< PreviousTECHNOLOGY 40 CEO MIDDLE EAST 16–31 MAY 2024 he Middle East has a predomi- nantly oil economy. But that’s changing and technology and innovation-driven businesses have taken a strong root in this region, transforming the economic and financial landscape. The UAE, for example, has emerged as a global business and finance hub, attract- ing entrepreneurs and capital from many parts of the world. In line with this trend, global hedge funds and venture capital offering digital asset products and services. In March 2023, Dubai intro- duced a crypto regulatory framework for digital asset issuers and service providers, enabling them to obtain licences and work in a clear regulatory environment. It’s estimated that over 500 crypto and web3 companies are having their offices in Abu Dhabi and Dubai. The UAE government supports the country’s transition to a digital economy by providing impetus such as the introduction of Hub71 + Digital Assets which brings over $2bn in gov- ernment funding targeted at accelerat- ing the growth of web3 startups. Evolving role of custody firms Custodians have long been offering safekeeping of assets and managing the paperwork for their clients. Tradi- tional custodians offer their services for physical assets like stocks, bonds, gold, etc. Often, they lack the expertise and technological capabilities to deal with their customer’s digital assets. It brings into the picture new- age digital asset custodians who have both the technical infrastructure and knowledge to provide custody services and help their clients with value-added services. The digital asset landscape is still evolving, which necessitates everyone in this ecosystem to be open and ready to adapt to changes that may come. Against this backdrop, institu- tional investors and family offices must work with regulated digital asset cus- todians. It ensures their assets are safe and secure while the holders have the ease of access to their assets to carry out transactions as and when they need. Going forward, digital asset custodians offer to manage these transactions. For example, staking allows the owners to earn from their holdings by participating in a proof-of-stake transaction verification mechanism. Some custodians can perform the entire range of staking operations on behalf of their clients. This elucidates how digital Digital asset custodians can help individuals and institutions with digital asset holdings in not only their safekeeping but also in managing transactions DIGITAL ASSET CUSTODY FOR HEDGE FUNDS AND VCS IN THE MIDDLE EAST The Middle East’s burgeoning digital economy presents an attractive landscape for global hedge funds and VCs seeking investment opportunities T TECHNOLOGY BY AMIR TABCH, CEO – MIDDLE EAST, LIMINAL CUSTODY SOLUTIONS funds have also set up regional offices, particularly in Abu Dhabi and Dubai. With their offices in UAE, these compa- nies tap business opportunities across the Middle East and North Africa, which is geographically very close. The Middle East advantage As the UAE has been an early mover in digital assets regulations, it has seen a significant number of companies TECHNOLOGY 16–31 MAY 2024 CEO MIDDLE EAST 41 asset custodians can help individuals and institutions with digital asset holdings in not only their safekeeping but also in managing transactions. Hedge funds and venture capital firms with digital asset portfolios Hedge funds and venture capital firms are increasingly interacting with digital assets at both the investment receiv- ing and investment making stages. This trend is particularly evident in the Middle East, where: - Sovereign wealth funds have significantly increased their hedge fund investments: According to DIFC, the highest proportion of sovereign wealth held in hedge funds globally is found in the Middle East. These funds have increased their hedge fund investments by 11 percent to $498bn in 2022, with an average portfolio allocation of 2.2 percent. This indicates a strong appetite for alternative investments, including digital assets. - Digital assets are seen as a diver- sification opportunity: A survey by Laser Digital revealed that 93 percent of Middle Eastern institutional investors consider digital assets a valuable tool for diversifying their portfolios, alongside traditional asset classes. This suggests a growing acceptance of digital assets within the investment landscape. - Web3 startups are attracting VC attention: The Middle East is witness- ing a surge in Web3 startups utilising blockchain, AI, and other emerging technologies. As per the same Laser Digital Survey, 94 percent of investors acknowledge the potential of these startups and are