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Automotive

Pictorial: Top Marques Monaco 2016

By Mike Hanlon
April 27, 2016
Pictorial: Top Marques Monaco 2016
The venue: The Grimaldi Forum is an ultra-modern conference and exhibition center located on the Monaco seafront. The Grimaldi name is indelibly linked to the Principality as the House of Grimaldi has ruled Monaco, with a few brief interruptions, since 1297. The famous Genoese family became even more famous when Prince Rainier III married Oscar-winning American actress Grace Kelly in 1956 in a wedding that vied with the marriage of Prince Charles and Lady Diana Spencer as "the wedding of the century"
The venue: The Grimaldi Forum is an ultra-modern conference and exhibition center located on the Monaco seafront. The Grimaldi name is indelibly linked to the Principality as the House of Grimaldi has ruled Monaco, with a few brief interruptions, since 1297. The famous Genoese family became even more famous when Prince Rainier III married Oscar-winning American actress Grace Kelly in 1956 in a wedding that vied with the marriage of Prince Charles and Lady Diana Spencer as "the wedding of the century"
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The city-state of Monaco is the world's second smallest country (behind only Holy Sea - Vatican City), having an area of just 2.02 km2, roughly three quarters of a square mile. With a population of just 37,800, Monaco is also the world's most densely populated sovereign nation, roughly double the density of Singapore or Hong Kong. This is in no small part due to Principality's decision in 1869 to no longer collect income tax from its residents, which was made possible due to the revenue-generating success of its then already famous Monte Carlo casino. The tax haven benefits of residency in Monaco have subsequently attracted a large population of "tax refugees" including many of the world's highest paid sportspersons, businesspersons and celebrities, further contributing to it being recognized as the playground of the rich and famous. Roughly one third of the residents of Monaco are millionaires, giving it one of the highest GDP per capita figures in the world.
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The city-state of Monaco is the world's second smallest country (behind only Holy Sea - Vatican City), having an area of just 2.02 km2, roughly three quarters of a square mile. With a population of just 37,800, Monaco is also the world's most densely populated sovereign nation, roughly double the density of Singapore or Hong Kong. This is in no small part due to Principality's decision in 1869 to no longer collect income tax from its residents, which was made possible due to the revenue-generating success of its then already famous Monte Carlo casino. The tax haven benefits of residency in Monaco have subsequently attracted a large population of "tax refugees" including many of the world's highest paid sportspersons, businesspersons and celebrities, further contributing to it being recognized as the playground of the rich and famous. Roughly one third of the residents of Monaco are millionaires, giving it one of the highest GDP per capita figures in the world.
The Kormaran was the highest profile man-toy on display at this year's event. It sat right next to the entrance and enticed all those who passed with the promise of what was inside the show, almost certain to overcome the €50 entrance fee. A premium ticket of €250 was available too, offering a VIP lounge, wining and dining, VIP Shuttle to your home or hotel, and a prominent VIP wrist band guaranteed to warrant additional attention from the exhibitors.
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The Kormaran was the highest profile man-toy on display at this year's event. It sat right next to the entrance and enticed all those who passed with the promise of what was inside the show, almost certain to overcome the €50 entrance fee. A premium ticket of €250 was available too, offering a VIP lounge, wining and dining, VIP Shuttle to your home or hotel, and a prominent VIP wrist band guaranteed to warrant additional attention from the exhibitors.
We've covered the shape-shifting Kormaran when it was first announced in 2014, and little has changed in the specifications since then, apart from the announcement of a €1,000,000 price for the base model and the news that the 50-only limited edition of the 23 foot watercraft is well on the way to being sold out.
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We've covered the shape-shifting Kormaran when it was first announced in 2014, and little has changed in the specifications since then, apart from the announcement of a €1,000,000 price for the base model and the news that the 50-only limited edition of the 23 foot watercraft is well on the way to being sold out.
Perhaps the most illustrative reaction I witnessed of any of the engineering marvels in the entire weekend was Eddie Jordan setting eyes on the Kormaran for the first time. Eddie is best known for 15 years as a Formula One Constructor Principal (Jordan F1), as a Formula One commentator on BBC and subsequently Channel 4, and as one of the new line-up of presenters of 'Top Gear' when the new season begins a month from now. He was brought to Top Marques as 'Master of Ceremonies' but upon seeing the Kormaran for the first time, he left the main party of dignitaries and made a bee-line for the category-busting water toy.
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Perhaps the most illustrative reaction I witnessed of any of the engineering marvels in the entire weekend was Eddie Jordan setting eyes on the Kormaran for the first time. Eddie is best known for 15 years as a Formula One Constructor Principal (Jordan F1), as a Formula One commentator on BBC and subsequently Channel 4, and as one of the new line-up of presenters of 'Top Gear' when the new season begins a month from now. He was brought to Top Marques as 'Master of Ceremonies' but upon seeing the Kormaran for the first time, he left the main party of dignitaries and made a bee-line for the category-busting water toy.
You don't build a race car that takes 19 Formula One podiums without a keen engineering mind, and you could see the cogs whirring as Eddie proceeded to examine the Kormaran from every angle. Even when Top Marques director Steven Saltzman came to see where his MC had gone, Eddie wasn't finished, seeking out one of the Kormaran engineers for further detailed discussion. You can take the race engineer out of the race car but ...
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You don't build a race car that takes 19 Formula One podiums without a keen engineering mind, and you could see the cogs whirring as Eddie proceeded to examine the Kormaran from every angle. Even when Top Marques director Steven Saltzman came to see where his MC had gone, Eddie wasn't finished, seeking out one of the Kormaran engineers for further detailed discussion. You can take the race engineer out of the race car but ...
The venue: The Grimaldi Forum is an ultra-modern conference and exhibition center located on the Monaco seafront. The Grimaldi name is indelibly linked to the Principality as the House of Grimaldi has ruled Monaco, with a few brief interruptions, since 1297. The famous Genoese family became even more famous when Prince Rainier III married Oscar-winning American actress Grace Kelly in 1956 in a wedding that vied with the marriage of Prince Charles and Lady Diana Spencer as "the wedding of the century"
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The venue: The Grimaldi Forum is an ultra-modern conference and exhibition center located on the Monaco seafront. The Grimaldi name is indelibly linked to the Principality as the House of Grimaldi has ruled Monaco, with a few brief interruptions, since 1297. The famous Genoese family became even more famous when Prince Rainier III married Oscar-winning American actress Grace Kelly in 1956 in a wedding that vied with the marriage of Prince Charles and Lady Diana Spencer as "the wedding of the century"
In order to sate public demand for the JetPack until such time as it is ready and regulatory hurdles have been overcome, Martin has developed a flight simulator using an Oculus Rift headset and CKAS Mechatronics platform, and showgoers were treated to a virtual flight over Monaco. When Prince Albert II toured the show on Friday, the automotive and flying enthusiast had apparently already booked his simulated flight. With one minute of instruction he showed a dab hand in the simulator, apparently deciding to land in his palace grounds, no doubt anticipating the day he'll own one. The Prince owns and flies a €40 million Dassault Falcon 7X, with an elaborate custom interior for eight, two sofa beds and an ultra modern kitchen.
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In order to sate public demand for the JetPack until such time as it is ready and regulatory hurdles have been overcome, Martin has developed a flight simulator using an Oculus Rift headset and CKAS Mechatronics platform, and showgoers were treated to a virtual flight over Monaco. When Prince Albert II toured the show on Friday, the automotive and flying enthusiast had apparently already booked his simulated flight. With one minute of instruction he showed a dab hand in the simulator, apparently deciding to land in his palace grounds, no doubt anticipating the day he'll own one. The Prince owns and flies a €40 million Dassault Falcon 7X, with an elaborate custom interior for eight, two sofa beds and an ultra modern kitchen.
On the car front, the Prince owns a BMW Hydrogen 7, a Lexus LS 600h, a Lexus RX 400h, and a Toyota Prius PHV, and it was illustrative of the retro magnetism of the new Effeffe Berlinetta, to see that of all the special cars in Forum Grimaldi, it was the one most sought after for pictures. Prince Albert, headed straight for the stand upon his entry into the main hall and spent so much time chatting with Effeffe co-founder Leonardo Frigerio that his minders were looking at their watches. He even asked for a look under the bonnet.
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On the car front, the Prince owns a BMW Hydrogen 7, a Lexus LS 600h, a Lexus RX 400h, and a Toyota Prius PHV, and it was illustrative of the retro magnetism of the new Effeffe Berlinetta, to see that of all the special cars in Forum Grimaldi, it was the one most sought after for pictures. Prince Albert, headed straight for the stand upon his entry into the main hall and spent so much time chatting with Effeffe co-founder Leonardo Frigerio that his minders were looking at their watches. He even asked for a look under the bonnet.
Though not modelled on any particular car, the Effeffe Berlinetta perfectly captures the fifties and sixties era of Italian coachbuilt excellence and with its sculpted aluminium body and handmade everything, only the modern 2.0 liter Alfa Romeo engine gives the game away that it wasn't built a half century ago by Scaglietti, Pininfarina, Giugiaro‎ or Bertone. Top Marques was its first official outing, though the prototype was seen at the 2014 Concorso d'Eleganza Villa D'Este. Production will be very limited, and although the final price will depend on the degree of customisation required, pricing begins at about €300,000 (US$330,000).
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Though not modelled on any particular car, the Effeffe Berlinetta perfectly captures the fifties and sixties era of Italian coachbuilt excellence and with its sculpted aluminium body and handmade everything, only the modern 2.0 liter Alfa Romeo engine gives the game away that it wasn't built a half century ago by Scaglietti, Pininfarina, Giugiaro‎ or Bertone. Top Marques was its first official outing, though the prototype was seen at the 2014 Concorso d'Eleganza Villa D'Este. Production will be very limited, and although the final price will depend on the degree of customisation required, pricing begins at about €300,000 (US$330,000).
Dumitru Popescu, President & CEO of ARCA Space Corporation, spent almost the entire show giving media interviews and demonstrating the US$14,900 (€13,200) Arcaboard for visiting dignitaries. The ArcaBoard will be on the market for around one year before it is joined by a larger, more powerful ArcaBoard Pro which will be aimed at military and industrial applications.
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Dumitru Popescu, President & CEO of ARCA Space Corporation, spent almost the entire show giving media interviews and demonstrating the US$14,900 (€13,200) Arcaboard for visiting dignitaries. The ArcaBoard will be on the market for around one year before it is joined by a larger, more powerful ArcaBoard Pro which will be aimed at military and industrial applications.
Dumitru demonstrated the ArcaBoard seven times for the media, on this occasion outside the Monte Carlo Casino on the day prior to the show. His confidence in flying the ArcaBoard was obvious as he gently backed it in between an Apollo R and a Lamborghini Huracan Spyder. The plan had initially been to allow showgoers to sample the ArcaBoard, but the lawyers counselled against it in the end. I guess people cost more to fix in Monaco. A cautionary tale however surrounds just how much power the small box generates. The board packs 36 electric motors with a combined output of 272 hp, which accounts for why the current maximum flight time is in the vicinity of six minutes. It might look like a toy, but has more horsepower than Valentino Rossi's 1000cc MotoGP racer.
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Dumitru demonstrated the ArcaBoard seven times for the media, on this occasion outside the Monte Carlo Casino on the day prior to the show. His confidence in flying the ArcaBoard was obvious as he gently backed it in between an Apollo R and a Lamborghini Huracan Spyder. The plan had initially been to allow showgoers to sample the ArcaBoard, but the lawyers counselled against it in the end. I guess people cost more to fix in Monaco. A cautionary tale however surrounds just how much power the small box generates. The board packs 36 electric motors with a combined output of 272 hp, which accounts for why the current maximum flight time is in the vicinity of six minutes. It might look like a toy, but has more horsepower than Valentino Rossi's 1000cc MotoGP racer.
One of the stars of the show and the media drawcard for publicity purposes was the US$14,900 (€13,200) Arcaboard. With prices of most of the exotica at the show starting at least 20 times that much, the wow factor and accessibility of this innovative new consumer product made it one of the poster children of the well-oiled publicity machine.
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One of the stars of the show and the media drawcard for publicity purposes was the US$14,900 (€13,200) Arcaboard. With prices of most of the exotica at the show starting at least 20 times that much, the wow factor and accessibility of this innovative new consumer product made it one of the poster children of the well-oiled publicity machine.
One day in the distant future, this car will sell for a king's ransom at auction. It was the poster car for the 2013 Shanghai Auto Show and created quite a stir at Pebble Beach in 2015. It is also, arguably, a Chinese car, being the work of an Italian design house based in China. Just as American anything dominates the auction results of any particular genre, because America has the largest population of High Net Worth Individuals, over the next century, that will change and India and China will vie for that mantle. This car will become important as much for its beauty and one-off construction material, as its national heritage. It is destined to become one of those "Mona Lisa cars," a ONE OFF.
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One day in the distant future, this car will sell for a king's ransom at auction. It was the poster car for the 2013 Shanghai Auto Show and created quite a stir at Pebble Beach in 2015. It is also, arguably, a Chinese car, being the work of an Italian design house based in China. Just as American anything dominates the auction results of any particular genre, because America has the largest population of High Net Worth Individuals, over the next century, that will change and India and China will vie for that mantle. This car will become important as much for its beauty and one-off construction material, as its national heritage. It is destined to become one of those "Mona Lisa cars," a ONE OFF.
Underneath its titanium suit of armor, the Vulcano's supercharged General Motors LS9 V8 produces 670 hp (500 kW) and runs through an Automac Modena paddle-shift close ratio transmission. There is some disappointment at this point, because Titanium version weighs in at the same 3,516 lb (1,595 kg) as the original Vulcano, which featured a full carbon fiber body. Hence all that work was really about the beauty of the car, as it has exactly the same performance: 0-60 mph (96.5 km/h) in 2.8 seconds, 0-120 mph (193 km/h) in 8.8 seconds and a 220-mph (354 km/h) top speed.
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Underneath its titanium suit of armor, the Vulcano's supercharged General Motors LS9 V8 produces 670 hp (500 kW) and runs through an Automac Modena paddle-shift close ratio transmission. There is some disappointment at this point, because Titanium version weighs in at the same 3,516 lb (1,595 kg) as the original Vulcano, which featured a full carbon fiber body. Hence all that work was really about the beauty of the car, as it has exactly the same performance: 0-60 mph (96.5 km/h) in 2.8 seconds, 0-120 mph (193 km/h) in 8.8 seconds and a 220-mph (354 km/h) top speed.
