In crafting the Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar “John Mayer” Limited Edition, Audemars Piguet redefines the concept of special timepieces, creating a category entirely on its own. This collaboration with John Mayer enhances the watch’s allure, blending his artistic sensibility with the brand’s commitment to innovation, passion, and a profound respect for the craft of watchmaking. The result is a timepiece that transcends traditional boundaries, emerging as a unique collector’s item and a demonstration of meticulous craftsmanship and aesthetic perfection. This collaboration secures its place as an iconic piece in the world of luxury watches.

Designer: Audemars Piguet + John Mayer

John Mayer brings a unique perspective to this partnership, channeling his creative flair and imaginative intuition into the creation of the watch. His approach mirrors his music philosophy—each element must resonate with emotion and depth, akin to a chord striking a soulful note. Each component of the watch is designed to reverberate with feeling, enhancing the overall sensory experience of the timepiece. Mayer’s favorite watches are those where the dial is not just observed but experienced, a concept that deeply influenced the design of the “Crystal Sky” dial. Describing it, he likens the watch’s face to a picture window—one looks through it into another world. In this case, the dial is a portal to a moonless, starlit sky, vast and boundlessly deep, offering a sense of the infinite and the eternal. This deep link between the dial’s design and the natural world transforms the watch from simply measuring time to reflecting the timeless expanse of the universe.

The dial is a masterpiece of design, featuring an embossed motif resembling a spread of irregularly shaped crystals. This choice is intentional, echoing the natural crystalline forms found in rock formations and ice, elements that transform under the weight of time itself. The texture adds visual depth and a tactile dimension that begs to be touched and closely inspected. Audemars Piguet used a precise electroforming process to achieve this intricate detail that constructs the dial’s motif atom by atom, reflecting the brand’s dedication to micro-mechanical innovation.

Audemars Piguet’s Royal Oak “John Mayer” Limited Edition dial detail and self-winding Calibre 5134 movement

The watch’s technical specifications are equally impressive. The heart of the timepiece is the Manufacture’s self-winding Calibre 5134, a movement that maintains a slim profile despite its complexity, measuring just 4.3 mm in thickness. This calibre is an evolution of the Calibre 2120/2800, first launched in 1978 during the quartz crisis—a pivotal moment when mechanical watchmaking proved its enduring value against the rising tide of quartz technology. The Calibre 5134 adapted to a larger 41 mm case size while keeping the streamlined elegance that the Royal Oak is known for. This movement also features a perpetual calendar, one of the most poetic complications in watchmaking, which measures the time in a way that needs no adjustment for months of varying lengths or even leap years.

The Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar “John Mayer” Limited Edition case is crafted from 18-carat white gold, matched with a bracelet of the same material. The use of white gold not only enriches the watch with luxe sophistication but also serves as the perfect canvas to highlight the striking blue “Crystal Sky” dial. While this quarter-million-dollar watch boasts a water resistance of 20 meters, I’d say it’s more for peace of mind than for actual deep-sea diving. After all, who really plans to test those limits with such a masterpiece on their wrist?

18-carat white gold matching bracelet

John Mayer’s passion for this watch is clearly evident through his words and deep involvement in the design process. He views the watch as a portal to a deeper experience and an artistic expression that invites contemplation and connection. “My favorite watches have dials that you can stare endlessly at,” Mayer explains. “A great watch dial feels like a picture window—you look into it, not at it. In the case of this QP, it’s like looking up at a moonless sky. There is a true sense of nature in it.” This reflection captures the watch’s essence, showing it as a canvas that reflects Mayer’s profound appreciation for the nuanced artistry of watchmaking.

Mayer’s engagement was comprehensive; he was involved in every decision, from choosing materials to refining the dial’s specific finish, to ensure that every aspect of the watch aligned with his aesthetic sensibilities. This dedication underscores how the watch goes beyond its functional role to serve as a canvas that mirrors his deep appreciation for the nuanced artistry of watchmaking. Every element of its design, informed by Mayer’s keen artistic eye, invites those who seek not just to tell time but to tell a story.

Audemars Piguet’s Royal Oak “John Mayer” Limited Edition

Only 200 pieces of the Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar “John Mayer” Limited Edition will be crafted, making it a rare collectible item for watch enthusiasts and Mayer fans alike. Each piece is a tribute to the legacy of the Calibre 5134 and a celebration of Audemars Piguet’s enduring dedication to excellence in design and functionality. This watch is a masterful blend of precise engineering and striking design, serving as a pinnacle of technical skill and a vivid expression of beauty. It embodies the seamless integration of form and function, where every component measures time and tells a story of artistic excellence.

The post A Masterpiece Emerges from the Collaboration Between John Mayer and Audemars Piguet first appeared on Yanko Design.

Nestled amidst the lush woods of Bali, a symmetrical haven awaits those seeking solace and elegance. At first glance, it’s apparent that this villa is not just another architectural marvel; it’s a seamless blend of Japanese inspiration with a touch of Balinese flair, creating an atmosphere of understated grace and natural harmony. I find a lot of overlap between the two architectural styles.