actively investing in them, further solidifying the link between VCs and digital assets. How regulated custodians can help venture funds and VCs As hedge funds and venture capital firms increasingly hold digital assets, partner- ing with regulated digital asset custodians offers several critical advantages: Financial Services Authority (DFSA), the Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA), and the Securities and Com- modities Authority (SCA), each with specific regulations governing differ- ent aspects of digital assets. Regulated digital asset custodians stay updated on these regulations, ensuring compliance with anti-money laundering (AML), travel rule compliance, source of funds verification, and tax laws in different jurisdictions, freeing VCs and funds to focus on core investment activities. Technological infrastructure Hedge funds and VCs benefit from the advanced technological infrastruc- ture offered by digital asset custodians. This infrastructure enables secure interaction with blockchain networks and seamless transaction manage- ment. Key management and block- chain analytics are crucial areas where custodians provide cutting-edge solutions, constantly evolving to stay ahead of threats like quantum com- puting. At Liminal we pre-screen all user transactions for risks, compliance checks and anomalies. This allows VCs and funds to avoid the complexi- ties of building and maintaining their own infrastructure, freeing them to focus on core investment activities. Takeaway The Middle East’s burgeoning digi- tal economy presents an attractive landscape for global hedge funds and VCs seeking investment opportuni- ties. However, navigating the evolving regulatory framework and managing digital assets securely require specialised expertise. Partnering with a regulated digital asset custodian like Liminal offers a crucial solution, providing advanced security infrastructure, regulatory compliance expertise, and operational efficiency. This allows investors to focus on their core business: Identifying and securing profitable investments in the digital asset space. Tabch says hedge funds and VCs benefit from the advanced technological infrastructure offered by digital asset custodians Security expertise Hacks of blockchain networks and thefts of digital assets are quite rampant and it calls for a robust cybersecurity mecha- nism. In particular, advanced encryption techniques and cold storage solutions need to be implemented. A multi-signa- ture wallet is also a standard requirement. A traditional custodian may lack the re- quired expertise to navigate this complex cybersecurity landscape. The job of a digital asset custody firm starts with prioritising the security of digital assets under their custody. It’s the key performance area for them and competition between two digital asset custody firms boils down to who offers a more secured custody solution. So digital asset custodians, hedge funds and venture capital firms can find the best solution to their security concerns for their assets. Regulatory compliance Navigating the evolving regulatory landscape surrounding digital assets in the Middle East is crucial for venture funds and VCs. While regulations are becoming clearer in countries like the UAE, the overall landscape in the MENA region is evolving. For exam- ple, the UAE has established several regulatory authorities like the Dubai TECHNOLOGY 42 CEO MIDDLE EAST 16–31 MAY 2024 inancial technology, or fintech for short, is revolu- tionising financial services and the way finance is perceived by consumers, businesses, and financial institutions globally. This disruptive mocratisation. Therefore, fintech aids governments in furthering financial inclusion strategies by bringing more unbanked and underserved popula- tions within the financial system. Fintech has gained a significant stronghold in the UAE. Investment towards fintech surged 92 percent in 2023, making the country among the top 10 well-funded fintech hubs by Innovate Finance. This growth was recorded as an outlier in a global land- scape where fintech funding is slow- ing down. S&P data shows that since 2021, UAE-based fintech companies raised $567.8m, with $128.4m in 2023 alone. In 2023, UAE captured 54 deals worth $1.3bn. The UAE continues to grow as a hotspot for the global fintech ecosystem FUELLING FINTECH DISRUPTION Investment towards fintech surged 92 percent in 2023, making the UAE among the top well-funded fintech hubs F TECHNOLOGY BY SAUD AL DHAWYANI, GROUP CHIEF PLATFORMS OFFICER, EMIRATES NBD technology impacts access, efficiency, and personalisation of financial ser- vices for consumers. Driven by digital