The all-titanium Icona Vulcano is incredibly impressive close up. Even moreso if you know anything about titanium. It oxidises and colors if you heat it, so this car had to be hand hammered cold. What's more, titanium has a "memory", so it bounces back to where it was unless you hit it very hard, requiring much heavier blows to shape it and a LOT more blows for each micrometer of change in shape. Attempting to shape something as big and sweeping as the Vulcano is a very scary proposition. A close look at that patina on the metal is evidence of hundreds of hours of sweat by master craftsmen. As Chris Weiss pointed out when we first wrote up the car, the body was created by Italian coach builder Cecomp over the course of 1,000 hours. From discussions I had at the show, there won't be another made in titanium ... EVER! It was a monumental project and once started, they followed through to get it finished but it is an achievement that will not be repeated. Going one step further and doing a bit of empathising with the potential future owner of this car, the thought of what even a minor accident with a runaway shopping trolley might cost to repair, and how long it would be off the road, is enough to make you weep.
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The all-titanium Icona Vulcano is incredibly impressive close up. Even moreso if you know anything about titanium. It oxidises and colors if you heat it, so this car had to be hand hammered cold. What's more, titanium has a "memory", so it bounces back to where it was unless you hit it very hard, requiring much heavier blows to shape it and a LOT more blows for each micrometer of change in shape. Attempting to shape something as big and sweeping as the Vulcano is a very scary proposition. A close look at that patina on the metal is evidence of hundreds of hours of sweat by master craftsmen. As Chris Weiss pointed out when we first wrote up the car, the body was created by Italian coach builder Cecomp over the course of 1,000 hours. From discussions I had at the show, there won't be another made in titanium ... EVER! It was a monumental project and once started, they followed through to get it finished but it is an achievement that will not be repeated. Going one step further and doing a bit of empathising with the potential future owner of this car, the thought of what even a minor accident with a runaway shopping trolley might cost to repair, and how long it would be off the road, is enough to make you weep.
Ian Fleming's fictional secret agent James Bond has a disproportionate resonance with the male population and it was hence not surprising to see five Bond cars on show at Top Marques. Many thought the Aston Martin DB5 (at left) was from the 1964 movie Goldfinger but like the Aston Martin DB10, it featured in the latest Bond film Spectre. Both of these cars have precedents for selling at auction for very high prices. The Aston Martin DB5 used in Goldfinger (1964) and Thunderball (1965) sold for £2,912,000 (US$4,595,998) in 2010. The Aston Martin DB10 was created specifically for the Spectre movie, only ten were made and our understanding is that only two have survived filming, this car being one of them. Being one of the stars of a blockbuster movie combined with being rare (somewhere between one of two and one of ten), meant that the other DB10 was sold by Christie's in February (2016), it set a world record for a new car at auction when it fetched £2,434,500 ($3,476,466). The DB5 would sell for much more today and presumably this DB5 will benefit from its more recent film provenance if it should ever change hands.
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Ian Fleming's fictional secret agent James Bond has a disproportionate resonance with the male population and it was hence not surprising to see five Bond cars on show at Top Marques. Many thought the Aston Martin DB5 (at left) was from the 1964 movie Goldfinger but like the Aston Martin DB10, it featured in the latest Bond film Spectre. Both of these cars have precedents for selling at auction for very high prices. The Aston Martin DB5 used in Goldfinger (1964) and Thunderball (1965) sold for £2,912,000 (US$4,595,998) in 2010. The Aston Martin DB10 was created specifically for the Spectre movie, only ten were made and our understanding is that only two have survived filming, this car being one of them. Being one of the stars of a blockbuster movie combined with being rare (somewhere between one of two and one of ten), meant that the other DB10 was sold by Christie's in February (2016), it set a world record for a new car at auction when it fetched £2,434,500 ($3,476,466). The DB5 would sell for much more today and presumably this DB5 will benefit from its more recent film provenance if it should ever change hands.
The remaining three Bond cars also featured in Spectre, being the Jaguar C-X75 (top) which Spectre’s villain Hinx drove in a chase with Bond through the streets of Rome. Created by Jaguar Land Rover's Special Vehicle Operations division, the C-X75 produces 850bhp with a top speed of 200mph. Also on the Jaguar-Land Rover stand were the Range Rover Sport SVR (bottom left) and Land Rover "Big foot "Defender (bottom right) which also featured in Spectre.
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The remaining three Bond cars also featured in Spectre, being the Jaguar C-X75 (top) which Spectre’s villain Hinx drove in a chase with Bond through the streets of Rome. Created by Jaguar Land Rover's Special Vehicle Operations division, the C-X75 produces 850bhp with a top speed of 200mph. Also on the Jaguar-Land Rover stand were the Range Rover Sport SVR (bottom left) and Land Rover "Big foot "Defender (bottom right) which also featured in Spectre.
Supercar maker Gumpert has changed its name to Apollo, taking the name of its first supercar just in time to launch its second - the Arrow which was shown for the first time at the Geneva Motor Show last month. The Arrow runs a mid-mounted twin-turbo 4.0-liter Audi V8 with a claimed peak power of 986 hp (735 kW) at 6,750 rpm and 738 lb-ft (1,000 Nm) of torque at 3,650 rpm.
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Supercar maker Gumpert has changed its name to Apollo, taking the name of its first supercar just in time to launch its second - the Arrow which was shown for the first time at the Geneva Motor Show last month. The Arrow runs a mid-mounted twin-turbo 4.0-liter Audi V8 with a claimed peak power of 986 hp (735 kW) at 6,750 rpm and 738 lb-ft (1,000 Nm) of torque at 3,650 rpm.
British designer Afzal Kahn’s automotive design has long turned heads, but his Vengeance, which is a new car on an Aston Martin DB9 chassis is the best yet. The car broke cover at Geneva, but like so many other launches at the major car shows, was buried in the avalanche of new cars from more mainstream and higher profile marques, no doubt one of the reasons the car ended up at Top Marques where exclusivity is cherished. Khan, according to the press release, "believes this (the Vengeance) is coach building in its traditional sense - taking a tried and tested product and working solely on the aesthetic." It is traditional coachbuilding in that it relies partly on design, and partly on incredibly detailed hand-built craftsmanship.Khan again: "The practice of automotive coachbuilding stretches back to the early 1900s, when discerning customers would employ the services of expert craftsmen to create a custom vehicle body on a pre-manufactured chassis. It's been a longstanding ambition of mine to follow in this tradition and create a modern icon which will put British automotive craftsmanship back on the map." The Vengeance will be built in England and is expected to cost around £300,000.
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British designer Afzal Kahn’s automotive design has long turned heads, but his Vengeance, which is a new car on an Aston Martin DB9 chassis is the best yet. The car broke cover at Geneva, but like so many other launches at the major car shows, was buried in the avalanche of new cars from more mainstream and higher profile marques, no doubt one of the reasons the car ended up at Top Marques where exclusivity is cherished. Khan, according to the press release, "believes this (the Vengeance) is coach building in its traditional sense - taking a tried and tested product and working solely on the aesthetic." It is traditional coachbuilding in that it relies partly on design, and partly on incredibly detailed hand-built craftsmanship.Khan again: "The practice of automotive coachbuilding stretches back to the early 1900s, when discerning customers would employ the services of expert craftsmen to create a custom vehicle body on a pre-manufactured chassis. It's been a longstanding ambition of mine to follow in this tradition and create a modern icon which will put British automotive craftsmanship back on the map." The Vengeance will be built in England and is expected to cost around £300,000.
The existing Apollo, which I guess is called the Apollo Apollo was on hand for demonstration purposes though it pales in comparison to the new Arrow, weighing in at between 100 kg and 200 kg less than the Arrow's 1300 kg kerb weight (the variation is due to options), but with substantially less power. The Apollo comes in three versions (the base 641 hp, the Sport has 690 hp and the Race version produces 789 hp. The new Arrow beats the magic 3.0 second barrier for the run from standstill to 100 km/h with a time slightly less than 2.9 seconds, will hit 200 km/h in 8.8 seconds and boasts a 360 km/h (224 mph) top speed.
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The existing Apollo, which I guess is called the Apollo Apollo was on hand for demonstration purposes though it pales in comparison to the new Arrow, weighing in at between 100 kg and 200 kg less than the Arrow's 1300 kg kerb weight (the variation is due to options), but with substantially less power. The Apollo comes in three versions (the base 641 hp, the Sport has 690 hp and the Race version produces 789 hp. The new Arrow beats the magic 3.0 second barrier for the run from standstill to 100 km/h with a time slightly less than 2.9 seconds, will hit 200 km/h in 8.8 seconds and boasts a 360 km/h (224 mph) top speed.
Located in the world famous movie and TV production facility Pinewood Studios, Propshop is a Physical and Digital Asset Production Company, having contributed its ability to manifest any object to many famous movies. Now the company is broadening its scope and merchandising its expertise, and it showed three such products at Top Marques. One is a limited edition Spectre Ring made in exactly the same way as the ring used in the latest Bond movie. It’s 3D modelled, printed in wax, cast in silver and hand-finished. The Spectre Ring (bottom right) sells for £146. Also on display was a limited edition (100 only), one–third scale Aston Martin DB5 as used in the Bond movie Skyfall. Created in partnership with EON Productions and Aston Martin, the model (top right) retails at £28,000. The final Propshop product on offer was quite innovative in that the company had a complete 3D capture facility set up at Top Marques (bottom left) and show patrons could be recorded and turned into a James Bond maquette (top left) at a cost of £595.
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Located in the world famous movie and TV production facility Pinewood Studios, Propshop is a Physical and Digital Asset Production Company, having contributed its ability to manifest any object to many famous movies. Now the company is broadening its scope and merchandising its expertise, and it showed three such products at Top Marques. One is a limited edition Spectre Ring made in exactly the same way as the ring used in the latest Bond movie. It’s 3D modelled, printed in wax, cast in silver and hand-finished. The Spectre Ring (bottom right) sells for £146. Also on display was a limited edition (100 only), one–third scale Aston Martin DB5 as used in the Bond movie Skyfall. Created in partnership with EON Productions and Aston Martin, the model (top right) retails at £28,000. The final Propshop product on offer was quite innovative in that the company had a complete 3D capture facility set up at Top Marques (bottom left) and show patrons could be recorded and turned into a James Bond maquette (top left) at a cost of £595.
Gemballa has been around for some time, upgrading the performance of cars to ballistic levels and generally tuning and refining cars that are already very special. Three of the four pics are of the Gemballa GT Spider which is based on the 625 hp McLaren 12C Spider, with a new visual treatment and the choice of either 40 more horses or 125 more horsepower. The demonstration car on offer for customers (bottom right) was the Gemballa Aero III, which is based on the Porsche 958 Cayenne, except with 720 hp.
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Gemballa has been around for some time, upgrading the performance of cars to ballistic levels and generally tuning and refining cars that are already very special. Three of the four pics are of the Gemballa GT Spider which is based on the 625 hp McLaren 12C Spider, with a new visual treatment and the choice of either 40 more horses or 125 more horsepower. The demonstration car on offer for customers (bottom right) was the Gemballa Aero III, which is based on the Porsche 958 Cayenne, except with 720 hp.
Dutch sports car builder Donkervoort has been building lightweight drivers cars for almost four decades, the first two decades using Ford engines, and the last two decades using Audi engines. The first Donkervoort D8 GTO-S was delivered in the same week as the show, so at least the queue was moving if you were interested in putting in an order at Top Marques. With a starting price of starts at €115,173, the Donkervoort D8 GTO-S is powered by a five-cylinder Audi 2.5L R5 TFSI engine that boasts 340 hp in touring spec or 380 hp in performance spec. The key to a wicked power-to-weight ratio is the 730 kg kerb weight (695 kg for the performance version), enabling the faster of the two variants to accelerate to 100 km/h in just 2.8 seconds. You can keep adding money and horsepower and subtracting weight pretty much at will, moving to the D8 GTO-RS (prices start at €151,173) and the race-only D8 GTO-R (starting at €251,173) but those prices are merely the blank canvas of the car and the almost endless array of goodies are extra. One of the best performing cars on the road!
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Dutch sports car builder Donkervoort has been building lightweight drivers cars for almost four decades, the first two decades using Ford engines, and the last two decades using Audi engines. The first Donkervoort D8 GTO-S was delivered in the same week as the show, so at least the queue was moving if you were interested in putting in an order at Top Marques. With a starting price of starts at €115,173, the Donkervoort D8 GTO-S is powered by a five-cylinder Audi 2.5L R5 TFSI engine that boasts 340 hp in touring spec or 380 hp in performance spec. The key to a wicked power-to-weight ratio is the 730 kg kerb weight (695 kg for the performance version), enabling the faster of the two variants to accelerate to 100 km/h in just 2.8 seconds. You can keep adding money and horsepower and subtracting weight pretty much at will, moving to the D8 GTO-RS (prices start at €151,173) and the race-only D8 GTO-R (starting at €251,173) but those prices are merely the blank canvas of the car and the almost endless array of goodies are extra. One of the best performing cars on the road!
After Mercedes-owned AMG, Brabus is the biggest remanufacturer of Mercedes-Benz cars in the world. It takes powerful, refined and elegant showroom models and brings out the character you might want. Take the Brabus 850 WIDESTAR at left for instance. It began life as a Mercedes G 63 SUV and increased the V8 engine capacity to 6.0 liters, add twin turbochargers, then upgraded everything else to cope with the 625 kW / 850 hp and 1,450 Nm (1,069 lb-ft) of peak torque. Despite weighing in at 2,550 kilograms, the all-wheel-drive car sprints from rest to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 4.0 seconds. The top speed is limited electronically to 260 km/h (162 mph). The other car is somewhat of a departure for Brabus as it's a completely carbon-skinned Audi RS6 - just $230,000 as well.
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After Mercedes-owned AMG, Brabus is the biggest remanufacturer of Mercedes-Benz cars in the world. It takes powerful, refined and elegant showroom models and brings out the character you might want. Take the Brabus 850 WIDESTAR at left for instance. It began life as a Mercedes G 63 SUV and increased the V8 engine capacity to 6.0 liters, add twin turbochargers, then upgraded everything else to cope with the 625 kW / 850 hp and 1,450 Nm (1,069 lb-ft) of peak torque. Despite weighing in at 2,550 kilograms, the all-wheel-drive car sprints from rest to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 4.0 seconds. The top speed is limited electronically to 260 km/h (162 mph). The other car is somewhat of a departure for Brabus as it's a completely carbon-skinned Audi RS6 - just $230,000 as well.
Mazzanti has been exhibiting at Top Marques for ten years, first drawing our attention at Top Marques 2006 with a story entitled "Painting a metallic masterpeice - the extraordinary Faralli & Mazzanti Antas V8". The next big project was the Evantra which has evolved into the car we saw this year. There's another massive supercar project just about to be unveiled by Luca Mazzanti, and there's a series of teaser videos which will have you counting the days until the EV-R is unveiled.
25/120
Mazzanti has been exhibiting at Top Marques for ten years, first drawing our attention at Top Marques 2006 with a story entitled "Painting a metallic masterpeice - the extraordinary Faralli & Mazzanti Antas V8". The next big project was the Evantra which has evolved into the car we saw this year. There's another massive supercar project just about to be unveiled by Luca Mazzanti, and there's a series of teaser videos which will have you counting the days until the EV-R is unveiled.
