Connoisseur Ep 113

Welcome Connoisseur.Living the high life is hard, but we have got you! Because you are a Connoisseur!

A note from the Editor - As the selector of the articles below I am starting to realise that, after thirteen episodes, I am really only interested in vehicles. Ones that fly, some that float, but mainly those with wheels and engines. I am not saying I will drop the art and lifestyle articles completely, but I am beginning to understand what it is I enjoy watching and reading and then writing about on a weekly basis.

Moving forward I think Connoisseur is a curation of the best news and finds in the world of vehicles, with an occasional side order of lifestyle. Of course, I will still do F1 news as I check-in with Formula One on a daily basis myself.

Rick.

P.S. Please share this with others, I will make sure that they are entertained.

McLaren 750S

The McLaren 750S, Woking's best-selling car, is the subtly restyled and thoroughly updated replacement for the 720S. Available in hard-top and Spider versions, the 750S boasts a 750PS (740bhp) power increase and a 30kg weight reduction, resulting in a segment-leading power-to-weight ratio of 579bhp per tonne. Its enhanced twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 and revised chassis deliver agility, feedback, and connection while providing a fun, exhilarating driving experience combined with everyday utility.

The 750S features various weight-saving measures, including carbon fibre-shelled alloys and race seats, and a streamlined instrument cluster. With its powerful acceleration, the vehicle can go from 0-62mph in just 2.8 seconds and reach a top speed of 206mph.

The cockpit is designed to minimise distraction and enhance driver-road connection, and the model offers improved functionality, such as a high-definition infotainment screen, better speech recognition, and standard-fit Apple CarPlay. The 750S has a starting price of around £250,000 and is open for orders, with deliveries beginning in September and build slots allocated through 2023.

Thornton Hundred Motorcycles

Thornton Hundred Motorcycles creates bespoke motorcycles that truly stand out. Founded in 2015, the British-based custom workshop offers a unique modification experience that gives clients complete individuality and the ultimate road presence in the form of a machine on two wheels.

Using modern techniques such as 3D scanning, CAD software, and FEA stress analysis, Thornton Hundred ensures that their designs blend in seamlessly with the original bike. Reliability and usability are prioritised, and each bike receives a hand-built bespoke exhaust system and hand-stitched seat.

Thornton Hundred offers a relaxed and personal buying experience from their workshop based just outside of Milton Keynes. They never build the same thing twice, ensuring that all of their creations maintain their individuality and exclusivity.

Overall, Thornton Hundred Motorcycles continues to set new standards in the industry with each new project, creating bespoke builds and premium products that are a testament to their dedication to the art of motorcycle customisation.

Princess R35

The Princess Yachts R35 is an exceptional choice for individuals seeking a luxurious and high-performance day boat. With its striking design, crafted by the renowned Italian design house Pininfarina, the R35 combines an aerodynamic profile with a sleek and aggressive appearance, making it a true head-turner on the water.

Boasting top speeds of around 50 knots, courtesy of its twin V8 petrol engines, this yacht offers exhilarating performance while maintaining stability and comfort, thanks to its innovative Active Foil System (AFS). The R35 is not only a symbol of elegance but also a testament to cutting-edge technology and engineering prowess.

When it comes to fast day boats, the R35's spacious and well-appointed interior offers the perfect space for relaxing and socialising. The cockpit features ample seating, a wet bar, and an entertainment system, ensuring that you and your guests can enjoy a luxurious day on the water. The yacht's cabin comfortably accommodates up to four guests, providing a convenient refuge for a midday nap or a break from the sun. With its blend of performance, style, and comfort, the Princess Yachts R35 is a fantastic choice for those seeking a day boat that offers the ultimate in luxury and refinement.

Patek Philippe - Nautilus

The Nautilus has withstood the test of time and is now regarded as one of the most sought-after timepieces in the world. Although the model is commonly associated with the durability of stainless steel, Patek Philippe introduced versions of the Nautilus in precious metals and two-tone finishes over the years.

In 2018, Patek Philippe caused a stir in the collecting world with the release of the highly acclaimed reference 5740, the first-ever perpetual calendar Nautilus. This watch is made of solid 18k white gold and features a stunning dial with a new shade of blue and white printing.

The perpetual calendar, one of Patek Philippe's signature grand complications, is a highly praised feature. Due to its exclusivity, the reference 5740 is extremely challenging to obtain and is only sold to Patek Philippe's most loyal clients.

This Patek Philippe - Nautilus, is up for auction at Sotheby's. Reference 5740/1G-001 | A white gold perpetual calendar wristwatch with moon phases, leap year indication and bracelet | Circa 20

The estimated range of 140,000 - 280,000 CHF (Swiss Francs) converts to approximately £116,834 - £233,668 GBP (British Pounds) at the current exchange rate.

