Watches

L’Heure Élevée – Watch News #6

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It’s Tuesday once more, and we’re diving into the fascinating world of watches. Welcome back to L’Heure Élevée, where we showcase timepieces that truly deserve attention. If you were with us last week, we took a look at an exciting range of releases—from Undone’s customizable styles to Praesidus’ vintage military inspirations and Urwerk’s cutting-edge designs. We also examined Raketa’s latest models, reinforcing the idea that a watch dial can transcend mere timekeeping; it can serve as a canvas for artistic expression.

This week, we’ll continue along that theme but shift our focus to dials that not only complement a watch but completely define its character. Ikepod is unveiling striking, vibrant colors that make a watch resonate with your personality, whereas Richard Mille opts for a contrasting approach by exploring transparency with stunning sapphire dials. One brand celebrates vibrancy, while the other highlights pure technical finesse—yet both illustrate that a remarkable dial can elevate a watch into something truly memorable.

Ikepod has consistently challenged norms, and their latest vibrant dials showcase this audacity. These are not just timepieces; they represent expressions of artistry. From a deep blue reminiscent of the ocean, a vivid orange radiating energy, to an elegant green that conveys modernity, these dials do more than attract attention—they convey a clear intention. On the other hand, Richard Mille takes transparency to remarkable heights. Their sapphire dials astonishingly reveal the intricate mechanics inside with unparalleled clarity. Wearing a watch that feels almost weightless yet features exceptional technological advancement, unique to Richard Mille, imparts an almost otherworldly experience.

Whether you prefer vibrant, bold designs or sleek, futuristic styles, this week’s selection shows that a dial is more than just a dial; it embodies the essence of the watch. Let’s dig in.

Louis Vuitton Escale Platinum Guilloche & Grand Feu Enamel | Image: Louis Vuitton

Louis Vuitton Escale Platinum Guilloche & Grand Feu Enamel

  • Brand: Louis Vuitton
  • Model: Escale Platinum Guilloche & Grand Feu Enamel
  • Reference: W3PT21
  • Diameter: 39 mm
  • Thickness: 10.34 mm
  • Material: Platinum
  • Dial Color:  Blue Dial
  • Calibre: LFT023 
  • Power Reserve: 50 Hours
  • Water Resistance:  5 Bar ( 50 metres, 165 feet )
  • Price: USD $68,000 ( Limited Edition 50 Pieces )

Louis Vuitton’s journey in watchmaking has encompassed both refinement and innovation, with the Escale Platinum Guilloché & Grand Feu Enamel showcasing this evolution. Limited to only 50 pieces worldwide, this exclusive timepiece melds artistic craftsmanship with technical precision, catering to collectors’ desires. With a 39mm diameter and a thickness of 10.34mm, this watch is made from solid platinum, ensuring a notable weight and striking presence on the wrist. The blue Grand Feu enamel dial truly stands out—it’s made using one of the most challenging enamelling techniques in haute horology. Below the enamel, the intricately guilloché pattern enhances depth and texture, producing a captivating interplay of light with each movement of the wrist.

Priced at USD $68,000, this exquisite timepiece features the LFT023 caliber, an in-house movement developed in collaboration with Le Cercle des Horlogers. With a 50-hour power reserve, it ensures reliable performance along with an ultra-refined appearance. While primarily a dress watch, its water resistance of 5 bars (50 meters) adds a practical advantage.

Ikepod Duopod Green Eyes | Image: Ikepod

Ikepod Duopod Green Eyes

  • Brand: Ikepod
  • Model: Duopod Green Eyes
  • Reference: D002SILB
  • Diameter: 42
  • Thickness: 15.9 mm
  • Material: Stainless Steel
  • Dial Color: Green Dial
  • Calibre: Miyota (Quartz)
  • Water Resistance:  5 Bar ( 50 metres, 165 feet )
  • Price: USD $795
Ikepod Duopod White Lines “2025” | Image: Ikepod

Ikepod Duopod White Lines – 2025

  • Brand: Ikepod
  • Model: Duopod White Lines – 2025
  • Reference: D016SILB
  • Diameter: 42 mm
  • Thickness: 15.9 mm
  • Material: Stainless Steel
  • Dial Color:  White Dial
  • Calibre: Miyota (Quartz)
  • Water Resistance:  5 Bar ( 50 metres, 165 feet )
  • Price: USD $795
Ikepod Duopod Gold Dots 003 “2025” | Image: Ikepod

