Friday, 22 May 2009

S:CRAFT SHUTTERS

Traditional or contemporary, whatever your décor, the custom nature of S:CRAFT’s range of made-to-measure internal plantation shutters ensures a perfect fit, totally tailored to suit all interiors and décor.

Their full range consists of 6 substrates, each offering their own individual benefits and whether you choose from their entry level CraftWood or premium BassWood, you can be assured of the highest manufacture quality and service.

S:CRAFT products are retailed across the UK through the largest and longest established stockist network in the country, professionally trained to assist you at every step of the process, from survey to fit. This ensures that the shutters you choose exactly meet your requirements and decor.

Because of their bespoke nature internal plantation shutters can be fitted to any window or door and can even be used as a room divider. Each substrate has its own standard range of finishes and, although white is the most popular colour; a custom colour option is available on selected ranges, providing an almost unlimited array of colour finishes.

Don’t settle for anything less, visit www.s-craft.co.uk and locate your closest vetted and accredited Master Partner or Partner. Remember, all genuine S:CRAFT shutters come with a 3 year guarantee against warping and colour fading.
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The BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo - Launching October 2009


BMW is once again defining a brand-new segment in the automobile market. The BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo combines elegance, space, comfort and variability in truly unique style. As an attractive, future-oriented extension of the BMW 5 Series, the BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo is quite unparalleled worldwide in the upper middle segment, combining the characteristic features of a prestige saloon, a modern, highly versatile Sports Activity Vehicle, and a classic Gran Turismo in brand-new, unprecedented style.

• Through its body design, the BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo combines the proportions so typical of a BMW, an elegantly stretched silhouette and a coupé-like roofline, as well as four doors with frameless windows to create one complete, harmonious unit. The front view of the car animates powerful dynamism through the sheer presence of the upright BMW kidney grille, large air intakes and dual round headlights slanted back at an attractive angle. For the first time the daytime driving light function is provided by corona rings with LED technology. Boasting clear-cut horizontal lines, the rear end comes with that characteristic look of width, power and muscle further enhanced by L-shaped rear light clusters with homogenously illuminated rows of lights in LED technology.

• The luxurious and, for a car with this kind of coupé-like silhouette, surprisingly generous and variable interior gives both the driver and passengers a spontaneous feeling of comfort and well-being. This superior feeling is further enhanced by comfortable entry to the car, the slightly elevated seating position, the large window areas, the optional panorama glass roof, as well as exquisite materials and supreme quality of finish.

• Flexibly adjustable, the interior of the BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo enables the driver and passengers to vary the generous space inside the car as they wish to their individual, personal requirements. In their standard position, the rear seats offer the passengers the same kind of legroom as in the BMW 7 Series combined with the same headroom as in the BMW X5. In this configuration, luggage capacity is already an ample 440 litres or 15.4 cu ft. Thanks to the partition behind the rear seats, the passenger and luggage compartments are separated acoustically and in terms of climate conditions from one another like in a saloon. When required, the rear seats may be moved individually to the front by up to 100 millimetres or almost 4", with legroom still remaining the same as in the BMW 5 Series Saloon and an increase in luggage capacity to 590 litres or 20.7 cu ft. And after folding down the rear-seat backrests together with the partition, finally, luggage space increases to its maximum capacity of 1,700 litres or 59.5 cu ft.

• Offering unique functionality, the two-piece tailgate on the BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo provides exceptional variability and maximum comfort in loading the luggage compartment. Opening the small, sedan-like luggage compartment lid beneath the rear window, with the tailgate as such remaining closed, the driver and passengers are able to conveniently load the rear compartment without causing any unpleasant noise, draughts or changes in temperature within the passenger compartment. To load large and bulky objects, on the other hand, all they have to do is open the large tailgate for maximum convenience.

• The sheer space and the inspiring, modern design of the interior team up to provide a truly luxurious ambience and the supreme long-distance comfort of a modern Gran Turismo. The sleek surfaces on the front and rear door panels merging smoothly into one another as well as the horizontal arrangement of the instrument panel enhance the impression of supreme generosity. Seat comfort, headroom and elbow freedom are all of the highest standard otherwise to be found only in the luxury performance class. The slightly elevated seating position, the clear, structured arrangement of the controls, BMW’s new iDrive with its Control Display up to 10.2 inches in size, and the cockpit in Black Panel technology all help to give the driver maximum supremacy at all times. The rear seats may be adjusted individually fore-and-aft and also come with individual adjustment of the backrest angle. To meet the greatest demands in terms of individual luxury, finally, two individual comfort seats at the rear are available as an option.

• The BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo is entering the market with a choice of no less than three ultra-modern drive units carrying over BMW -EfficientDynamics into a new segment in the automobile world. The BMW 530d Gran Turismo offers a truly unique, unparalleled balance of driving experience and fuel economy with average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle of just 6.5 litres/100 kilometres, equal to 43.5 mpg imp, and a CO2 rating of 173 g/km. The two gasoline models also set new standards for efficiency in their respective engine class.