transformation, fintech modernises payments and financial services to introduce more inclusivity and de-TECHNOLOGY 16–31 MAY 2024 CEO MIDDLE EAST 43 Owing to business-friendly regulatory structures and a focus on innovation in finance, the UAE’s attractiveness has increased over the years, particularly in new payment methods, cryptocurrency, among oth- ers. The impact of fintech is manifold, enabling further innovation and di- versification within traditional finan- cial structures. Financial institutions innovate with fintech to reinvent their operations and distribution of solu- tions, allowing them to further bolster their competitiveness in the market. Fintech, being consumer-focused, transforms the financial industry and the way people interact with financial services. As a result of new fintech companies entering the industry, consumers are spoilt for choice with the number of new digital payment solutions within the market. Delving into enablers of fintech in the UAE, primarily, the regulatory frameworks are the biggest facilitators for fintech establishment in the UAE. World-class environments such as the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) and the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) have been the biggest enablers due to strong legal structures and a supportive work cul- ture that embeds innovation. DIFC’s fintech focus includes accelerators and incubators such as the National Digi- tal Talent Incubator, Hub71 among others, targeting finance-forward fintech companies. Another positive that works in favour of fintechs is the tech-savvy population. The UAE has the world’s highest mobile phone penetration at 204 percent, according to the Telecommunications Regula- tory Authority (TRA). According to the latest report by the Media Lab, the UAE stands out with an internet adoption rate of 99 percent among its total population. As a result, the UAE has been able to diversify from traditional payment systems to adopting new digital payment more consumers exhibiting a preference towards innovative amenities that are seamless, secure, and fast. As the financial sector evolves, new solutions in financial services will come into being, fostering innovation and competition within the sector. It is up to each individual player to self-analyse and manage risks in this process. Regulators will bring in greater supervision and entry barriers which will encourage sophistication and serious contenders with compel- ling solutions for future financial chal- lenges. Policy discussions are in the works for open finance infrastructure, and this will require enhanced cross- border policies, best practice, and information exchange. Banks and financial institutions that are forward-thinking and inno- vative will be open to this disruptive trend. Inspired by the ideas at hack- athons and accelerators, large banks can bring new, relevant products to life. Such ventures open opportuni- ties to offer streamlined services and tailored solutions, harnessing the entrepreneurial spirit. “AS THE FINANCIAL SECTOR EVOLVES, NEW SOLUTIONS IN FINANCIAL SERVICES WILL COME INTO BEING, FOSTERING INNOVATION AND COMPETITION WITHIN THE SECTOR” There is significant demand for mobile banking due to fintech, seen by the uptick in payment apps and mobile banking apps, Al Dhawyani says methods for everyday commerce and spending. Ecommerce has seen increased activity due to new online payment facilities being updated and launched. There is significant demand for mobile banking due to fintech, seen by the up- tick in payment apps and mobile bank- ing apps. Cross-border payments have become easier, facilitating further trade and commerce between the UAE and other countries. The demand for digital services seems unlikely to subside, with TECHNOLOGY 44 CEO MIDDLE EAST 16–31 MAY 2024 n the dynamic realm of defence, security and law enforcement, the Gulf region stands at the forefront of innovation, embracing artificial intelligence (AI) as a cornerstone of its policing strategies. With the UAE leading the charge in AI adoption and Saudi Arabia making significant strides in harnessing tech- nology to bolster security, the integra- tion of AI-powered holistic platforms that converges surveillance, intelligent real-time deep learning analysis to deliver actionable intelligence within the palm of a roaming patrol policing vehicle has emerged as a pivotal tool in enhancing public safety across the region. The UAE’s visionary approach to AI is reflected in its ambitious Artifi- cial Intelligence Strategy, launched in 2017. Positioned as a global leader in AI adoption, the UAE aims to leverage technology across sectors, including