French premium performance specialist Monstaka showed two highly modified Nissan GT-R-based cars at Top Marques: one on the stand, and this car which was available for demonstration purposes. "We can get a lot more than 2000 horsepower", I was told, "but after that it just wheelspins so there's no point." The company likes around 1000 hp as the ideal balance of useable performance. We have feature coming on the Monstaka GT-R R35 GT1000, but suffice to say it is aptly named, being capable of leaving a McLaren P1, Bugatti Veyron SS or Suzuki Hayabusa behind in a 100-200 km/h roll-on.
26/120
French premium performance specialist Monstaka showed two highly modified Nissan GT-R-based cars at Top Marques: one on the stand, and this car which was available for demonstration purposes. "We can get a lot more than 2000 horsepower", I was told, "but after that it just wheelspins so there's no point." The company likes around 1000 hp as the ideal balance of useable performance. We have feature coming on the Monstaka GT-R R35 GT1000, but suffice to say it is aptly named, being capable of leaving a McLaren P1, Bugatti Veyron SS or Suzuki Hayabusa behind in a 100-200 km/h roll-on.
Tesla's Model X may be "old hat" at major car shows, but it gained more than its share of interest from the showgoers. Space is at such a premium, that Monaco is the only place I have ever seen where $500,000 plus cars are permanently parked on the street, inches away from traffic. Hence I suspect those Falcon Wing doors and the principality's long association and strong affinity with zero emission vehicles were the key to its popularity.
27/120
Tesla's Model X may be "old hat" at major car shows, but it gained more than its share of interest from the showgoers. Space is at such a premium, that Monaco is the only place I have ever seen where $500,000 plus cars are permanently parked on the street, inches away from traffic. Hence I suspect those Falcon Wing doors and the principality's long association and strong affinity with zero emission vehicles were the key to its popularity.
It looks like a supercar but costs a lot less and is well-suited to tight spaces. Performance is also better than brisk as 273 hp goes a long way when its only pushing 795 kg (1750 lb). The bargain-basement head-turning Polaris Slingshot was constantly being demonstrated during Top Marques.
28/120
It looks like a supercar but costs a lot less and is well-suited to tight spaces. Performance is also better than brisk as 273 hp goes a long way when its only pushing 795 kg (1750 lb). The bargain-basement head-turning Polaris Slingshot was constantly being demonstrated during Top Marques.
The Midual Type 1 joined the limited-edition hyper-priced motorcycle market 18 months ago when it launched at Pebble Beach. It looks good in pictures but in the flesh it is gorgeous, with an ingenious redesign of the century-old boxer-twin motor, an aerospace-quality cast monocoque frame, a rethink on the cooling system, bespoke personalization, a we-come-to-you service model, a rare standard of detail and craftsmanship, and a EUR140,000 (US$185,400) price tag.
29/120
The Midual Type 1 joined the limited-edition hyper-priced motorcycle market 18 months ago when it launched at Pebble Beach. It looks good in pictures but in the flesh it is gorgeous, with an ingenious redesign of the century-old boxer-twin motor, an aerospace-quality cast monocoque frame, a rethink on the cooling system, bespoke personalization, a we-come-to-you service model, a rare standard of detail and craftsmanship, and a EUR140,000 (US$185,400) price tag.
How do you take an extinct brand, just coincidentally the most revered brand in motorcycle history, and translate it into the modern era? Just like this! Brough Superior is alive and well and George would be thoroughly delighted at how his legacy has unfolded. There's a line of Brough Superior clothing coming which just like the also resurrected Matchless motorcycle make from yesteryear, can be expected to bolster the company's brand image, prosperity and public recognition factor. Matchless makes more money from its stylish lifestyle wear than its motorcycles, and we expect Brough Superior will also prosper from the endless queue of people wanting to associate with the impeccably curated brand.
30/120
How do you take an extinct brand, just coincidentally the most revered brand in motorcycle history, and translate it into the modern era? Just like this! Brough Superior is alive and well and George would be thoroughly delighted at how his legacy has unfolded. There's a line of Brough Superior clothing coming which just like the also resurrected Matchless motorcycle make from yesteryear, can be expected to bolster the company's brand image, prosperity and public recognition factor. Matchless makes more money from its stylish lifestyle wear than its motorcycles, and we expect Brough Superior will also prosper from the endless queue of people wanting to associate with the impeccably curated brand.
The latest masterpiece from Crazy Racers was on the Virginio Ferrari Racing stand at Top Marques, and like the Brough Superior above, it was one of those bikes you really wanted to crawl all over and examine every part for its design and function and sheer beauty. The company has already won a World Championship for its custom bikes, and this featherweight Ducati 1100 represents 2,700 hours of craftsmanship and untold expense with a 6.5 kg frame in 25 CD4S aeronautical steel, custom brakes by Beringer, custom aluminum wheels, custom shock by EMC, custom Avon tires, all topped off by a seat, tank and cowl crafted in aluminum 1050. The motor too has very few original bits with a smattering of Fast by Ferracci parts and reworked and lightened everything. Even the switchgear was handmade. A truly awesome fabrication.
31/120
The latest masterpiece from Crazy Racers was on the Virginio Ferrari Racing stand at Top Marques, and like the Brough Superior above, it was one of those bikes you really wanted to crawl all over and examine every part for its design and function and sheer beauty. The company has already won a World Championship for its custom bikes, and this featherweight Ducati 1100 represents 2,700 hours of craftsmanship and untold expense with a 6.5 kg frame in 25 CD4S aeronautical steel, custom brakes by Beringer, custom aluminum wheels, custom shock by EMC, custom Avon tires, all topped off by a seat, tank and cowl crafted in aluminum 1050. The motor too has very few original bits with a smattering of Fast by Ferracci parts and reworked and lightened everything. Even the switchgear was handmade. A truly awesome fabrication.
Former Grand Prix motorcycle road racer Virginio Ferrari is best known for running Kenny Roberts to the wire in the 1979 World 500cc (now MotoGP) Championship but had a diverse and multi-faceted career in motorcycling, acting as a development rider for Suzuki, Ducati, Cagiva, Honda, Bimota, Michelin and Dunlop, running the Ducati Superbike team for a time, and going on to work as a TV commentator and road tester for Italian magazines. These days he is the official MV Agusta and Cagiva distributor for Monaco and the official Ducati service center. Virginio curates a beautiful garden, as the diverse motorcycles on display at his Top Marques stand shows. All of the above are tastefully modified MV Agusta models, with the bike at bottom right being the limited edition Brutale-based LARA Scrambler.
32/120
Former Grand Prix motorcycle road racer Virginio Ferrari is best known for running Kenny Roberts to the wire in the 1979 World 500cc (now MotoGP) Championship but had a diverse and multi-faceted career in motorcycling, acting as a development rider for Suzuki, Ducati, Cagiva, Honda, Bimota, Michelin and Dunlop, running the Ducati Superbike team for a time, and going on to work as a TV commentator and road tester for Italian magazines. These days he is the official MV Agusta and Cagiva distributor for Monaco and the official Ducati service center. Virginio curates a beautiful garden, as the diverse motorcycles on display at his Top Marques stand shows. All of the above are tastefully modified MV Agusta models, with the bike at bottom right being the limited edition Brutale-based LARA Scrambler.
With a heritage of custom and race bike building going back to 1971, Segoni showed its limited edition 800 Oro, featuring a carbon fiber seat tank unit, a 24 ct gold-plated chrome molybdenum steel frame, advanced Magneti Marelli electrics including an LCD speedo, ECU and wireless data logger and full LED lighting. The bike is a modern tribute to the successful 1975 Segoni Kawasaki 1000 race bike and every component is either handmade or state-of-the-art. The price? €60.000.
33/120
With a heritage of custom and race bike building going back to 1971, Segoni showed its limited edition 800 Oro, featuring a carbon fiber seat tank unit, a 24 ct gold-plated chrome molybdenum steel frame, advanced Magneti Marelli electrics including an LCD speedo, ECU and wireless data logger and full LED lighting. The bike is a modern tribute to the successful 1975 Segoni Kawasaki 1000 race bike and every component is either handmade or state-of-the-art. The price? €60.000.
Custom motorcycles were in abundance at Top Marques with Italian motorcycle fabricator Stesilbike proudly displaying its new Cheiron (aptly named after a Centaur in Greek mythology), fresh from taking a string of awards in custom championships. At roughly $250,000 depending on the degree of personalisation, it isn't cheap, but it is clearly the result of a lot of work. The engine is a 110 hp, 96 ci S&S Super Stock V-twin, the single-sided swingarm is carbon, every single molecule is lovingly hand-crafted and even the frame is something special, created by much CNC milling so that it is entirely weld-free and comprises two concave symmetrical halves bolted together to form the fuel and oil tanks.
34/120
Custom motorcycles were in abundance at Top Marques with Italian motorcycle fabricator Stesilbike proudly displaying its new Cheiron (aptly named after a Centaur in Greek mythology), fresh from taking a string of awards in custom championships. At roughly $250,000 depending on the degree of personalisation, it isn't cheap, but it is clearly the result of a lot of work. The engine is a 110 hp, 96 ci S&S Super Stock V-twin, the single-sided swingarm is carbon, every single molecule is lovingly hand-crafted and even the frame is something special, created by much CNC milling so that it is entirely weld-free and comprises two concave symmetrical halves bolted together to form the fuel and oil tanks.
The cheapest car on the floor to buy and run was the Newtron Electric Fiat which comes in at under €20,000 and can be procured in the highly desirable "Spiaggina" version on display or as a regular Fiat 500 hardtop or you can buy a kit and "roll your own". For Stateside drivers who like the idea of the Newtron (which is only available in Europe), the new Fiat 500e comes in at $31,800 but its a hardtop, not a Jolly-lookalike. We suspect this car will create a storm as it is modelled on the original Fiat 500 and 600 Jolly Ghia that was sold between 1958 and 1974. These cars now regularly sell at auction for more than $100,000 with Gooding & Co. setting the auction record for a Jolly at $170,500 at Scottsdale in 2015, breaking its own record of $148,500 set at Pebble Beach in 2013. The Jolly became a favourite of the uber-rich in its day and the tabloids frequently ran pics of Aristotle Onasis, Yul Brynner, Gianni Agnelli, Enrico Berlinguer and Silvio Berlusconi using their Jollys as land tenders on their super yachts or to tour their vast properties. The warm-climate-only car doesn't have a drop top, just an interior designed to survive a rainstorm thanks to wicker seats and a drainage system. Another fashion epidemic ready to be induced, particularly with the Newtron's impeccable environmental credentials.
35/120
The cheapest car on the floor to buy and run was the Newtron Electric Fiat which comes in at under €20,000 and can be procured in the highly desirable "Spiaggina" version on display or as a regular Fiat 500 hardtop or you can buy a kit and "roll your own". For Stateside drivers who like the idea of the Newtron (which is only available in Europe), the new Fiat 500e comes in at $31,800 but its a hardtop, not a Jolly-lookalike. We suspect this car will create a storm as it is modelled on the original Fiat 500 and 600 Jolly Ghia that was sold between 1958 and 1974. These cars now regularly sell at auction for more than $100,000 with Gooding & Co. setting the auction record for a Jolly at $170,500 at Scottsdale in 2015, breaking its own record of $148,500 set at Pebble Beach in 2013. The Jolly became a favourite of the uber-rich in its day and the tabloids frequently ran pics of Aristotle Onasis, Yul Brynner, Gianni Agnelli, Enrico Berlinguer and Silvio Berlusconi using their Jollys as land tenders on their super yachts or to tour their vast properties. The warm-climate-only car doesn't have a drop top, just an interior designed to survive a rainstorm thanks to wicker seats and a drainage system. Another fashion epidemic ready to be induced, particularly with the Newtron's impeccable environmental credentials.
One of the more interesting cars at Top Marques was sitting on the forecourt on the day prior to the show, but was not part of the main event. It's the first LaRiviera, a new company producing a car which is a celebration of the classic sports car era of the 1930s and based on the iconic style of the Jaguar SS 100. The engine is a reworked 4.2 liter Jaguar engine but the company is able to fit other engines and transmission systems depending upon customer requirements. While it offers one base model, production is a bespoke service so no two cars are the same. In the words of founder Noel Edmonds, "our commitment is to produce a traditional sports car blended with modern technology, guaranteeing reliability and a great driving experience." There's a video at classicriviera.com
36/120
One of the more interesting cars at Top Marques was sitting on the forecourt on the day prior to the show, but was not part of the main event. It's the first LaRiviera, a new company producing a car which is a celebration of the classic sports car era of the 1930s and based on the iconic style of the Jaguar SS 100. The engine is a reworked 4.2 liter Jaguar engine but the company is able to fit other engines and transmission systems depending upon customer requirements. While it offers one base model, production is a bespoke service so no two cars are the same. In the words of founder Noel Edmonds, "our commitment is to produce a traditional sports car blended with modern technology, guaranteeing reliability and a great driving experience." There's a video at classicriviera.com
Porsche showed the €100,000 718 Boxster, and is working hard to create a strong link with the "718" designation with the aim of dropping the Boxster name entirely and rebranding the model as the modern version of the open cockpit racing car which put Porsche on the map fifty years ago. Original Porsche 718 racing cars now routinely fetch in the $2.5 to $3.0 million range at auction with Gooding & Co. setting the record at $3.3 million for a 1959 Porsche 718 RSK at Amelia Island in 2014. Comedian and Porsche collector Jerry Seinfeld recently fetched $2.86 million for his 1959 Porsche 718 RSK and the 718 above (lower pics) was owned by none other than Sir Sterling Moss and sold for £1,905,500 at Bonham's 2015 Goodwood Festival of Speed auction. I've always thought the Boxster name was rather undignified and besides, since Dudley Moore uttered the line "boxy but good" in the movie Crazy People about truth in advertising, I have always associated "box" with another brand. Here's hoping the soon-to-be-updated Boxster 718 looks a little more like the original.
37/120
Porsche showed the €100,000 718 Boxster, and is working hard to create a strong link with the "718" designation with the aim of dropping the Boxster name entirely and rebranding the model as the modern version of the open cockpit racing car which put Porsche on the map fifty years ago. Original Porsche 718 racing cars now routinely fetch in the $2.5 to $3.0 million range at auction with Gooding & Co. setting the record at $3.3 million for a 1959 Porsche 718 RSK at Amelia Island in 2014. Comedian and Porsche collector Jerry Seinfeld recently fetched $2.86 million for his 1959 Porsche 718 RSK and the 718 above (lower pics) was owned by none other than Sir Sterling Moss and sold for £1,905,500 at Bonham's 2015 Goodwood Festival of Speed auction. I've always thought the Boxster name was rather undignified and besides, since Dudley Moore uttered the line "boxy but good" in the movie Crazy People about truth in advertising, I have always associated "box" with another brand. Here's hoping the soon-to-be-updated Boxster 718 looks a little more like the original.
France may not have invented the automobile, but it was the first country to adopt it as part of the national psyche. This love of pedal-to-the-metal insanity is now freely exe(o)rcised through a nation-wide chain of driving simulation centres based around Ellip6's six-degree-of-freedom technology, which brings the intense sensations of motor racing within the reach of all. The company is working closely with Sebastien Loeb Racing to develop simulation so realistic that professional drivers can train without the danger or expense. Bottom line is, you can now have your own personal F1-class simulator at home. Not cheap but very very good. The company also offers a viable business franchise if your country has a similar population of thrill-seekers.
38/120