Designer: Thilina Liyanage

The villa’s design draws inspiration from traditional Japanese architecture, evident in its distinctive Yosemune roofs. These exaggerated curves immediately capture the eye and evoke the essence of Japanese design principles overlapping with the Balinese. But what truly sets this villa apart is its ingenious incorporation of these elements into the tranquil landscape of Bali.

Wood is the cornerstone of Japanese architecture, chosen for its resilience in the face of earthquakes. Similarly, this villa embraces the warmth and versatility of wood, creating a space that not only withstands the test of time but also invites inhabitants to coexist harmoniously with nature. Every corner of the villa exudes a sense of tranquility, with natural materials seamlessly blending into the surrounding environment.

Perched on the slope of a mountain, the villa offers a journey of discovery from top to bottom. Upon entering from the top, guests are greeted by a central stairway leading to the heart of the villa. Here, an open kitchen and dining area await, seamlessly transitioning to a poolside oasis where one can indulge in a refreshing dip while savoring the beauty of the surroundings.

The bedrooms, situated on either side of the pool, offer a serene retreat with their cantilevered net seating—a Balinese interpretation of traditional balconies. Inside, wood and bamboo interiors create a cozy and inviting atmosphere, inviting guests to unwind and rejuvenate.

Throughout the villa, a variety of seating areas are available, each offering a unique perspective of the surrounding landscape. From day beds to sunken seating areas, there’s a spot for every mood and occasion, ensuring that guests can immerse themselves in the tranquility of the woods at any time of day.

At the lowest level, an open bath awaits, allowing guests to shower amidst the serenity of the woods—a truly immersive experience that reconnects them with nature. A distinctive element of every property in Bali!

Perhaps most importantly, the villa’s design prioritizes privacy, ensuring that every room and corner offers a sanctuary away from the outside world. Whether lounging by the pool or enjoying a meal al fresco, guests can relish in the seclusion and tranquility of their surroundings.

The post The Enchanting Overlap of Japanese and Balinese Architecture in a Woodland Villa first appeared on Yanko Design.

In the heart of Saudi Arabia’s expansive desert, a groundbreaking venture named Gidori is taking shape, offering a visionary escape for those seeking a blend of modern luxury, stunning landscapes, and outdoor recreation. Envisioned as a futuristic haven, Gidori stands as a testament to Saudi Arabia’s commitment to innovation and excellence in the realm of architecture and leisure.

Designers: Ignacio Gomez and Lama Al Kharboush

Gidori’s masterminds, architects from Aedas, are orchestrating a visual spectacle in the desert. With plans for 200 villas and homes seamlessly integrated into the natural surroundings, Gidori embraces the desert landscape rather than competing with it. At the heart of this ambitious project is the Monolith, an awe-inspiring beachfront complex featuring 190 cantilevering apartments adorned with glass and metallic surfaces. Drawing inspiration from the rugged beauty of natural rock formations, the Monolith is a gravity-defying structure that combines futuristic aesthetics with organic grace. Inside its embrace, residents and visitors can explore dining havens, retail spaces, and lush gardens, creating an immersive experience that blurs the lines between nature and architecture.

Beyond its architectural marvels, Gidori promises a luxurious escape with a carefully curated set of amenities. The boutique hotel, boasting 80 rooms, becomes a sanctuary of comfort and sophistication. Guests can relish the culinary delights of the hotel’s restaurants and unwind in the cozy lounges, ensuring a memorable stay. For golf enthusiasts, Gidori’s 18-hole championship golf course weaves through the low hills and rocky outcrops, challenging players with innovative design, breathtaking coastal views, and cutting-edge technology. The clubhouse mirrors this elegance, offering a refined space for hospitality, while the golf academy caters to traditional and e-sports aficionados alike, ushering in a new era of recreational engagement.

Gidori’s charm extends beyond its architectural grandeur and luxurious accommodations. The project embraces the natural beauty of the surroundings, emphasizing outdoor activities and lush landscaping. Trails for hiking wind through the terrain, offering both relaxed and challenging routes for nature enthusiasts. Cyclists, whether sticking to the road or venturing off the beaten path, will find Gidori a haven for exploration. Along the beach, a tranquil club invites guests to enjoy water sports and unwind in a serene atmosphere. As the sun sets, Gidori unveils observation platforms that provide unparalleled views of the night sky, creating an enchanting space for stargazers.

Gidori’s announcement aligns with Saudi Arabia’s ambitious vision for development, as evidenced by the progress of the 170-km-long Line project and plans for a towering 2-km skyscraper. Together, these ventures showcase the nation’s forward-thinking approach, pushing the boundaries of architectural innovation and sustainable luxury on a global stage.

The post Saudi Arabia’s New Luxurious Vacation Spot For Golf Enthusiasts first appeared on Yanko Design.

