Innholdsfortegnelse for November 2024 i Tatler Hong Kong

TATLER HONG KONG Tarmo Peltokoski, the Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra’s music director designate, chatted about filling auditoriums and his obsession with Wagner. TATLER MALAYSIA Internet sensation Uncle Roger, aka Nigel Ng, discussed how he is using comedy to bring Asian food to the world stage, and his new restaurant Fuiyoh! It’s Uncle Roger. TATLER PHILIPPINES Tatler spoke to first-time (and double) Olympic gold medallist Carlos Yulo in his first magazine interview post-Paris about his experiences at the 2024 Games and his plans for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. SHANGLIU TATLER Taiwan-born superstar Brigitte Lin has been honoured with the Chaplin Award in Asia in recognition of her contributions to cinema. The Tatler cover star took us on a journey down memory lane. TATLER SINGAPORE We talked to former banker Jocelyn…

Gary Wan, co-founder and managing director of the Hybrid Group, is no stranger to the world of fitness events. With over a decade of experience in organising sports and wellness activities, he’s now introducing the Hyrox competition—an indoor hybrid fitness racing event that alternates running with functional exercises—to Hong Kong. Known for pioneering events like the Spartan Race, the world’s number one obstacle run, in which participants wade through mud, crawl under barbed wire and toy with fire, and Iris: Your Escape, a yoga and wellness festival, Wan is set to once again redefine the fitness landscape in the city. “I’ve always dreamt of hosting indoor events, especially in Asia, where weather is a crucial factor,” Wan says. His passion for fitness and community engagement led him to Hyrox, a…

Kingsley Leung, the co-founder and chairman of biotech start-up Great Bay Bio, considers Iron Man the “coolest” superhero: “Everyone knows I love Iron Man. He was like an electrical or mechanical engineer.” It has proven something of an inspiration: “I don’t need to be a billionaire. But I want to do something cool and interesting.” Leung didn’t create flying armour; instead, he co-founded Great Bay Bio, which uses AI to develop new medicines for pharmaceutical companies, in 2019. With about US$30 million in funding, one of the company’s recent major achievements was the US government approval of one of its clients’ drugs, developed using its tools, for clinical trials. One way Leung’s venture can expedite drug development is by enhancing chemistry, manufacturing and controls (CMC), which is the stage of…

HOTELS 1. Exceptional Service: The best hotels provide intuitive, personalised service at every level of the guest experience, anticipating visitors’ needs without being intrusive. 2. Outstanding Design: Striking architecture and interior design leave a lasting impression. From the moment you enter, you can tell these hotels are not your run-of-the-mill luxury properties; there’s a distinctive charm and individuality that sets them apart. Lighting and landscaping are also considered. 3. Sense of Place: Great hotels go beyond aesthetics to create meaningful connections between guests and the local culture and community. This is often achieved through thoughtful design elements and exclusive, authentic experiences. 4. Sustainability: HNW travellers are increasingly conscious of their environmental and social impact, choosing hotels that embrace sustainability practices—such as waste reduction, energy-efficient systems and sustainable sourcing—and integrate these…

When Cindy Chao decides to embark on a new project, the stakes are always high and her commitment to perfection is unwavering. Two decades ago, armed with nothing but determination and artistic vision, she ventured to Paris to establish her workshop. In an industry traditionally dominated by men, she found herself battling against seasoned craftsmen, engaging in countless fights as she pushed jewellery design boundaries. Her pioneering spirit led her team to prestigious venues like the Paris Biennale and beyond, where few Asian brands had ventured before. Today, it’s common knowledge that Chao’s illustrious career, spanning two decades, is peppered with numerous stories of dedication to the craft of jewellery design. One such story centres around the Peony Brooch, a creation that took eight years to complete. The European craftsmen…

Your best kept secret for the upcoming party season: gem-set and go…

It was no ordinary night of electronic beats, creative cocktails and dancing. Audemars Piguet’s AP x Music event in Switzerland in September saw Tatler and other guests from around the world converge on Lake Lucerne. Invited by the watch brand, the mastermind behind this musical collaboration, attendees took a 30-minute ferry ride across the scenic lake, followed by an ascent by funicular to the Bürgenstock mountain resort—a historic destination long favoured for summer getaways and ski holidays. We arrived to the sight of a stage set against the majestic backdrop of the Bürgenstock peak, a striking contrast to the edgy rebellious nature of the electronic music that was being performed. This juxtaposition is something Audemars Piguet has always excelled at. A brand beloved by A-list musicians and producers, AP began…