• As a world-first achievement introducing a new and even more efficient range of engines, the BMW 535i Gran Turismo comes with the first straight-six gasoline engine featuring TwinPower Turbo, High Precision Injection and VALVETRONIC and developing maximum output of 225 kW/306 hp. The top engine in the range, finally, is the V8 TwinPower Turbo delivering maximum output of 300 kW/407 hp in the BMW 550i Gran Turismo. The BMW 530d Gran Turismo, in turn, comes with a 180 kW/245 hp straight-six diesel of the latest generation with an all-aluminium crankcase and common-rail direct fuel injection. All engines naturally fulfil the EU5 emission standard.

• All model variants come as standard with the eight-speed automatic transmission previously to be admired only in the BMW 760i twelve-cylinder luxury saloon. Featuring an innovative configuration of gearsets, a unique level of internal efficiency, and the same low weight and compact dimensions as a six-speed automatic transmission, this high-tech automatic combines gearshift comfort, dynamic performance, and motoring efficiency of the highest calibre. The most advanced engine technology, the innovative eight-speed automatic transmission, and a wide range of unique technologies in the context of BMW EfficientDynamics allow the BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo to set new standards also in terms of economy and emission management.

• The modern, demanding suspension technology of the BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo is designed for both fascinating driving dynamics and supreme grand touring comfort. The double track control arm front axle and the Integral-V rear axle exclusive to BMW are made largely of aluminium. Standard features also include rear axle air suspension as well as hydraulic rack-and-pinion steering with a steering servo pump operating on demand. Integral Active Steering is available as an option, combining active steering of the front wheels with rear-wheel steering varying according to driving conditions and current requirements.

• Featured as standard, Dynamic Drive Control influences not only the gearshift dynamics, but also the gas pedal and steering assistance control map. In combination with optional Adaptive Drive, the dampers with infinite variation on both the inbound and rebound stroke contribute to the superior suspension function. In addition to the NORMAL, SPORT and SPORT+ programs, the driver also has the choice of the COMFORT mode available directly from the Dynamic Drive Control button on the centre console. A further point is that intervention in DSC Dynamic Stability Control is reduced in the SPORT+ setting and in the traction mode.

• The optimised body structure in conjunction with appropriately coordinated and electronically masterminded passive safety systems ensures maximum occupant safety at all times. These systems include three-point inertia-reel seat belts on all seats, frontal and side airbags as well as head airbags at the side, crash-activated headrests at the front, runflat tyres and a tyre defect indicator. The standard features include foglamps and adaptive brake lights, with bi-xenon dual headlights including a daytime driving light function as well as Adaptive Headlights with variable light distribution and Bending Lights all coming as an option.

• The BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo is also available as an option with the complete range of features from BMW ConnectedDrive, including Cruise Control with Stop & Go, a High-Beam Assistant, Lane Change Warning, Lane Departure Warning, Speed Limit Info, BMW Night Vision with detection of individual persons, Side View, Top View, and a back-up camera. Over and above these outstanding features, BMW ConnectedDrive also offers BMW Online, BMW Assist, BMW TeleServices, as well as an Enhanced Emergency Call function automatically determining and reporting the current location of the car.

• The wide range of standard features offered by the BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo includes automatic air conditioning, an audio system, an AUX-In connector bush, and the Integrated Owner’s Manual. Optional features include four-zone automatic air conditioning (standard in the BMW 550i Gran Turismo), telecommunication and navigation systems, a USB port, an 80 GB hard disc for navigation data and the user’s private music collection, a multi-channel audio system, a DAB double tuner, a DVD entertainment system at the rear, a Head-Up Display, a panorama glass roof optimised for noise control and attractive design, as well as an electrically swivelling trailer hook.

• Engine variants:

BMW 535i Gran Turismo: straight-six gasoline engine with TwinPower Turbo, High Precision Injection and VALVETRONIC,
Capacity: 2,979 cc,
max output: 225 kW/306 hp at 5,800 rpm,
max torque: 400 Nm/295 lb-ft from 1,200–5,000 rpm,
Acceleration 0–100 km/h: 6.3 seconds,
Top speed: 250 km/h (155 mph),
Average fuel consumption to the EU standard: 8.9 Liter/100 kilometres,
equal to 31.7 mpg imp,
CO2 emissions to the EU standard: 209 g/km,
emission standard: EU5

