9.30.2008

Mercedes McLaren SLR Roadster 722 S




The new Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster 722 S opens up astonishing dimensions when it comes to open-top driving. Delivering 478 kW/650 hp, acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.7 seconds and a maximum speed of 335 km/h, this two-seater cabriolet surpasses the existing benchmark among open-top super sports cars – the SLR McLaren Roadster. Both vehicles feature a fully retractable folding soft top capable of withstanding the high speed and are made of carbon fibre. This endows both models with a very high degree of safety and extreme torsional stiffness. In addition to increased power, the new SLR McLaren Roadster 722 S features even more dynamic suspension tuning and improved aerodynamics.


While enjoying exceptional performance, the new roadster’s occupants in no way lose out in terms of comfort or the vehicle’s suitability for everyday use. With its sporty, premium-quality interior appointments and distinctive motorsport pedigree, the new SLR McLaren Roadster 722 S is limited to 150 vehicles and will inspire the most discerning automotive enthusiasts.

Spectacular dimensions in open-top driving are opened up by the new Mercedes-Benz SLRMcLaren Roadster 722 S. With an output of 478 kW/650 hp, acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.7 seconds and a top speed of 335 km/h, this open two-seater betters the standard set for open-air super-sports cars by the SLR McLaren Roadster. Both have a fully recessible soft top suitable for high speed driving, and are made from carbon fibre. This produces a very high level of safety and extremely high torsional strength. In addition to a higher engine output, the new SLR McLaren Roadster 722 S has an even more dynamic suspension setup and further aerodynamic improvements.

By naming this new model variant the SLRRoadster 722 S, Mercedes-Benz is recalling the historic victory won at the classic Mille Miglia long-distance race in 1955 by British motor-racing legend Stirling Moss and his co-driver Dennis Jenkinson, in a Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR with the starting number 722. The Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster 722 S continues the legend of the successful 1950s SLR racing sports cars, with innovative technology adopted from the world of motorsport.

Engine hand-built by AMG

The powerful heart of the SLR Roadster 722 S is a supercharged 5.5-litre V8 engine which is hand-built in the Mercedes-AMG engine shop in Affalterbach. The special strengths of this high-performance engine include extraordinary responsiveness to movements of the accelerator, a high torque and an unmistakable V8 sound. Moreover, with an output of 478 kW/650 hp and 820 Nm of torque, power is on tap almost to excess (SLR McLaren Roadster: 460 kW/626 hp, 780 Nm). Accordingly the new model variant meets the wishes of the most discerning customers for even more sportiness combined with excellent day-to-day practicality.
The five-speed automatic transmission developed by Mercedes-Benz is designed for high performance. It is specially configured for a very high torque, and allows the driver to choose between two sets of shift characteristics. As a result the roadster achieves performance figures that are even outstanding for the high-end sports car segment: the SLR Roadster 722 S absolves a sprint from zero to 100 km/h in a breathtaking 3.7 seconds, and 200 km/h is reached in 10.6 seconds. The maximum speed is 335 km/h, which is unrivalled by any other series-production roadster.

Even more dynamic suspension setup

The spring and shock absorber configurations of the suspension are stiffer, and the body has been lowered by 10 millimetres at the front and rear. This ensures the greater handling stability of the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster 722 S, with a significant improvement in handling dynamics. The lightweight, 19-inch forged aluminium wheels allow a view of the red-painted brake callipers on the highly-resistant carbon-fibre/ceramic brake discs, which make for impressive deceleration figures.

Sophisticated aerodynamics and a fabric soft top suited to high-speed driving

The outstanding qualities of the 722 S are complemented by the fully recessible fabric soft top, which blends harmoniously into the flowing lines of the roadster. The weave structure of this high-tech roof material reflects the carbon-fibre look, guarantees full day-to-day suitability in any weather conditions and allows the vehicle a top speed of 335 km/h – a unusual figure for a roadster. Thanks to favourable aeroacoustics, conversation during open-air journeys is still possible at well over 200 km/h.

The soft top opens and closes semi-automatically in around ten seconds, combining comfort expectations with the purist nature of the roadster. For opening, the roof needs to be unlatched at the windscreen frame and lifted slightly, after which it folds down electrically. The front section of the soft top features an integral aluminium cap, which effectively prevents “ballooning” at high speeds.

The handling and aerodynamics of this high-end roadster were optimised for high speeds in the wind tunnel. The aerodynamic concept follows that of the SLR Coupé, with an airbrake integrated into the boot lid, an enclosed underbody and a diffusor in the rear bumper to ensure the greatest possible downforce on the rear axle. The so-called airsplitter at the front end augments this downforce, while small wheel spoilers reduce turbulence at the rear axle. The result is precise handling and steering at high speeds.