Ikepod Duopod Gold Dots 003 – 2025

  • Brand: Ikepod
  • Model: Duopod Gold Dots 003 – 2025
  • Reference: D003SILB
  • Diameter: 42
  • Thickness: 15.9 mm
  • Material: Stainless Steel
  • Dial Color:  Gold Dial
  • Calibre: Miyota (Quartz)
  • Water Resistance:  5 Bar ( 50 metres, 165 feet )
  • Price: USD $795
Ikepod Duopod Blue Monday | Image: Ikepod

Ikepod Duopod Blue Monday

  • Brand: Ikepod
  • Model: Duopod Blue Monday
  • Reference: D007SILB
  • Diameter: 42
  • Thickness: 15.9 mm
  • Material: Stainless Steel
  • Dial Color:  Blue Dial
  • Calibre: Miyota (Quartz)
  • Water Resistance:  5 Bar ( 50 metres, 165 feet )
  • Price: USD $795
Ikepod Duopod Blue Christmas | Image: Ikepod

Ikepod Duopod Blue Christmas

  • Brand: Ikepod
  • Model: Duopod Blue Christmas
  • Reference: D009SILB
  • Diameter: 42
  • Thickness: 15.9 mm
  • Material: Stainless Steel
  • Dial Color: Turquoise Blue Dial
  • Calibre: Miyota (Quartz)
  • Water Resistance:  5 Bar ( 50 metres, 165 feet )
  • Price: USD $795
Ikepod Duopod 30th Anniversary | Image: Ikepod

Ikepod Duopod 30th Anniversary

  • Brand: Ikepod
  • Model: Duopod 30th Anniversary
  • Reference: D030SILB
  • Diameter: 42
  • Thickness: 15.9 mm
  • Material: Stainless Steel
  • Dial Color: Orange Dial
  • Calibre: Miyota (Quartz)
  • Water Resistance:  5 Bar ( 50 metres, 165 feet )
  • Price: USD $795 ( Limited Edition 30 )

The Ikepod Duopod Collection showcases an exciting variety of timepieces that seamlessly combine striking, attention-grabbing designs with outstanding craftsmanship. Priced at USD $795 each, this collection provides options for every preference, from vibrant dials to subtle elegance.

First, we have the Duopod Green Eyes (Reference: D002SILB), featuring a striking green dial—an undeniable statement for those who appreciate a unique style. Next, the Duopod White Lines (Reference: D016SILB) showcases a clean and elegant look with its white dial, ideal for individuals who value minimalism while still wishing to make an impression. For those seeking a touch of luxury, the Duopod Gold Dots 003 (Reference: D003SILB) boasts a sophisticated gold dial, adding a hint of class to any collection.

For a pop of colour, the Duopod Blue Monday (Reference: D007SILB) features a cool blue dial, perfect for those looking to stand out without being overly bold. If you’re after something more festive, the Duopod Blue Christmas (Reference: D009SILB) captures fun with its turquoise blue dial. Lastly, the Duopod 30th Anniversary Orange (Reference: D030SILB) celebrates Ikepod’s milestone with a limited release of only 30 pieces, each showcasing a vibrant orange dial. These special editions are numbered from 1 to 30, and several have already sold out.

Each of these watches has a 42mm diameter and a thickness of 15.9mm, driven by a Miyota quartz movement. With a water resistance rating of 5 bars (50 metres or 165 feet), they blend style with durability. Whether you’re drawn to the bold green of the Green Eyes or the playful spirit of the Blue Christmas, there’s a Duopod watch that suits every persona.

One notable feature of this second generation is its significantly thinner design compared to the 2019 models. This lends a more elegant, polished appearance on the wrist—ideal for those seeking a watch that merges boldness with sophistication. This update revitalizes the collection while staying true to the distinctive Ikepod identity.

Richard Mille RM 07-02 Pink Sapphire Lilac Automatic | Image: Richard Mille

Richard Mille RM 07-02 Sapphire Purple Set

  • Brand: Richard Mille
  • Model:  RM07-02 SAPHIR
  • Diameter: 47 mm
  • Case: Sapphire
  • Thickness: 14.35 mm
  • Material: Stainless Steel Case
  • Dial Color:  Skeletonized Purple Dial
  • Calibre: CRMA5
  • Power Reserve: 50 Hours
  • Water Resistance:  1 Bar ( 10 metres, 35 feet )
  • Price:  Upon Request ( Limited Edition 7 Pieces )
Richard Mille RM 07-02 Sapphire Green Set | Image: Richard Mille

