The Luxury Dispatch with Tom Chamberlin

For the final episode of the season, The Luxury Dispatch leaves the studio and heads to one of Britain’s most iconic institutions: Royal Ascot.

Recorded on-site at Ascot Racecourse ahead of this year’s meeting, Tom Chamberlin is joined by Mike Tindall for a conversation exploring the history, spectacle, etiquette and enduring appeal of Royal Ascot – from the Royal Enclosure and morning dress to racing legends, betting rituals and the unique atmosphere that makes Ascot unlike anywhere else in the world.

The episode also features a special segment on the racecourse itself with Ascot’s Clerk of the Course, offering a rare behind-the-scenes insight into the traditions and logistics behind one of the defining events of the British social calendar.

They discuss:

• Why Royal Ascot remains one of Britain’s great ceremonial occasions

• The origins of the Royal Procession and the Royal Enclosure

• The surprisingly deep rules and traditions behind morning dress

• Mike Tindall’s favorite Ascot memories – including Frankel’s legendary run

• Why horse racing attracts everyone from royalty to rock stars

• The culture of betting, race cards and race-day rituals

• How Ascot balances heritage with modern audiences

• Why the event still draws global fascination centuries after it began in 1711

From tailoring and top hats to thoroughbreds and royal history, this episode explores why Royal Ascot continues to represent a uniquely British blend of sport, style and spectacle.

Our thanks to Longines, Hackett London and Lock & Co. for supporting this episode.

Music by Alex Mendham & His Orchestra

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The Luxury Dispatch is produced by Platform Media in partnership with The Rake

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Fly fishing isn’t just a sport – it’s an obsession.

In this episode of The Luxury Dispatch, Tom Chamberlin is joined by Tarquin Millington-Drake to explore a world where luxury isn’t loud or flashy, but found in wilderness, precision, and the pursuit of the perfect catch.

From the rivers of Scotland to the remote wilderness of Russia, Iceland, and beyond, Tarquin reveals how fly fishing evolved from a traditional pastime into a global, high-end pursuit – one that takes anglers to the furthest corners of the world in search of something increasingly rare: wild fish.

They discuss:

• Why catching a single salmon can take 30 days in Scotland

• The golden era of Russian fishing – where anglers caught 100 fish in a week

• Why people now travel to Iceland, Argentina, and the Seychelles for better fishing

• The psychology behind fishing obsession – and why it never quite satisfies

• How fly fishing differs from shooting in skill, mindset, and reward

• The true cost of the sport, from £3,000 to £30,000+ per trip

• Why conservation – not equipment – is now the biggest issue facing the sport

Tarquin also explains why patience is overrated, why great anglers are defined by adaptability, and how the best fishing experiences are often the most remote – and the most fragile.

At its heart, fly fishing isn’t really about catching fish.It’s about the pursuit, the environment, and those rare moments when everything comes together.

Music by Alex Mendham & His Orchestra

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The Luxury Dispatch is produced by Platform Media in partnership with The Rake

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What makes sound truly luxurious?And why would anyone spend millions chasing the perfect listening experience?

In this episode of The Luxury Dispatch, Tom Chamberlin is joined by legendary audio journalist Ken Kessler to explore the extraordinary world of Hi-Fi – from valve amplifiers and vinyl records to £2 million sound systems designed to recreate music exactly as it was performed.

Together, they trace the history of high fidelity sound, from Edison’s phonograph and post-war stereo systems to the vinyl revival and the age of streaming. They uncover how Hi-Fi evolved from a niche luxury for doctors and lawyers into a global obsession fuelled by music lovers, collectors, and audiophiles searching for absolute realism.

They discuss:

• Why vinyl continues to survive in the streaming era

• The difference between valve and solid-state sound

• How Japanese engineering transformed Hi-Fi forever

• Why audiophiles build entire rooms around sound

• The psychology of listening – and why music feels different on a great system

• Whether modern streaming can truly replace physical media

Ken also reveals what separates a £1,000 system from a £2 million setup, why Hi-Fi is one of the few luxury worlds with almost no resale culture, and how the pursuit of perfect sound became a lifelong passion.

This isn’t really about kit – it’s about getting as close to the music as possible.