France may not have invented the automobile, but it was the first country to adopt it as part of the national psyche. This love of pedal-to-the-metal insanity is now freely exe(o)rcised through a nation-wide chain of driving simulation centres based around Ellip6's six-degree-of-freedom technology, which brings the intense sensations of motor racing within the reach of all. The company is working closely with Sebastien Loeb Racing to develop simulation so realistic that professional drivers can train without the danger or expense. Bottom line is, you can now have your own personal F1-class simulator at home. Not cheap but very very good. The company also offers a viable business franchise if your country has a similar population of thrill-seekers.
In the exclusive world of the mega rich, it takes a special something to elegantly display one's station in life without being maladroit. Enter the Senturion, a wrist-worn supercar key that doubles as both testosterone-infused jewellery and a handy remote for all the functionality of your supercar, such as opening the door and rear access, readjusting the seats and mirrors if you've let the wife or mistress have a spin, and dialling in the climate control, suspension settings, power characteristics etcetera just as you like them.
39/120
In the exclusive world of the mega rich, it takes a special something to elegantly display one's station in life without being maladroit. Enter the Senturion, a wrist-worn supercar key that doubles as both testosterone-infused jewellery and a handy remote for all the functionality of your supercar, such as opening the door and rear access, readjusting the seats and mirrors if you've let the wife or mistress have a spin, and dialling in the climate control, suspension settings, power characteristics etcetera just as you like them.
The Senturion, as the name suggests, does all this with rock-solid encrytion, and the functionality is ready to go, but only if you own an AMG, Aston Martin, Audi, Bentley, Bugatti, Ferrari, Jaguar, Lamborghini, Lexus, Maserati, McLaren, Pagani, Porsche, Range Rover or Rolls-Royce. Each Senturion is produced in a limited edition of just seven, so that, given there are more than seven billion people on the planet, makes you one in a million, which plays directly to the Senturion's raison d'être. Different Senturion models are made from different substances (such as gold or meteorite) and studded with different numbers of different jewels.
40/120
The Senturion, as the name suggests, does all this with rock-solid encrytion, and the functionality is ready to go, but only if you own an AMG, Aston Martin, Audi, Bentley, Bugatti, Ferrari, Jaguar, Lamborghini, Lexus, Maserati, McLaren, Pagani, Porsche, Range Rover or Rolls-Royce. Each Senturion is produced in a limited edition of just seven, so that, given there are more than seven billion people on the planet, makes you one in a million, which plays directly to the Senturion's raison d'être. Different Senturion models are made from different substances (such as gold or meteorite) and studded with different numbers of different jewels.
That one-in-a-billion Senturion exclusivity comes at a cost, as the price list at Top Marques clearly illustrates.
41/120
That one-in-a-billion Senturion exclusivity comes at a cost, as the price list at Top Marques clearly illustrates.
Cayago's Seabob started a revolution in watertoys little more than a decade ago, creating the market for many of the other powered water devices we're beginning to see, though it seemed to be everywhere in the show. The 35 kg 2.5 kW F5 was selling for €7,845,00 (no tax) and the more powerful 4.0 kW F5S which is capable of 20 km/h on the water, or 15 km/h under it was retailing at €10,780,00.
42/120
Cayago's Seabob started a revolution in watertoys little more than a decade ago, creating the market for many of the other powered water devices we're beginning to see, though it seemed to be everywhere in the show. The 35 kg 2.5 kW F5 was selling for €7,845,00 (no tax) and the more powerful 4.0 kW F5S which is capable of 20 km/h on the water, or 15 km/h under it was retailing at €10,780,00.
I got very enthused about the Jetsurf at Top Marques for a number of reasons. The first is that it offers enough useable power to do things that you can't even dream of with a non-proactive lump of foam, glass fiber and resin. The tiny motor they have somehow managed to get inside this sliver of technology is closely related to the 125cc two-stroke motorcycle Grand Prix engines that were recently replaced due to regulation changes, only it's designed to be very flat, and the bits have been spread to enable a balanced projectile. The same company that built race winning 125cc GP engines, purpose-built these motors. The lightest and most powerful of these boards weighs 14 kg with a full tank of fuel - no horsepower figures are available but the 125cc Moto3 forerunners were producing 45 hp in 2012, suggesting the Jetsurf has a power-to-weight ratio multiple times better than a Formula One car. It might look like a surfboard but do not be fooled, this is an extreme device designed to do things you couldn't do before.
43/120
I got very enthused about the Jetsurf at Top Marques for a number of reasons. The first is that it offers enough useable power to do things that you can't even dream of with a non-proactive lump of foam, glass fiber and resin. The tiny motor they have somehow managed to get inside this sliver of technology is closely related to the 125cc two-stroke motorcycle Grand Prix engines that were recently replaced due to regulation changes, only it's designed to be very flat, and the bits have been spread to enable a balanced projectile. The same company that built race winning 125cc GP engines, purpose-built these motors. The lightest and most powerful of these boards weighs 14 kg with a full tank of fuel - no horsepower figures are available but the 125cc Moto3 forerunners were producing 45 hp in 2012, suggesting the Jetsurf has a power-to-weight ratio multiple times better than a Formula One car. It might look like a surfboard but do not be fooled, this is an extreme device designed to do things you couldn't do before.
Top Marques represented the next phase for the company with a new logo and an entirely new way of doing things for a PWC manufacturer. The company began as Benelli-HSR and nine years ago promised a 2.2 liter V6 monster PWC, then as the first incarnation of Belassi based and manufactured in Thailand, and now it is back in Austria with a new look, a new motor and exclusivity central to its offerings. Those offerings are the 333 hp B3R sit down PWC (pictured) and the 180 hp B3S stand-up. The stand-up uses the same base motor without forced induction.
44/120
Top Marques represented the next phase for the company with a new logo and an entirely new way of doing things for a PWC manufacturer. The company began as Benelli-HSR and nine years ago promised a 2.2 liter V6 monster PWC, then as the first incarnation of Belassi based and manufactured in Thailand, and now it is back in Austria with a new look, a new motor and exclusivity central to its offerings. Those offerings are the 333 hp B3R sit down PWC (pictured) and the 180 hp B3S stand-up. The stand-up uses the same base motor without forced induction.
At 333 hp, the turbocharged 1.6 liter Belassi PWC is the most powerful available, though don't be expecting to see them on every beach because the new company is moving into the same space in PWC territory as the majority of hypercars which appeared on the Top Marques show floor: high performance, bespoke personalisation and exclusivity.
45/120
At 333 hp, the turbocharged 1.6 liter Belassi PWC is the most powerful available, though don't be expecting to see them on every beach because the new company is moving into the same space in PWC territory as the majority of hypercars which appeared on the Top Marques show floor: high performance, bespoke personalisation and exclusivity.
The dash on the Belassi is surrounded in special leather designed for longevity in a marine environment, and one of the best visual displays I've seen for navigating at the same time as keeping track of the engine's vital statistics.
46/120
The dash on the Belassi is surrounded in special leather designed for longevity in a marine environment, and one of the best visual displays I've seen for navigating at the same time as keeping track of the engine's vital statistics.
It's a gorgeous thing, and you can have it produced for you just the way you want it, as bespoke personalisation is a key part of the offering. Pricing is equally premium, making it considerably more expensive than the mass-produced showroom models of Sea-Doo, Honda, Yamaha and Kawasaki. On the French Riviera, that exclusivity is part of the game.
47/120
It's a gorgeous thing, and you can have it produced for you just the way you want it, as bespoke personalisation is a key part of the offering. Pricing is equally premium, making it considerably more expensive than the mass-produced showroom models of Sea-Doo, Honda, Yamaha and Kawasaki. On the French Riviera, that exclusivity is part of the game.
Pictures of boards on a stand really don't capture what they can do in their natural habitat so I raided the Jetsurf Facebook page to show what all this means for the rider. Firstly, you don't need waves (and hence a surf beach), you can ride onto wakes and swells with you controlling the action (not needing to be towed), you can get massive air going in the opposite direction to a wave, you can do it in a much smaller space, you exert all your energy having fun (not getting there) and the meanest, lightest race version runs to just €12,500 while the GP version costs €11,000 and the standard version €9,500. There's not much to run into but water either, so catastrophic injury or repair costs are far less likely than with other forms of motorised insanity.
48/120
Pictures of boards on a stand really don't capture what they can do in their natural habitat so I raided the Jetsurf Facebook page to show what all this means for the rider. Firstly, you don't need waves (and hence a surf beach), you can ride onto wakes and swells with you controlling the action (not needing to be towed), you can get massive air going in the opposite direction to a wave, you can do it in a much smaller space, you exert all your energy having fun (not getting there) and the meanest, lightest race version runs to just €12,500 while the GP version costs €11,000 and the standard version €9,500. There's not much to run into but water either, so catastrophic injury or repair costs are far less likely than with other forms of motorised insanity.
Visit the company's web site and start by watching the prominent video on the first screen. Surfing gets you very close to the magnificence of nature and the power of the ocean, but I'm sure most ageing surfers will agree that with the passing of time, your personal engine's capacity to get you near a wave like this diminishes. The Jetsurf gets you to the wave without depleting your energy resources. It may not connect you with nature quite as well, or be as finely balanced as your existing (inert) board, but you'll get a lot more rides per surf, be fresher to enjoy them, you'll ride breaks that were previously inaccessible ... and you'll never run out of momentum to get clear of a collapsing pipeline because the instantaneous acceleration will take you to 57 km/h in an instant.
49/120
Visit the company's web site and start by watching the prominent video on the first screen. Surfing gets you very close to the magnificence of nature and the power of the ocean, but I'm sure most ageing surfers will agree that with the passing of time, your personal engine's capacity to get you near a wave like this diminishes. The Jetsurf gets you to the wave without depleting your energy resources. It may not connect you with nature quite as well, or be as finely balanced as your existing (inert) board, but you'll get a lot more rides per surf, be fresher to enjoy them, you'll ride breaks that were previously inaccessible ... and you'll never run out of momentum to get clear of a collapsing pipeline because the instantaneous acceleration will take you to 57 km/h in an instant.
We were told that the shapeshifting concept would be scaled up in the next version, "perhaps as big as 70 foot" and further announcements would be forthcoming. Quite obviously, given its various roles, it has met many engineering challenges in being brought to market and the prospect of something three times as big as the one on show is quite enticing.
50/120
We were told that the shapeshifting concept would be scaled up in the next version, "perhaps as big as 70 foot" and further announcements would be forthcoming. Quite obviously, given its various roles, it has met many engineering challenges in being brought to market and the prospect of something three times as big as the one on show is quite enticing.
Motorised boards are now becoming plentiful, and the choice for the consumer greater and more complex. While the Surfjet meets U.S. environmental regulations, there is no more equitable behaviour than to choose not to burn hydrocarbons at all, and the fastest of the electric-powered boards is the Lampuga which was also on on display at Top Marques. Though heavy (30 kg) by comparison to the Jetsurf, the Lampuga has much to commend it. The top right image shows the core Lampuga battery and drive unit (next to a Seabob to give you an idea of it's scale) which has been ingeniously designed so that it can fit inside an inflatable board (bottom right) and hence stowed and transported inside a small vehicle. These packs can be used in several different sized inflatable boards and even two-up, side-by-side in a much bigger craft. Clever and commendable. There's even a spiffy carbon Lampuga (bottom left) which costs €15,540, slightly more than the standard version's €12,940 or the inflatable Lampuga Air's €9,900. Recharging takes 70 minutes if you have a mains electricity supply handy, which I would suggest is the main barrier to the introduction of electric power in this environment.
51/120
Motorised boards are now becoming plentiful, and the choice for the consumer greater and more complex. While the Surfjet meets U.S. environmental regulations, there is no more equitable behaviour than to choose not to burn hydrocarbons at all, and the fastest of the electric-powered boards is the Lampuga which was also on on display at Top Marques. Though heavy (30 kg) by comparison to the Jetsurf, the Lampuga has much to commend it. The top right image shows the core Lampuga battery and drive unit (next to a Seabob to give you an idea of it's scale) which has been ingeniously designed so that it can fit inside an inflatable board (bottom right) and hence stowed and transported inside a small vehicle. These packs can be used in several different sized inflatable boards and even two-up, side-by-side in a much bigger craft. Clever and commendable. There's even a spiffy carbon Lampuga (bottom left) which costs €15,540, slightly more than the standard version's €12,940 or the inflatable Lampuga Air's €9,900. Recharging takes 70 minutes if you have a mains electricity supply handy, which I would suggest is the main barrier to the introduction of electric power in this environment.
I must admit that the ingenious name was what attracted me first, but Nautibuoy's product is even more relevant to boaties than the name. The company spent four years prototyping and wavepool testing to develop an extremely stable inflatable platform with myriad uses. Available in four different sizes, the NautiBuoy Marine Platform is simple to manoeuvre and easy to lift from the water, has soft handles that don’t scratch the boat or mark the deck, and an Air Toggle System, which as well as allowing platforms to be linked in multiple configurations, provide 2nd and 3rd air chambers for safety and stability.
52/120
I must admit that the ingenious name was what attracted me first, but Nautibuoy's product is even more relevant to boaties than the name. The company spent four years prototyping and wavepool testing to develop an extremely stable inflatable platform with myriad uses. Available in four different sizes, the NautiBuoy Marine Platform is simple to manoeuvre and easy to lift from the water, has soft handles that don’t scratch the boat or mark the deck, and an Air Toggle System, which as well as allowing platforms to be linked in multiple configurations, provide 2nd and 3rd air chambers for safety and stability.
Glass'n'Games showed several of the new "transparency" range, which includes this fussball table , a poker table, a billiard table and a transparent electric guitar. Though based in Fance, it's an internationally diverse company with those products manufactured in Megeve, Genoa, Dubai and St Tropez respectively.
53/120
Glass'n'Games showed several of the new "transparency" range, which includes this fussball table , a poker table, a billiard table and a transparent electric guitar. Though based in Fance, it's an internationally diverse company with those products manufactured in Megeve, Genoa, Dubai and St Tropez respectively.
One of the great things about Top Marques is the ability to connect with suppliers that aren't always easy to find. Money and influence can get you a table at that restaurant, or entry into that VIP room, or the inner sanctum of almost anything, but there's more to experience in life and there are companies which provide experiences you would otherwise never have access to. Luxury Action is one such company and once more I have plagiarised the company's Facebook Page to illustrate what it offers. From staying on your own island for a night or two, to building your own igloo and sleeping in it, getting up close with arctic whales, driving a team of huskies ... it's a perfect way to create a few days away with a special someone that will be remembered forever.
54/120