THE WINNING ENSEMBLE Elizabeth Debicki radiated a subtle royal charm at the Emmys this year, where she won the award for best supporting actress in a drama series for her role as Princess Diana in The Crown. She paired her long black velvet Dior dress with De Beers Arpeggia one-line diamond earrings and a matching bracelet. Her earrings, a strand of shoulder-grazing diamonds set in 18-karat white gold, totalling 4.71 carats, were the highlight of her look. LEAF IT We love classic wedding jewellery that can also be worn with everyday ensembles. That’s why the CTF Bond Collection by Chow Tai Fook is one to bookmark. Some of the designs in the collection are inspired by olive leaves, which feature in necklaces, bangles, bracelets, earrings and rings. The collection is…

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR Change can be unsettling, uncomfortable and, more often than not, painful. In this issue, we delve into stories of change featuring protagonists who have embraced transformation, turned challenges into opportunities, and emerged stronger and more inspired. Our cover story spotlights the remarkable Cindy Chao, a jewellery master and an inspiration to modern women. Embarking on her art jewellery journey two decades ago, Chao faced self-doubt, criticism and industry scepticism, as she undertook experiments that offered no guarantee of success. Yet, against all odds, her creations have blossomed into beloved pieces for jewellery collectors, highly sought-after at international auctions and treasured by prestigious museums. Notably, her 2008 Ruby Butterfly Brooch was inducted into the Musée des Arts Décoratifs in Paris, marking the first time a Taiwanese jewellery…

Is the concept of exclusivity essential for luxury brands to thrive? BONITA CHEUNG YES “Exclusivity plays a pivotal role in defining a luxury brand’s identity and value. By offering limited product availability, luxury brands create a sense of rarity that creates desirability among consumers. The perception of scarcity not only elevates the brand’s status but also drives consumer demand, encouraging individuals to invest in products that symbolise prestige and sophistication. Exclusivity fosters a unique brand experience, allowing consumers to feel part of an elite group. This emotional connection further solidifies brand loyalty and enhances the perceived value of the products. In a competitive market, maintaining exclusivity helps luxury brands differentiate themselves and ensure they remain relevant and sought after. Ultimately, the allure of owning something unique is a fundamental aspect…

How did you first get involved with The Opposites bar? As a cocktail enthusiast, I have always found joy in savouring a mixologist’s creations and in the experience of pairing them with delicious small bites. At Jouer [the cake shop Cheung founded in 2014 in Wan Chai], in addition to our cakes and pastries, we specialise in event catering, where we serve canapés and mini desserts with champagne at cocktail parties. When the team [at The Opposites] approached me with the exciting opportunity to collaborate on a new bar, I was thrilled. What expertise do you bring to the table? After graduating, I worked in art galleries in New York City and London. When I came back to Hong Kong in 2008, I co-founded MobArt Gallery with [my friend] Stephanie…

Champagne enthusiasts were in for a treat at the Tatler Champagne Festival 2024, a three-day extravaganza filled with tastings, gourmet delicacies and musical performances. The sparkling celebration combined carefully curated bubbles, culinary delights and spirited entertainment. Set against the urban oasis of Taikoo Place from September 26 to 28, the festival offered the ultimate champagne experience. Curated by Tatler Dining, the festival showcased some of the most exquisite champagnes, with each label offering a range of vintages and styles to explore. This exclusive line-up included the likes of Champagne Bollinger, Dom Pérignon, Louis Roederer, Moët & Chandon, Champagne Nicolas Feuillatte, Champagne Perrier-Jouët, Champagne Pierre Gobillard, Champagne RSRV, Ruinart, Taittinger, Champagne Telmont, Veuve Clicquot and Champagne Veuve Fourny and Fils. Guests were invited to explore the nuances of champagne—its delicate flavours…