Music by Alex Mendham & His Orchestra

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The Luxury Dispatch is produced by Platform Media in partnership with The Rake

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Burgundy wine is legendary – but why is it so expensive, so complex, and so hard to understand? In this episode of The Luxury Dispatch, Tom Chamberlin is joined by his father Nick Chamberlin and wine expert Geordie Willis to unpack one of the most fascinating (and intimidating) regions in the world of wine. From ancient monks mapping vineyards to the impact of the Napoleonic Code, Burgundy’s story is unlike anywhere else. Tiny plots of land, family-run vineyards, and centuries of tradition have created a region where two wines made next door to each other can vary wildly in price – from £20 to tens of thousands. They break down: - What “terroir” really means – and why it matters so much - Why Burgundy only focuses on Pinot Noir and Chardonnay - The difference between Grand Cru, Premier Cru, and village wines - Why Burgundy is more complex than Bordeaux - How climate, soil, and even inheritance laws shaped the region - Practical tips on how to actually buy and order Burgundy They share stories of rare bottles, family cellars, and the reality behind the world’s most sought-after wines. Whether you’re new to wine or looking to deepen your understanding, this episode reveals why Burgundy remains the ultimate obsession for collectors – and one of the greatest expressions of place in the world. Music by Alex Mendham & His Orchestra https://www.alexmendham.com/ The Luxury Dispatch is produced by Platform Media in partnership with The Rake Follow us on socials: https://linktr.ee/theluxurydispatch

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What is British food, really? Is it actually British? And how did London become one of the greatest dining cities in the world?

In this episode of The Luxury Dispatch, Tom Chamberlin sits down with food writer and critic Tom Parker Bowles to explore the extraordinary evolution of London’s culinary scene.

From oyster carts and street food in the markets of the Haymarket to the grand dining rooms of the aristocracy, London’s food story is one of constant reinvention. What began as a city divided between lavish private dining and humble street fare has transformed into a global crossroads of flavour - where cultures, techniques, and traditions collide.

The two Toms trace the journey from chefs arriving after the French Revolution to the rise of iconic institutions like Wiltons, and the impact of hotels like The Savoy and Claridge’s in shaping modern dining.

Along the way, they uncover:

• How Royalty and aristocracy shaped what Britain eats

• Why French cuisine dominated London for centuries

• The rise of restaurants beyond private homes and clubs

• The cultural mix that defines London food today

• Why British cuisine has been misunderstood for so long

This is a story of empire, migration, class, and taste - and how London went from a city of taverns and chop houses to one of the most exciting food capitals in the world.

Download SAILY in your app store and use our code DISPATCH at checkout to get an exclusive 15% off your first purchase! For further details go to https://saily.com/dispatch

Music by Alex Mendham & His Orchestra

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The Luxury Dispatch is produced by Platform Media in partnership with The Rake

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What makes a cigar truly exceptional? Is it the craftsmanship, the rarity, or the story behind every leaf? And how does a single shop earn its place as a destination for collectors across the world?

Edward and Eddie Sahakian of Davidoff of London join Tom Chamberlin to answer exactly that. Their story begins with revolution and displacement, a suitcase packed for a short trip that quietly became a lifetime. What followed was the building of something genuinely iconic.

They trace the arc of the cigar world from Cuban dominance to the rise of New World blends, and talk honestly about rarity, collecting, and what separates a good cigar from a truly unforgettable one. They explain why the finest examples can command hundreds, or even thousands, of pounds, but also that those most memorable are the ones shared in good company.

A truly unique insight into one of London’s most iconic institutions.

EXCLUSIVE NordVPN Deal ➼ https://nordvpn.com/dispatch Try it risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee Music by Alex Mendham & His Orchestra https://www.alexmendham.com/ The Luxury Dispatch is produced by Platform Media.

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Luxury in politics: a sign of strength or a bad look for those in power?

In this episode of The Luxury Dispatch, Tom Chamberlin is joined by former government ministers Lord Dominic Johnson and Sir Brandon Lewis to explore the complex relationship between luxury and politics. From Savile Row tailoring to global trade deals, they unpack how craftsmanship, heritage, and high-end goods shape Britain’s identity on the world stage.

Together, they discuss why luxury is often seen as a bad look in British politics, despite being a cornerstone of the UK’s soft power and an industry worth billions. From whisky diplomacy in Brussels to the global appeal of British brands, they reveal how luxury quietly influences international relationships, reputation, and economic growth.

Along the way, they explore authenticity in leadership, the role of aspiration, and why countries like France and Italy champion their luxury industries, while Britain holds back.

