Recently I have been looking how the billionaires of London are catered for, and have uncovered a subterranean world that is only accessible to the ultra high net worth individuals who have the money to buy the ultimate experience.
I went to RAF Northolt aerodrome just outside London and there, in a vast open space with hangars and greenery, behind high security netting, is one of the four London aerodromes that UHNWI fly into so that they are not bothered with people and check ins. Their car, (it could, said an insider, be something like a Rolls Royce Phantom) will meet them airside and whisk them to their home or hotel, before they set about serious shopping in Mayfair and beyond. Their staff will help them find rare books, rare cars, football clubs, private boxes at Lord’s; ordering super yachts via brokers from northern Germany, or the latest private jet.
[quote align=”center” color=”#b64736″]Christie’s and Sotheby’s are favourites for antiques, jewellery, post-war and contemporary art, wine, watches, paintings, art, silver, furniture and decorative arts.”[/quote]
What fascinates me is the hidden world of the atelier, the penthouses and floors at the top of the designer salons that only the very privileged are given access to. In Harrods, three floors are set aside for By Appointment clients; a complete penthouse on the fifth floor with mini suites, a conference space, lounge, outdoor roof terrace garden and dining facilities. Fashion shows, previews and launches can take place there.
There is another suite located on the first floor in the middle of the ladies’ fashion section and one with a gentleman’s club atmosphere on the lower ground floor shut off from but with access to the men’s section.
Other stores have luxury shopping services, and so do most of the brand designer goods; Patek Phillipe, Donna Karan, Cartier, D and G, jewellers Asprey’s (not just for wives, but for mistresses too, one insider told me!) Mappin and Webb, Cartier etc. Louis Vuitton bags has an apartment at the top of the store.
Covering the luxury market, I am really enjoying the discovery process!
By Rani Singh
