Interactive Movie For Range Rover Evoque, Being Henry, Emphasizes Choices.

A new branded entertainment effort from The Brooklyn Brothers for Land Rover has you, the viewer, involved in determining the outcome of a movie, which, in turn, dictates the options on a new Range Rover Evoque.



The latest marketing effort is an interactive love-fantasy-comedy movie in which you determine what the main character, Henry, does. As you make choices for Henry, you are simultaneously personalizing your version of the new Range Rover Evoque. There are several routes you can take that feature everything from kidnapping to flirtations.

At the end of the film, whose outcome you have manipulated, you are matched with a particular version of the Evoque that was determined by the choices you made for Henry:



The short interactive film was directed by Somesuch & Co.'s Nick Gordon, and is all about choices, emphasizing the options you have when designing your own vehicle from Land Rover. It's a bit of reach, but entertaining, nonetheless.

The trailer for the interactive film:

Stills from the film:

You choose the direction in which Henry walks, changing the outcome:



Interact with Being Henry here

The brand also has an online project called "The Pulse of the City" in which you can listen to various "city shapers" talk about their cities and can view their personalized Evoque. A profile accompanied by a photo and bio allows you to view that person's journey through different international cities like New York, Madrid and Istanbul, to name a few.



You can upload your own journey here

Other attempts to get people engaged with the brand include their GPS art created with an app to create a geo-location map and share it on Facebook if you wish as well as their "Presence Project"

Range Rover

The 2011 Range Rover Autobiography Ultimate Edition Even Includes Apple iPads!

The Range Rover Autobiography Ultimate Edition, a hand-finished exclusive addition, made its debut earlier this year at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show.



The press release from Range Rover:
The flagship model adds a handcrafted luxury interior, using specially selected soft feel natural leathers, to an interior renowned for being one of the finest in the automotive world.

The driver benefits from the recognizable command driving position offering excellent visibility and comfort, and the rear passengers now experience first-class-style accommodation never before seen in a Range Rover.

Two stand alone electric rear seats enhance space and comfort for the rear passengers, making the Ultimate Edition the definitive chauffeur vehicle. The addition of a rear console extension, including a machined aluminium laptop table and drinks chiller, and two Apple iPads* as standard (the first car to do so), takes the Range Rover rear seat experience to new levels of luxury.

• First class levels of luxury for both driver and passengers:

• Rear cabin includes Apple iPads* as standard:

• Hand crafted finest soft feel leathers and machined aluminium detailing:



The luxury theme extends to the rear load space, with a super yacht inspired teak floor with metal and leather detailing.

• Super yacht inspired teak loadspace floor:


The interior story is completed with high-end semi-aniline leather seating and Oxford leather on the door casings, dashboard top and steering wheel. For the first time, Kalahari wood veneers are used on the facia and door top rolls and unique interior colourways of either dark cherry or Arabica are available.

Two new unique exterior colours, either Roussillon Red or Otago Stone, (also available in Santorini Black) are available along with body coloured door handles, dark atlas radiator grille and side vents to create a sophisticated finish. This Ultimate Edition is fitted with new and unique 20” multi-spoke diamond-turned alloy wheels, and unique tailgate badging. Customers also have the option of an Exterior Design Pack and deployable side steps.

The all-V8 engine line-up includes the superb new 4.4 litre LR-TDV8 Diesel engine with a new eight-speed transmission incorporating Drive Select with Paddle Shift as standard. This LR-TDV8 combines superior power with 313PS, 700Nm torque whilst delivering even lower fuel consumption and 14% less CO2 emissions than its predecessor in line with the stringent EU5 emissions standards. The combined cycle fuel consumption of the new LR-TDV8 4.4-litre is just 30.1mpg, making this the first Range Rover ever to better 30mpg.

The 8-speed ZF automatic gearbox tuned by Land Rover engineers to combine silky smooth shifting with exceptionally rapid response and improved fuel economy, catapults the Range Rover from rest to 60mph in a mere 7.5 seconds and complete the 50mph-75mph dash in just 5.1 seconds.

The LR-V8 5.0 Supercharged engine is also available delivering awesome power and torque, 510PS and 625Nm, propelling the Range Rover from 0-60mph in a breath-taking 5.9 seconds.

Both variants come with Land Rover’s award-winning Terrain ResponseTM system, which optimises the vehicle set-up for virtually all on-road or off-road driving situations, with five different settings to suit different terrains including new Hill Start Assist and Gradient Acceleration Control.

This Ultimate Edition was designed, engineered and manufactured in the UK and exclusivity is assured as each vehicle will be built to customer order only. 500 units will be produced and sold in over 20 markets globally.

Pricing will be announced by individual markets later this year.
*iPad is a trademark of Apple, Inc. registered in the US and other countries.

