Beautiful WORLD

The worldview at Richard Mille is broader these days both in aesthetics and the way it includes women-thanks in no small part to two second-generation leaders.

- GORDON NG

Books, paintings, wines, sport paraphernalia-a collection of tastes, interests, hobbies and passions that amount to a worldview or headspace. It's the concept behind the world's largest Richard Mille flagship, which opened its doors in October at 1 St Martin's Drive in Singapore.

What's interesting is that of the 11 bespoke areas in the 700-square-metre space, only two are overtly dedicated to watches. There's a viewing gallery akin to a boutique, and a watchmaker's crafting space. Everything else is dedicated to hospitality: spaces for dining, watching sports, an open bar, a living room-like hub, a hidden library and an outdoor riad inspired by the Mediterranean where Richard Mille was born.

It is, in other words, an embodiment of a new perspective. This is apt for the 24-year-old company where the reins have been passed from co-founders Richard Mille and Dominique Guenat to a second generation. Besides this plush new destination, some of the most noticeable changes have been introduced by two women who now hold top positions: creative and development director Cécile Guenat, and brand and partnerships director Amanda Mille.

"When I arrived," recounts Guenat, "they asked me to do special pieces. Much more ladies-oriented jewellery pieces." It made sense then as she was trained and had worked as a jewellery designer. Fast forward eight years and her ambit has grown to encompass the entire suite of the brand's creative output. "Because I'm the next generation, it was quite logical that at a certain point I take over," she explains matter-of-factly.