law enforcement, to drive economic growth and societal advancement. With a projected GDP boost of around 35 percent ($96bn) through AI tech- nologies, the UAE is poised to revolu- tionise policing practices, leveraging AI-powered surveillance to mitigate crime and safeguard communities. Saudi Arabia, on the other hand, has recognised the transformative potential of AI in law enforcement, aligning its Vision 2030 goals with the integration of advanced technolo- gies. As the kingdom prioritises the development of local AI companies and fosters a regulatory environment conducive to innovation, the AI in law enforcement market is poised for exponential growth. Saudi Arabia is strategically harnessing AI-powered surveillance to strengthen its security framework, with particular emphasis on combating cybercrime, fraud, and theft, thereby safeguarding its citizens. Law enforcement agencies across the world grapple with a myriad of challenges, ranging from cybercrime The need for AI-powered surveillance systems in law enforcement is underscored by the imperative to enhance situational awareness, optimise resource allocation, and improve response times THE RISE OF AI-POWERED SURVEILLANCE: INNOVATIONS IN INTELLIGENT PATROLS AND POLICING TECHNOLOGIES AI serves as a force multiplier, enabling law enforcement agencies to navigate the complexities of modern security challenges, according to Hammad I TECHNOLOGY BY RUSSELL HAMMAD, CEO AND FOUNDER OF ZENITH TECHNOLOGIESTECHNOLOGY 16–31 MAY 2024 CEO MIDDLE EAST 45 and fraud to terrorism and public safety concerns. Traditional patrol methods, reliant on manual surveillance and reactive responses, often fall short in addressing the complexity and scale of modern security threats. Moreover, the vast expanses of urban and rural landscapes pose significant logistical challenges, hindering the timely detec- tion and response to criminal activi- ties and concurrently public safety in adverse situations such as natural disasters. In the face of natural disasters, the integration of AI drone capabilities proves pivotal in enhancing policing and search and rescue efforts. This ad- vanced technology not only reinforces the imperative of safeguarding public health and safety but also serves to minimise property loss and save lives. Given the era of digital transforma- tion and the escalating threat posed by both natural calamities and tech-savvy criminals, law enforcement agencies must adopt innovative solutions to ef- fectively combat these challenges. The need for AI-powered surveil- lance systems in law enforcement is underscored by the imperative to enhance situational awareness, opti- mise resource allocation, and improve response times. With the proliferation of AI technologies, there exists a wealth of opportunities to leverage data-driven insights and predictive analytics to prevent and combat crime effectively. However, the adoption of AI-powered surveillance is not merely a matter of technological advancement; it is a stra- tegic imperative to ensure the safety and security of communities in an increas- ingly complex threat landscape. As law enforcement agencies strive to meet the evolving needs of society, there arises a critical need for scalable, adaptable, and cost-effective solutions that empower officers with actionable intelligence and enable proactive policing strategies. Moreover, there are a lot of chances for AI to change security and law enforcement due to the growth of the integration of AI-enabled lightbars into patrol vehicles provides officers with 360-degree situational awareness, empowering them to make informed decisions and respond swiftly to emerging threats. As law enforcement agencies worldwide embrace the transformative potential of AI-powered surveillance systems, the future of policing is poised for innovation and advancement. By harnessing the capabilities of artificial intelligence, machine learning, and data analytics, law enforcement agencies can enhance their ability to detect, deter, and respond to security threats in an in- creasingly interconnected and dynamic world. It is expected that by 2026, AI in law enforcement market will reach around $3.62bn. As the global com- munity continues to invest in advanced surveillance technologies, the evolu- tion of AI-powered policing repre- sents a pivotal moment in the quest to safeguard communities, uphold the rule of law, and protect national security interests. In this new era of policing, AI serves as a force multiplier, enabling law enforcement agencies to navigate the complexities of modern security chal- lenges and ensure a safer, more secure future for all. By harnessing the power of AI, law