Monday, September 28, 2009

Half The World in 18 Days! – Part 1

It all seems just a distant blur, as my travels were mainly work related, but I did manage to squeeze in some memorable times that in some cases will be cherished for a lifetime.

First stop was Singapore, we had lunch at the exclusive China Club Singapore which is an elegant, members-only club, built atop the 52nd floor of Singapore's premium commercial tower, The Capital Tower, located in the Central Business District. The Club is surrounded by 16 metre-tall glass with perhaps the most spectacular views across Singapore. On a clear day, Malaysia and Indonesia can be glimpsed.

Some very quick and discrete pics


This was followed by a private cocktail party on the Singapore Flyer which apparently is the world’s biggest observation wheel standing at 165m from the ground. Here are some pictures of the rapidly evolving Singapore skyline.


Later that night, we flew into Hong Kong. I was just minutes away in booking into one of the most luxurious hotels, the Mandarin Oriental. Located overlooking the glittering Victoria Harbour, our hotel has been the centre of Hong Kong’s social and business scene since 1963. The first thing I did was have a Mojito with my colleagues at the M Bar.

The room set a new benchmark

As the second day’s meetings concluded I had some spare time, so off to the Hublot boutique to look at some new novelties and have chat with Micro. As always to Hublot Team was very accommodating and with boyish enthusiasm I tried on some fabulous pieces.

My All Black Classic Fusion in the boutique.

Some close friends, my ABCF and Micro’s Zirconium CF.

King Power, the name says it all.

Hmm love the pen, it would look great in the collection.

Now comes the gruelling part of the trip, the long haul flight to London - Heathrow. Fortunately they didn’t lose my luggage this year.

London remains this collector’s ‘Watch Mecca’. There is a fabulous selection of old and new pieces. Yes the prices are on the high side especially in Burlington Arcade, but this is mitigated by the quality and choice in vintage.

When it comes to Hublot in London, I’m not surprised that Marcus is so well regarded. The staff are very courteous and unassuming with some fabulous pieces such as the All Black 2.

A rare omen, Buckingham Palace on a sunny autumn day.

Part II will take me to Switzerland, the fun is only beginning.....