MONACO YACHT SHOW: A LUXURY SETTING FOR THOMAS MERCER’S BRITISH MARITIME HERITAGE
15 January 2021
Once upon a time, to quote the song, “Britannia ruled the waves”. Thomas Mercer mirrored that success, manufacturing the marine chronometers that were crucial to Britain’s naval dominance in trade, conquest and exploration. Those ships of the past are now super yachts from every latitude and longitude of the globe, but their shared heritage with Thomas Mercer is just as strong today – and in 2021 the British still lead the way: but in the design of large yachts.
The Monaco Yacht Show, in the heart of the Monegasque Riviera, is where one encounters the absolute best of super yachts, their designers, and other luminaries from the industry and beyond. This event held annually in late September, and the most important of its kind in the world, is the epitome of luxury, with tens of thousands of attendees coming to view the 125+ super yachts on display.
Thomas Mercer’s first participation at the MYS dates back to 2012. This attendance heralded the launch of the Classis, a chronometer made in collaboration the world’s top yacht designer Andrew Winch.
The connection with the MYS grew from strength to strength, and 2016 saw the debut unveiling of the Thomas Mercer Atlantic Challenge. This time piece celebrated Sir Francis Chichester’s 1971 triumph, when he broke the world solo speed distance record aboard sailing yacht Gypsy Moth V, and using Mercer’s chronometer No 23543. In this illustrious setting in His Principality, His Serene Highness Prince Albert II of Monaco honoured us with a visit.
Going from strength to strength, the 2017 edition witnessed the launch of the Crystal Marine Chronometer. Developed in collaboration with master glassmaker Jan Frydrych, the time piece was displayed at the booth of Czech partner Crystal Caviar.
At MYS 2018, Thomas Mercer joined forces with long-standing partner Linley to present the ground-breaking Aquilo. Featuring a bow-shape inspired cabinet, the chronometer is made of marine-grade stainless steel and slip match blue eucalyptus with a streak of solid oxidised oak. This perfect addition to any super yacht, both horological furniture and art piece, was showcased at the Parvis Piscine tent.
2019 was Thomas Mercer’s first onboard display. Throughout the exhibition, the 30.46-metre flybridge motor yacht ‘Taboo of the Seas’ was the home for the contemporary Legacy Black marine chronometer. Built by Maiora, shipyard of the Fipa Group, the vessel features the talents of Fossati Design Bureau for both exteriors and interiors, the latter a lit feast of white leather, matte brass, custom tinted oak, and fine Carrara marble. Renewing our presence at the Parvis Piscine Tent in the Interior Design Pavilion, the Chelys – a collaboration with Winch Design and Marmor Hotavlje – was on display.
As regards MYS 2021 – two things are certain – we can expect the unexpected, and Thomas Mercer will be part of the surprise.