enforcement agencies can analyse large volumes of data, identify patterns, and predict potential threats with unprecedented accuracy and speed digital data and the interconnected- ness of modern society. By harnessing the power of AI, law enforcement agencies can analyse large volumes of data, identify patterns, and predict potential threats with unprecedented accuracy and speed. Furthermore, AI-powered solutions enable proactive threat detection, rapid response, and intelligence-led operations, empow- ering law enforcement agencies to safeguard communities and protect critical infrastructure from emerging security risks. The integration of AI-powered surveillance systems offers a trans- formative solution to the challenges faced by law enforcement agencies. By harnessing the capabilities of AI algorithms, machine learning, and advanced sensor technologies, law en- forcement agencies can enhance their operational effectiveness and respon- siveness. Innovative solutions involve the deployment of AI-enabled drones equipped with high-resolution cameras and real-time analytics capabilities. These drones enable law enforcement agencies to conduct aerial surveil- lance, gather intelligence, and monitor remote areas with unprecedented precision and efficiency. Additionally, TECHNOLOGY 46 CEO MIDDLE EAST 16–31 MAY 2024 he UAE’s real estate market has become one of the most dynamic sectors in the coun- try’s diverse economic landscape. The sector’s rise is a result of the country’s strategic location, government initia- tives and policies aimed at attracting foreign investment, new flexible work and resident visa options, and a stead- fast reputation for safety and stability in the region. and using them as major factors in their decisions. Real estate develop- ers and agents need to be where their potential customers are, and right now, that’s on engaging and entertaining digital platforms. Content platforms make home- buying and house hunting accessible by making the process human and authentic. The rising significance of digital platforms like TikTok in the home buying process was highlighted in a survey by Redseer Consumer Re- search, which revealed that more than a third of buyers attributed their purchase decisions, particularly during the discovery phase, to favourable interactions on digital media channels. From virtual walk-throughs of homes Unpacking the impact of digital platforms on the UAE market RESHAPING REAL ESTATE Digital content platforms are fundamentally reshaping how real estate is bought, sold, and marketed T REAL ESTATE BY TONY YAMMINE, HEAD OF TELCO, MEDIA, GOVERNMENT, FINANCIAL SERVICES AND REAL ESTATE AT BYTEDANCE With tens of thousands of homes becoming available this year to meet the growing appetite of a young tech- savvy UAE population and investors from around the globe, real estate mar- keting too has undergone a significant facelift. Gone are the days when static photos and tired descriptions could entice buyers. Tenants and investors today are searching and discovering properties through content platforms, REAL ESTATE 16–31 MAY 2024 CEO MIDDLE EAST 47 to a day-in-the-life of a realtor; from captivating before-and-after glimpses of renovated properties to live Q&A sessions addressing FAQs and sharing learnings, digital content platforms are doing more than just democratis- ing access to real estate information — they’re completely revolutionising the way developers and agents engage with their audience. In this new era of property marketing, authenticity is king. Platforms like TikTok, with its diverse and highly engaged user base, offer developers and agents a unique opportunity to build trust, make genuine connections, and facilitate informed decision-making among prospective buyers. Our latest research at TikTok reveals a noteworthy trend in the evolution of property owners’ buying journey and their content consumption habits. The widespread accessibility of information through content platforms has elevated buyers’ financial literacy, leading many to opt for stable assets like real estate amidst market volatil- ity and rising rents. Homes are now versatile spaces, adapted to accom- modate newfound hobbies, and with a focus on purposeful living. Hybrid and remote work has liberated homebuy- ers from geographical limitations, allowing them to explore abodes in the outer-city or waterfronts. Real estate developers and agents who can capture this spirit of aspiration and inspiration in engaging narratives within short- form videos are experiencing high engagement and loyalty from potential buyers online. Since 2021, TikTok has witnessed a significant year-on-year growth in views