Richard Mille RM 07-02 Sapphire Green Set

  • Brand: Richard Mille
  • Model:  RM07-02 SAPHIR
  • Diameter: 47 mm
  • Thickness: 14.35 mm
  • Material: All Green, Sapphire Case
  • Dial Color:  Skeletonized Green Dial
  • Calibre: CRMA5
  • Power Reserve: 50 Hours
  • Water Resistance:  1 Bar ( 10 metres, 35 feet )
  • Price:  Upon Request ( Limited Edition 7 Pieces )
Richard Mille RM 07-02 Sapphire Pink Set | Image: Richard Mille

Richard Mille RM 07-02 Sapphire Pink Set

  • Brand: Richard Mille
  • Model:  RM07-02 SAPHIR
  • Diameter: 47 mm
  • Thickness: 14.35 mm
  • Material: Sapphire
  • Dial Color:  Skeletonized Pink Dial
  • Calibre: CRMA5
  • Power Reserve: 50 Hours
  • Water Resistance:  1 Bar ( 10 metres, 35 feet )
  • Price:  Upon Request ( Limited Edition 7 Pieces )
Richard Mille RM 07-02 Automatic Sapphire Green Set

Richard Mille RM 07-02 Automatic Sapphire Green Set

  • Brand: Richard Mille
  • Model:  RM07-02 SAPHIR
  • Diameter: 47 mm
  • Thickness: 14.35 mm
  • Material: All Green, Sapphire
  • Dial Color:  Skeletonized Green Dial
  • Calibre: CRMA5
  • Power Reserve: 50 Hours
  • Water Resistance:  1 Bar ( 10 metres, 35 feet )
  • Price:  Upon Request ( Limited Edition 7 Pieces )

The Richard Mille RM 07-02 Automatic Winding Sapphire collection showcases an exclusive and breathtaking series that redefines luxury in watchmaking. First launched in 2015, the RM 07-02 has expanded to include four new variants, each more exquisite than the last, featuring a unique lilac sapphire. Every watch epitomizes elegance and precision, with only seven pieces produced for each model, ensuring their appeal among collectors.

These watches showcase a distinctive sapphire case crafted entirely from coloured sapphire. Creating this material requires over 1,000 hours—430 hours to shape the case components and an additional 350 hours for polishing. This challenging process results in a visually stunning tonneau-shaped case that is both aesthetically pleasing and ergonomic, ensuring a comfortable fit on the wrist.

Richard Mille’s distinctive gem-setting artistry shines on the dial. Symmetrical geometric designs are embellished with a stunning selection of stones—including diamonds, sapphires, opals, and malachite—meticulously arranged to enhance their sparkle. The meticulous precision in setting these stones, paired with the hand-polished gold prongs, transforms the dial into an exquisite work of art. It’s a watch that will captivate your attention endlessly.

TThe RM 07-02 comes alive with its in-house CRMA5 skeletonized automatic movement. Not only is this watch visually striking, but it also features a variable-geometry rotor that maximizes winding efficiency according to your activity level. Adorned with diamonds, the rotor adds a touch of luxury to this timepiece. With a power reserve of 50 hours, the RM 07-02 achieves a perfect balance between aesthetics and functionality. Designed with a rubber strap for comfort and durability, it has a folding clasp for a secure fit. Sporty yet sophisticated, it’s a versatile addition to any luxury collection.

The RM 07-02 comes alive with its in-house CRMA5 skeletonized automatic movement. Not only is this watch visually striking, but it also includes a variable-geometry rotor that maximizes winding efficiency based on your activity level. Enhanced with diamonds, the rotor adds a touch of luxury to this timepiece. With a power reserve of 50 hours, the RM 07-02 strikes a perfect balance between aesthetics and functionality. Designed with a rubber strap for comfort and durability, it features a folding clasp for a secure fit. Sporty yet sophisticated, it’s an adaptable addition to any luxury collection.

These exquisite timepieces are available at an undisclosed price, with only seven pieces offered for each variant. Potential buyers should reach out to authorized Richard Mille dealers for more information. If you seek a watch that combines innovative craftsmanship with stunning design, this is it.

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Apple Intelligence is Here; discover All the Features You Can do!

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Apple has always been a leader in innovation and with Apple Intelligence? Well, that’s like pushing technology to new heights. Imagine your devices genuinely understanding you and what you are anticipating and making everyday tasks a lot simpler than they were before. That’s precisely what Apple Intelligence intended to do—create a more intuitive and seamless experience for you. Whether it was Siri or your Macs learning working behind the scenes, it’s all about making your life easier and keeping your privacy front and center!

Siri Product Knowledge | Image: APPLE

Apple Intelligence Features Available with iOS 18.2: What You Need to Know?