BMW 550i Gran Turismo:
V8 gasoline engine with TwinPower Turbo and High Precision Injection
Capacity: 4, 395 cc,
max output: 300 kW/407 hp from 5, 500–6,400 rpm,
max torque: 600 Nm/442 lb-ft from 1,750–4,500 rpm
Acceleration 0–100 km/h: 5.5 seconds
Top speed: 250 km/h (155 mph)
Average fuel consumption to the EU standard: 11.2 litres/100 kilometres, equal to 25.2 mpg imp
CO2 emissions to the EU standard: 263 g/km,
emission standard: EU5

BMW 530d Gran Turismo:
straight-six diesel engine with aluminium crankcase and third-generation common-rail direct fuel injection (piezo-injectors),
max injection pressure: 1,800 bar
Capacity: 2,993 cc,
max output: 180 kW/245 hp at 4,000 rpm,
max torque: 540 Nm/398 lb-ft from 1,750–3,000 rpm
Acceleration 0–100 km/h: 6.9 seconds
Top speed: 240 km/h (149 mph)
Average fuel consumption to the EU standard: 6.5 litres/100 kilometres,
equal to 43.5 mpg imp
CO2 emissions to the EU standard: 173 g/km,
emission standard: EU5
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Fancy Some Steve Mcqueen?


Antiquorum June 11 New York

Heuer
Fans of the legendary actor, Steve McQueen and race car enthusiasts will be very interested in the upcoming June sale as it will include the iconic Heuer “Monaco” wristwatch previously owned by Steve McQueen and worn by him during the filming of the 1971 movie “Le Mans”. Steve presented the watch to his financial advisor upon his return home from filming in appreciation for financially restructuring both himself personally and his company, Solar Productions Inc.

The Monaco watch was originally launched by Heuer in 1969 in honor of the Monaco Grand Prix. The watch is a fine and unusual, square convex, water-resistant, stainless steel self-winding wristwatch with chronograph and date. Antiquorum Experts have placed a pre-sale estimate of $ 10,000 - $ 20,000.

Rolex
In addition, Antiquorum experts will also be offering Steve McQueen’s Rolex, Ref. 5512 Submariner produced in 1967. The timepiece is a fine, center seconds, self-winding, water-resistant, stainless steel diver’s wristwatch.

The watch was given by Steve McQueen to his good friend Jimmy Brucker in early 1980, to whom he also subsequently willed his airplane hangar at the Santa Paula Airport where he had stored his airplane, bikes and an extensive memorabilia collection. Most of the other items that had been given to Brucker have been auctioned, so this lot remains one of the few items that Jimmy Brucker received from Steve McQueen and kept. Estimate: $ 10,000 - $ 20,000.

Von Dutch 1929 Scott 596cc Super Squirrel
Also for the McQueen fan and motorcycle enthusiast, Antiquorum will be offering the ex-Steve McQueen, Von Dutch1929 Scott 596cc Super Squirrel Engine no. Y2373A. Produced by the Scott Motorcycle Company, the present motorcycle is not only a fine example of one of the most technologically advanced machines of its day, but it was restored, painted and pin striped in the 1970s by the legendary Kenny "Von Dutch" Howard. The bike features the infamous Von Dutch ‘flying eyeball’ logo affixed in cloisonné to the toolbox, while the Scott logos are all hand-painted and finished in gold leaf. A unique feature of the bike is that Von Dutch mistakenly lettered the date on the front number plate ‘1926’ instead of the correct ‘1929.’ Having recognized the historical and artistic significance of this motorcycle, prior to his death, Steve McQueen gifted the bike back to Von Dutch so that he may personally own his masterpiece. Following its sale by Von Dutch to a collector in California, the bike came full circle when it was purchased (and now consigned for sale in the present auction) by Tonny Sorensen, owner of the Von Dutch clothing company. Until recently the bike was on display at the Motorcycle Hall of Fame as part of the “MotStars: Celebrities + Motorcycles” exhibit.

Estimate: $80,000 - $120,000

View the sale by clicking here
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Thursday, 21 May 2009

House of Fraser Bank Holiday Offers!

We would like to share with you some of House of Fraser’s best deals for the last bank holiday in May.

This fantastic selection of offers covers Fashion, Accessories and Home departments.

The offers are valid from Thursday May 21st up to Wednesday May 27th.

In Womenswear:
Up to £15 OFF selected lines by Diesel
Up to £15 OFF selected prom dresses by Therapy
20% OFF selected lingerie by Wonderbra and Lepel
20% OFF designer sunglasses brands including Balenciaga, Ben Sherman, Prada and Emporio Armani
Up to 20% OFF Swimwear brands including Karen Millen, Ted baker and Linea

In Menswear :
Up to 40% OFF selected items by Criminal
Up to 30% OFF selected lines by New & Lingwood
Up to 20% OFF designer sunglasses
Up to £5 OFF Polo tops by Henri Lloyd, Ralph Lauren and Timberland

Take me to House Of Fraser my good man!
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Wednesday, 20 May 2009

Play Golf, Drive BMW...Need Bag!