One of the great things about Top Marques is the ability to connect with suppliers that aren't always easy to find. Money and influence can get you a table at that restaurant, or entry into that VIP room, or the inner sanctum of almost anything, but there's more to experience in life and there are companies which provide experiences you would otherwise never have access to. Luxury Action is one such company and once more I have plagiarised the company's Facebook Page to illustrate what it offers. From staying on your own island for a night or two, to building your own igloo and sleeping in it, getting up close with arctic whales, driving a team of huskies ... it's a perfect way to create a few days away with a special someone that will be remembered forever.
... I raided the Subwing Facebook page. It looks like heaps of low budget fun to me, and I really think the guy at middle left might be onto something. Who knows what might eventuate now the initial idea has been manifested. All the same principals of flight are relevant, so go to it you ingenious types. I'm envisioning a quick release harness (in case you're heading for coral and the currents won't let you steer away) and a set of hand paddle type ailerons, but ... there's always a better way.
55/120
... I raided the Subwing Facebook page. It looks like heaps of low budget fun to me, and I really think the guy at middle left might be onto something. Who knows what might eventuate now the initial idea has been manifested. All the same principals of flight are relevant, so go to it you ingenious types. I'm envisioning a quick release harness (in case you're heading for coral and the currents won't let you steer away) and a set of hand paddle type ailerons, but ... there's always a better way.
... as I could see where the cost comes in. It's not built for a lounge room, but for a super yacht, and the gimbal suspension ensures the clock is always horizontal, while the tip indicates how far the boat is heeling (up to 30 degrees by which time you probably won't be looking at the clock anyway). There's also a world time display, and a crystal dome and every piece is polished by hand before chroming, but it's the sheer beauty of the object and the quality of the workmanship which really captivates. Each of those legs involves ten hours of precision milling. The detailed shots at right don't do it justice, nor does the photo at left, which is another Erwin Sattler creation which I found while researching Atlantis Orbis in the catalogue. It's the Maxima Secunda, a pendulum clock with temperature and air pressure compensation and a 30-day precision movement. The raw numbers are the most impressive - it costs €270,000 and stands three metres tall. I don't think that's meant for the superyacht though.
56/120
... as I could see where the cost comes in. It's not built for a lounge room, but for a super yacht, and the gimbal suspension ensures the clock is always horizontal, while the tip indicates how far the boat is heeling (up to 30 degrees by which time you probably won't be looking at the clock anyway). There's also a world time display, and a crystal dome and every piece is polished by hand before chroming, but it's the sheer beauty of the object and the quality of the workmanship which really captivates. Each of those legs involves ten hours of precision milling. The detailed shots at right don't do it justice, nor does the photo at left, which is another Erwin Sattler creation which I found while researching Atlantis Orbis in the catalogue. It's the Maxima Secunda, a pendulum clock with temperature and air pressure compensation and a 30-day precision movement. The raw numbers are the most impressive - it costs €270,000 and stands three metres tall. I don't think that's meant for the superyacht though.
In the watches and jewellery section at Top Marques Monaco 2016, there were more than a few exquisite objects and this was one of the stand-outs for me. The Atlantis Orbis coffee table is made by Munich clockmaker Erwin Sattler and once I'd spent a few minutes drooling over it, I asked the price. It costs €89,000. That's just the beginning of the story though, ...
57/120
In the watches and jewellery section at Top Marques Monaco 2016, there were more than a few exquisite objects and this was one of the stand-outs for me. The Atlantis Orbis coffee table is made by Munich clockmaker Erwin Sattler and once I'd spent a few minutes drooling over it, I asked the price. It costs €89,000. That's just the beginning of the story though, ...
I came upon the stand of French design studio Harow from the angle seen in the photo at left and was stunned by the presence of the metallic armchair. Then I walked around the back and saw the skull upon which it is based and, well, I guess art is supposed to create an emotional response and as the web site puts it, "each piece of work is first considered as an art piece and is then transformed into functional objects." It's a limited edition (12 only) and each piece is painted and finished by the artist. The 24 carat gold plated version is the most expensive at US$500,000, at which price it wouldn't look out of place as the villain's throne in a James Bond movie.
58/120
I came upon the stand of French design studio Harow from the angle seen in the photo at left and was stunned by the presence of the metallic armchair. Then I walked around the back and saw the skull upon which it is based and, well, I guess art is supposed to create an emotional response and as the web site puts it, "each piece of work is first considered as an art piece and is then transformed into functional objects." It's a limited edition (12 only) and each piece is painted and finished by the artist. The 24 carat gold plated version is the most expensive at US$500,000, at which price it wouldn't look out of place as the villain's throne in a James Bond movie.
Beautiful functional tables for adults were also on hand, with this Arte in Motion fabrication just one of the company's range of seating, tables and bars based on an aircraft wings, fuselages and motors.
59/120
Beautiful functional tables for adults were also on hand, with this Arte in Motion fabrication just one of the company's range of seating, tables and bars based on an aircraft wings, fuselages and motors.
A marble Folie Concept desk and carbon fiber weave chair.
60/120
A marble Folie Concept desk and carbon fiber weave chair.
Some of Folie Concept's indoor furniture can be challenging. At left is a chair available in both black and white, and at right is the Torche high table and a carbon fiber weave bar stool.
61/120
Some of Folie Concept's indoor furniture can be challenging. At left is a chair available in both black and white, and at right is the Torche high table and a carbon fiber weave bar stool.
I loved this clock fashioned from a Ferrari brake disk and caliper, despite its €3,300 price tag. Sitting down to write the story though, I'm not so sure it is actually made by Horloge. Horloge doesn't appear to make clocks, only watches, albeit some with the licensed Ferrari brand. Then it dawned. Horloge means "clock" in French. For those who really want one, it was on the stand of a new highly-targeted French/English magazine concept named Sab's Connections. The magazine is given away free at elite events such as Top Marques Monaco, the Carrousel du Louvre at Paris Fashion Week and the Cannes Film Festival.Sab's Connections is a new magazine concept (English / French) distributed at key events from the arts (fashion, culture ...) and relevant partners such as Global Jet, the auction house Cornette de Saint Cyr and events such as Top Marques Monaco, the Carrousel du Louvre at the Paris Fashion Week, Cannes Film Festival. Great mag, accurately targeted. So if you want one, contact them.
62/120
I loved this clock fashioned from a Ferrari brake disk and caliper, despite its €3,300 price tag. Sitting down to write the story though, I'm not so sure it is actually made by Horloge. Horloge doesn't appear to make clocks, only watches, albeit some with the licensed Ferrari brand. Then it dawned. Horloge means "clock" in French. For those who really want one, it was on the stand of a new highly-targeted French/English magazine concept named Sab's Connections. The magazine is given away free at elite events such as Top Marques Monaco, the Carrousel du Louvre at Paris Fashion Week and the Cannes Film Festival.Sab's Connections is a new magazine concept (English / French) distributed at key events from the arts (fashion, culture ...) and relevant partners such as Global Jet, the auction house Cornette de Saint Cyr and events such as Top Marques Monaco, the Carrousel du Louvre at the Paris Fashion Week, Cannes Film Festival. Great mag, accurately targeted. So if you want one, contact them.
This is a coffee table also fashioned from an aircraft wing from the same Arte in Motion collection ...
63/120
This is a coffee table also fashioned from an aircraft wing from the same Arte in Motion collection ...
and to go with your aircraft wing coffee table, matching Arte in Motion polished aluminum chairs created from an aircraft fuselage.
64/120
and to go with your aircraft wing coffee table, matching Arte in Motion polished aluminum chairs created from an aircraft fuselage.
Designer Marc Newson comes up with some remarkable objects, none more so than the HG Timepiece. “This Hourglass is all about time but in a more esoteric and fundamental way", says Marc of the hourglass, "I was thinking of having fun with time.” The 2010 design became the first product of the newly established company in 2014 when Newson and partners decided to create a new entity to pursue projects solely related to time. The single piece hourglasses come in 15, 30 and 60 minute varieties, and apparently they're doing a brisk trade with CEOs and MDs who are using them on their desk to limit meeting times. You will probably need to be someone whose time is that valuable to afford one of these. The process is explained in this video.
65/120
Designer Marc Newson comes up with some remarkable objects, none more so than the HG Timepiece. “This Hourglass is all about time but in a more esoteric and fundamental way", says Marc of the hourglass, "I was thinking of having fun with time.” The 2010 design became the first product of the newly established company in 2014 when Newson and partners decided to create a new entity to pursue projects solely related to time. The single piece hourglasses come in 15, 30 and 60 minute varieties, and apparently they're doing a brisk trade with CEOs and MDs who are using them on their desk to limit meeting times. You will probably need to be someone whose time is that valuable to afford one of these. The process is explained in this video.
Olivier's unique style is reminiscent of Italian Renaissance frescoes and his choice of subject matter, being racing legends of the past and more recently, a new series based on the "24 Heures du Mans" are visually arresting.
66/120
Olivier's unique style is reminiscent of Italian Renaissance frescoes and his choice of subject matter, being racing legends of the past and more recently, a new series based on the "24 Heures du Mans" are visually arresting.
We mentioned the captivating work of German artist Ferencz Olivier in our report on Techno Classica Essen, so it was no surprise to see his work displayed at Top Marques.
67/120
We mentioned the captivating work of German artist Ferencz Olivier in our report on Techno Classica Essen, so it was no surprise to see his work displayed at Top Marques.
If your concept of a safe is an industrial-looking big metal box locked in a basement, it's time to reframe your perspective. Safes now come in all shapes and sizes, with some ingenious safety concepts incorporated, and the insides can be just as elaborate as any girl's dream jewellery box.
68/120
If your concept of a safe is an industrial-looking big metal box locked in a basement, it's time to reframe your perspective. Safes now come in all shapes and sizes, with some ingenious safety concepts incorporated, and the insides can be just as elaborate as any girl's dream jewellery box.
A specialist in the "Grands Crus Classes de Bordeaux" for over 60 years, Struk-Ohana has built links with the biggest wineries such as Lafite Rothschild, Cheval Blanc, Angelus, Canon la Gaffeliere and Le Pin to name but a few, and is intent on introducing the best of the famous wines of the bordeaux region into the wine cellars of the world's connoisseurs.
69/120
A specialist in the "Grands Crus Classes de Bordeaux" for over 60 years, Struk-Ohana has built links with the biggest wineries such as Lafite Rothschild, Cheval Blanc, Angelus, Canon la Gaffeliere and Le Pin to name but a few, and is intent on introducing the best of the famous wines of the bordeaux region into the wine cellars of the world's connoisseurs.
Wine tasting was available throughout Top Marques from the Struk-Ohana stand.
70/120
Wine tasting was available throughout Top Marques from the Struk-Ohana stand.
Padre Tequila is a new uber-premium liquor and they took some time to explain the levels of care they had gone to in creating the brand. The bottle alone, with its leather casing and cast metallic skull top is a work of artistic merit in its own right.
71/120
Padre Tequila is a new uber-premium liquor and they took some time to explain the levels of care they had gone to in creating the brand. The bottle alone, with its leather casing and cast metallic skull top is a work of artistic merit in its own right.
When it comes to salespeople, people who sell yachts are near the top of the game, complete with exquisite personal skills and a deep understanding of a customer's potential needs alongside a full house of technical knowledge. The biggest boat to appear at Top Marques was Fjord's Open 40 (bottom left), with most bigger boats discussed using booths and models. That said, the Monaco Yacht Show is Europe's most prestigious such event and happens less then a kilometer away each September. With the massive mooring facilities of Port Hercules available, the show offers Europe's biggest in-water display of large yachts.
72/120
When it comes to salespeople, people who sell yachts are near the top of the game, complete with exquisite personal skills and a deep understanding of a customer's potential needs alongside a full house of technical knowledge. The biggest boat to appear at Top Marques was Fjord's Open 40 (bottom left), with most bigger boats discussed using booths and models. That said, the Monaco Yacht Show is Europe's most prestigious such event and happens less then a kilometer away each September. With the massive mooring facilities of Port Hercules available, the show offers Europe's biggest in-water display of large yachts.
CD Sport Design offers something slightly different in the way of comfortable seating for the home and office with an automotive bent. Inspired by the wrap-around seats of supercars, the one-, two- and three-seat chairs use the same leather and styles as Ferrari, Porsche and Lamborghini, and you can select either the exact colours of your own car seat, or the ideal colour scheme required for its intended location. The chairs are technology-friendly and include a USB connection and an LED reading lamp, not to mention all the appropriate colour options to match any supercar paint scheme too. There's also a swivel desk chair with all the same colour options, and the company has been doing great business with high end automotive dealerships and racing brands wishing to seat their clients in just the right manner to enhance the relationship with their company or brand. The Recaro-based office chairs run from €2000 to €3000 each, while the Porsche and Lamborghini single seat armchairs cost €13,200.00, the two-seaters €21,600.00 and the three-seaters €30,000. Ferrari models only extend to a single-seat racing version at €10,800.
73/120
CD Sport Design offers something slightly different in the way of comfortable seating for the home and office with an automotive bent. Inspired by the wrap-around seats of supercars, the one-, two- and three-seat chairs use the same leather and styles as Ferrari, Porsche and Lamborghini, and you can select either the exact colours of your own car seat, or the ideal colour scheme required for its intended location. The chairs are technology-friendly and include a USB connection and an LED reading lamp, not to mention all the appropriate colour options to match any supercar paint scheme too. There's also a swivel desk chair with all the same colour options, and the company has been doing great business with high end automotive dealerships and racing brands wishing to seat their clients in just the right manner to enhance the relationship with their company or brand. The Recaro-based office chairs run from €2000 to €3000 each, while the Porsche and Lamborghini single seat armchairs cost €13,200.00, the two-seaters €21,600.00 and the three-seaters €30,000. Ferrari models only extend to a single-seat racing version at €10,800.
Miha Bodytec is a new full body electromuscular stimulation exercise regime which might well be a disruptive technology in the health and fitness industry. Sadly, the only peer-reviewed study I can find, and all the detailed reference material is in German. That's not to say it doesn't work, because all of the development of the technology was done by Kenottmann, a company with a long term commitment to using new and highly relevant technologies to improve health and wellbeing.
74/120
Miha Bodytec is a new full body electromuscular stimulation exercise regime which might well be a disruptive technology in the health and fitness industry. Sadly, the only peer-reviewed study I can find, and all the detailed reference material is in German. That's not to say it doesn't work, because all of the development of the technology was done by Kenottmann, a company with a long term commitment to using new and highly relevant technologies to improve health and wellbeing.