Range Rover Autobiography Ultimate Edition

The A1 Diamond Edition Audi Is A Limited Edition Chick Car.

I find this far more sexist than sexy, but Audi is targeting women with a new limited edition version of their A1 designed with Norwegian goldsmith and jeweler Thomas Heyerdahl. The A1 Diamond Edition is adorned with a real diamond studded gearstick, comes with a genuine diamond pendant, a cosmetic case and mirror nestled in the armrest/console, a collection of Guerlain make-up and keys presented in a "jewelry box."



Heyerdahl claims "Women today choose their cars based on their own preferences, and have completely different needs and priorities in a dream car than men." Personally, I do not agree with that statement, nevertheless, here's a look at the automobile, of which on 57 versions have been produced.


above: jeweler Thomas Heyerdahl with the Audi A1 Diamond Edition


Audi A1 Diamond Edition - "The story behind" (text by Thomas Heyerdahl)
Audi is a leader in automotive design and technical development. Heyerdahl is a gold and diamond specialist, and is behind several innovative projects in recent years. Together they have launched an innovative world first - Audi A1 Diamond Edition.



Audi creates attractive and technically perfect cars, qualities that also describe the diamond's unique characteristics. Never before has a car been accompanied with a diamond certificate.

Audi A1 Diamond Edition is a tribute to women, a jewel on the road.

Cars and diamonds evokes strong emotions
The A1 Diamond Edition combines the best of progressive automotive design and engineering solutions with Heyerdahl's skills in handicrafts and jewelry design. Emphasis is placed on the simple, aesthetic and refined expression. Women today choose their cars based on their own preferences, and have completely different needs and priorities in a dream car than men. Today's cars are first and foremost, about design and sensuality, not unlike a woman's passion for jewelry.


above: The sterling silver and diamond pendant that comes with the Audi A1 Diamond Edition

Both cars and diamonds evoke strong emotions and ever lasting memories, a shared feature we have taken in account in developing this concept. Diamonds stand for authenticity, perfection, and ever lasting values. The same values as Audi express through their cars. Some cars evoke special emotions at first glance. It is the combination of the car's lines, interior and overall design expression that touches you.

A dream
I have always had a dream of combining these feelings in a holistic concept that would result in a car. To implement the diamonds in an aesthetic and sophisticated manner has been a challenging and exciting task. There is a fine line between aesthetically pleasing and "too much". Audi has given me free reins in terms of developing the ideas I had as a starting point for this concept. Working with teams of the best in their fields has been a great inspiration and joy. A number of subcontractors from six different countries have been involved in the process, all equally focused on doing their best to create something genuine.

Audi was my first choice

The basis for the concept was hatched in March 2010 and presented for Audi in May of that year. Audi was my first choice, and stood out as the company I wanted to work with on this project. The company stands for design and engineering, attracting urban, sporty people with a playful attitude to life. When I first heard rumors that Audi was working with a brand new small premium class car, I knew I had found the right car for the project. A prestigious car with a compact design that does not play on other strings than Audi's own design concepts. The A1 Diamond Edition is a sleek and sexy car, created for those who appreciate the unique.

Adapted to the modern, urban woman
Both the exterior and interior of the A1 Diamond Edition have been chosen from a female perspective. Everything from the colors and the original equipment has been created to tailor to women's emotions, senses and desires.



above: The Guerlain make-up collection that comes with the vehicle

Our overall goal has always been to keep the concept of a simple, clean and stylish design. There have been many good ideas on the table along the way, and we have opted out more than what we have retained. The unique Diamond Edition modifications emphasize the car's female touch and refine the concept of the car as a tribute to the modern, urban woman.

Only 57 issues

The Audi A1 Diamond Edition is designed for those who like the feeling of owning something unique and different, and is therefore restricted to only a few. The car has been issued in only 57 copies, one for each facet of the brilliant cut diamond. A laser-engraved limited edition plaque is discreetly hidden inside the lid of the glove compartment. The plaque is individually engraved for each car, and reveals which of the 57 cars you own.

Diamond Edition logo
A special logo has been specially designed for this car. A D and an E shaped like an infinity sign stands for the duration and substance - "Diamonds are forever".




The car is stripped of the original emblems, and the new logo in genuine chrome-plated metal is discreetly visible marking of the car's exterior. Two small Diamond Edition logos on the car's fenders and a discreet Diamond Edition logo on the tailgate are the only indicators that you are driving a unique car from the outside. Inside you will find a small diamond edition logo beautifully embedded on the steering wheel.




The A1 door moldings have been replaced with new Diamond Edition moldings. This gives the car its own identity, while being hidden from the uninitiated. You must be familiar with the concept to see that the car is a Diamond Edition, this is precisely what makes the car so delicate and refined.



Genuine diamonds
The gear lever is the finishing touch the concept. A platinum-plated brand with the new logo made with 24 brilliant cut diamonds of top quality, with a total of 0.48 carat.



