IWC Schaffhausen launches limited-edition Big Pilot’s Watch Shock Absorber XPL dedicated to Toto Wolff
Schaffhausen, 17th February 2025: As the Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One™ Team gears up for the new season, IWC Schaffhausen presents the Big Pilot’s Watch Shock Absorber XPL Toto Wolff x Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One™ Team. Limited to 100 pieces, it combines the Swiss luxury watch manufacturer’s Sprin-g Protect® shock absorber system with a technical design inspired by the team’s colours. The shock absorber spring is manufactured from a bulk metallic glass and coated with Petronas green Super-LumiNova®. Formula One™ is a sport that demands everything from the drivers and their teams. In their narrow cockpit, the drivers are constantly being thrown around and exposed to high centrifugal forces when braking or cornering. However, the emotions also run high off the racetrack, all the way up to Toto Wolff. When the racing action on the track sparked maximum levels of excitement, the CEO and principal of the Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1™ Team has been spotted wearing a prototype of the Big Pilot’s Watch Shock Absorber XPL. These moments have inspired a watch that is engineered to withstand the enormous stresses of Formula One™, also on Toto Wolff’s wrist. As the team unveils its race car for the 2025 season and welcomes George Russell’s new teammate, driver Kimi Antonelli, the Swiss luxury watch manufacturer launches the Big Pilot’s Watch Shock Absorber XPL Toto Wolff x Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One™ Team (Ref. IW356201). Limited to 100 pieces, it combines IWC’s Sprin-g Protect® shock absorber system with a technical design inspired by the team’s black and Petronas green colour scheme. The spring that protects the movement against the extreme g-forces generated by impacts on the watch has been coated with Super-LumiNova® in the team’s signature green and glows in the dark. Protecting the Movement from High G-Forces The patented Sprin-g Protect® shock absorber system was developed by IWC’s engineering division XPL and first introduced with the Big Pilot’s Watch Shock Absorber XPL (Ref. IW357201) in 2021. Taking movement shock protection to the next level, it is based on a cantilever spring that cushions the movement inside the case. If the watch suffers an impact on the case, the movement and the case typically are subjected to high g-forces. The spring absorbs a large portion of these forces before they can reach the movement. Designed with a special form allowing it to evenly spread the stress across its length and width, the spring is manufactured from a bulk metallic glass (BMG). Thanks to a complex manufacturing process, this advanced material is significantly more elastic than conventional crystalline metals. Ceratanium® Case and Blackened Movement The Big Pilot’s Watch Shock Absorber XPL Toto Wolff x Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One™ Team features a case and crown made of Ceratanium®. Developed by IWC, this advanced material combines the lightness and robustness of titanium with a hardness similar to ceramic. The black dial features a grainy technical structure, which is stamped into the brass base with a special tool. The newly designed triangular black hands also feature Super-LumiNova® around their edges. The outer ring with the minute scale appears to be floating freely on lamellae attached around the dial. The watch is powered by the IWC-manufactured 32101 calibre with a double pawl automatic winding system and a power reserve of 120 hours. The plates, bridges, and oscillating mass are blackened to match the all-black design. The movement is visible through a tinted sapphire glass case back featuring a print with Toto’s signature. It is fitted with an integrated green rubber strap. An additional black rubber strap is included as an accessory.
