Latest news with #VanCleef&Arpels
The Citizen
5 days ago
- Business
- The Citizen
R1m for a watch? Johann Rupert's Cartier proves luxury is alive
The most expensive Cartier watch is worth R4 230 654. Richemont, owned by Johann Rupert, one of South Africa's billionaires, has seen remarkable growth for the quarter ended 30 June 2025, a time when luxury goods are not a priority for many. In a time when most people are struggling to make ends meet and are living hand-to-mouth, one would assume that everyone is struggling. However, just beneath the surface of this collective hardship lies a vastly different reality where luxury is thriving. Richemont is a luxury goods holding company that owns brands such as Cartier. Watches from this brand range between R59 000 and R4 million. Rupert's company's sales went up by 6% at constant exchange rates and by 3% at the actual exchange rate. ALSO READ: Johann Rupert the wealthiest person in SA according to two rich lists Rupert is richer, thanks to watches According to a media statement by Richemont, sales from the jewellery division increased by 11%. However, analysts had predicted an 8% growth. Richemont's jewellery division includes Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, and Buccellati. One item from any of these brands would cost more than R100 000, showing that the economic crisis experienced by people does not apply to everyone. This unsettling truth echoes the message from George Orwell's Animal Farm, where the animals rise for equality, only to find that some are more equal than others. While many line up for groceries, a few browse exclusive boutiques, untouched by the economic strain that defines the daily life for most. Watches are an investment People who can often afford high-end jewellery buy it as a form of investment. A Cartier watch, after a few years, can be worth more than it was purchased for. Richemont's data show that for the first quarter, Europe led in sales, while the Middle East and Africa contributed the least to growth. ALSO READ: Jannie Mouton back on Forbes' list – Here are South Africa's dollar-billionaires 'Retail sales accounted for 69% of Group sales, with growth across all regions, excluding Japan. 'Wholesale sales growth was driven by solid increases in the Americas, Europe and Middle East and Africa. Online retail sales showed robust growth across almost all regions.' How much is it worth? According to Cartier's website, the cheapest watch is Tank Must de Cartier, which is worth R59 156,63 ($3 300). The most expensive is Santos de Cartier wwatch,worth R4 230 654 ($236,000). However, there are some older collections worth significantly more than the ones available in-store and online. Like the Cartier Cheich Montre Bracelet in Yellow Gold Circa 1983, which was sold for $1.1 million in 2022. One of the most popular items from Cartier is their Love bracelet. The bracelet is worth R109 326,03 ($6 100). NOW READ: 'Imagine if he took the Guptas': Is Rupert's place in US delegation double standards or good for business?
Yahoo
10-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Queen Camilla Brings Back Signature Florals in Fiona Clare During Visit to Scotland With King Charles III
Queen Camilla joined her husband, King Charles III, for a trip to Scotland on Wednesday. Britain's queen consort and reigning monarch are on a tour of the country as part of Royal Week, making stops at receptions and special commemorations. For the annual visit, Queen Camilla went back into her royal wardrobe and opted for a dress courtesy of one of her go-to designers: Fiona Clare. The queen consort re-wore a floral dress, with long sleeves, rounded shoulders and a slightly flared skirt. The dress featured a base fabric of cream with cascading florals in shades of blue, pink and fuchsia running down the fabric. More from WWD Serena Williams Embraces 3D Florals in Farm Rio, Ashlee Simpson Ross Wears Little Black Slipdress for Cocktail Reception in London Morgan Riddle Brings Polka Dot Trend in Alessandra Rich to Wimbledon Rachel Brosnahan Embraces Bold Cutouts in Armani Privé for 'Superman' Fan Event in London Queen Camilla accessorized her dress with a strand of pearls as well as her Van Cleef & Arpels bracelet, a brand she consistently styles with her sartorial statements. Finishing touches included coordinated pearl earrings and a pair of Chanel cap toe suede satin low heel pumps in beige and black — another staple piece of the queen consort's wardrobe. While attending the commemoration for a memorial stone for Queen Elizabeth II in St Giles Cathedral in Edinburgh, Queen Camilla wrapped up in a coat by Anna Valentine, one of her other favorite designers. Queen Camilla previously wore this Fiona Clare design last May. The queen styled the frock for the commemoration of the 100th anniversary of Canada House in London. The High Commission of Canada in the U.K. officially opened on June 29, 1925, by King George V, King Charles' maternal great-grandfather. The queen consort also replicated this look from last year's trip to Scotland in July 2024. The British royal family member wore the dress for a celebration of individuals who promote Scottish Literacy at the Palace of Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh exactly one year ago. Royal rewears are a signature part of Queen Camilla's wardrobe. The queen consort consistently repurposes dresses by Fiona Clare and Anna Valentine. Kate Middleton is also dedicated to the trend, rewearing pieces by Self-Portrait, Emilia Wickstead and more. View Gallery Launch Gallery: Queen Camilla's Royal Style Throughout King Charles III's Reign [PHOTOS] Best of WWD A Look Back at Fourth of July Celebrations at the White House Princess Diana's Birthday Looks Through the Years: Her Sleek Black Jacques Azagury Dress, Vibrant Colors and More Lauren Sánchez's Fashion Evolution Through the Years: From Her Days as TV News Anchor to Today