of such real estate content, nearly doubling in magnitude. This growth indicates a growing prefer- ence among high-income individuals with significant purchasing power to use digital platforms like TikTok for research into high-value investments and assets. Buyers’ confidence and trust Real estate leaders can not only reach but also educate potential new clients by creating engaging content. As more real estate developers and agents tap into the potential of digital platforms for attracting interested buyers, it is critical for them to be creative and relatable to stand out in this competitive landscape. Real estate professionals should feel confident to push the boundaries of traditional mar- keting and utilise the native features of digital platforms to engage with their audiences effectively. On TikTok, suc- cessful real estate agents draw inspira- tion from trends on the ‘For You Page’ or follow relevant hashtags to gain traction. Many property marketers utilize TikTok’s ‘Creator Marketplace’ to collaborate with creators and reach their target audience. Another endear- ing approach to connect with potential clients is by sharing unfiltered and “real” content from their own lives and preferences. But lead generation doesn’t have to be tedious or lengthy, even for profes- sionals new to the field. By weaving engaging narratives accompanied by sound and music, spotlighting ‘aha’ moments, providing problem-solving solutions, and showcasing the cus- tomer journey, realtors can elevate their brand presence and transform the homebuying experience into an entertaining and impactful journey, alleviating stress for potential clients along the way. In the thriving real estate sector of the UAE, the transformative impact of online platforms is unmistakable. Digital content platforms are not merely altering the landscape; they are fundamentally reshaping how real estate is bought, sold, and marketed. As more creative and captivating avenues emerge, they open vast opportunities for developers, agents, sellers, and buy- ers, breaking down barriers and paving the way for a multitude of economy- building investments in the country. “CONTENT PLATFORMS MAKE HOMEBUYING AND HOUSE HUNTING ACCESSIBLE BY MAKING THE PROCESS HUMAN AND AUTHENTIC” The transformative impact of online platforms is unmistakable, says Yammine in content stem from the ability of digital platforms to make home buying accessible, while also humanising the experience. TikTok, for example, pro- vides an immersive format that devel- opers and agents can leverage to craft compelling and genuine content such as virtual open houses, explanatory content and thought-leadership videos that demystify market complexities. Real estate professionals have the op- portunity to use the platform to build communities around their brand and position themselves as trusted advisors within their niche market. This not only bridges the knowledge gap for homeowners but also empowers buyers to make decisions swiftly, catalysing the sector’s growth.48 CEO MIDDLE EAST 16–31 MAY 2024 TIMEPIECES n 2007 Jaeger-LeCoultre launched the ground-breaking Duometre mechanism in the form of a chronograph – the compli- cation that epitomises the concept of precision. In 2024, the Maison applies the Duometre concept in an entirely new timepiece, marrying the high preci- sion of a chronograph with the charm of a celestial complication. Powered by the new Calibre 391, the Duometre Chronograph Moon presents an intrigu- ing contrast between the lightning-fast operation of the chronograph – which can time intervals as small as 1/6th of I JAEGER-LECOULTRE PRESENTS THE DUOMETRE CHRONOGRAPH MOON With an entirely new calibre, dial and case, the Duometre Chronograph Moon is an eloquent expression of the Swiss luxury watchmaker’s relentlessly creative spirit TIMEPIECES a second – and the slow rhythm of the moon as it passes through its cycle in 29.53 days, complemented by a night and day display. Jaeger-LeCoultre presents the Duometre Chronograph Moon in two variations: A platinum case contrasting with a copper-coloured dial, and a pink gold case offset by the discreet elegance of a silver dial. Both models are enhanced by a hand-stitched alligator strap with small-scale alligator lining. Solving the conundrum of complications The fundamental problem of complex mechanical watches is that, for any com- plication to operate, it naturally draws on some of the power provided by the barrel. This disrupts the perfectly regular and constant supply that is required by the meticulously adjusted escapement to fulfil its timekeeping function as pre- cisely as possible. The search for a solution to this prob- lem