Junior’s Opens Fifth Branch in Al Wakrah, Bringing its Famous Dining Experience to the Community
Doha, Qatar – February 16th, 2025 – junior’s Qatar is excited to announce the grand opening of its newest branch in Al Wakrah, marking a significant milestone in the brand’s expansion across Qatar. The highly anticipated event featured a ribbon-cutting ceremony, family entertainment, and exclusive offers for attendees, creating an unforgettable experience for all. This new location is junior’s fifth branch in Qatar, following the successful opening of the Izghawa branch earlier in January 2025. The expansion into Al Wakrah is a testament to junior’s continued growth and its unwavering commitment to providing an exceptional dining experience to customers in more communities across the country. The New Love is excited to bring its popular food, excellent service, and welcoming atmosphere to the Al Wakrah community, further strengthening its presence in Qatar. “We are thrilled to open our doors to Al Wakrah and be a part of this vibrant community. It’s a major step in our strategic plan to expand our footprint in Qatar,” said Mr. Abdulla Al Ansari, CEO of Al Ansari Group and Founder of junior’s. “We have received countless requests from the customers to bring junior’s to this part of Qatar, and we are glad to bring them The New Love. Our goal is to serve high-quality food and create a warm and welcoming space where families and friends can come together. This opening represents our ongoing commitment to investing in our local community and catering to our customers wherever they are.” junior’s expansion into Al Wakrah underscores the brand’s commitment to fostering stronger community connections and enhancing customer experiences throughout Qatar. By bringing the same great food and service to a new location, junior’s ensures that its loyal customers have even more convenient access to their favorite dining experience. With each new location, junior’s further solidifies its position as a key player in the Qatari dining scene, blending quality, community, and consistency in every burger served. Whether it’s a casual meal with family or a gathering with friends, junior’s continues to be the destination where unforgettable moments are made.
Al Fardan and Mouawad Take Jewellery to the Next Level
Doha, Qatar – Al Fardan Jewellery, a house of heritage and distinction, proudly announces its strategic partnership with Mouawad, the prestigious high jewellery house renowned for its timeless elegance and exceptional craftsmanship. This collaboration marks a significant moment in the world of fine jewellery, offering discerning clients exclusive access to Mouawad’s exquisite creations within Al Fardan Jewellery’s distinguished boutiques. A Legacy of Pearls and Unparalleled Craftsmanship This partnership unites two legendary houses that share an unwavering commitment to artistry, refinement, and excellence. Al Fardan Jewellery, an esteemed name with a history deeply rooted in the pearl trading industry, has long been synonymous with prestige and exclusivity. For generations, the Al Fardan family has been instrumental in preserving the region’s illustrious pearl diving heritage, sourcing the world’s most coveted natural pearls, and transforming them into breathtaking masterpieces. Under the visionary leadership of Hussein Ibrahim Al Fardan, the brand has curated some of the most exquisite pearl collections, including rare and historically significant pieces treasured by collectors worldwide. Through this collaboration, Al Fardan Jewellery will not only showcase Mouawad’s high jewellery and fine jewellery collections but will also continue its dedication to preserving and celebrating its pearl heritage. This partnership presents an extraordinary opportunity for clients to explore a unique blend of contemporary elegance and timeless tradition—where Mouawad’s artistry meets Al Fardan’s legacy of pearls. Statements from Leadership Mouawad Co-Guardians shared their enthusiasm about the partnership: “We are delighted to join forces with Al Fardan Jewellery, a brand that shares our passion for excellence, exclusivity, and timeless elegance. This partnership will provide a unique opportunity for collectors and jewellery enthusiasts to experience Mouawad’s exceptional craftsmanship through a trusted and established luxury retailer.” A statement by Mr. Ali Al Fardan: “For decades, Al Fardan Jewellery has been at the forefront of luxury, rooted in our deep heritage in pearls and fine jewellery. Our partnership with Mouawad is a natural alignment of our values, bringing together two houses that embody craftsmanship, heritage, and exclusivity. We look forward to presenting our clients with not only Mouawad’s extraordinary creations but also a celebration of our own rich history, particularly our legacy in natural pearls.”
