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Modern glass-walled house with outdoor seating and a pool, set against a backdrop of green lawn, trees, and a mountain under a clear blue sky.

By Jordan Aquistapace –  May 13, 2025

Outdoor Mountain Living In Aspen

Properties like this provide a peaceful retreat from the pace of everyday life. Tucked away in the picturesque background of Aspen, 9 & 17 Ullr Way is a serene retreat that combines modern design with the beauty of the outdoors. Sitting on nearly three acres along the Roaring Fork River, the property offers privacy, space, and a seamless connection to nature. Designed by Turkel Design and completed in 2022, the home embraces open-concept living with floor-to-ceiling glass walls that welcome breathtaking panoramic views from sunrise to sunset. Whether it's the snow-covered mountain peaks of winter or the vibrant greenery in summer, the changing Colorado seasons become part of everyday life for those in search of luxury outdoor living. Inside, the 6,410-square-foot home is designed with both comfort and functionality in mind, showcasing an expansive four-bedroom and six-bath layout for the whole family. The southeast-facing primary suite is the highlight of the home, with endless views of Independence Pass and a quiet escape from city living. A large open loft space adds versatility, whether used as a home office, library, or additional lounge area. The open kitchen, great room, and dining area create a natural flow, bringing family and friends together while taking full advantage of the surrounding landscape. High-end finishes and thoughtful architectural details make the home feel modern yet inviting, striking the perfect balance between elegance and warmth. Outdoor living is where this property truly shines. Expansive snowmelt decks and a heated dining terrace extend the living space, making alfresco dining a year-round pleasure. A custom wood-burning oven is perfect for everything from pizza nights to open-flame grilling, adding a rustic yet tasteful touch to an already entertaining space. The sunlit pool and copper hot tub provide a relaxing spot to unwind, no matter the season. Meanwhile, the sprawling flat lawn offers plenty of space for outdoor activities, with plenty of lounge seating to take in the peaceful sites and sounds of the Roaring Fork River. In addition to the main residence, the 2.9-acre property comes ready with the option to expand even further. With entitlements in place for a second 6,500-square-foot home, there's potential to create an incredible private compound for the ultimate getaway. Its pristine landscape, mature trees, and proximity to protected National Forest land make it an ideal setting for those seeking seclusion and a strong connection to the outdoors. Whether as a full-time residence or a seasonal vacation home, 9 & 17 Ullr Way welcomes the opportunity to experience the best of Aspen living, where nature and modern comfort come together in perfect harmony.