THE LEGEND OF THE WHITE SNAKE The Foshan Cantonese Opera Troupe takes The Legend of TheWhite Snake to the screen. The film adaptation of a classic Cantonese opera that tells the romantic tragedy of the love between a thousand-year-old female snake spirit and a scholar, it combines the aesthetics of modern cinema with traditional Cantonese opera performances. Renowned Hong Kong Cantonese opera actor Law Ka-ying takes the lead role as the scholar, while the female protagonist is played by Li Shuqin, the director of the troupe and a winner of the China Theatre Plum Blossom Award, the highest theatrical award in the country. The film will premiere in Hong Kong this month before being screened in other GBA cities. November 2 and 3. Hong Kong Cultural Centre. RUTH ASAWA An…

BIRD WATCHING Of course, a Tiffany blue watch face will always be in style, but in this piece, the famous shade is represented through a natural turquoise gemstone. The high jewellery piece displays hours and minutes on a diamond-paved sub-dial, while Jean Schlumberger’s favourite diamond-encrusted, 18-karat white gold birds sit atop the signature shade. A flying tourbillon complication is also seen under a diamond-like faceted sapphire crystal dome. SUPER CARBON This year, we have seen Audemars Piguet dabble with a lot of interesting materials; in the case of the Royal Oak Concept Split-Seconds Chronograph GMT Large Date model, that’s Chroma Forged Technology (CFT) Carbon. The maison last used forged carbon eight years ago; this new version can be coloured and is free of porosity, a development that took the in-house…

COLLECTOR’S CORNER Tony Ma is not your typical vintage watch collector. An introvert by nature, he has largely shunned the limelight, preferring the quietude of his collection over the bustling gatherings of watch enthusiasts. But he agreed to speak to Tatler on the subject of vintage Patek Philippes, sharing his unique perspective. “I really like the [TV] show Mad Men,” he says. “I really love that period. So when I think about or romanticise it, I wonder what kind of watches important figures would buy back in the day. They would probably buy a simple Patek Philippe, not a really extravagant, super-complicated watch.” This sentiment encapsulates his approach to collecting—an appreciation for understated elegance and timeless design. Ma’s love for watches began during his two decades in Canada, a place…

Austy Lee Jewellery is known for bold, jaw-dropping creations—but with the launch of the new Psychedelic Light collection, the brand takes men’s jewellery to a whole new level of luxury. Designed for those who thrive on making a statement, this collection is not for the faint-hearted: it’s for the modern-day legend who dares to defy convention, embrace his individuality and wear his power on his wrist. At the centre of this collection is the Kunlun Zinnia Bangle—an 18-karat yellow gold masterpiece. Studded with black diamonds, Burmese green jade, tsavorites, abalone shell, Sri Lankan blue sapphires, Colombian emeralds and fancy pink diamonds, it’s a vivid symphony of gemstones, each bringing its own energy. The combination of rare materials and intricate craftsmanship makes this bangle a showstopper. Inspired by the legendary Kunlun…

JACK(ET) OF ALL TRADES As the temperatures in parts of our region begin to dip, even if only marginally, it’s finally cool enough to add a layer to your outfit with the perfect jacket. A casual denim number or a sequin-studded statement piece ups the ante for a Saturday night out, while a slim-fit blazer, as seen at Balmain and Gucci, finishes off a more formal look. THE SOFTER SIDE Think of velvet, and you’ll almost certainly think of opulence and grandeur; and fortunately for your autumn wardrobe, velvet is making a bold comeback. From prestigious houses such as Schiaparelli to popular street style brands like Sportmax, the fabric is entering a new era in terms of look and feel. Whether you want to push your style boundaries with an…

Two and a half centuries ago, Baccarat was a producer of soda glass in the tiny hamlet it is named after in northeastern France. Today, it is a global luxury brand, producing luxury crystalware, lighting, jewellery, fragrances and beyond. It has expanded extensively in Asia in recent years, opening new stores in Hong Kong, Macau, Chengdu, Singapore, Bangkok and beyond. It has expanded into hospitality concepts: Cristal Room by Anne-Sophie Pic in Hong Kong, a collaboration with one of the most Michelin-decorated female chefs in the world, opened in 2023 and the following year was awarded a Michelin star. Elsewhere, there is the sumptuous Baccarat Hotel & Residences in the heart of New York, as well as restaurants and bars in Paris, London, Miami, Tokyo and Osaka. “Baccarat aims to…