Michelin-starred chef Surender Mohan returns to Jamavar Doha for an exclusive culinary celebration
Doha, Qatar – Jamavar Doha, the pan-Indian dining destination at the iconic Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel, is thrilled to welcome back its Culinary Director and Michelin-starred Chef Surender Mohan for a special visit from February 17th to 22nd, 2025. This marks his first appearance at the restaurant since it earned its prestigious Michelin star, a milestone achieved during Doha’s Michelin Guide ceremony in December 2024. Chef Surender Mohan, a celebrated figure in the culinary world, has been instrumental in shaping Jamavar’s legacy across London, Doha and Dubai. His visit offers a unique opportunity for guests to indulge in an exclusive Chef’s Special Tasting Menu, showcasing his signature blend of authentic Indian flavors and contemporary flair. Kicking off his visit, Chef Surender will represent Jamavar Doha at the Qatar Food Festival on February 19th, offering culinary enthusiasts a glimpse of his masterful creations. Adding to the celebration, Jamavar Doha will host a series of culinary experiences for a vibrant showcase of the restaurant’s award-winning cuisine. Reflecting on the significance of his return, Chef Surender Mohan shared: “Returning to Jamavar Doha after achieving a Michelin star is a proud moment for our team. This recognition is a testament to our commitment to excellence, and I am excited to share a selection of special dishes that embody Jamavar’s essence with our valued guests in Doha.” Don’t miss this exclusive opportunity to experience the artistry of Chef Surender Mohan and celebrate Jamavar Doha’s Michelin milestone with a variety of exclusive dining experiences; Chef’s Tasting Menu: February 18-22 as of 12:30pm, 5-course menu for QR295 Peat Dinner with Brand Ambassador: February 20, 7pm onwards, 4-course menu with paired drinks for QR495 Royal Brunch with Chef Surender: February 21, 12:30pm-4pm, for QR300 Chef’s Tasting Menu with iconic grapes & signature Jamavar creations: February 21, 7pm onwards, 4-course menu for QR475 For more information and bookings: Website: https://jamavarrestaurants.com/indian-restaurant-doha/ Reservations: +974 4485 3000 Instagram: @jamavardoha
Moscow Strengthens Tourism Ties with Qatar Amid Growing Visitor Numbers
Doha, Qatar – [February, 12] – The Moscow City Tourism Committee embarked on a strategic roadshow in the Middle East, reinforcing its commitment to fostering long-term tourism partnerships. With Qatar emerging as a key market, the delegation is focused on accelerating visitor growth, deepening collaboration, and showcasing Moscow as a premier destination for travelers from the region. Tourism between Moscow and the Qatar has witnessed unprecedented growth. In the first nine months of 2024, approximately 9,000 travelers visited Moscow — a remarkable increase compared to the entire year of 2023 and three times higher than the number recorded in 2019. The seamless visa-free entry and 14 weekly direct flights between Moscow and Doha have significantly facilitated travel, further cementing Moscow’s appeal as a key destination for Middle Eastern visitors. During meetings in Doha, discussions focused on elevating Moscow’s appeal among Qatar visitors by leveraging cultural exchange, exclusive events, and tailored travel experiences. Popular travel segments among Middle Eastern visitors include group, family, corporate, medical, and sports tourism, each designed to provide immersive and personalized experiences. During his meeting with representatives of the tourism sector, His Excellency Mr. Dmitry Dogadkin, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Russian Federation to the State of Qatar, acknowledged the contributions of the Moscow City Tourism Committee. “We are pleased to see that a growing number of Qataris and expatriates in the country are becoming more familiar with Moscow, its culture, and its history, providing them with a broader opportunity to discover Russia,” said the Ambassador. “We hear only positive feedback from tourists who have visited our capital and other cities in Russia.” His Excellency highlighted the nature of the Russia-Qatar relations, which are based on the principle of mutual respect, emphasizing the importance of strengthening economic cooperation in all areas of shared interest. In this context, the Russian diplomat explained that tourism remains a strong bridge between nations and a key element in enhancing human and cultural ties between people. As part of its ongoing efforts to enhance the experience for Middle Eastern tourists, Moscow is making significant investments in hospitality, infrastructure, and visitor services. The city is expanding its high-end accommodation options, enhancing Arabic-language accessibility, and curating exceptional culinary experiences to cater to Middle Eastern preferences. “Moscow is rapidly becoming a preferred destination for tourists from the Middle East thanks to our well-developed infrastructure, mild climate, and unique blend of modern amenities with rich Russian traditions. Our official tourism portal, Discover Moscow, serves as an invaluable resource for international visitors, providing essential travel information and guiding them through the city’s attractions. With over 22,000 dining options, an unrivaled shopping scene, and an iconic metro system that doubles as a cultural landmark, Moscow offers an enriching experience for every