in Italy with the addition of two new Six Senses properties. In collaboration with Gruppo Statuto, IHG has signed hotel management agreements to open Six Senses Milan and Six Senses Lake Como, expanding its prestigious collection that includes the recently opened Six Senses Rome and the soon-to-open Six Senses Antognolla in Umbria.

Slated to open in 2025, Six Senses Milan will be located at Via Brera 19, in the heart of the city’s vibrant artistic quarter, Brera. The property will boast 68 guest rooms, including 15 suites, two of which will feature private plunge pools. The hotel aims to offer a unique blend of attentive hospitality and holistic wellness within Milan, one of Europe's most dynamic fashion capitals. Amenities at Six Senses Milan will include a specialty restaurant, a deli, a full-service spa, and a rooftop bar complete with a sky pool, setting a new standard for luxury in the city.

Set to debut in 2028, Six Senses Lake Como will occupy the historic site of the former Grand Hotel Cadenabbia on the western shores of Lake Como. This location has a storied hospitality history that dates back to 1820. The reimagined property will feature 102 spacious rooms and suites spread across six floors, reducing the number of rooms from its predecessor to offer more luxurious and expansive accommodations. The resort will also feature a dedicated spa and wellness area, an outdoor pool, a sun deck, and a unique floating pool on the lake. Dining options will include a specialty restaurant and a terrace bar and restaurant with panoramic lake views.

These new properties strengthen the partnership between Six Senses and Gruppo Statuto, which has previously collaborated on projects in Ibiza, Rome, and the upcoming Six Senses London. Giuseppe Statuto, owner of Gruppo Statuto, highlighted the significance of these additions, noting that the Gruppo Statuto Luxury Hotels portfolio has become a benchmark within the high-end hospitality segment, particularly in Italy—a country celebrated for its rich history, culture, and lifestyle.

The openings of Six Senses Milan and Six Senses Lake Como are part of IHG’s broader strategy to expand its luxury and lifestyle offerings in Italy. In 2023, IHG more than doubled its luxury estate in the region, marked by the reintroduction of the InterContinental brand with the launch of InterContinental Rome Ambasciatori Palace. With these new additions, Six Senses Milan and Six Senses Lake Como will join a robust lineup of 30 operational hotels across Italy and eight more in development, which includes new markets for Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants and the Vignette Collection.

Gucci Announced Cruise 2026 Show Location

Gucci has officially announced the location and date for its upcoming Cruise 2026 fashion show, choosing the historic city of Florence to showcase its latest designs. Scheduled for May 15, 2025, the event is a symbolic return to the brand’s roots, honoring the city where Guccio Gucci opened his first store in 1921.

Under the creative direction of Sabato De Sarno, the show titled "Gucci Firenze" marks De Sarno's second cruise collection with the luxury house, following an extravagant presentation at London's Tate Modern last May. That event attracted A-list celebrities such as Dua Lipa, Demi Moore, Paul Mescal, and Kate and Lila Moss, further cementing Gucci's status within the celebrity fashion sphere.

The choice of Florence for the Cruise 2026 show aligns with Gucci's deep historical ties to the city. Florence was not only the backdrop for Alessandro Michele’s Cruise 2018 show at the Palatina Gallery in Palazzo Pitti but has also been integral to Gucci's identity and evolution. The city exemplifies Italian craftsmanship and has been pivotal in fostering Gucci's innovative approaches to fashion, evident from the establishment of its cutting-edge Gucci ArtLab and global digital client service hub in nearby Tuscany.

While the exact venue within Florence has yet to be disclosed, the announcement has stirred excitement about how the city’s rich artistic heritage will influence the aesthetics and presentation of the Cruise 2026 collection. This homage to Florence not only respects Gucci's historical roots but also reflects De Sarno's vision of melding contemporary style with traditional influences.

As the event draws nearer, the fashion world eagerly anticipates a spectacular showcase of Gucci’s latest innovations, set against the backdrop of one of Italy's most storied cities. Keep an eye on Gucci’s channels for more updates on what promises to be a remarkable fusion of fashion, history, and art. See below for this past year’s Cruise collection.

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