By Jordan Aquistapace –  December 27, 2024

2024 duPont REGISTRY Luxury Watch Guide

Take a closer look at our picks for the best luxury watches of the year! Wearing a luxury watch has long been a symbol of success, sophistication, and refined taste. While many associate these timepieces with formal occasions, the world of haute horology offers so much more. For watch enthusiasts, the charm lies in the versatility, craftsmanship, and intricate mechanics that make each piece unique. From the captivating complexity of a tourbillon to the sleek, minimalist design of a precision tool watch, there’s something to admire in every tick of the second hand. Watches transcend mere fashion accessories—they are examples of milestone engineering, a perfect blend of artistry and functionality for the wrist. As watch lovers, we know that the right timepiece not only complements our style but also enhances every aspect of life, whether we’re in the office or on a weekend adventure. The duPont REGISTRY 2024 Watch Guide celebrates this diversity, offering a curated collection of exceptional timepieces. Whether you’re drawn to Complex Complications, Timeless Classics, or Precision Tool Watches, our guide helps you find your next horological treasure. Dive into our top picks for the year and elevate your collection with pieces that balance style and performance. Complex Complications Wilbur Watch Co. LEO JW1.5CF Wilbur Watch Co. The LEO by WILBUR is a bold fusion of space-age inspiration and Swiss precision. Powered by the in-house WILBUR Engine One jump-hour movement, this limited-edition masterpiece pushes the boundaries of watchmaking. Its meticulously crafted, futuristic case and avant-garde dial reveal the mechanical genius within. With striking contours and bold, futuristic design elements, it embodies exploration and adventure. As the award winner of American Brand of the Year by WatchPro, WILBUR stands at the forefront of innovation. The LEO watch isn’t just a timepiece—it’s a technological marvel, ready to ignite your passion for pushing limits. Strap in, and prepare for liftoff. Price: $39,995 Learn More Breguet Classique Double Tourbillon Breguet Breguet’s Classique Double Tourbillon "Quai de l'Horloge" 5345 is a true celebration of horological mastery, honoring the watchmaker's inception on June 26th, 1801. With its intricate 588N2 movement, composed of 740 components, the timepiece showcases two mesmerizing tourbillons that add both visual intrigue and technical brilliance. Housed in a 46mm rose gold case, the watch features a unique guilloché pattern called radiant flinqué, symbolizing craftsmanship at its finest. The engraving on the back pays homage to Breguet's origins, with over 100 hours spent crafting its intricate details, making this timepiece a stunning reflection of Breguet's expertise in both artistry and precision. Price Upon Request Learn More HYT Hastroid White Neon HYT The HYT HASTROID White Neon showcases cutting-edge design and innovation with its use of Super-LumiNova® and Tec Light® materials. The carbon fiber and mint green finish of the 48 mm case creates a striking visual effect, while the redesigned dial improves legibility with a bold central hand and sharpened contours. The two sub-counters provide essential functions, displaying small seconds and power reserve. Maintaining the signature proportions of the HASTROID collection, this limited edition of only 15 pieces merges high-tech materials with sleek, modern aesthetics, adding form and function to HYT's lineup of luxury watches. Price: CHF79,000 (Excl. Taxes) Learn More Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar “John Mayer” Audemars Piguet The Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar “John Mayer” Limited Edition is the last limited edition equipped with Calibre 5134, bringing down the curtain on a mechanism, whose history began in 1978 with the launch of Calibre 2120/2800, the world's thinnest selfwinding perpetual calendar movement at the time. At the height of the quartz crisis, this unexpected 3.95mm-thick movement contributed to the revival of other classic complications at Audemars Piguet and throughout the industry. Influential collaborates have and continue to play a significant role in shaping the diverse world of Audemars Piguet over time. Price Upon Request Learn More Breitling Navitimer B19 Chronograph 43 Perpetual Calendar Breitling As part of its new 140th Anniversary Collection, Breitling recently debuted the Navitimer B19 Chronograph 43 Perpetual Calendar 140th Anniversary. The Navitimer was the first watch for pilots to combine a chronograph with the brand’s proprietary circular slide rule flight computer. Originally developed in 1952 for members of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA), the Navitimer quickly found favor with a broader audience that included celebrities and astronauts—in 1962 it became the first Swiss wristwatch in space. The anniversary edition features the famous slide rule in black on an attention-grabbing 18-carat red-gold dial. The strap is alligator leather with contrasting topstitching and an 18-carat gold folding buckle. Price: $59,000 Learn More Ressence TYPE 3 BB2 Ressence Meet the Ressence TYPE 3 BB2, awarded the 'Best of the Best' distinction in the Red Dot Design Award 2024 – think of it as the Oscars for product design. This black edition further accentuates the hyper-minimal look of the TYPE 3, as the combination of oil and dark hue makes the thin space between the discs invisible. Whenever the dial gets in motion, wonder occurs. The TYPE 3 Black Black 2 complements the TYPE 3 Black, White and Eucalyptus Green. Ressence embraces a ‘Less is More’ approach, crafting meaningful mechanical watches where every design choice serves a function. Price: CHF38,200 (Excl. Taxes) Learn More Roger Dubuis Excalibur Double Tourbillon Cobalt Roger Dubuis The Excalibur Double Tourbillon Cobalt Chrome from Roger Dubuis is a striking example of advanced watchmaking. Featuring two flying tourbillons connected by a differential for enhanced precision, the timepiece showcases the intricate RD108SQ calibre with a 72-hour power reserve. The 45mm case is made from durable Cobalt Chrome, known for its scratch and corrosion resistance, along with anti-magnetic properties. With 17 different hand-finishing techniques applied to its 319 components, the watch combines technical brilliance with fine artistry. Limited to just 28 pieces, its bold blue accents and skeletonized design