Italy's leading high-tech industrial group, Finmeccanica, has now absorbed AgustaWestland and it was the sole helicopter on display at Top Marques. Billed as the "unrivalled benchmark in the Executive/Corporate segment, the twin-engine can be configured as an eight-seater, or decked out in ultra luxury for fewer passengers as this one was. The base price before customization is around €5.7 million.
75/120
Italy's leading high-tech industrial group, Finmeccanica, has now absorbed AgustaWestland and it was the sole helicopter on display at Top Marques. Billed as the "unrivalled benchmark in the Executive/Corporate segment, the twin-engine can be configured as an eight-seater, or decked out in ultra luxury for fewer passengers as this one was. The base price before customization is around €5.7 million.
Stealth claims the title of the world's fastest electric bikes, and we've ridden several of the models on display at Top Marques, namely the H-52 and B-52. Try walking around Monaco for a few days with its vertical climbs and you'll understand why Stealth did some brisk trade.
76/120
Stealth claims the title of the world's fastest electric bikes, and we've ridden several of the models on display at Top Marques, namely the H-52 and B-52. Try walking around Monaco for a few days with its vertical climbs and you'll understand why Stealth did some brisk trade.
Icona produced a guitar specifically for Top Marques in conjunction with Eko Guitars and musician Massimo Varini. The soulful sound of the guitar echoed around the main hall throughout the show as the highly accomplished Varini played freestyle. It was an unexpected and delightful aspect to the show. There's no word on whether it might become an addition to Icona's offerings.
77/120
Icona produced a guitar specifically for Top Marques in conjunction with Eko Guitars and musician Massimo Varini. The soulful sound of the guitar echoed around the main hall throughout the show as the highly accomplished Varini played freestyle. It was an unexpected and delightful aspect to the show. There's no word on whether it might become an addition to Icona's offerings.
The late French-born American artist Arman was represented at Top Marques by Studio Arman. From his official biography: "Regarded as one of the most prolific and inventive creators of the late 20th century, Arman’s vast artistic output ranges from drawings and prints to monumental public sculpture to his famous “accumulations” of found objects. His work — strongly influenced by Dada, and in turn a strong influence on Pop Art — is in the collections of such institutions as the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, the Tate Gallery in London and the Centre Pompidou in Paris." At Top Marques you could actually buy some of his "accumulations of found objects" in the form of a gaggle of Ferrari F40s or Renault F1 cars.
78/120
The late French-born American artist Arman was represented at Top Marques by Studio Arman. From his official biography: "Regarded as one of the most prolific and inventive creators of the late 20th century, Arman’s vast artistic output ranges from drawings and prints to monumental public sculpture to his famous “accumulations” of found objects. His work — strongly influenced by Dada, and in turn a strong influence on Pop Art — is in the collections of such institutions as the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, the Tate Gallery in London and the Centre Pompidou in Paris." At Top Marques you could actually buy some of his "accumulations of found objects" in the form of a gaggle of Ferrari F40s or Renault F1 cars.
The Glass'n'Games football table was a favourite of the younger patrons. One noticeable trend among younger show-goers was that they weren't toting just smartphones, but I saw numerous kids with mid- and professional-level camera gear.
79/120
The Glass'n'Games football table was a favourite of the younger patrons. One noticeable trend among younger show-goers was that they weren't toting just smartphones, but I saw numerous kids with mid- and professional-level camera gear.
This is a Subwing. I'd never seen one before I spied it on the Aquamarine stand at Top Marques, but it constitutes a new form of towable that is much akin to flying an underwater glider with your hands. It's simple, with two wings connected by a rotatable swivel, so tilting each wing at different angles enables you to steer in any forward direction. As it's so simple, it doesn't cost much (Honeycomb €490, fiberglass €590, Glossy Carbon €890) offering excellent bang-per-buck. I took pics on the stand but once again, you need to see the subwing in operation to see what it does, otherwise it looks like an Ikea flat-pack without the instructions. So ...
80/120
This is a Subwing. I'd never seen one before I spied it on the Aquamarine stand at Top Marques, but it constitutes a new form of towable that is much akin to flying an underwater glider with your hands. It's simple, with two wings connected by a rotatable swivel, so tilting each wing at different angles enables you to steer in any forward direction. As it's so simple, it doesn't cost much (Honeycomb €490, fiberglass €590, Glossy Carbon €890) offering excellent bang-per-buck. I took pics on the stand but once again, you need to see the subwing in operation to see what it does, otherwise it looks like an Ikea flat-pack without the instructions. So ...
Another stunning Harow objet d'art was the Arnold stool. It's another limited edition of 12 production and has a presence beyond its size.
81/120
Another stunning Harow objet d'art was the Arnold stool. It's another limited edition of 12 production and has a presence beyond its size.
German company Visoury makes dumbells. Indeed, they only make dumbells, albeit very exclusive dumbells. For example, a pair of 2 kg dumbells made from stainless steel and coated in ruthenium will cost you €4,900, while the same set with 300 white diamonds (approximately 3 ct) and four black diamonds (approx. 8 ct) costs €19,900, or you can go the whole hog and get the premium set which has 750 white diamonds (approx. 7.5 ct) and runs to €29,900 a pair. That's inclusive of German VAT, so depending on where you live, you might be able to get a refund when you leave the country, which will more than pay your excess baggage bill.
82/120
German company Visoury makes dumbells. Indeed, they only make dumbells, albeit very exclusive dumbells. For example, a pair of 2 kg dumbells made from stainless steel and coated in ruthenium will cost you €4,900, while the same set with 300 white diamonds (approximately 3 ct) and four black diamonds (approx. 8 ct) costs €19,900, or you can go the whole hog and get the premium set which has 750 white diamonds (approx. 7.5 ct) and runs to €29,900 a pair. That's inclusive of German VAT, so depending on where you live, you might be able to get a refund when you leave the country, which will more than pay your excess baggage bill.
Chess is one of the world's longest surviving cerebral past-times and we saw many beautiful chess sets at Top Marques, with this effort from the joint Veridor and Lieb-Manufaktur stand top of my list. Both companies make some exquisite versions of traditional parlour games in noble metals and the following images all come from that stand. Veridor makes the pieces, while Lieb-Manufaktur puts it all together in a suitcase.
83/120
Chess is one of the world's longest surviving cerebral past-times and we saw many beautiful chess sets at Top Marques, with this effort from the joint Veridor and Lieb-Manufaktur stand top of my list. Both companies make some exquisite versions of traditional parlour games in noble metals and the following images all come from that stand. Veridor makes the pieces, while Lieb-Manufaktur puts it all together in a suitcase.
Golf balls, dumbells and dice like you've never seen them before.
84/120
Golf balls, dumbells and dice like you've never seen them before.
Dice in silver and gold from Veridor.
85/120
Dice in silver and gold from Veridor.
Dominoes are first recorded as having been used in China 700 years ago. This domino set from Lieb-Manufaktur were breathtaking just to look at.
86/120
Dominoes are first recorded as having been used in China 700 years ago. This domino set from Lieb-Manufaktur were breathtaking just to look at.
Another angle on Lieb-Manufaktur's dominoes.
87/120
Another angle on Lieb-Manufaktur's dominoes.
Backgammon is one of the oldest board games known to man yet it's quite possible that this set from Lieb-Manufaktur is the most elaborate and expensive in history.
88/120
Backgammon is one of the oldest board games known to man yet it's quite possible that this set from Lieb-Manufaktur is the most elaborate and expensive in history.
Visoury also offers a complete customization service if you wish to design your own dumbells, and if you're keen to have a complete work-out set, this is the price list from the brochure. By my reckoning, the complete set of the Pure Model will set you back €26,500, a set of the Black & White diamonds model will cost €108,500 and the Pure White Diamond set will cost €158,500. If keeping up with the Jones is your thing, this will definitely do the trick!
89/120
Visoury also offers a complete customization service if you wish to design your own dumbells, and if you're keen to have a complete work-out set, this is the price list from the brochure. By my reckoning, the complete set of the Pure Model will set you back €26,500, a set of the Black & White diamonds model will cost €108,500 and the Pure White Diamond set will cost €158,500. If keeping up with the Jones is your thing, this will definitely do the trick!
They offered me a tasting and I'm sure it tastes like heaven, but I don't drink. C'est la vie.
90/120
They offered me a tasting and I'm sure it tastes like heaven, but I don't drink. C'est la vie.
Patek Phillipe is a watch brand that makes up 90 percent of the most valuable watches ever sold, much more dominant in its sector than the uber dominant Ferrari is in the collectible car segment. Like Patek Phillipe. every collector watch brand was there, but most were low key, allowing their distributors to showcase their products.
91/120
Patek Phillipe is a watch brand that makes up 90 percent of the most valuable watches ever sold, much more dominant in its sector than the uber dominant Ferrari is in the collectible car segment. Like Patek Phillipe. every collector watch brand was there, but most were low key, allowing their distributors to showcase their products.
Swiss Master of Complications, Franck Muller was one of the highest profile watchmakers at the event. Even inside its massive display, things were quiet and subdued.
92/120
Swiss Master of Complications, Franck Muller was one of the highest profile watchmakers at the event. Even inside its massive display, things were quiet and subdued.
The jewellery and watch section was a hive of activity ...
93/120
The jewellery and watch section was a hive of activity ...
... with a lot of browsing ...
94/120
... with a lot of browsing ...
... a diversity of wonderful things to look at ...
95/120
... a diversity of wonderful things to look at ...
Miha is selling the equipment to new and high tech gyms, and because multiple muscle groups can be exercised at the same time, the routine is very intensive and much quicker - they claim a 20 minute session is the equivalent of an hour of normal exercise and in a time-pressured world, where some people's time is worth a lot of money, there's plenty of upside if the claims are indeed correct. There's also a portable system that fits inside a suitcase aimed at personal trainers, but I see it as potentially, a gym in a suitcase. We've only just seen this, and a full story will follow but ... potentially it's a new class of exercise regime and maybe even a business opportunity.
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Miha is selling the equipment to new and high tech gyms, and because multiple muscle groups can be exercised at the same time, the routine is very intensive and much quicker - they claim a 20 minute session is the equivalent of an hour of normal exercise and in a time-pressured world, where some people's time is worth a lot of money, there's plenty of upside if the claims are indeed correct. There's also a portable system that fits inside a suitcase aimed at personal trainers, but I see it as potentially, a gym in a suitcase. We've only just seen this, and a full story will follow but ... potentially it's a new class of exercise regime and maybe even a business opportunity.
There were several stands offering realty services in the Monaco area, and they went to great efforts to make potential buyers feel right at home.
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There were several stands offering realty services in the Monaco area, and they went to great efforts to make potential buyers feel right at home.
... suitable for boys and girls of all ages ...
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... suitable for boys and girls of all ages ...
... and there was a lot of business being done ...
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... and there was a lot of business being done ...
... quietly ...
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... quietly ...
... in a very efficient manner ...
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... in a very efficient manner ...
... and as the show wore on, I realised the magnitude of the opportunity for both buyers and sellers.
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... and as the show wore on, I realised the magnitude of the opportunity for both buyers and sellers.
Making tough decisions ...
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Making tough decisions ...
The attention of the staff and their connection with the clientele was on a different level.
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The attention of the staff and their connection with the clientele was on a different level.
Weighing the options ...
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Weighing the options ...
Only in Monaco.
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Only in Monaco.
Age is no barrier to ability to be a stylish consumer with a high disposable income.
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Age is no barrier to ability to be a stylish consumer with a high disposable income.
... and some of the jewellery was quite arresting.
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... and some of the jewellery was quite arresting.
... and it went on ...
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... and it went on ...
... displaying the only motorcycle in the watch and jewellery section, and if you look closely, it was quite some custom motorcycle it had on display alongside its time-pieces.
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... displaying the only motorcycle in the watch and jewellery section, and if you look closely, it was quite some custom motorcycle it had on display alongside its time-pieces.
Black-out Concept took a different approach ...
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Black-out Concept took a different approach ...
and on ...
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and on ...
and on ... from priceless antiques
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and on ... from priceless antiques
to huge arrays of personal adornments of every type.
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to huge arrays of personal adornments of every type.
Finally, you can't always judge a book by its cover, and there were a number of automotive couturiers who work mainly on the insides of an automobile, rather than the outside. Successful businessmen are not necessarily seeking to invest in transport which is ostentatious, but rather practical, comfortable and efficient, and one of Klassen's vans was a prime example. This is what it looked like on the outside.
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Finally, you can't always judge a book by its cover, and there were a number of automotive couturiers who work mainly on the insides of an automobile, rather than the outside. Successful businessmen are not necessarily seeking to invest in transport which is ostentatious, but rather practical, comfortable and efficient, and one of Klassen's vans was a prime example. This is what it looked like on the outside.
Here are a few other examples of Klassen's work and what can be achieved inside a van. It need not necessarily be a work-focused interior, either. The space afforded by large vans means you can have the space, comfort and stability of a train without attracting the attention of a long wheelbase limousine.
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Here are a few other examples of Klassen's work and what can be achieved inside a van. It need not necessarily be a work-focused interior, either. The space afforded by large vans means you can have the space, comfort and stability of a train without attracting the attention of a long wheelbase limousine.
This is the inside of the same van. It's an ultra-quiet office with everything you might need, and it's mobile, ensuring you can squeeze the maximum from each working day, even in transit.
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This is the inside of the same van. It's an ultra-quiet office with everything you might need, and it's mobile, ensuring you can squeeze the maximum from each working day, even in transit.
A lot of serious business was done at Top Marques.
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A lot of serious business was done at Top Marques.
... but the spirit of the Rebellion brand.
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... but the spirit of the Rebellion brand.
At the other end of the scale, Rebellion took the high visibility, approach, not just in presenting the technology behind its timepieces ...
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At the other end of the scale, Rebellion took the high visibility, approach, not just in presenting the technology behind its timepieces ...
View gallery - 120 images