Outstanding performance and safety thanks to carbon fibre technology

In technical terms the 722 S benefits from the long experience of Mercedes-Benz and its Formula-1 partner McLaren. With the exception of two aluminium frames, the body is completely of carbon-fibre materials (CFRP). This makes it highly exceptional among high-performance sports cars. Especially for the roadster, the sophisticated carbon-fibre technology was developed further for the monocoque. The result is low weight, exemplary energy absorption and therefore a high level of occupant safety, plus a torsional rigidity that is unprecedented for an open-top car. It allows outstanding handling characteristics that are otherwise only found in closed super-sports cars.

A high level of safety is provided by unique carbon-fibre crash structures, steel-reinforced A-pillars and two fixed rollover bars. Other safety features include adaptive airbags, knee and sidebags, belt tensioners and a tyre pressure monitoring system.

A thoroughly sporty appearance

The roadster has a crystal antimony grey paint finish, which highlights the sculptured look of this high-performance car particularly effectively. The carbon-fibre technology is visually complemented by the black, grid-like air vents on the bonnet and the front and rear light modules with palladium grey surrounds.
In the interior, outstanding lateral support is guaranteed by sports bucket seats upholstered in a combination of semi-aniline leather/Alcantara. Striking visual highlights are provided by the contrasting seams in 300 SL red, the embossed 722 S lettering on the head restraints and the likewise red seat belts. Frequently used controls such as the shift and parking brake levers are lined in particularly high-grip and moisture-absorbing suede leather. In the interior too, the generous use of carbon-fibre underlines the high-performance philosophy and adds a particularly puristic touch.

Exclusive appointments

The exclusive appointments include two-zone automatic climate control, a high-quality BOSE Premium sound system, a multifunction sports steering wheel with shift paddles and a navigation system with an integrated radio and CD player.

This limited edition of 150 examples is predominantly hand-built at the Formula 1 workshops of McLaren in Woking, England, and is available from January 1, 2009.

Bollinger James Bond Champagne CoolerBollinger James Bond Champagne Cooler




To celebrate the release of The Quantum Of Solace, Bollinger have released a limited edition champagne cooler in the shape of a Walther PPK bullet. The bullet is designed to fit and cool a bottle of Bollinger. Only two hundred and seven will be made and will be available.

The Custom Line 112′ Next


Custom Line has launched their new flagship yacht - The Custom Line 112′ Next. The Custom Line 112′ Next is a tri-deck composite hulled yacht which has a large salon on the main deck which features a very large window from the stern to the bow. The lower desk can sleep twenty guests and four crew members. The yacht is fitted with twin MTU M90 2775 hp engines giving it a top speed of twenty seven knots.

Piaget Collectors Trunk By Pinel & Pinel


Swiss jeweler Piaget have teamed up with trunk makers Pinel & Pinel to create the Piaget Collectors Trunk. The Piaget Collectors Trunk is designed to store fifty one watches and includes integrated watch winders. The trunk features integrated lighting which is controlled by remote control and a small table and mirror

Litron leather wine carrier


Litron is leather wine carrier from Qooqed. The Litron is stitched leather bottle carrier for just 35$US.

Angular Momentum "artisan rings"


Angular Momentum has launched the new "artisan rings." There are four styles in white gold accented with diamonds and set under curved sapphire crystals reports Luxist.

* The Guilloche Negoro Artisan Ring "Negoro Koi" features a hand-carved Japanese lacquer medallion of a Koi carp on a guilloche ground.
* The Guilloche Noir Artisan Ring "Koi" has a similar carp but done in black.
* The High Relief Artisan Ring "Oriental Blossoms" has a hand carved medallion in 18 Kt. yellow gold.
* The Verre Èglomisé Artisan Ring "Peony" has a "Verre Èglomisé" miniature painting of a peony on the reverse of the curved sapphire crystal.

Ferrari 250 GTO Sold for 20 million euros


The Ferrari 250 GTO, built between 1962 and 1964 is now the priciest. An unknown buyer from England bought it at a private auction for 20 million euros. The previous record was just set in May by another Ferrari. The GTO has a three-litre V12, 302 prancing horses, and cab whip at 185 miles an hour. Back then the GTO cost $18,800, and buyers had to be personally approved by Enzo Ferrari and his dealer in North America, Luigi Chinetti.

Britney Spears puts Beverly Hills home Ton the market for $7.9 million




Britney Spears, has listed her Beverly Hills home for $7.9 million. The house is in a gated community and has about 7,500 square feet, with six bedrooms and 6 and a half baths. There’s a wet bar, a library, a den, high ceilings, and stone and mosaic tile floors. The master bedroom has a fireplace and a loggia. There’s also the pool, spa and arbor. It is being offered for sale partially furnished and decorated. Tomer Fridman of Ewing & Associates, Sotheby’s International Realty in Calabasas, has the listing, according to the Multiple Listing Service.

9.29.2008

Rodarte Candles


Rodarte has now teamed up with Lexus Hybrid Living to focus on sustainable design reports Lexus. Their new soy candle features Hawaiian orchid, Mirabelle plum and other natural scents in a recycled glass container. The candle will be sold only at Barneys New York and Beverly Hills.

