Editor’s Note
“Without craftsmanship, inspiration is a mere reed shaken in the wind,” virtuoso musician and composer Johannes Brahms once said. Without craftsmanship, I say it would be impossible to talk about the luxury industry at all, so it is no surprise that this is a topic we often touch upon at Singapore Tatler.
We can’t help it—being surrounded by people and pieces that represent the pinnacle of creativity means that our stories inevitably revolve around the art of making. Every luxury brand relies on artisans and their know-how to bring imaginative designs to life. Although the use of the word “craft” has been somewhat co-opted today—similar to the way “curate” is used to describe activities as simple as stocking a bookshelf—we are proud that in our own little way, we nurture a greater appreciation of the skills required to produce something special, be it a watch made with exquisite aventurine or a standout bottle of wine.
One of the best things about this job is getting a backstage pass to witness the magic that happens behind the scenes. It was a treat to spend a morning at the Hermès Petit H atelier in Paris earlier this year. This “laboratory of ideas” is an intimate den of creativity where materials are transformed into unexpected pieces designed to make you smile. “We write new stories. We use the same words but create different sentences and expressions,” said
Hermès Petit H is known for ingenious pieces made with impeccable materials. See them up-close when the collection arrives in Singapore from November 22 to December 15 creative director Godefroy de Virieu on the process. Read more about its “creation in reverse” on page 70.
The precise craftsmanship behind the creation of high jewellery pieces leaves us in awe year after year. That was very much the case when we saw the Riders of the Knights high jewellery collection, artistic director Francesca Amfitheatrof ’s first for Louis Vuitton. Our team, led by fashion director Desmond Lim, travelled to Prague not only to see the stunning collection up-close, but also to photograph society couple, Emily and Jeffrey Piak, in the City of a Hundred Spires. Our cover personalities recount their journey as a couple in the Czech Republic’s romantic capital, and fall in love all over again.
Craftsmanship does not only refer to age-old techniques but also new, innovative ways to elevate a product. Our Life section features stunning concept cars such as the Bentley EXP 100 GT (page 158), as well as outlines how we will be driving in the years to come (page 164). Lastly, we also speak to experts on the technological advances that will shape the future in
Life After Disruption (page 146). As this year draws to a close, perhaps it is prudent to learn what is to come as we carefully craft our collective futures.