Korea Herald
09-07-2025
- Business
- Korea Herald
Prioritizing Korean Guests, 2025 'Shanghai Summer' Launches with 300+ Cultural Events & Enhanced Services
SHANGHAI, July 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Since the beginning of 2025, Shanghai has seen a strong rebound in inbound tourism and spending. From January to June, the city welcomed 4.25 million inbound visitors, a year-on-year increase of 38.5%, while tax-refunded sales for departing travelers rose by 85%. To further boost inbound consumption, the launch ceremony of the 2025 "Shanghai Summer" International Consumption Season was held on July 4 at the West Bund Grand Theater. The event announced ten benchmark activities, nearly 300 customized and key city events, 14 Shanghai Summer themed products, and two themed services to enhance the summer experience for global visitors and help visitors leverage the city's 240-hour visa-free transit policy: Ten Benchmark Activities Ignite Shanghai's Summer: Shanghai will host nearly 300 immersive events across historic neighborhoods and landmark riverfronts, blending international art, local pop culture, family activities, and sports. Highlights include POP MART "POP SUMMER"IP-themed events," Van Cleef & Arpels "Poetry of Time" exhibition, LI-NING Streetball League, Yuyuan's "Fantasy Summer Night," MAP's "Shanghai Star" cruise, and the West Bund Grand Theater's "Wind & Waves" performance season. Additionally, tax refund services with 14 language guides and electronic channels and the "Easy Go" one-stop inbound service platform via Alipay International will ensure a smooth and enriching stay. Through "2025 Shanghai Summer," the city aims to strengthen its image as a vibrant, visitor-friendly destination while driving inbound tourism and consumption.
Yahoo
03-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Queen Camilla Brings Back Signature Florals in Fiona Clare During Visit to Scotland With King Charles III
Queen Camilla joined her husband, King Charles III, for a trip to Scotland on Wednesday. Britain's queen consort and reigning monarch are on a tour of the country as part of Royal Week, making stops at receptions and special commemorations. For the annual visit, Queen Camilla went back into her royal wardrobe and opted for a dress courtesy of one of her go-to designers: Fiona Clare. The queen consort re-wore a floral dress, with long sleeves, rounded shoulders and a slightly flared skirt. The dress featured a base fabric of cream with cascading florals in shades of blue, pink and fuchsia running down the fabric. More from WWD Rachel Brosnahan Embraces Bold Cutouts in Armani Privé for 'Superman' Fan Event in London Kate Middleton Champions Sustainability in Her Signature Veja Sneakers for Hospital Visit Queen Camilla's Latest Shoe Choice Highlights Her Love for Neutral Tones Queen Camilla accessorized her dress with a strand of pearls as well as her Van Cleef & Arpels bracelet, a brand she consistently styles with her sartorial statements. Finishing touches included coordinated pearl earrings and a pair of Chanel cap toe suede satin low heel pumps in beige and black — another staple piece of the queen consort's wardrobe. While attending the commemoration for a memorial stone for Queen Elizabeth II in St Giles Cathedral in Edinburgh, Queen Camilla wrapped up in a coat by Anna Valentine, one of her other favorite designers. Queen Camilla previously wore this Fiona Clare design last May. The queen styled the frock for the commemoration of the 100th anniversary of Canada House in London. The High Commission of Canada in the U.K. officially opened on June 29, 1925, by King George V, King Charles' maternal great-grandfather. The queen consort also replicated this look from last year's trip to Scotland in July 2024. The British royal family member wore the dress for a celebration of individuals who promote Scottish Literacy at the Palace of Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh exactly one year ago. Royal rewears are a signature part of Queen Camilla's wardrobe. The queen consort consistently repurposes dresses by Fiona Clare and Anna Valentine. Kate Middleton is also dedicated to the trend, rewearing pieces by Self-Portrait, Emilia Wickstead and more. View Gallery Launch Gallery: Queen Camilla's Royal Style Throughout King Charles III's Reign [PHOTOS] Best of WWD A Look Back at Fourth of July Celebrations at the White House Princess Diana's Birthday Looks Through the Years: Her Sleek Black Jacques Azagury Dress, Vibrant Colors and More Lauren Sánchez's Fashion Evolution Through the Years: From Her Days as TV News Anchor to Today
Daily Mirror
30-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
Grave warning for women lured to grim Dubai 'Porta-Potty' parties with £3k gifts