The gear lever is a vital part of the car, a visual focal point. The diamonds are set in a way that provides a sporty and luxurious look. The goal has always been that all modifications were to be made with the finest quality and a sleek finish, as Audi is known for.

Makeup Case in leather, perfect fit in center armrest



The A1 Diamond Edition is the world's first car that comes with a quality cosmetic kit from Guerlain. A special customized cosmetics case in genuine leather and a mirror in the lid are perfectly adapted to the car's armrest, so it will always be at hand. A dream for women who are always on the go.

Diamond pendant


As a reminder of the car even when one is off the road, the car also comes with a specially designed diamond pendant. The Diamond Edition logo is an aesthetic form in itself and with each car follows, therefore, a pendant shaped like the emblem on a rough leather cord made of genuine 925 silver and consisting of 10 diamonds.

Key in a jewel case



The car key is encased in beige leather, and emphasizes the feminine look. The keys are presented in a specially designed "Jewellery case", which also contains a USB card containing all information about the car, images, its history, technical information and the diamond certificate.


The press release:
Audi A1 Diamond Edition - Jewel on the road

The Norwegian importer of Audi, Harald A. Møller AS has initiated a unique collaboration with the renowned Norwegian goldsmith and diamond specialist Thomas Heyerdahl from Heyerdahl Jewellery Design. Together they have created the beautiful and sensational: Audi A1 Diamond Edition.

Diamonds are a girl's best friend
The Audi A1 Diamond Edition has been released in 57 cars, corresponding to the 57 facets in a brilliantly cut diamond. Mr. Heyerdahl has adorned the gearstick of this unique vehicle with 24 diamonds, totaling 0.48 carat.

In addition, the car is equipped with a cosmetic box with exclusive products from Guerlain. Every detail of this car has been carefully considered for sophisticated women who value uniqueness and high quality. For the sake of discretion, the Audi A1 Diamond Edition logo, a D and E fused together in infinity, is only visible on the fenders and boot hatch of the car. The car keys are accompanied by an exclusive diamond necklace, encrusted with ten diamonds, designed by Mr. Heyerdahl.

During the project, Audi and Mr. Heyerdahl have worked towards emphasizing the common features between cars and diamonds. Both cars and diamonds are reputed for their great beauty, evoking strong emotions and contributing to creating everlasting memories. Contemporary cars are first and foremost about design and sensuality, as are diamonds. This is how they enchant and fascinate us. It is the quality of the beauty that invokes a woman's desire.

The Diamond Edition combines a futuristic car design and engineering solutions with Mr. Heyerdahl's expertise in craftsmanship, detail and jewelry design. The emphasis is placed on aesthetic and refined expression. A diamond represents authenticity perfection and the unbreakable, the same qualities that Audi emphasizes in their creations.

A designer's dream:
“I've always had a dream of combining these feelings in a car, to implement the diamonds on the aesthetic in a sophisticated and complete way. The concept has been a challenging and exciting task.

The boundary between the clean and simple phrase, and “too much” is a fine line. Audi gave me no restrictions in developing the ideas that I had for this project. To work in a team with people who are the best in their fields has been a great inspiration and joy. A number of suppliers from six different countries have been involved throughout the process. Everyone has been dedicated and passionate about excelling with this car.

The launch of the Audi A1 Diamond Edition is a dream come true, now we merge the two world together in one concept” says a proud goldsmith Thomas Heyerdahl.

For more information please contact:
Heyerdahl Jewellery Design AS / Thomas Heyerdahl / thomas@heyerdahl.no / +47 926 16 966
Harald A. Møller AS / Marius Tegneby / marius.tegneby@moller.no / +47 950 75 235

via Luxury Launches

Parmigaini Fleurier Redesigns Their Limited Edition Bugatti Watch.

Parmigiani Fleurier, the official partner of Bugatti since 2001, unveiled the second generation of its Bugatti models. The follow-up to the Bugatti Type 370 is a special first edition of 30 pieces, The Bugatti 372 made to accompany the release of the Bugatti Super Sport.

The Bugatti 372, Parmigiani's Super Sport Watch:



In 2004, Parmigiani revolutionized the world of watchmaking by placing the entire movement of its Bugatti Type 370 watch on a transverse axis, just like a car engine block. A pillar assembly connected the calibre's five plates and the train wheels cut in the shape of a car wheel.

The Bugatti 370:


In 2010, Parmigiani flips all the mechanical components of the new calibre Bugatti PF 372 onto a vertical axis, retaining the lateral time display so appreciated car drivers. *




In a world premiere, Parmigiani has successfully developed a 90° time setting system – the dial is positioned perpendicular to the display axis (hours/minutes) – by integrating a system of double pinions with bevel gearing. Like the complete movement, this unique and complex mechanical system, which allows the time to be displayed on the side, has been entirely designed and created in the workshops of the Fleurier manufacture (VMF).