Veuve Clicquot Traveler Boutique


Veuve Clicquot is set to launch Veuve Clicquot Traveler Boutique. Exclusively designed by Julien Ceder, the trunk dressed in black leather features glowing interiors, LCD screen and a small refrigerator. Estimated at $7,600 (€5,300)

Goldstriker 24 karat and 18 karat iPods

24 karat ,18 karat ,iPods, Goldstriker
Goldstriker has launched 24 karat and 18 karat iPods. The new iPod touch and 4th gen nano comes in 24 karat and 18 karat white gold now. These nano costs £349 and above while the prices for second generation touch start at £449.

Arvus Prerenaissance


Arvus Prerenaissance is a new loudspeaker from New Zealand Company Arvus. The speaker is made from hand carved granite. Four chambers house a quasi-five-way design.There are three channels of amplification totalling 1,500-watts per speaker.

The loudspeakers costs $140,000!

HIGH SOCIETY, THE HISTORY OF AMERICA'S UPPER CLASS



With insight and nostalgia, High Society explores the intrigue of New York’s upper-class society and culture. From Greenwich Village and the Sugar House to Stone Street, author Nick Foulkes unravels Manhattan’s past, starting in the early seventeenth century and leading up to the prosperous present. With stories of the residents that have made and make up Manhattan’s lavish citizenry—the Vanderbilt, Frick, Morgan, and Astor families—and the restaurants, playhouses, galleries, and night clubs where they socialized—Le Grenouille, El Morocco, and Le Cirque—the narrative weaves the political, social, and literary moments of the eras, delivering a spectacle of culture beside a poignant selection of photography.

9.26.2008

Tequila Don Julio Crystal Tequila Snifters by Jeffrey Beers


Tequila Don Julio recently partnered with world-renowned architect Jeffrey Beers (The Fontainbleau Resort in Miami and Las Vegas, Japonais, The Cove Atlantis, Fiamma) to design a limited-edition extra añejo snifter glass to highlight Don Julio’s authenticity and sophistication in the world of luxury. Beers worked closely with Don Julio’s Master Distiller to design the ideal glass for sipping the portfolio’s most exclusive offerings, particularly the extra-añejo Real which is aged for three to five years in American Oak barrels.

The stemless glassware has a faceted, jewel-like quality with intricate cuts to help swirl the tequila and release its rich aromas. Every snifter was individually mouth blown and hand cut to precision by Czech glass masters using fine European crystal. The limited-edition glasses will be available at select boutiques this fall with a suggested retail price of $350. They are currently available nationally at On The Fly

9.15.2008

AEG-Electrolux - New Induction Teppan Yaki



This stainless steel multi-purpose cooking surface is not just a design award winner. It also offers real cooking flexibility. It is perfect for meat, kebabs, sausages, bacon, fish or vegetables – without the restriction of pots and pans. It coordinates beautifully with other products in the Frontline Future modular hob range, so consumers can create their own bespoke cooking centre.


AEG-ELECTROLUX Frontline Future FM4800TYAN

36 cm Hob
1 cooking surface – 2 temperature zones
2 large 1.4kW induction zones
Touch controls with 7 stage digital power level displays
Programmable timer - up to 99 minutes
Child safety lock
Auto safety switch off
Residual heat indicators
Expected to sell at around £1250

The Dapper Baby


The Dapper Baby aims to provide a platform for the fashion-conscious, philanthropist and environmentalist in all of us. Starting with newborns and growing along aside them through their toddler years, The Dapper Baby caters to the trend setting children and parents in North America. They offer the finest items and provide a consolidated shopping experience for a wide range of luxury and eco-friendly brands.

Thomas Lyte Art Insider - how to find the next Banksy


The Art Insider is an on-line art-investment club is all about how to make money in the Contemporary art world – and will
range from revealing the emerging street artists to where to find a Damien
Hirst for £1,000. Compared to the stock market slow-down, the Contemporary
art market has continued to boom – and the idea of The Art Insider is to bring clever art investment tips to everyone. A Banksy five years ago would have been £200 which is possibly worth over £20,000 now – there are new artists out there to look out for, which cost a few £100 now, and are worth investing in.

Working with luxury brand Thomas Lyte (who as you know also have been working hard on The Thomas Lyte Modern Heritage Award with The Craft Council), it is written by a London collector who has made over £1million in three years thanks to his collection of Banksy's, Murakami's and Failes which he has gradually built over this short time. The first 200 subscribers will be eligible to win a signed Takashi Murakami print worth £1,000. The Thomas Lyte Art Insider is a subscription only online members club and will include access to biweekly features, and regular news stories on the latest sales and auctions. Membership will be available on www.thomaslyte.com.

James Perse Launches Online Store




James Perse has launched an online store offering their comfortable, soft, fitted and casual style worldwide. The brand represents low maintenance high fashion—emphasizing elegance and comfort, and pairing sophistication with simplicity. James Perse clothing can be found nationwide at retailers such as Barneys New York, Neiman Marcus, Bloomingdales and Saks Fifth Avenue.

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