visitor,” said Evgeny Kozlov, Chairman of the Moscow City Tourism Committee. As Moscow continues to position itself as a must-visit global destination, expanding strategic partnerships with the Qatar remains a priority. The city is set to introduce innovative tourism formats, immersive cultural experiences, and expanded guided tours to attract more visitors from the Qatar and beyond. In Moscow, there’s an international restaurant guide called GreatList.com, now available in English and Arabic. It operates in Doha, Dubai, and many other countries worldwide. The guide showcases over 100 restaurants, organized for any occasion. Furthermore, the founder, Alexander Sysoev, has announced plans to introduce a loyalty program specifically for tourists from Qatar.Tourists from Qatar increasingly view Moscow as a new and unique destination offering high-end experiences, including luxury shopping and five-star accommodations. Qatar travelers represent a key segment of Moscow’s growing tourism industry. For more information, please visit: For media inquiries, please contact: presstourism@mos.ru The Moscow City Tourism Committee
Gadget Guide: Ring 2 – The sleek smart ring that tracks your health in style
This is a health tracker designed for everyday comfort and sophistication. This innovative smart ring features advanced heart health monitoring with ECG capabilities, providing detailed insights into your heart’s performance. Whether you’re tracking your fitness or monitoring your well-being, it delivers accurate, real-time data to help you stay proactive. Thanks to its extended battery life, the Circular Ring 2 offers up to 8 days of uninterrupted use. When it’s time to recharge, the upgraded wireless charging dock ensures a seamless and quick power-up. Made for style and durability, the ring boasts an elegant titanium design with a jewellery-like aesthetic. It’s available in stunning finishes, including Gold, Silver, Black, and Rose Gold. It’s the perfect blend of form and function, adding a touch of luxury to your everyday look. Pair it with the enhanced Circular app, which features intuitive navigation and personalised AI-driven insights, to easily control your health journey. With its cutting-edge technology, premium build, and sophisticated design, the Circular Ring 2 is more than just a health tracker – it’s a statement piece for modern living.
Brand rejuvenation & it’s role in brand excellence
Alain Crevet, president of S.T. Dupont, in conversation with Aparajita Mukherjee talks not only about his corporate moves but that of the French maison globally known for a horde of luxury articles – from writing instruments to leather good, from lighters to accessories. He delves into his personal recollections of why and how this heritage house is where it is: and courage to face challenges and survive these is one of the reasons for its long-standing history, right from 1872. BL: Talk us through your professional journey. Crevet: My professional journey has been shaped by a passion for heritage, innovation, and global excellence. After graduating from HEC Paris in 1983, I began my career at Procter & Gamble, where I spent over 15 years in key leadership roles, including marketing director for Europe and general manager for Mexico and Central America. These positions honed my expertise in international business development, strategic marketing, and global brand stewardship. In 2000, I transitioned to the luxury sector as president of Givenchy Parfums at LVMH. Over six years, I revitalised the brand, collaborated with Givenchy Couture, and contributed to the growth of LVMH’s perfumes & cosmetics division, refining my approach to blending creativity and French excellence. Since 2006, I have been privileged to lead S.T. Dupont, rejuvenating the brand by honouring its artisanal craftsmanship and technical ingenuity. Under my leadership, it has reinforced its position in the luxury market, becoming a trusted supplier to the French state and a symbol of elegance appreciated by cultural and political figures worldwide. BL: What about French design excellence do you think appeals to the global audience that S.T. Dupont has for long been able to connect with? Crevet: French design excellence is the epitome of timeless elegance, combining artistry, meticulous craftsmanship, and an innate sense of refinement. At S.T. Dupont, a maison with nearly three centuries of history, this legacy is at the heart of everything we create. Our commitment to preserving traditional savoir-faire while embracing innovation ensures that each piece embodies the finest materials and the highest standards of craftsmanship. For our global audience, this translates into more than just luxury – it’ s an invitation to connect with a piece of French heritage that seamlessly marries functionality and aesthetic perfection. S.T. Dupont is proud to represent the timeless elegance that continues to captivate and inspire across generations and borders. BL: While recruiting for a company such as S.T. Dupont what 5 qualities do you look for in your new employee? Crevet: When recruiting for S.T. Dupont, I seek individuals who embody a passion for craftsmanship – a genuine appreciation for the artistry and precision that define our maison. Adaptability and agility are equally important, as the ability to navigate a dynamic global market and respond effectively to its ever-evolving demands is critical in maintaining our relevance and success. Creativity is another