make it a standout in modern horology. Price: $296,500 Learn More Precision Tool Watches Franck Muller Vanguard Racing Colorado Grand 35th Anniversary Franck Muller Limited to only 35 pieces worldwide, the Vanguard Racing Colorado Grand 35thAnniversary edition iscrafted in massive 18kt Yellow Gold and incorporates both a chronograph and instantaneous Grand Date in a design inspired by vintage automobile iconography.The racing spirit of retro motorsport manifests with engine turned accents,dashboard-gauge sub-dials, and the visible gears of the timekeeping engine within. Even the rubber strap recalls the linear tread pattern common in cars built in the age of the“gentleman racer. On the reverse side, a curved sapphire windshield is emblazoned with the Rally logo. Price: $42,000 Learn More CVSTOS Challenge Sealiner Chronograph CVSTOS CVSTOS merges tradition with innovation, redefining Haute Horlogerie with timepieces that embody both Swiss heritage and cutting-edge design. More than just watches, CVSTOS creates experiences of precision and craftsmanship, appealing to those who seek the extraordinary. Each piece is meticulously crafted with state-of-the-art technology and assembled by expert artisans. The Challenge Sealiner Chronograph in 5N red gold exemplifies this philosophy. With nautical-inspired elements like teak wood, a winch-modeled crown, and mooring bollard pushers, it blends maritime elegance with top-tier engineering. Powered by the CVS857 caliber, this timepiece showcases CVSTOS’ relentless pursuit of innovation and luxury. Price Upon Request Learn More Girard-Perregaux Laureato Chronograph Ti49 Girard-Perregaux The Girard-Perregaux Laureato Chronograph Ti49 brings together the iconic 1975 design with the modern advantage of Grade 5 titanium. Known for its strength, lightweight feel, and hypoallergenic properties, this alloy makes its debut in the Laureato collection. Its 42 mm case features the signature octagonal bezel, with a blend of polished and brushed finishes that highlight the material's unique grey hue. The grey dial, adorned with a Clous de Paris pattern, adds depth, while the chronograph functions and date display ensure practicality. Powered by the finely crafted GP03300 movement, the Ti49 embodies Girard-Perregaux's legacy of ingenuity and artistry. Price: $19,400 Learn More Angelus Instrument de Vitesse Angelus Instrument de Vitesse, a new opus in the La Fabrique collection, revives the golden age of timed races. This mono-pusher chronograph seems to have been plucked from the dashboard of a vintage GT car. It is equipped with a single timing hand – the centre seconds hand – and can time a maximum of one minute. With its sleek and refined retro sports look, Instrument de Vitesse is intended for enthusiasts of watchmaking history and culture. Housed in a 39-mm steel case, its 4.20 mm manually wound Manufacture calibre ensures that the finished timepiece is less than 10 mm thick. Instrument de Vitesse is available with an ivory-white or ebony-black dial in two limited series of 25 timepieces each. Price: CHF17,100 (Incl. VAT) Learn More Zenith DEFY Extreme Diver Zenith The DEFY Extreme Diver builds on the legacy of Zenith's 1969 diver models with a sleek, modern twist. The 42.5mm titanium watch is designed to handle extreme conditions, from icy depths to salty seawater. Its robust build includes a helium escape valve, ceramic unidirectional rotating bezel, and a titanium crown-guard for added durability. The angular case is equipped with Super-LumiNova for readability in low light and is water-resistant up to 600 meters. The watch features a geometric dial with bright accents, a high-frequency El Primero 3620-SC movement, and a sapphire display back. It also includes a titanium bracelet and two additional straps, including one made from recycled fishing nets, aligning with Zenith's sustainability goals. Price: $11,300 Learn More Casio G-SHOCK G-STEEL GM2110D Casio The new G-SHOCK G-STEEL GM2110D series introduces a stylish upgrade with its metallic octagonal bezel and metal band, adding texture and sophistication. Available in a variety of vibrant dial colors, the watch balances elegance and casual flair, making it a versatile accessory for any occasion. Its durable shock-resistant structure, combined with a stainless steel bezel, ensures both strength and beauty. The colorful dial not only enhances the watch’s aesthetic but also brings a fresh, uplifting energy to your everyday look. Perfect for those seeking both functionality and style in a single timepiece. Price: $300 Learn More Chopard Mille Miglia GTS Chrono Chopard Chopard’s Mille Miglia collection welcomes a new design for the Mille Miglia Classic Chronograph model. Its 40.5 mm case in Chopard’s exclusive Lucent Steel™, made with a recycling rate of at least 80%, frames a dial inspired by the black and white checkered flag marking the arrival of a motor-race winner. Symbolizing the competitive spirit, this dial is called ‘La Gara’, the Italian word for race. It is topped by a superb ‘glass box’ crystal ensuring optimal opening onto the dial and hence maximum legibility. Competitive spirit and sense of camaraderie; energy and dynamism; speed and style: such are the attributes epitomizing Italy’s celebrated 1000 Miglia Italian classic car race that Chopard has been annually expressing for the past 36 years through the watches of the Mille Miglia collection. Price: $9,350 Learn More Hublot Big Bang Unico Sailing Team Hublot The Hublot Big Bang Unico Sailing Team marks a significant evolution from the brand's original Subaquaneus, introduced in 2004. Celebrating its 20th anniversary, this limited edition watch is crafted in a striking black and yellow design, reflecting the colors of Alan Roura's IMOCA sailing vessel. With a compact 42 mm diameter, it features a fabric strap coated in ultra-resistant polyurethane, resembling the texture of a sail. The watch prominently displays "HUBLOT," mirroring the mainsail of Roura's boat, symbolizing the strong bond between the skipper and the brand. Powered by the HUB1280 self-winding chronograph with a three-day power reserve, this timepiece combines cutting-edge technology with nautical inspiration. Price: $25,200 Learn More TAG Heuer Carrera Chornograph Extreme TAG Heuer The 2024 TAG Heuer Carrera Extreme Sport collection takes inspiration from the legendary Carrera Panamericana road race, reflecting the brand’s devotion to motorsport excellence. With six new models, including four chronographs