at Jaeger-LeCoultre during the early 2000s eventually led to the invention of the Duometre mechanism. Introduced in 2007 and patented by Jaeger-LeCoultre, it features two separate barrels and two independent gear trains – one to drive the escapement (for timekeeping) and one to power the complications – both inte- grated into a single calibre and linked to a single escapement. For the first time, it was possible to guarantee that the move- ment’s isochronism (the regularity of its ‘heartbeat’) is not compromised by the operation of any complication. While the Duometre is revolutionary in modern watchmaking, the underlying principle had, in fact, been explored by the Manufacture more than 120 years ear- lier; the LeCoultre Calibre 19/20RMSMI was equipped with two barrels and fitted into a pocket watch in 1881. Because that 16–31 MAY 2024 CEO MIDDLE EAST 49 TIMEPIECES calibre had only one gear train, it did not solve the fundamental problem; neverthe- less, it provided a theoretical ‘trigger’ for the Duometre concept. Jaeger-LeCoultre’s engineers and watchmakers chose the chronograph for the first application of the Duometre con- cept in 2007 as it represented the greatest challenge to accurate timekeeping posed by any complication because its operation requires short bursts of very high power. Since then, the Duometre mechanism has been associated with several other com- plications, including moon phases, travel time and a tourbillon. An entirely new calibre The open-working of Calibre 391 serves two purposes: Not only does it greatly enhance the aesthetics, it also serves a technical purpose, enabling the watch- makers to more easily assemble some parts of this highly complex calibre. This is a fine example of Jaeger-LeCoultre’s philosophy of marrying mechanics and aesthetics in such a way that each serves the other. Being a manually wound cali- bre, there is no winding rotor to conceal the chronograph levers. Traditional Haute Horlogerie finish- es abound: Crisply bevelled and polished angles define the edges of the bridges; brushed surfaces contrasts with polished metal; perlage on the main plate reflects light back up through the mechanism; and blue screws provide a pleasing con- trast to the silvery tones of the metal. A comfortable 42.5 mm in diame- tre, the case is a complex structure of 34 separate parts and the lugs are screwed rather than integrated to enable the use of multiple finishing techniques. A mixture of polished, brushed and micro-blasted surfaces creates a fascinating play of light with every movement of the wrist. The screw-down caseback of all models is engraved with a seahorse medallion, symbolising the unique history of the Speedmaster. Power- ing the watch is the officially certified chronometer Omega Co-Axial Caliber 3330. Automatic chronograph featuring a column wheel mechanism, Co-Axial escapement and free sprung balance with Si14 silicon hairspring. From the begin- ning, the collection’s design goal was to be eye-catching, with an all-polished case and bezel set with approximately 1.5 carats of diamonds, emphasising luxury. For dials, Omega’s designers have chosen historic models, such as the green dial of the Moonwatch in Moonshine™ gold with a case size of 42 mm, or the brown chocolate dial of the De Ville, which was a huge success a few years ago. THE OMEGA SPEEDMASTER is one of the most famous chronographs in the world. With a focus on size and simplicity, the sophisticated 38mm collection maintains the typical look of a chronograph with a touch of luxury. The Omega Speedmaster 38, first announced in 2017, is a collection with a luxurious twist on an exterior that is instantly recognisable as a chronograph. Particularly popular was the Sedona™ Gold model nicknamed the ‘Cappuc- cino’. It features a horizontal oval subdial and a vertical oval date window at 6 o›clock. The design is inspired by the oval subdials of past De Ville timepieces. The Omega Speedmaster 38 col- lection features a gold and stainless steel model with a bezel set with 52 diamonds and a diamond-set crown. Four models are available in classic stainless steel and pave-set with diamonds. Available in two PVD dial colours: Brown and green, it is available on a bracelet with Omega’s patented comfort release adjustment system or on a tonal leather strap with a stainless steel folding clasp. $34,000 The price of the New Omega Speedmaster 38 Moonshine gold and diamonds $104,051 The price of the Jaeger-LeCoultre Duometre Chronograph Moon platinum edition with opaline copper-coloured dial retails INSPIRED BY THE LIGHT OF THE MOON Information cour tesy of the Fe deration of the Swiss W atch Industr y (FH)Next >