essential quality, as we aim to push boundaries while honouring the rich traditions of our tricentennial history. At S.T. Dupont, team spirit is fundamental; collaboration lies at the heart of our excellence, enabling us to bring together diverse talents to create exceptional products. Finally, integrity is non-negotiable. Upholding the values of a brand steeped in heritage requires a deep commitment to authenticity, transparency, and respect for our legacy. These qualities together ensure that every team member contributes meaningfully to the enduring success of S.T. Dupont. BL: How do you assess Qatar as a S.T. Dupont market? Are Dubai or Kuwait any different? Crevet: Qatar is an essential market for S.T. Dupont, where tradition, heritage, and modernity converge – values that resonate deeply with our Maison. Our long-standing collaboration with Ali Bin Ali Luxury exemplifies our commitment to this market. Together, we work to ensure S.T. Dupont remains relevant and desirable, adapting to the evolving tastes of Qatari clientele. The recent opening of our boutique at Villaggio Mall in Doha reflects our dedication to expanding our presence and meeting local expectations. Compared to Dubai, which is a dynamic hub attracting a global audience, and Kuwait, which emphasises exclusivity and tradition, Qatar offers a unique balance of both worlds. This harmony allows us to engage with a discerning population that appreciates authenticity, craftsmanship, and innovation. Qatar remains a cornerstone of our Middle Eastern strategy, and we are excited to continue evolving alongside this vibrant and forward-thinking market. BL: Market expansion is a requirement for every company – what factors drive S.T. Dupont’s market expansion philosophy? Crevet: S.T. Dupont’s market expansion philosophy is rooted in a commitment to authenticity, exclusivity, and balance. Unlike some brands that heavily prioritise specific regions, such as Asia, we strive for a harmonious presence across all key global markets. This approach allows us to remain true to our heritage while connecting with discerning clients worldwide. We carefully identify regions where there is a genuine cultural appreciation for craftsmanship, ensuring that our offerings resonate with local preferences. Partnerships play a pivotal role in this strategy, especially those grounded in history and mutual respect. For instance, we have enjoyed over 50 years of collaboration with Chalhoub Group in the Gulf region. In the 1970s, S.T. Dupont was among the first luxury brands, alongside Christofle and Baccarat, to partner with Chalhoub, establishing a legacy that continues to flourish. Our philosophy also prioritises long-term relationships with partners who are connoisseurs and share a deep appreciation for history and artistry. This ensures that our brand remains positioned as a symbol of timeless elegance and refined craftsmanship. Additionally, strategic digital initiatives and selective collaborations with luxury retailers enable us to reach new audiences while maintaining the exclusivity and premium positioning that define S.T. Dupont. This balanced, thoughtful approach allows us to expand without compromising the values that have shaped our maison for nearly three centuries. BL: Where do you see S.T. Du Pont in 3 years – in terms of business, in terms of values, in terms of what it stands for in the clients’ eyes? Crevet: In three years, I envision S.T. Dupont as a leader
Book Rack – The Life Impossible by Matt Haig: A tale within tales
Matt Haig writes from his heart. And that’s one recipe for a remarkable piece of writing. Filled with wonder and wild adventure, this is a story of hope and the life-changing power of a new beginning. “What looks like magic is simply a part of life we don’t understand yet…” – that’s how lyrical and magical is Haig’s understanding of life. The Life Impossible tells the story of a retired math teacher Grace Winters who is left a run-down house on a Mediterranean island by a long-lost friend. At this place, curiosity gets the better of her and Winters arrives in Ibiza with a one-way ticket, no guidebook and no plan. Among the rugged hills and golden beaches of the island, Grace searches for answers about her friend’s life, and how it ended. What she uncovers is stranger than she could have dreamed. But to dive into this impossible truth, Grace must first come to terms with her past. In many ways, The Life Impossible is a story of contrasts. Grace travels from her bleak bungalow in Lincoln to solve a crime on the most vibrant island in the world. As her unlikely friendship with Alberto progresses, her mathematical mind embraces the improbable, and she is released from anhedonia – going from feeling nothing at all to feeling everything. The many seemingly unrelated references Haig brings, from Nostradamus to Freddie Mercury, Shakespeare to Hill Street Blues, all begin to weave together, and the only way Grace will save herself – and the island – is to embrace those connections. Haig’s wise and moving novel is both a mystery and a love story, and its greatest gift lies in showing us that it is possible to dismantle the boundaries we have built, grasp the connections previously hidden, and appreciate life in all its richness. While it was a slow start, this became such a moving tale. It covers so much: grief, loss, acceptance, found family, Ibiza’s complicated past and present, impacts of tourism, mistakes, second chances, and more.