and two tourbillons, this series enhances its racing DNA with refined design and engineering. Central to the collection is a striking skeleton dial, featuring bold black lines and subtle nods to TAG Heuer’s iconic logo. The standout Chronograph Extreme Sport model in blazing orange captures the adrenaline of the racetrack, combining a rhodium-plated dial, grade-5 titanium crown, and integrated orange rubber strap for a bold yet functional design. Price: $8,200 Learn More Richard Mille RM 65-01 Automatic Split-Seconds Chronograph Richard Mille The Richard Mille RM 65-01 Split-Seconds Chronograph combines technical mastery with bold design. Featuring the intricate, in-house RMAC4 automatic movement, composed of over 600 parts, the RM 65-01 ensures chronometric accuracy. The two newest editions join the collection for summer, showcasing pastel blue and dark yellow Quartz TPT® cases. Vibrant hues evoke the energy of the sky and sun, while the robust Quartz TPT® material, developed by NTPT™, provides exceptional durability. With a color-coded dial for enhanced readability and a rapid-winding mechanism, the RM 65-01 offers both innovative functionality and striking aesthetics, delivering a watch designed for peak performance and style. Price: $380,000 Learn More Jacob & Co. Bugatti Tourbillon Jacob & Co. The Jacob & Co. Bugatti Tourbillon is the hypertwin to Bugatti's new hypercar, which is also named Tourbillon. The Bugatti Tourbillon features new inventions and complications in a new design that takes after Bugatti's. These two extreme mechanisms are aesthetically, mechanically and functionally integrated. A total of ten defining design elements are directly drawn from the $4.1 million Bugatti. The Bugatti Tourbillon case shape is the same, with the front grille flanked by two side radiator inlets. The case sides show two large sapphire openings, shaped and tinted like the car's side windows. The sub-dials are designed like the car's dashboard and rpm counter. Its movement mirrors the car's new V16 engine block, down to its exhaust manifolds. Even the winding crown mimics the finishings on the control knobs. Price: $340,000 Learn More Timeless Classics Vortic Watch Company Military Edition Vortic Watch Company The Military Edition is Vortic Watch Company's most sought-after product. It's available just one day each year: Veterans Day. Inside this watch is a piece of American military history; a pocket watch flown on B-17s and other bomber aircraft in World War II. Called the Master Navigators Watch, and originally manufactured by Hamilton, these antique pocket watch movements, dials, and hands have been meticulously restored and encased in a stone-washed titanium wristwatch housing by Vortic. Don't miss this opportunity to get one of the 50-piece limited editions available November 11th. Price Upon Request Learn More A Lange & Söhne Datograph Up/Down A. Lange & Söhne In 1999, A. Lange & Söhne's Datograph set a new standard for short-time measurement with its innovative in-house movement and distinct dial design. To celebrate its 25th anniversary, the groundbreaking chronograph is now offered as the Datograph Up/Downin 18-carat white gold with a striking blue dial, limited to just 125 pieces worldwide. Powered by the manually wound calibre L951.6, which is composed of 451 meticulously assembled and finely finished parts, the watch continues the legacy of precision and craftsmanship that defines Lange’s timepieces. Price Upon Request Learn More H.Moser & Cie. Endeavour Perpetual Calendar Passion Fruit & 03SERIES Passi0n Fruit Set by Studio Underd0g H. Moser & Cie The recent limited edition release from H. Moser & Cie. and Studio Underd0g brings together two unique timepieces: the Endeavour Perpetual Calendar Passion Fruit and the 03SERIES Passi0n Fruit. H. Each watch combines elegant minimalism with technical sophistication, featuring a purple lacquered dial on an 18-carat yellow gold base. Studio Underd0g adds a bold touch, with its amber and royal purple dial powered by a mono-pusher chronograph movement. Both watches, while distinct in style, share a playful energy and innovative design. The limited edition set of 100 pieces celebrates of craftsmanship, creativity, and collaboration. Price: $64,900 Learn More IWC Schaffhausen Portofino Moon Phase 37 Year of the Snake IWC Schaffhausen IWC Schaffhausen celebrates the Lunar New Year with a special edition watch, the Portofino Automatic Moon Phase 37 Year of the Snake. Marking the start of the Year of the Wood Snake on January 29, 2025, this timepiece features a 37mm stainless steel case and a striking burgundy dial, symbolizing the vibrant spirit of the New Year. The moon phase display, accurate to one day over 122 years, complements the gold moon and stars against the rich background. Powered by the IWC-manufactured 32800 calibre, the watch includes a unique snake-shaped oscillating mass visible through the back. It comes with interchangeable black and burgundy calfskin straps for added versatility. Price: $9,700 Learn More Glashütte Original SeaQ Chronograph Glashütte Originals The new Glashütte Original SeaQ Chronograph is a masterclass in minimalist design. Inspired by classic black-and-white cinema, its “Silver Screen” dial features a galvanic silver finish that highlights bold black hands and Super-LumiNova indexes. The 43.2mm stainless steel case, paired with a sleek black ceramic bezel, offers a refined yet robust aesthetic. Built with a reliable flyback function and 300-meter water resistance, it’s a versatile timepiece for both formal and active settings. With the in-house Calibre 37-23 movement and various strap options, this chronograph effortlessly blends elegance and performance. Available from September 2024, it's a timeless addition to any collection. Price: $14,400 Learn More Arnold & Son Longitude Titanium Arnold & Son Arnold & Son, a benchmark in classic fine watchmaking, is exploring uncharted territory on the map of horology. Longitude Titanium is a sports-chic COSC-certified chronometer with a 42.5 mm titanium case. The dial of Longitude Titanium is vertical satin-finished in a continuation of the bracelet’s finish, which is subtly intersected by the polished edges of its links. With a power-reserve display at 12 o’clock and an imposing seconds counter at 6 o’clock, Longitude Titanium pays tribute to John Arnold’s marine chronometers, his revolutionary vision and his decisive role in calculating longitude at sea. Price Upon Request Learn More