Anyone with an iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, iPhone 16 Pro Max, iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, iPad with A17 Pro or M1 chip, or a Mac with M1 or later can access Apple Intelligence. Plus, it’s available with localized English support for Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Ireland, South Africa, the UK, and the US. What was once only for developers in betas for iOS 18.2, iPadOS 18.2, and macOS Sequoia 15.2 is now a free update, opening the doors for everyone to experience the magic of more intelligent, more intuitive technology. Ready to let your devices think for you?

Siri

A Fresh New Look: With the new iPhone 16 lineup, Siri now features a glowing ring that wraps around your iPhone, iPad, or CarPlay screen when you call on it. On MacBook, you can place Siri anywhere on your desktop for easy access, so it’s always right where you need it.

Helpful Product Knowledge: Siri’s got your back when you need product help. It’s been trained on Apple’sApple’s support docs to answer all sorts of product-related questions, like:

  • How to reset a Macbook?
  • How Do You Mirror Screen?
  • How do I share my WiFi password?

Type to Siri: There is no need to speak if you would instead type—double-tap the button on your iPhone or iPad or hit the Command key twice on your Mac or iPad keyboard. A new keyboard will pop up, letting you type your question or command. Plus, Siri now suggests requests to make it even easier to use.

Smarter Conversations: Siri can now handle mistakes and changes of mind during conversations, making it feel more natural and less frustrating, even if you change your request in the middle of your sentence.

With systemwide Writing Tools, available with the first set of Apple Intelligence features in iPadOS 18, users can rewrite, proofread, and summarize text nearly everywhere they write. | Image: APPLE

Writing Tools

  • Rewrite: This gives you different text options to find the combination that feels right and flows naturally. It works wherever you’re writing—a text, email, or anything else. And the best part? It adjusts to match your tone, making everything sound just like you.
  • Proofread: This helps you with grammar, word choice, sentence structure, and more as you write, ensuring everything is spot on. Apple Intelligence will even suggest changes to improve your work along the way.
  • Summarise: This feature summarizes and highlights the key points from any app, document, article, or communication, making it easier to get to the main ideas quickly.
  • Describe your change: You can transform your writing style by simply describing it to Apple AI. For instance, you can turn a simple text message into a friendly, professional email or rephrase a boring report into a more engaging story.

Mail

  • Priority Messages: Apple Intelligence takes the guesswork out of your inbox by placing your most important messages at the top, with a handy summary so you know what’s urgent. You can even reply with Smart Reply, and Siri will draft the email for you—just like that.
  • Brief Summaries: Got a long email thread? No problem! Apple Intelligence gives a quick summary to stay in the loop without reading every message.
  • Smart Reply: If someone asks you a specific question in an email, Siri can help by suggesting responses based on the thread’s content. Pick one, and it’ll add the correct details to your reply.

Notification Summaries

  • Daily Highlights: Get a quick, curated summary of your most essential notifications delivered at a time that works for you. Stay in the know without getting overwhelmed by constant alerts.
  • Smart Grouping: Apple Intelligence organizes your notifications by app, topic, or context, making it easier to focus on what matters most at a glance.
  • Priority Alerts: Important updates—like reminders, calendar events, or messages from your favourite contacts—are highlighted so you don’t miss a thing.

Photos

  • Create a Memory (iOS 18.1 and iPadOS 18.1 only): Describe a photo with words, and Apple AI will find similar ones to “create a memory.” You can even add a music genre or songs from Apple Music to make it truly special.
  • Natural Language Search: A new search bar in every Photos view lets you find images using natural language. With over 7,000 photos in our gallery, this is a game changer for quickly locating that one perfect shot.
Easy to use and built right into apps like Messages, Image Playground allows users to create fun images in seconds. | Image: APPLE

Image Playground

Image Playground focuses on creating and customizing images, much like Genmoji. It allows you to create custom visuals directly with your apps, such as Messages, Pages, and Keynote. You can also use the standalone Image Playground app, initially dedicated to creative experiences. Here’s how you can make your custom images:

  • Create with Concepts: Select from various themes, costumes, accessories, and more to shape your image.
  • Create with Descriptions: Want something more specific? Just describe it, and Image Playground will bring your vision to life.
  • Create with Friends and Family: Design personalized images of your loved ones for heartfelt moments.
  • Create with Characters: Build unique characters by choosing basic features, like hairstyles, outfits, and expressions.
  • Create with Photos: Capture or choose an existing photo and use it as inspiration to craft related visuals.

If you’re familiar with using AI tools like ChatGPT to generate images, this will be like a piece of cake. However, Image Playground takes it further by integrating real-life elements, like family photos, into your creation. This is where you can customize these images even further with options like Animation Style or Illustration style—From 3D designs with expressive characters to quirky animal vibes or trendy modern art.