DAMIEN FRY Los Angeles-based photographer Damien Fry specialises in brand look books, portraits, fashion shoots and landscape photography. He has worked with stars including Miley Cyrus, Charlie Heaton and Carly Rae Jepsen and his work has been published by Marie Claire, GQ and Wonderland. He shot this month’s fashion shoot for Tatler. (p.82) MING SHIH CHIANG Ming Shih Chiang, a renowned Taiwanese fashion photographer, is highly sought after for his distinctive, avant-garde style and keen sartorial sensibility. He has long been the go-to photographer for celebrity albums and adverts, and regularly collaborates with top fashion magazines across Taiwan, Hong Kong and mainland China. For Tatler this month, he shot our cover star, jewellery artist Cindy Chao. (p.66) MAGDALENA BRYK Polish British fashion stylist and editor Magdalena Bryk works between Los…

After nearly a decade working in advertising, Ben Hallam took on the role of head of marketing at Airbnb at age 28, spearheading the company’s expansion into the luxury market. He then became vice president of customer engagement at Shangri-La Group, a position created specially for him—as was his next role, working directly with then-New World Development CEO Adrian Cheng in the company’s executive office, where he took charge of expanding the developer’s portfolio with acquisitions and investments in mainland China and Europe. In 2022, Hallam became the brand chief at Four Seasons. Now stationed in Miami, Hallam is putting his years of experience into Four Seasons’ luxury brand innovation and strategy. He speaks to Tatler about the new-age Asian traveller, an upcoming White Lotus partnership—filming will take place in…

It’s been clear that British pop star Robbie Williams was destined for a life in the spotlight since he broke through as a teenage boy band sensation. The cover of his debut solo album, 1997’s Life Thru a Lens, featuring him surrounded by paparazzi, is still iconic today—a snapshot of a star ready to embrace fame on his own terms. Confident and unapologetic, Williams projected himself as a performer who was born for greatness. Now, 27 years later, in the heart of Monte Carlo, where luxury and glamour effortlessly converge, Williams continued to captivate audiences just as he promised all those years ago on that unforgettable album cover. He recently delivered a standout performance at luxury yacht brand Ferretti Group’s ninth Private Preview event at the Yacht Club de Monaco.…

Tatler Best is Asia’s definitive guide to the top 100 hotels, top 100 restaurants and top 100 bars in the region, celebrating excellence in hospitality and dining. With its 27 Best in Class awards—11 for hotels, nine for restaurants and seven for bars—Tatler Best stands apart from similar honours. Nominees were selected based on expert insights, with input from Asia’s most discerning globetrotters, culinary connoisseurs and drinks specialists, reflecting the evolving tastes of the region’s most savvy travellers. Tatler Best jury co-chairs handpicked a jury of more than 400 individuals, including Tatler editors, established food writers, travel journalists, influencers and, importantly, members of Tatler’s community across Asia, who are known for their sophisticated takes on where to stay, eat and drink. The process to identify the Tatler Best 100 in…

“I named myself after the titular character in Charles Dickens’s Oliver Twist, which I studied at school, because I had always asked for more,” says Hong Kong film director Oliver Chan Siu-kuen. She wasn’t referring to gruel. Even as a child, she was eager for opportunities beyond what was obvious and available. “I felt that if I named myself after a boy, it would open doors for me.” So has that helped her as an adult? “Not really.” But Chan is not someone who waits for those opportunities to knock at her door. When there isn’t an existing way, she carves a path for herself. Her latest feature film, The Montages of a Modern Motherhood, is a prime example. “There aren’t any films presenting motherhood in Hong Kong. For sure,…

In June, the industry held its breath as it awaited Cheney Chan’s debut spectacle in the heart of Paris, the gilded halls of haute couture. The previous month, supermodel Coco Rocha had worn his spiral-cut silk gown, which resembles a calla lily, at the Cannes Film Festival; and Hollywood actress Anya Taylor-Joy had appeared on the cover of US entertainment magazine Variety wearing a pure white sculptural gown. Tatler meets Chan two days before his show at a photo studio where fittings were taking place, styling was being discussed, and final adjustments and embroidery were being made to the 23 looks he was set to present. We also saw Rocha—this time in person—trying on three extravagantly feathery pastel pink gowns and discussing which one she would bring to life with…