296 Main

By duPont REGISTRY –  April 18, 2024

duPont REGISTRY 2024 Car Of The Year: The Ferrari 296 GTB...

When deciding our Car of the Year, we had to pick something that checked off all of the boxes. From its exterior and interior design to how it drives, and everything in between, the 296 most definitely fits the bill. For me, watching the V8 disappear from sports cars is like watching a beautiful coastline slowly erode. With each passing storm, less of the land remains to remind you why you loved it in the first place. The Ferrari’s flat-plane crank F136 V8 — a howling marvel that lived inside some of Ferrari’s best creations (especially the 458 Speciale) — is my first and perhaps last love. It captivated me and held me in its thrall. This is a very personal choice; there are V12 fanatics out there who would fight me to the death. But I will always adore the ripping of air achieved by Ferrari’s V8, which Maranello first introduced in 1975, in the iconic 308 GTB. Media: Dave Burnett View All Ferrari 296 GTB/GTS For Sale The changing tides have brought the end, for now at least, of the V8. Now we must contend with a very clever sleight of hand that threatens to erase our childhood memories: The Ferrari 296 GTB — and its newest variant, the open-top GTS — is a plug-in-hybrid V6, and it is wonderful. One of the most beautiful Ferraris ever made, it has almost single-handedly redefined the powertrain of the midengine supercar in the modern age. For that reason, and many more, the Ferrari 296 has earned duPont REGISTRY’s first-ever Car of the Year award. Of course, it comes with a mighty hefty price tag of $500,300 — a significant markup from the $371,139 base price and a quantum leap above its direct successor, the V8-powered F8 Spider. Media: Dave Burnett I loved the Ferrari 296 from the moment I first drove it two years ago in Italy. Why? It’s objective sexiness doesn’t hurt. As a coupe or convertible, the design has no expiration date. It fits seamlessly into Ferrari’s hallowed continuum. Ferrari’s designers claim its objective was to create authentic Italian forms, a silhouette drawn with a single pencil stroke. The cockpit hunkers low, encapsulated by lithe fender flares. It is compact in form and expresses a darting speed even at a standstill. There are no extraneous notes, no interruptions in the design. Where the Corvette C8 Z06 looks like it was drawn by a bored teenager during geometry class, and McLaren nearly gets it with the similarly powered Artura, the Ferrari is the adult prodigy in the room. Media: Dave Burnett The 296 emerged from the design shop of mad genius Flavio Manzoni. When he removed the roof, he created a hinge in the hardtop above the B-pillar. When you open the top, the roof folds flush over the engine, concealing the power plant while allowing proper dissipation of the V6’s heat. It’s an ingenious detail that compromises almost nothing. Ferrari’s design philosophy has always been about blending form and function in a way that mesmerizes all parties. The GTS is a stunning embodiment of this ethos. Its exterior is a masterpiece of elegant aerodynamics, with every curve and angle meticulously crafted to reduce drag and enhance downforce. The aggressive grille feeds air into the engine bay and cooling systems, while the sculpted sides and rear manipulate the airflow. The hardtop retracts in a mere 14 seconds. Inside, the cockpit is a leather, carbon-fiber, and aluminum master class in driver-focused design: the manettino on the wheel is exactly where it should be, and the other controls are arrayed with simplicity and thought. This is a luxury: beautiful and not too busy. Media: Dave Burnett On the road, the electric motor — in something like irony — is the secret sauce of the 296. Whipping open the throttle during a drive outside Maranello, the torque of the electric motor transforms the V6 from a welterweight into an 819-horsepower killer. It’s hard not to love it. The GTB hits the 0 to 60 mph mark in only 2.4 seconds, and a quarter-mile in 9.7 seconds. Yes. You read that right. There is the speed, but there’s also the steering response, the extraordinary braking, and an engine sound that doesn’t feel like it’s trying too hard to impress. When the gas-powered engine kicks in, it’s like a series of thunderclaps, like listening to Bonham burst into Page’s guitar solo in “Over the Hills and Far Away.” It’s a clever concoction that maximizes the smaller configuration of the V6. Two 180,000-rpm turbos cram air into the firing chamber, and the pistons fire in the same order as Ferrari’s naturally aspirated V12. Media: Dave Burnett The convertible’s design cleverly maintains the coupe’s aerodynamic efficiency. No downforce is lost when the roof is down, allowing for speeds of up to 205 mph regardless of the roof’s position. The design retains the iconic flying buttresses, now with added functionality for the fuel and charging ports. The active rear spoiler, a modern take on Ferrari’s aerodynamic solutions, enhances downforce without increasing drag. The convertible’s introduction adds 154 pounds to the curb weight, yet Ferrari has managed to make the GTS 50 percent more rigid than the F8 Spider. Whether or not EVs take over the car market, whether or not the rising tide of change obliterates the cars that we love, what the Ferrari 296 has accomplished is timeless, and if it is indeed the future of the supercar, then I embrace it. View All Ferrari 296 GTB/GTS For Sale This article appeared in our April 2024 Issue. Buy This Issue Subscribe

08 BUGATTI CSS Golden Era

By Gabriel Vega –  December 04, 2023

Frank Heyl on Creating Bugatti's Golden Era: A Labor of A...

Although Bugatti didn’t unveil a new model or concept at this year’s iteration of The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering, the French carmaker pulled the covers off one of its most intricate projects. Based on a Chiron Super Sport, the Golden Era — and its hand-drawn livery — revisits the brand’s three major eras and the vehicles that have come to define Bugatti. Here, Bugatti director of design Frank Heyl discusses the Golden Era from concept to completion. duPont Registry: What makes one-off projects like the Golden Era so special? Frank Heyl: I wouldn’t call them “one-offs.” I would say “individualized” — heavily individualized. Pieces of art, actually. Rather than regard this as a car purchase, we say it’s an investment into an asset. Because these things remain in families, because this car will be handed off from generation to generation, and maybe we’ll see it at the Pebble Beach Concours in 50 years. dR: What was your biggest challenge when building this particular commission? FH: Getting the paint to Bugatti levels but still having the sketches embedded in the paint took a lot of experimenting and trial and error. Which pencil goes together with which type of clear coat? And so we worked in layers. We found out that you can’t rub off too much pencil into one spot because then the pigment traps air. If you paint over it, the air will come out and form bubbles. So you sketch in a layer, then you clear coat it, sand it, and do the next layer, progressively getting darker and darker. In the end, you have layers of paint, sketch, paint, and sketch, totaling 17 layers. dR: How long did it take to conceptualize and build the Golden Era? FH: I met the customer two years ago, and now we’re here. If you think about it, how long does a car manufacturer have or give itself to build onecar? I think it’s unprecedented that someone would build a car for two years. That’s our goal with the Sur Mesure program. We are tailoring our business to this because there is so much demand for exactly this sort of thing. dR: With the Chiron’s successor expected to debut soon, is the ease of individualization something you’re considering now while it’s still under development? FH: We take that into account. You cannot overlook this anymore; it’s a must. It’s part of the technical description of the car to have it done in a way that is configurable. In the end, you try and give the customer all the options. The thing needs to be tailor-made to actually be able to comply with all these requests. Featured in Our November 2023 Issue Buy Single Issue Subscribe