It hasn't taken long for Top Marques Monaco to become the world's highest profile show of luxury goods - this was just its thirteenth edition and what began as a supercar show has now diversified into a showcase where a wide range of luxury goods and services can launch new products and build their brand profile to just the right audience.

The city-state of Monaco is the world's second smallest and most densely populated country. The extreme cost of real estate in Monaco is due to its 150-year status as a tax haven which has attracted a population of "tax refugees" including many of the world's highest paid sportspersons, businesspersons and celebrities, further contributing to it being recognized as the playground of the rich and famous. One third of Monaco's citizens are millionaires, making it the perfect venue for the event, particularly when you consider its proximity to Switzerland and the French and Italian Rivieras.

This year a plethora of new toys went on display, with the 270 hp Arcaboard (no, it's a flyboard, not a car), the shape-shifting Kormaran boat, the Martin JetPack, Icona's titanium-bodied 670 hp Vulcano, the retro-Italian Effeffe Berlinetta, Apollo's 986 hp Arrow, Kahn Design's 510 hp Vengeance, Mazzanti's aero-revised 751 hp Evantra, Belassi's new 333 hp B3R PWC, Newtron's all-electric Fiat "Spiaggina" (a modern version of the Jolly Ghia), plus a full complement of A-list manufacturers of watches, jewelry and luxury goods of all descriptions.