When creating, Image Playground intelligently suggests a few recolonization concepts based on your previous designs or even the context of where you’re using the image. Finally, a Quick Preview feature lets you see and save all your work, while the Image Playground Library ensures your creations are securely stored and synced across devices using iCloud.

Image Wand can transform your rough sketch into a related image in the Notes app. | Image: APPLE

Image Wand

This handy tool lives in the Apple Pencil palette, making it easy to bring your notes to life with visuals. Here’s what you can do with it:

  • Circle to Highlight: Draw a circle around any drawing, image, or handwritten note to focus attention or edit it.
  • Add Text: Attach text to your circled content for extra clarity or detail.
  • Contextual Circles: Even circling blank space works. Image Wand pulls context from the surrounding content to help you create something meaningful.

Image Wand transforms your notes into dynamic, visual masterpieces, perfect for brainstorming, studying, or getting creative.

Genmoji can also be used as a reaction in a Tapback. | Image: APPLE

Genmoji

  • Personalized Emojis: Make your face a Genmoji with customizable features like hairstyles, outfits, and expressions.
  • Animated Fun: Bring your Genmoji to life with animations that match your voice and movements.
  • Social Sharing: Use your Genmoji in messages, emails, or even as your profile pic for a more personal touch

Clean Up

  • Declutter Your Device: Apple Intelligence identifies duplicate files, unused apps, and large attachments, helping free up space with a single tap.
  • Organized Photos: Automatically sorts your photo library by removing duplicates and grouping similar shots.
  • Storage Insights: Get suggestions for better managing your storage, such as archiving old files or clearing out unnecessary downloads.

ChatGPT integration

  • Siri: When Siri doesn’t have an answer, it can tap into ChatGPT to give you more detailed responses. Whether you’re asking about a topic, need help with documents, or want to dive into PDFs, Siri’s got you covered—even while you’re typing.
  • Compose in Writing Tools: Let it write content for you. Need visuals to accompany it? It can generate images, too, making it a one-stop shop for creativity and productivity.
With brand-new systemwide Writing Tools powered by Apple Intelligence, users can rewrite, proofread, and summarize text nearly everywhere they write. | Image: APPLE

Visual Intelligence

With the new Camera Control button on the iPhone 16, Visual Intelligence takes what you see and turns it into action. Here’s what you can do:

  • Summarize Text: Quickly condense long passages into key points.
  • Read Aloud: Let your device read text out loud for hands-free convenience.
  • Detect Contact Info: Spot phone numbers or email addresses and add them straight to your contacts.
  • Translate Instantly: Translate text between languages on the fly.
  • Copy Text: Easily grab and copy text from images or documents.
  • Scan QR Codes: Instantly scan and act on QR codes, whether it’s for a website, app, or product info.

This feature turns your camera into a powerful tool for productivity and accessibility.

Phone

Now, you can record and transcribe calls directly in the Phone app, making it easy to keep track of meaningful conversations. Once the call ends, generate a quick summary to capture the key points.

Notes

The Notes app steps up its game by letting you record and transcribe audio directly within the app. After recording, it can create a summary to help you quickly review the highlights.

The new iPad mini delivers powerful performance, incredible value, and the full iPad experience in an ultraportable design. | Image: APPLE

Which devices are compatible with Apple Intelligence?

Available With New iPhones 16, 16 Pro, And Previous Generation iPhone 15 Pro, Can Access With Apple Intelligence:

iPhones:

  • iPhone 16A18
  • iPhone 16 PlusA18
  • iPhone 16 Pro MaxA18 Pro
  • iPhone 16 ProA18 Pro
  • iPhone 15 Pro MaxA17 Pro
  • iPhone 15 Pro

iPad:

  • iPad ProM1 and later
  • iPad AirM1 and later
  • iPad miniA17 Pro

Macs:

  • MacBook AirM1 and later
  • MacBook ProM1 and later
  • iMacM1 and later
  • Mac miniM1 and later
  • Mac StudioM1 Max and later
  • Mac ProM2 Ultra

What Exciting Upcoming Features Can We Expect from Apple Intelligence?

Following the launch of iOS 18.2, iPadOS 18.2, and macOS Sequoia 15.2, we’ve seen several exciting updates, including improvements to Genmoji. However, some features of Apple Intelligence have yet to be revealed.
Here is a look at upcoming Apple Intelligence features:

  • Siri: Personal Context & In-app Actions – Siri will offer more intelligent, app-specific actions.
  • Genmoji on macOS – Create personalized emoji-like images on Mac.
  • Create a Memory Movie on macOS – Generate cinematic video montages of your photos.
  • Priority Notifications – Prioritize important alerts to avoid distractions.

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