lamborghini urus 2

By Gabriel Vega –  June 28, 2022

Lamborghini America CEO Andrea Baldi Talks About the Urus...

In 2021, the Urus accounted for roughly 60 percent of Lamborghini’s auto deliveries — 5,021 out of a total 8,405 units. That’s up from 3,815 Uruses sold during the 2018 model’s debut year. From purely a monetary perspective, the large SUV has become the Italian automaker’s most important and profitable release. To find out why, we sat down with Lamborghini America CEO Andrea Baldi. Andrea Baldi (Lamborghini) duPont REGISTRY: Why do you think the Urus has been such a success for Lamborghini?Andrea Baldi: When it came to market at the end of 2017, the timing could not have been better due to the rise in demand for SUVs. You get a Lamborghini that’s a super sports car in the body of a versatile car. By allowing you to host more than two people and take multiple weekend bags instead of one, it starts to have a lot of advantages. The success has been so incredible that we’re in 2022, and we haven’t released any derivatives. The more customers drive the car, the more they talk about it, the more they realize that when you drive a Urus, you don’t have that kind of handling that you would expect from an SUV. dR: Since it was such a massive shift from the cars Lamborghini made at the time of release, did shareholders push back?AB: Yeah, I remember very well in 2012 when the concept car debuted at the Beijing Auto Show. I was lucky enough to be there. There was lots of excitement surrounding it, and the market for it was there. But it wasn’t a real car. It was a styling exercise that was anticipating what could be. The car still had to be approved and engineered. But the reaction of the media and the public was so strong that our shareholders began to support and discuss the idea further. At the time, the Bentley Bentayga was also part of the conversation, and of course, we’re coming from a group that makes the Porsche Cayenne. There were already competitors in that arena, so we needed to prove that we would have something different that sold volumes to have a sustainable business case. It had to sell in high volumes to offset the considerable investment needed to develop it. One of the best parts of this process was seeing everyone gradually come on board and become enthusiastic about it. We did a secret study with journalists and customers, and we got a clear confirmation that we should build it. But the best part of all this process was when our red competitor, led by Mr. Marchionne, issued a very clear statement saying that it was the wrong decision and they were not going to do it. That gave us the opportunity to make a product without competitors in its super-specific niche space. dR: How does it feel knowing that even your red competitor is now following that formula?AB: I think everyone has concluded that it’s a great idea for a super sports car brand to be present in this segment. It’s what is most desired at the moment, and it’s allowing everyone to get into a segment that is still expanding. Clearly, it’s the segment to be in, and competitors have realized that it’s obvious that this type of product is consistent with the DNA of a super sports car brand. dR: Will the Urus always remain focused on road performance, or will we get to see an off-roading version?AB: Lamborghini stands for performance, so we will always work to deliver that kind of experience. But we also want to be brave while staying authentic to what we represent. It may be a bit unexpected. So, while there are things I cannot tell you yet, we will always follow our values and make sure that we stand out as the different animals in the competitive arena. dR: Is the upcoming electrified variant of the Urus a higher-performance vehicle? AB: In 2024, we will present the first hybrid Urus, which will be part of the hybridization program that Lamborghini approved last year. The mid-to-long-term strategy is not just to electrify the existing model range and the successors of Aventador and Huracán but also to plan for another model within the decade that is entirely electric. It’s not going to be the Urus. It’s going to be a fourth model. I cannot spoil anything at the moment, but yes, we are working on derivatives. In 2024, you’ll see a big change in performance thanks to the car’s hybrid powertrain. This will give the car extra power, but we need to contain the increase in weight. I won’t say more, but you will see, we have surprises to come. 2022 Lamborghini Urus Horsepower, Price & Specs See All Lamborghini Urus For Sale Related Video:

PININFARINA BATTISTA 1

By Basem Wasef –  May 23, 2022

Ultra-Luxury, Electrified: How High-End Automakers Are Ad...

