Love takes many forms. There is instant chemistry, and then there is slow-burn romance. Here are a few products and experiences that linger in our thoughts …
BABA BUDAN, Melbourne
Not all social media favourites are worth a visit. But Baba Budan in Melbourne certainly is. “An OG in the Melbourne coffee scene”, as per their website, one sip of their coffee is enough to see why. Whether a strong shot of espresso or the simple comfort of a latte, you will keep returning to this cafe on Little Bourke Street.
Feeling peckish? The cafe also serves a rotating menu of sandwiches, cakes and pastries. For those who like brewing at home, the cafe stocks a selection of coffee beans from Seven Seeds, their in-house roastery.
TRUDON MORTEL NOIR
From a small candle shop on rue Saint Honoré, to the world's only Royal Manufacturer for candles — reportedly the former official supplier to the French royal court of Louis XIV, Louis XV, Louis XVI and Napoleon — Trudon's history is extraordinary.
They expanded into fragrances in 2017, making it possible to own a piece of this legacy in the form of a perfume bottle. We love the Mortel Noir: Headnotes of Madagascan Black Pepper and nutmeg give it a bold spiciness, while the heart notes sing with Somalian Frankincense and Mystikal. Base notes of Benzoin Resin, Pure Cistus and Myrrh, all come together to create a rich, warm fragrance. This is available in a 15ml travel size and a bigger 100ml variant.
LEICA M EV1
By introducing an Electric View Finder (EVF) in its M EV1 model, Leica has given the world of manual photography a major upgrade. It also marks the introduction of a new segment in the Leica M-system and fulfils a popular customer request for the M-camera.
The image in the Leica M EV1's viewfinder is shown exactly as it will be when clicked, and produces high-resolution images (5.76 megapixel) with exceptional clarity and natural colour rendering. The integrated focus assist is easy to learn and particularly useful for those who are new to the M-system.
The M EV1 can be purchased from the Leica Online Store and from authorised dealers. You can also get a hand grip with a matching leatherette for a comfortable, more improved hold.
VACHERON CONSTANTIN
Two new and distinctly colourful members have joined The Overseas Collection by Vacheron Constantin. One is in elegant rose gold and the other in vibrant deep red. Both have 34.5mm cases featuring the hexagonal Maltese Cross bezel, the hallmark of this range. The rose gold watch has a sunburst satin-finished base and hour markers crafted in 18K pink gold. The stainless steel version has a lacquered red dial with hour markers crafted in 18K white gold. Self-winding and with a choice of three straps, these are both sporty and delicate.