Another key feature of the new Bugatti: its dynamometric crown. Perfectly integrated just above the profile, this is one of the essential technical components in terms of the harmony of the model's aerodynamic lines. To retract the winding stem from its housing and make it accessible for setting, a slight pressure is sufficient.



The manually wound Calibre Parmigiani 372 (power reserve of 10 days) was designed in two planes in order to match the contours of the new Bugatti watch. On the wrist, the watch movement is displayed at an angle of 30°. On the upside, the balance and escape wheel bridges form an arc reminiscent of the Bugatti oval. The screw balance, produced at atokalpa – the Parmigiani manufacture's bar turning facility – is perfectly visible, just like the central circular power reserve bridge with a 10-day graduated scale.





Striking aesthetic characteristics, the train wheels are once again cut in the form of car wheels, the plate and its 10 bridges, designed and decorated in line with Parmigiani's exclusive criteria, adopt the pillar system already used on the Calibre 370. A total of six sapphire crystals reveal the 337 impressive components of the new Bugatti Super Sport, which is water resistant to 10 metres. The carbon fibre hour wheel can be seen through the dial's openworked centre, and is an homage to the Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Super Sport. The hands, applique indexes and counter are picked out in the same shade of orange used on the limited edition "world record" Veyron.



above: Bugatti Veyron Super Sport. © Bugatti

The profile, signature of the Parmigiani style
The highly tapered profile of the Bugatti Super Sport recalls the body of a wing, however the inspiration for the design lies in the iconic shape of the case lugs on a Parmigiani watch. Boasting the brand's characteristic curves the new Bugatti represents the decisive signature of the Parmigiani style.



Highly ergonomic on the wrist, the Bugatti Super Sport offers even greater comfort thanks to the two removable lugs incorporated at the front of the watch. Of a complexity rare in watchmaking, the design of the new Bugatti's 18 ct white gold case – created by Les Artisans Boîtiers, the Parmigiani manufacture's case production facility – reproduces the taut lines of the Bugatti Veyron's wings. Brushed or polished, inclined planes and bevels are brought to life by contrasting light effects to reveal its generous volumes. The watch's aerodynamic curves, which are reminiscent of those on the 1200 bhp Bugatti Veyron, are matched with an integral Hermès strap specially created for the occasion.

Parmigiani CEO Jean-Marc Jacot expressed delight that his company was able to produce this watch, and produce it quickly. He explained that in the fall of 2009 Bugatti approached him with the news the car company would have something very special to unveil at the Concours d’Elegance in 2010. The idea was for Parmigiani to also have something to show there in tandem. At the time, the watch was nothing more than a concept; to meet the challenge, he put more than forty of the manufacturer’s designers and engineers on the project full-time. “We have a lot to prove with Parmigiani because we are so young,” said Jacot. “And with this watch, we have proven how creative we can be.”

The Type 372, was officially released at the SIHH in January. Only thirty watches will be produced, each costing a retail price of $259,000. The first finished timepiece has already been reserved for the British executive who will be receiving the first Bugatti Super Sport car off the assembly line. When Jacot was asked if he thought the 1.6 million euros the man is paying for the Bugatti was enough to warrant receiving a free Parmigiani watch, he responded, “I wish I could, but this watch is too special to give away, even for 1.6 million euros.”

*based on an original idea by Bastien Leuba, a talented student at the Ecole d’Horlogerie in Le Locle.


Specs:
Model: Bugatti Super Sport, 30-piece special edition.

Movement
PF 372
Manual winding.
Power reserve 10 days.
Two-plane movement. "Gold black"-coloured plates and bridges.
Height 15.96 mm, width 25.00 mm, length 37.01 mm.
Vibration 3 Hz - 21,600 vib./h.
40 jewels.
Côtes de Genève, perlage, polished and bevelled angles.
2 series-coupled barrels.

Functions
Hour
Minute
Power reserve indicator

Exterior
Shaped case: 36.0 x 50.7 mm, height 22.7 mm.
Material: 18 ct white gold. Polished and satin finish.
Water resistance: 10 m.
Six anti-reflective sapphire crystals. Metallised front and top crystal on the outer edge.
Single dynamometric crown for time setting and winding.
Individual number engraved on the case-back.

Dial
Black Carbon face, fine polished and satin-finished EB applique marker, shaped and polished applique indexes at 3 o'clock and 6 o'clock, Bugatti "nail" motifs, delta-shaped hands with luminous coating.

Leathers
Hermès alligator, deployant buckle in 18 ct white gold, polished finish.

press release and images courtesy of Parmigiani Fleurier additional images courtesy of Worldtempus

Bugatti
Parmigiani Fleurier