As high-end automakers adapt to a new world order, the rules of luxury are being redefined. Luxury is rarely logical. Across the first century of automotive history, car connoisseurs revered the finery of leather, wood, and intricate 12-cylinder engines in the same way they regarded mechanical watches: with a healthy respect for handmade complication. Traditional car building followed the same principles as the horological world, placing a premium on painstaking craftsmanship. But when a changing world forced new demands on vehicle emissions, the next revolution trickled down from the top. Formula 1 racing introduced gas/electric hybrid powertrains, and the so-called “holy trinity of hypercars” — the Ferrari LaFerrari, McLaren P1, and Porsche 918 Spyder — followed. If million-dollar ultra-exotics can gain an edge through electrification, surely change isn’t all bad. Pinnifarina Batista (Photo by Sandy Huffaker via Automobili Pininfarina) We’re now five years into that paradigm shift, and top carmakers are at fever pitch, ready to write the second act of the luxury automobile. Trailblazing EVs helped make a certain South African the richest man in the world, and hot on the heels of that first wave came electrified efforts from a passel of forward-thinking upstarts taken a strong swing at the genre, grabbing headlines with all-electric models boasting boggling stats. Think: 1,900 horsepower (Pininfarina Battista), 520 miles of range (Lucid Air), and 0 to 60 mph in 1.85 seconds (Rimac Nevera). But luxury was never about numbers alone, especially in a space where enthusiasm is defined not only by hardware, but through intangibles. Those who were imprinted at an early age by a certain leather smell or a carmaker’s peculiar identities can relate; fans are quick to point out a brand’s lovable quirks, which make each model as distinct as fingerprints, despite a common goal of getting from A to B. Bentley Flying Spur (Bentley Motors) As high-end marques delve deeper into electrification, they are forced to focus on every touchpoint along the way. Bentley sales and marketing board member Alain Favey cites the charging experience as one of many elements that must be on-brand in order for its hybrids and EVs to succeed. “Our customer expects a luxury charging experience,” he explains, “and it needs to be different from what you get when you drive a premium brand like Mercedes or a volume brand; it cannot be the same as a ID-4.” Bentley PR head Wayne Bruce points out that the brand leverages its owner-only app to gauge customer preferences. One survey revealed that when Bentley’s first hybrid was released (in 2019), only 30 percent of respondents indicated they wanted an electric model. As of five months ago, that number has doubled. Addressing an electrified future means branding efforts must extend beyond conventional styling and performance and go deep into the realms of software and user interface design: everything from charging portals to onboard route planners and multimedia systems must live up to the expectations of the car’s respective nameplate. With the dream of self-driving cars deferred, manufacturers are also channeling more effort into making their EVs drive the way consumers expect them to, even if propulsion is coming from electrons, not internal combustion. Aggressively leading the electrification charge are performance-oriented and legacy brands alike. The newbies have brands. Ferrari’s first serially produced plug-in hybrid was the nearly 1,000-horsepower SF90 Stradale, marking the first time the prancing horse flagship has swapped fewer cylinders (12 for 8) for a three-motor, battery-assisted drivetrain. The brand doubled down on the upmarket/downsizing theme with the 296 GTB, an 818-horsepower plug-in hybrid that marks the first time a V6 has been packed into a road-going Ferrari-branded model. Maranello’s toe-dip into hybrids prefigures the debut of their first full EV in 2025, which should present their greatest challenge yet in delivering that inimitable Ferrari feeling without the benefit of a screaming internal combustion engine. Given the criticality of satisfying a core audience whose preferences are quite particular, to say the least, performance-focused carmakers are relying on key brand pillars to ensure the models are as engaging to drive as they ought to be. While Ferrari’s hybrids are already gaining critical acclaim, several other manufacturers are still in the process of R&D’ing their electrified sports cars. Frank van Meel, CEO of BMW’s performance-focused M brand, views the future through the prism of the past. He says the shift from 4- to 6- to 8-cylinder M car engines caused a stir among enthusiasts because the bigger engines were heavier; the advent of turbocharging introduced similar concerns about sound quality and throttle response. As for the first electrified M car, van Meel notes, power and acceleration are less of an issue than the intangibles that make a driver feel at one with the machine. “The real task is to have that M smile, that M emotion,” he says, describing a certain something that each brand can lean on as a unique feeling associated with the drive. Mercedes-AMG boss Philipp Schiemer recently launched the brand’s first fully electric car, the 751-horsepower AMG EQS, which was based on the tamer, S Class-like EQS sedan. Schiemer reveals that not only will other segments receive the AMG treatment (to be expected), but that their efforts will extend to a standalone AMG electric vehicle in the “not too distant future. Using hybrid powertrains as a bridge to full electrification is a common tactic, especially among carmakers whose foundations were built on signature powerplants. Lamborghini’s snarling V10 and V12 engines have been the protagonist in their raging bull persona since the brand’s inception. The Sant’Agata carmaker is anticipating a full transition to hybrids by 2024 — a move that should enable them to retain their massive gas engines. Bentley’s Beyond 100 business strategy promises plug-in hybrid versions of all models by 2024, their first full EV in 2025, and an entirely EV-only lineup by 2030. Over a period of 7 years, the tactic will take them from being the world’s top producer of 12-cylinder engines to offering none. Aston Martin is also on board with the hybrid-first approach, having started delivery of their $3 million, 1,160-horsepower Valkyrie last year. While Aston intends to deliver its first battery-electric vehicle in 2025 and electrified options across the lineup by 2026, it is also building a China-only variant of the DBX utilizing a mild-hybrid 6-cylinder. The brand expects 90 percent of the cars sold by 2030 to be plug-in hybrids or pure electrics, and their recent partnership with battery tech firm Britishvolt should complement their technological link to Mercedes-Benz and enable them to move forward in this burgeoning arena. If the road to electrified luxury can be summed up in one idea, it might be that carmakers are challenged with myriad obstacles as they intend to move toward a common goal, the least of which is preserving and maintaining their core characteristics while they proceed to change nearly everything about their cars. Each road is individual, and Rolls-Royce’s is no different. Rather than using plug-in hybrids to ease their customers into electrification, the Goodwood brand is leveraging its past to take a quantum leap into the future. In 1900, company co-founder Charles Rolls experienced an early EV and raved about the experience with a qualification, saying, “The electric car is perfectly noiseless and clean, there is no smell or vibration … But for now, I do not anticipate that they will be very serviceable — at least for many years to come.” That time is now, with the Sceptre, Rolls-Royce’s first electric vehicle, expected to start delivery in the fourth quarter of 2023. “The brand will become fully electric step by step, but only if it is uncompromised,” CEO Torsten Müller-Ötvös says in a full-circle statement that could only come by sticking to the carmaker’s original ethos. “Now is the time to change the course of the future of luxury.” Shop Electric Cars For Sale This article appeared in our May 2022 issue. Subscribe Buy This Issue