Sporty elegance, plenty of room and sophisticated details are guaranteed to make the new BMW Golf Cartbag - with its generous stowage space and numerous compartments - even more fun to have on the course. BMW has partnered with the renowned US sports bag specialists OGIO, to launch this 9-Inch bag in trendy white. Thanks to multiple compartments and a soft rubberized edge, it ensures optimum transport of your clubs. With eleven special pockets that make searching for purse, cell phone and scorecard a thing of the past, this bag is destined to quickly become a golfer's favorite.

A Favorite Place for Golf Equipment.
The spacious outside pocket offers plenty of room for balls, tees and scorecard. Ten other compartments do away with the painstaking search for pitch mark and glove on the course. These include the fleece-lined, weatherproof compartment for valuables, the inside cell phone pocket and the spacious, soft rubber coated club compartment with seven partitions.

Quality - Right Down to the Last Detail.
As always, details make all the difference: The zippered rain cover is quickly attached when needed and golf gloves are fastened to the bag by means of Velcro, while a special tee holder and the insulated 0.5 l beverage compartment make this bag a comfortable companion on the course. Then there's a lift grip for convenient handling and attachments to hold a caddy towel and umbrella. The bag comes with a shoulder strap, a practical adjustable foot and a patented, ergonomic 3-point plastic handle. The 3-ball dispenser makes sure your golf balls are always ready at hand. Thanks to the zipperless ball pocket, reserve balls and tees are quickly and easily accessed. The BMW Golf Cartbag is complemented by a fine selection of equipment and apparel, such as functional polo shirts made of breathable fast-drying fabrics.


The complete BMW Lifestyle Collection is available at selected BMW dealers and on the Internet at www.bmw-shop.com.
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Monday, 18 May 2009

ANYA BAg FLIES HIGH

Anya Hindmarch this week unveils an iconic new in-flight amenity ‘BAg’ for First class customers on British Airways. The new bag is one of the first new introductions leading up to the long-awaited launch of the new FIRST cabin later this year.

Lizzie Jagger, one of the first recipients of the new BAg comments;

“With all my products stashed away after check-in it’s a blessing when you board a BA First flight to find the Anya Hindmarch washbag. The products are divine. Love the bag too!”.
Family-run D.R Harris is providing a range of products for customers inside the BAg from their exclusive St. James based store, which has been supplying members of the British Royal family for over 80 years.

The cooling collection of creams includes their coveted ‘cucumbers and roses’ formula, designed to refresh and re-hydrate during a long flight. The products and BAg will be available on board from this month. Silla Maizey, British Airways Director for Customer said; “FIRST bags have become prized possessions. The combination of classic heritage and contemporary design in the new BAg reflects the sleek new cabin look which we will be unveiling later this year”.

www.ba.com
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Thursday, 7 May 2009

OMEGA IN NEW YORK - New Boutique

On April 4th, OMEGA came to New York City. Its new flagship store at 711 Fifth will be the 51st OMEGA Boutique. The company’s entire product palette will be on offer.

The flagship store is an important part of OMEGA’s retail strategy. In December of 2000, Nicolas Hayek, the Chairman of the Swatch Group, made a bold announcement at the grand opening of the first OMEGA Boutique in Zurich. OMEGA’s ambitious goal, he said, was to extend the corporate boutique network to include 50 retail shops devoted exclusively to OMEGA products within ten years. OMEGA met that target in 2008.

A piece of history – JFK’s inaugural watch

On display will be the OMEGA Ultra-Thin watch, which was worn by John F. Kennedy during his inaugural address in January of 1961. The watch now belongs to the OMEGA Museum at the company’s headquarters in Biel, Switzerland. Stephen Urquhart, the president of OMEGA, pointed out, “Given the watch’s history and provenance, it is an ideal piece to share with the visitors to our New York City Boutique It was on President Kennedy’s wrist when he urged Americans to ‘ask not what your country can do for you but what you can do for your country.’ We’re pleased to have this opportunity to share it with our American friends.”

A platinum Moonwatch – available exclusively in New York City

It was also President Kennedy who set the goal for Americans to land a man on the Moon and return him safely before the end of the 1960s. When the Apollo 11 Lunar Module landed on the Moon’s surface in July of 1969, the astronauts were wearing OMEGA Speedmaster watches (as has every NASA astronaut since 1963’s Mercury Faith 7 mission). On July 21st, 1969, the Moonwatch was born.
This year, to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the first lunar landing, OMEGA is releasing limited editions of the Speedmaster Professional Apollo 11 “40th Anniversary” Moonwatch in stainless steel (7,969 pieces) and platinum (69 pieces).

The platinum version of the watch, which features an 18 Ct gold Apollo 11 patch on the caseback with a reduced version below the small seconds hand on the dial, will initially be available exclusively at the OMEGA Boutique in New York City.
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