Let’s start with the impact of the First World War on the designs of timepieces at Vacheron Constantin. Wristwatches arrived in the second half of the 19th century, and they were 100 per cent dedicated to women. I remember reading an article in a Swiss watchmaking journal which said their accuracy is questionable, but they are good enough for ladies; and that no serious gentleman would ever [wear one]. The journalist was wrong. Wristwatches started to be adopted by men [who were mostly] aristocrats. Their popularity grew [around] the First World War because soldiers started to wear timepieces on their wrists for convenience. What models from that era stand out? The American 1921 comes to mind. This timepiece was created in the Roaring Twenties, right after the First World War.…

Asymmetric cuts and shapes: for those who think out of the box…

Chantel Shafie is a third-culture kid: the Anglo-Persian jewellery designer has spent the last 20 years in Hong Kong, where she has cultivated a deep-rooted connection with the local culture. Not many jewellers focus on reviving jewellery arts, which involves restoring and promoting traditional techniques and cultural significance that have been overshadowed by mass production and commercialism. This challenge is even greater for those attempting to revive a culture they are not part of. However, Shafie wants to stand out from the pack. This revival is essential because it preserves cultural heritage, fosters and promotes craftsmanship. It all started with her Signature Medallion Collection, which initially emerged during the pandemic as she transitioned from bespoke private jewellery to a fully realised brand. “My [first] collection features vintage 22-karat gold coins…

From dramatic haircuts to retail therapy, remedies for a broken heart are as varied as they come, but perhaps none are as timeless or comforting as food. The idea of a meal as a source of sustenance and healing is a universal one, central to multiple traditions. Of the many myths and legends surrounding the origin of Uzbekistan’s national dish, plov—a hearty rice dish with vegetables, meat and spices simmered in a broth—one is based on the premise that the dish is a cure for heartbreak. A prince fell in love with the daughter of a craftsman but was unable to marry her due to their differences in social status; to cheer him up, he was fed plov, the sustaining, comforting qualities of which eased his misery. It is this…

Imagine a world similar to ours where it rains incessantly; where human society has evolved to just live with it and tolerate the feeling of constantly being wet. In this world, houses don’t have roofs; advanced waterproofing technology seals electric cables—or maybe another form of power has been invented. Now, imagine that from the comfort of your roofed home in this world, you were suddenly transported into that one. Would you try to immediately find cover? How tired would you get looking for shelters that don’t exist? How would others around you react? How at ease would you be pretending—masking—your discomfort? Now, what if in that world, there was a socially stigmatised medical condition called “rain intolerance”—and you were diagnosed with it—and a pill to manage symptoms: would you take…

MAD HATTER’S MANSION Forget poolside lounging and long, hot evenings. Autumn is here—and this is the season for dark maximalism. Think Alice in Wonderland—but with a dose of sophistication. Dark colours, layered textures and velvet reign supreme. RAW BEAUTY As the cooler season approaches, consider incorporating rustic, nature-inspired pieces into the home. Our go-to: wood, earthy colours, stone-like furniture and tactile textures, which create a cosy, elegant space.…

To mark the launch of Tatler Vietnam, this is a little love letter to our new home. It’s not hard to see why so many travellers fall under Vietnam’s spell—even the late Anthony Bourdain referred to the country as one of his “favourite places on Earth” and his “first love”. There is, indeed, so much to delight in: its colourful culture, its delicious cuisine that’s remarkably fresh and layered, the organised chaos, the gentle approach to life. Lately, it’s been a leader in redefining what luxury hotels look like for a new generation of travellers—boutique properties that are design-centric, with an emphasis on supporting the local community and embracing slow living. One article isn’t enough to show or say it all, but we’ve sought out four properties from around the…

1 ESTABLISHMENT OF CINDY CHAO THE ART JEWEL In 2004, Cindy Chao founded her own brand, CINDY CHAO The Art Jewel, in Taipei. This marked the beginning of her journey as a creative force in the jewellery industry. By merging art and craftsmanship, she aimed to create pieces that are not just adornments but also expressions of an artistic narrative. 2 INTERNATIONAL RECOGNITION In an extraordinary testament to her artistic virtuosity, Chao achieved an unprecedented milestone by winning awards at London Masterpieces for three consecutive years. This remarkable feat not only showcases her exceptional craftsmanship but also establishes her as the first Asian high jewellery artist to receive such consistent international acclaim. 3 PERMANENT EXHIBITIONS IN PRESTIGIOUS MUSEUMS Chao’s creations have found permanent homes in some of the world’s most…