Omega Speedmaster Main

By Roberta Naas –  April 29, 2022

Vintage Revisited: Re-Edition Watches Worth Your Time

It’s no secret re-edition watches and timepieces that recall the classics from the past are making a huge impact on the watch collecting world. Wrists everywhere are beginning to make statements of yesteryear — but with a decidedly modern flair. With all of the noise being made on the watch auction market and with second-hand watches flying out the doors of online sellers in droves, it’s hard to ignore the fact that nostalgia is back in style in a very big way. And that definitely goes for watches.  Just a few years ago, Omega made a huge splash by unveiling vintage re-editions that were exact replicas of original 1950s watches they mimed. The movements, though, were totally new – offering modern-day accuracy to fractions of a second. Following that successful launch, other brands jumped on board and the concept of re-imagining the past has moved full steam ahead. Today, watch brands are deftly making their marks with capsule collections that utilize new colors and materials, yet are inspired by yesteryear, or with updated versions that celebrate an important anniversary. As watch brands – from the affordable to the luxury companies – scour their archives for inspiration, they also vow to keep their back stories and legends in the forefront. It is part of the narrative that makes these watches so desirable.  The key to the success of these re-editions is that each is somehow a faithful reinterpretation of golden eras. They are all true in some way to the originals and capture the look and feel of retro chic. However, they are often made using modern materials that are more rugged and durable, and, the best part of all: they house modern-day movements that can go the distance with today’s active lifestyles. The new calibers are often more water-resistant, more precise, and easier to care for than their 40-to-70-year-old muses. Breitling Breitling Top Time Triumph In a new partnership with 120-year-old British Triumph motorcycles, Breitling and Triumph unveiled the Top Time Triumph inspired by the café’ racer culture of the 1960s and the Top Time watch released then by Willy Breitling. The watch boasts a brushed finish and the beloved “Zorro” (slashed) dial in pale blue and with cushion-cornered subsidiary dials indicative of the time. The color is derived from the 1951 blue Triumph Thunderbird 6T and the 1970s Breitling Top Time Ref. 815. A COSC-certified chronometer movement powers the 41mm watch. $5,500. Zenith Zenith Defy Revival A3642 Zenith has a rich and storied past that even includes a time when the top watchmaker hid the plans for the now-famed El Primero movement in an attic (adding a brick wall for added security) so they couldn’t be destroyed during the quartz revolution. Now, Zenith releases the Defy Revival A3642 watch that recalls the first Defy watch launched in 1969. The mechanical watch is almost 99% true to that original in case shape, design, and dial color. It does boast an updated high-tech El Primero movement, sapphire crystals, and modern-day luminous materials. $7,000. Audemars Piguet Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Self-Winding 37mm In tribute to the 50th anniversary of the classic Royal Oak watch designed originally in 1972 by the famed Gerald Genta, Audemars Piguet unveils new 37mm version in stainless with a light blue dial color (Bleu Nuit, Nuage 50) that is almost an exact replica of the original but made with updated PVD processes. Slight details on the case, bracelet, and dial are evolutions of the original that allow for better ergonomics, thinner profiles, and stronger aesthetics. The oscillating weight of the self-winding movement is rhodium-plated 22-karat pink gold and bears the “50 years” insignia. $24,100. OMEGA Omega Heritage Speedmaster Caliber 321 Canopus Gold Chronograph The first  Omega Speedmaster watch unveiled in 1957 was designed for professional race car drivers. An immediate success, it went on to enjoy many iterations, including the now-famed Moon watch. Now, in honor of the 65th anniversary of the Speedmaster, Omega unveils the 18-karat Canopus Gold™ Caliber 321 Chronograph inspired by that first model. The 38.6mm watch, made in the brand’s proprietary brilliant-white gold, is powered by a column-wheel chronograph movement and boasts broad arrow hands and three classic subdials like the original. The crown bears the NAIAD symbol like the original CK2915 models did, as well. $81,000. IWC Shaffhausen IWC Big Pilot’s Spitfire IWC Schaffhausen regularly recalls its impressive past in the world of aviation and the recently released Pilot’s Spitfire watch is a prime example. Crafted in the age-old material of bronze, this 43mm watch is inspired by the brand’s pocket watches of yesterday and by its historic “mil-spec” watches of the 1940’s made for the British Air force. This new bronze watch features a hypo-allergenic titanium case back and is equipped with an in-house-made mechanical movement and a soft-iron inner case to protect against magnetic fields – an invention created by IWC in the 1930’s. $9,350.

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