Gumball 3000

For the uninitiated, the Gumball 3000 is an annual, international, non-competitive road rally event that combines some high-speed driving, luxury automobiles, and a celebration of car culture. Founded by British entrepreneur Maximillion Cooper in 1999, the rally attracts car enthusiasts, celebrities, and thrill-seekers from around the world.

The event covers approximately 3,000 miles and typically takes place over the course of a week, with participants driving through various cities and countries. Each year, the route changes, offering new, exciting landscapes and experiences.

The Gumball 3000 is not just about the cars and driving; it also features glamorous parties and charitable initiatives, making it a unique, adrenaline-fueled adventure for participants and spectators alike.

However for most car-guys/gals Gumball is an annual rolling celebration of supercars, something that is almost as important to the car community as F1, Le Mans or WRC. It is when we get to see the machines we love all, in their used-state, not in a museum. We get to hear the sounds of the world's best cars thunder or scream passed us. Some are lucky enough to drive the Gumball routes, some get to watch on the sidelines, but all get to enjoy this passion for cars and driving, that the Gumball 3000 epitomises. Roll on!

This year Gumball 3000 are heading from Edinburgh - London - Amsterdam - The Alps - Venice - Budapest - Porto Montenegro.

Formula One

Sprint Format Changes

F1 was back on our screen this weekend, but in case you missed it here is a rough guide to what happened.

In 2021 F1 introduced the idea of Sprint races, these races covered 100km and were in part to push the racing to the limit.

This weekend saw the first of the Sprint races for the 2023 season and the format was adjusted over the previous two years. This weekend Qualifying for the Race on Sunday was on Friday afternoon. Then on Saturday morning, there was a Sprint Shoot out, that made the grid up for the Sprint Race on Saturday afternoon. Then the Grand Prix, the main event, was held on Sunday.

Not everyone loved this format, some Teams and Drivers believed the risks of the Sprint Race not only jeopardised the Grand Prix on Sunday, but they also felt it was at odds with the cost cap. However, many drivers thought it was good, Drivers love to drive.

On Friday Qualifying for the Sunday Rac, Ferrari managed to put somewhat of a comeback off, Leclerc managing to stick it on pole. Ferrari has had a shakey start to 2023 and the last few weeks have been rocky internally so it is nice to see them back up there.

On Saturday morning, once again Leclerc grabbed pole position for the Sprint Race this time with the two Red Bulls behind him being switched as Perez managed to clinch the second spot for the Sprint.

Saturday afternoon was a Perez masterclass, the street tack king and the tyre whisperer managed to get past Lecler swiftly and pull a lead. Verstappen was stuck by Russel on turn three and with damage was unable to catch the Ferrari in front of him.

Sunday's Grand Prix was a similar start with Verstappen and Perez easily overtaking the Ferrari on the main straight once DRS had been enabled. Perez was keeping Verstappen pushing until about lap ten when he decided to pit for fresh tyres, moments later a safety car was called which meant Perez got a free pitstop where he took the lead.

Perez lead from there until the end, Verstappen kept pushing but he never looked like he had the pace to catch or pass Perez. The race finished Perez, Verstappen and Leclerc with Alonso right behind in 4th.

Plenty of F1 cars running this weekend, but we will have to wait and see what happens with this format as the Friday qualifying seemed unpopular with TV audiences as it was during the work day.

Sidenote for all the McLaren fans, things have improved, a little. We got some points. 🤞

Next Race - Miami - 5th May - 7th May

5th May Practice 1

5th May Practice 2

6th May Practice 3

6th May Qualifying

7th May Grand Prix

Other News, Links and Stuff

Last week we featured the Kimera EVO37 Martini version. Thankfully I got to watch Henry Catchpole drive this thing in Italy. You will enjoy this.

Whats-The-Fuss

Other dates for your diary

Silverstone Grand Prix - Fri 7– Sun 9 July 

Goodwood Festival of Speed - Thu 13 – Sun 16 July

Goodwood Revival - Fri 8 – Sun 10 Sept

The Atlantic Road Trip

Looking for the ultimate luxury road trip experience? Look no further than the journey from Stockholm, Sweden to North Cape, Norway. This trip is the pinnacle of road trips, featuring breathtaking scenery, perfect driving roads, and a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will leave you with memories that will last forever.

This is not your average road trip – it’s a bucket list moment that will only be done once. You will travel the road less travelled, experiencing some of the most beautiful and remote landscapes in Scandinavia. For nine days, you will witness epic scenery that will take your breath away.

We are looking for other high quality advertisers.

  If someone sent you this, you can subscribe here.

Please Share Connoisseurs