Supercar maker Gumpert has changed its name to Apollo, taking the name of its first supercar just in time to launch its second - the Arrow which was shown for the first time at the Geneva Motor Show last month. The Arrow runs a mid-mounted twin-turbo 4.0-liter Audi V8 with a claimed peak power of 986 hp (735 kW) at 6,750 rpm and 738 lb-ft (1,000 Nm) of torque at 3,650 rpm.
Supercar maker Gumpert has changed its name to Apollo, taking the name of its first supercar just in time to launch its second - the Arrow which was shown for the first time at the Geneva Motor Show last month. The Arrow runs a mid-mounted twin-turbo 4.0-liter Audi V8 with a claimed peak power of 986 hp (735 kW) at 6,750 rpm and 738 lb-ft (1,000 Nm) of torque at 3,650 rpm.

While the advertising in the locality might center on the show being a supercar show, it has become as much a luxury goods show because the press group that attends is more the luxury press than the automotive press, or the watch, nautical or fashion media, which is part of the attraction. It's easier to get coverage here for a luxury automobile announcement than it is at Mondial de l'Automobile (Paris Motor Show) or Salon International de l'Auto (Geneva Motor Show), similarly for watches than it is in Baselworld and ditto for fashion than it is in Fashion Week in London, Milan, and Paris. That's because there isn't nearly as much "clutter."

For the voyeur in us all (guilty, yer honor), it's also an opportunity to get a look inside a world you know exists, but perhaps don't otherwise get a chance to see - what it's like to have fun without any budgetary constraints.

In the exclusive world of the mega rich, it takes a special something to elegantly display one's station in life without being maladroit. Enter the Senturion, a wrist-worn supercar key that doubles as both testosterone-infused jewellery and a handy remote for all the functionality of your supercar, such as opening the door and rear access, readjusting the seats and mirrors if you've let the wife or mistress have a spin, and dialling in the climate control, suspension settings, power characteristics etcetera just as you like them.
In the exclusive world of the mega rich, it takes a special something to elegantly display one's station in life without being maladroit. Enter the Senturion, a wrist-worn supercar key that doubles as both testosterone-infused jewellery and a handy remote for all the functionality of your supercar, such as opening the door and rear access, readjusting the seats and mirrors if you've let the wife or mistress have a spin, and dialling in the climate control, suspension settings, power characteristics etcetera just as you like them.

As with Techno-Classica, which had finished a few days before, heritage was important at Top Marques, but only in establishing the bonafides of the brand that would be worn on the car or watch.

In Techno-Classica, manufacturers blessed with a storied history used the cars of yesteryear to build bridges to the cars of today, but it was all about the stories that created the marque and its values. At Top Marques, there were only four cars older than ten years of age in the entire exhibition, and three of those were dressed to look like film cars driven by James Bond (the DB5 and two Lotus Esprits).

This exhibition might be based around marques, but it centers entirely on the "now" and how good you're going to look wearing it now.

For lots more details on the pick of the exquisite, extravagant creations on show, take a walk with us through our Top Marques Monaco photo gallery.

View gallery - 120 images

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AutomotiveTop Marques Monaco
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Mike Hanlon
Mike Hanlon
As a photojournalist, Mike’s work has been published in a dozen languages across 20+ countries. He has edited or managed over 75 different print publications, each with a different target audience: sports, automotive, advertising, marketing, design, ad infinitum. Mike has been working in the internet for more than 25 years and was the veteran of five internet start-ups before founding New Atlas in 2002.

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