WARNING: DISTRESSING CONTENT. Dubai is famed for its luxury lifestyle, attracting hundreds of social media influencers and reality TV stars each year - but behind the glamour lies a disturbing reality that has raised serious concerns for the safety and wellbeing of women visiting the popular tourist destination Dubai is renowned for its soaring skyscrapers, upscale malls, and the jet-set lifestyle often flaunted by influencers. But behind the city's glossy image is a deeply troubling undercurrent - a rising trend of exploitative gatherings known as "Porta-Potty" parties. These events, allegedly orchestrated by wealthy men, target young models and social media influencers with promises of large sums of money, designer gifts, and luxury hotel stays. However, the reality behind the opulence is far more sinister, involving reports of extreme sexual humiliation, physical abuse, and serious legal risks for those involved. Shockingly, the women involved in these parties could even find themselves prosecuted. Radha Stirling, CEO of Detained in Dubai, has warned that women involved in these parties - even against their will - could face charges of adultery or indecency, especially if married men are present. "Sex outside marriage has been legalised in Dubai, but organisers have exploited this. Women think they're attending a private party - instead, they're thrown into horrific, dangerous situations with real legal risk," Stirling said. Concern around the issue was recently reignited when an influencer shared on TikTok that a stranger she met at the gym had showered her with expensive gifts - raising questions about the true cost of such apparent generosity. Jade, who goes by @outplayedbyjade online, is originally from France but travelled to Dubai as she documented her trip online. In her video, she explained how she had been leaving the gym when workers approached her with a gift from someone she had met on the treadmill. "I didn't think much of it," she explained in the video. A worker handed her a bouquet of flowers and chocolate from the man she had struck up a conversation with. Flattered, she texted the number he had left with the gift to thank him, after which she then received a call from a shop assistant at the luxury jewellery designer store Van Cleef & Arpels. "I'm a very curious girl, so I make my way over to the shop," she explained. "This assistant pulls out a beautiful bracelet and a matching necklace." All together, the gifts were worth around £3,000. And while Jade was over the moon with her gifts, fans were quick to warn the influencer that the man was a "professional" and to "be careful" amid reports of men recruiting women for "Porta-Parties" in Dubai. One such victim is Maria Kovalchuk, a 20-year-old Ukrainian adult model, who was reportedly left for dead after attending one of these parties. Maria vanished after telling her mother she'd been invited to stay overnight with two men claiming to be modelling agents. She never made her flight to Thailand. Ten days later, on March 19, she was found dumped at the roadside in Dubai, suffering from a shattered spine, broken limbs, and severe internal injuries. Maria has undergone multiple surgeries, and her family, now at her bedside, are desperate for answers. It's thought she is still recovering from her injuries. Dubai Police confirmed that Maria is receiving medical care, but claimed she 'entered a restricted construction site alone and fell from a height'. A statement many find hard to accept, given the disturbing rumours swirling around her disappearance. Russian lawyer Katya Gordon, who has followed the case closely, bluntly alleged: "Model Maria Kovalchuk was found dying on the side of the road in the UAE after a party. The scandal with the Porta Potty parties has been raging for over a year." Gordon and others allege that Maria may have been forced to take part in a sex act involving human faeces - a central theme of these "Porta-Potty" events, where humiliation and abuse are part of the package. These parties reportedly involve women being paid vast sums of money to perform grotesque acts involving bodily fluids, degradation and pain. Viral videos have helped expose this shadowy world, but the abuse is largely hidden by Dubai's shiny reputation and strict censorship laws. With the rise of "Porta-Potty" stories, experts have warned of red flags to watch out for when travelling to Dubai: Beware of unverified agents offering large sums of money for vague modelling work. Never agree to travel alone to private parties or accept all-expenses-paid trips without vetting the hosts. Check in regularly with friends or family, and always share your location. Avoid entering private hotel rooms, villas, or yachts with strangers, especially late at night. Understand the legal risks: Dubai has strict laws, and foreign women can still be charged with public indecency, adultery or prostitution, even if coerced. Maria's mother told Ukrainian media: "She has no documents, no phone, nothing. She's had three operations. She can't speak. We were told she went to a party, but the promoter claims he never saw her. We're terrified of what really happened." If you've been the victim of sexual assault, you can access help and resources via or by calling the national telephone helpline on 0808 802 9999