App Snap: Bluesky – A good option to try!
Touted as the next-best alternative to X (erstwhile Twitter), Bluesky lets you carry your social graph – essentially your connections – with you across apps that adopt the protocol since it runs on AT Protocol For starters, Bluesky is growing fast with a swamp since the recent US election. December 2024 figures show that it has over 24 million users. It comes as a relief that Bluesky has no central algorithm feeding you posts based on some popularity contest but from genuine engagement: posts gain visibility based on how many users like. In Bluesky, feeds are user-created streams of content centered around specific topics. Bluesky’s blocking feature is quite strict. Users refer to it as a “Nuclear Block” because it effectively erases any connection between you and the blocked user in the digital space. Their verification method is that by default when you get a handle on bsky.social, you can register your own domain as a handle. Bluesky is ads free, as of now. Fueled by its decentralised protocol and vibrant user community, Bluesky’s rapid growth has raised questions about its financial future and whether it will embrace ads. Bluesky offers a variety of tools and apps to customise your experience. The official app is available on iPhone and Android, while iPad users can explore third-party clients.
Qatar set to host the 51st UN Tourism Regional Commission for the Middle East
Qatar Tourism is preparing to host the 51st UN Tourism Regional Commission for the Middle East, set to take place in Doha on February 12th. The meeting will bring together tourism ministers, senior officials, and experts from various countries in the region, as well as leadership from the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism). The selection of Doha as the host city underscores Qatar’s growing status as a regional and global hub in the tourism sector and its leadership role in promoting both regional and international cooperation. This is especially significant considering the country’s recent successes in hosting major global events, most notably the FIFA World Cup 2022™. During the meeting, the UN Tourism will present reports on the sector’s performance for the 2024-2025 period, and future policies and plans will be discussed. HE Mr. Saad Bin Ali Al Kharji, Chairman of Qatar Tourism and Chair of the Board of Directors of Visit Qatar, stated: “Hosting the 51st meeting of the UN Tourism Regional Commission for the Middle East reflects our steadfast commitment to enhancing regional cooperation and developing the tourism sector as a key driver of economic and social growth. Qatar has proven its capability to organise and host major international events, establishing itself as a global model for sustainable tourism. We are confident that this meeting will further advance regional cooperation in the tourism sector, and we look forward to exchanging ideas and expertise with partners from across the region to bolster the Middle East’s position as a unique global tourism destination.” In addition to the ministerial sessions and official meetings, the conference titled “Sports Tourism and the Tourism Industry Post-World Cup” will be held on February 13th at the Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Centre, featuring a distinguished group of experts and specialists. The conference will explore the impact of major sporting events on tourism in the Middle East, their role in fostering sustainable tourism, and the role of technology in enhancing the sports tourism experience. It will also focus on how Qatar and its neighbouring countries are collaborating to establish the Middle East as a global sports tourism destination, and the role sport plays in enhancing destination branding across the region, drawing on Qatar’s successes and the lessons learned from its experiences. Qatar Tourism remains committed to advancing its ambitious strategy to establish Qatar as a leading global tourism destination, focusing on diversifying tourism offerings, enhancing visitor experiences, and fostering sector investment, all in line with Qatar National Vision 2030. Additionally, efforts to strengthen regional collaboration through platforms such as UN Tourism are contributing to the development of a more integrated and sustainable tourism sector.