When companies mention the term “backward compatibility”, it seldom means revamping their products from 30 years ago… but Bang & Olufsen’s managed to pull off the unthinkable. You see, people who own B&O sound-systems do so because they’re passionate about audio quality – and if there’s one thing all audiophiles will agree to, it’s that analog sound systems from the years gone by are still the gold-standard in sound quality. The only problem is that they aren’t designed to be wireless. Not that any audiophile would dream about listening to Spotify on their state-of-the-art sound system, but there’s admittedly a certain convenience to being able to play any song directly from your phone on wireless speakers. Announced just this month, Bang & Olufsen’s latest device lets you do just that. The Beoconnect Core, priced at £999 ($1150 USD), is an intermediary wireless hub that turns all of B&O’s older speakers wireless, connecting the rich, auditory legacy of Bang & Olufsen with the convenience of today’s streaming culture.

Designer: Bang & Olufsen

Not to be confused with the BeoSound Core from 5 years ago, the Beoconnect Core is B&O’s latest accessory designed to be infinitely backward compatible with the company’s entire speaker catalog. The Beoconnect Core transforms legacy speakers, some dating back more than 30 years, into modern wireless systems capable of streaming music from any app, connecting to turntables, or even enhancing TV audio for a cinematic experience. This device is a celebration of the brand’s heritage, ensuring that the beloved sound systems can continue to create memorable moments in the digital age.

“Our aim is to build product icons that can last a lifetime, and Beoconnect Core is an important addition to our product offering, that enables us to deliver on this longevity promise. Beoconnect Core connects our past with our future and comes with our replaceable Mozart streaming module that can easily be upgraded to the newest technology”, says Michael Henriksson, Vice President of Product Marketing at Bang & Olufsen. “This means that the products that our customers love can be used for years to come and continue to provide memorable moments”.

The Beoconnect Core’s understated design complements any room’s aesthetic. Its gently curved, pearl-blasted aluminum chassis is as stylish as it is functional, efficiently dissipating heat. The non-conductive cover ensures clear and uninterrupted antenna reception. For a truly integrated experience, the Core can be seamlessly docked into a BeoSound Shape tile using a custom-designed bracket. The Core’s design prioritizes easy upgradeability too. Its functionality is future-proofed by the replaceable Mozart streaming module, ensuring your system stays compatible with the latest streaming technologies. This commitment to longevity extends to the Cradle-to-Cradle design principles used in the Core’s construction, minimizing environmental impact and maximizing serviceability.

As far as compatibility goes, the Beoconnect Core offers a variety of options to integrate your B&O speakers seamlessly into your existing setup. Powerlink and USB connections ensure optimal performance with Beolab 50 and Beolab 90 speakers, while a line-in port allows for the connection of turntables and other audio sources. But the Core’s capabilities extend beyond pure audio. It features an HDMI eARC connection, enabling you to connect your B&O speakers to any TV and experience the immersive power of Bang & Olufsen sound with your favorite movies and shows. So if you’ve got yourself some B&O speakers from more than a decade ago (when wireless connectivity wasn’t really much of a priority for high-end audio companies), the $1150 Core is a worthwhile investment in future-proofing your sound system to be compatible with latest streaming apps while still retaining its ability to default back to the glorious analog playback whenever you want.

The post Bang & Olufsen’s wireless hub turns even their 30-year-old speakers into smart Bluetooth devices first appeared on Yanko Design.

The design and especially the price of Apple’s devices easily mark these products as luxurious goods. Thus it’s not that unusual for owners to be overprotective of their expensive investments, covering them up with protective cases that sometimes trade style for protection. Fortunately, there is a class of accessories that actually add even more class to these devices, particularly through the use of luxurious materials like leather. For more than a decade, the name “Pad & Quill” became synonymous with these leather accessories, offering elegant protection for Apple’s premium products, but it, unfortunately, had to file for bankruptcy last year. The name might be gone, but its legacy now lives on in a new brand from the same founder, continuing the practice of delivering high-end leather products to match your equally high-end iPhone, iPad, or MacBook.

Designer: Brian Holmes

Nothing says stylish luxury better than leather. There will always be arguments regarding the way it’s sourced and produced, but there’s little debate that the material is immediately associated with premium products. Some smartphones even try to ride on that trend by slapping some vegan leather on their backs, but the real deal is harder to pull off unless it’s on an accessory.

Pad & Quill is a name that Apple fans have looked to when it comes to those leather accessories, but due to the recent pandemic, the business had to close down a few months ago. That’s not to say there’s no longer a market for premium leather Apple accessories, just that the brand folded due to circumstances. Thankfully, P&Q’s founder isn’t calling it quits and has started a new endeavor with a new name but with the same mission.

Burton Goods will continue the legacy of offering high-quality leather cases for Apple’s latest products. It isn’t just about using leather, though, and the brand is promoting its precision craftsmanship, attention to detail, and practical functionality alongside the material. Of course, these accessories also serve to protect your precious Apple devices while also being durable products themselves.

At the moment, Burton Goods’ selection of products is limited to Apple’s latest models, from the iPhone to the iPad Pro to the MacBook Pro to even the Apple Watch. There are also plans to include leather bags that will bring these all together, but the exact timeline for their appearance has yet to be revealed. The revival of Pad & Quill’s spirit does also resurrects the question of the sustainability of genuine leather, and it might be a good opportunity for this niche market to reassess that aspect of luxury for the sake of future generations.

The post Pad & Quill leather accessories for Apple products live on in new brand first appeared on Yanko Design.