The Luxury Dispatch is produced by Platform Media in partnership with The Rake

Download SAILY in your app store and use our code DISPATCH at checkout to get an exclusive 15% off your first purchase! For further details go to https://saily.com/dispatch

Music by Alex Mendham & His Orchestra

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What makes a stately home truly grand? Power, wealth, or something deeper rooted in history? And were these spectacular houses built purely for comfort and beauty, or as symbols of control and status? Historian Alice Loxton joins Tom Chamberlin to explore the world of Britain’s stately homes, from medieval castles to the great country estates that came to define luxury. Together, they trace how these buildings evolved from defensive strongholds into showcases of taste, craftsmanship, and ambition. From the aftermath of the Norman Conquest to the splendour of Tudor palaces and the extravagance of Blenheim, they uncover how politics, patronage, and empire shaped these iconic homes. Along the way, they explore the role of monarchs, the redistribution of land, and the extraordinary wealth that fuelled Britain’s grandest estates. They also discuss what these houses really represent today, whether they are symbols of heritage, power, or a complex legacy that still shapes Britain’s identity. With thanks to our sponsor Swaine, a house defined by its long-standing commitment to British craftsmanship and the creation of refined accessories that would grace any stately home. https://swaine.london/collections/the-luxury-dispatch Select images provided by the Blenheim Palace Heritage Foundation The Luxury Dispatch is produced by Platform Media. Follow us on socials: https://linktr.ee/theluxurydispatch

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What makes a car a true classic? Rarity, beauty, or something less tangible? And how should classic cars really be enjoyed? Behind the wheel, or behind the glass? Model David Gandy joins Tom Chamberlin to explore the world of classic cars, from his childhood obsession to high-stakes collecting. Together, they discuss the thrill of racing, the realities of restoration, and why these cars simply make the world a happier place. Along the way, David shares some extraordinary stories about his time racing with Yasmin Le Bon, Steve McQueen’s back lights - and why he always lets his children drive. EXCLUSIVE NordVPN Deal ➼ https://nordvpn.com/dispatch Try it risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee Music by Alex Mendham & His Orchestra https://www.alexmendham.com/ The Luxury Dispatch is produced by Platform Media. Follow us on socials: https://linktr.ee/theluxurydispatch

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Did you know tuxedos shouldn't be worn at weddings? Not sure how to choose formal wear? Joined by Aleks Cvetkovic, Tom Chamberlin returns to help you make sartorial choices depending on the occasion.

Along the way, they discuss everything from lapels and cummerbunds to James Bond, Savile Row tailoring, and why the dinner suit continues to hold such power more than a century on.

From its origins in nineteenth-century Britain to its place on modern red carpets, they unpack the rules, the myths, and the subtle details that separate the merely correct from the truly elegant. And thanks to our sponsor Swaine, a house defined by its long-standing commitment to British craftsmanship and the creation of refined accessories that sit naturally alongside formal dress. https://swaine.london/ Music by Alex Mendham & His Orchestra https://www.alexmendham.com/ The Luxury Dispatch is produced by Platform Media. Follow us on socials: https://linktr.ee/theluxurydispatch

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Season Two of The Luxury Dispatch is here.

Deeper conversations, rarer worlds, and the people who know them best. We are back exploring the places, passions, and pursuits that define a life lived with genuine discernment - not the loud or the obvious, but the considered, the crafted, and the quietly extraordinary.

This season we go further. Into the cellars and the driving seat, the hallways and the riverbanks, the listening rooms and the long lunches. We meet the obsessives, the custodians, the connoisseurs - the people who have given their lives to understanding something deeply and beautifully.

Because true luxury has never really been about price. It has always been about knowledge, time, and the stories that the finest things carry with them. So settle in, and welcome back to The Luxury Dispatch.

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In this episode of The Luxury Dispatch, we explore the Quartz Crisis, a moment in the 1970s when the Swiss watch industry, long seen as an immovable pillar of luxury, came close to collapse. As quartz technology promised greater accuracy and lower costs, centuries of mechanical watchmaking were suddenly thrown into question.

Tom Chamberlain is joined by writer and historian Nick Foulkes to examine how this technological shock unfolded, why it caused such deep anxiety in Switzerland, and how brands like Rolex and Patek Philippe chose not to compete on precision alone, but to redefine what a luxury watch could be.

From Seiko’s pioneering innovations to the rise of Swatch and the revival of mechanical craftsmanship, this episode looks at how crisis reshaped the industry, and why Swiss watchmaking ultimately survived by changing the rules of the game.

The Luxury Dispatch is produced by Listen, a Platform Media label. Follow us on socials: https://linktr.ee/theluxurydispatch

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In this episode of The Luxury Dispatch, we take a look behind the most imposing yet secretive buildings in all of London, the Gentlemen's Clubs of St James's. How they emerged, what they represent and who joins.

Tom’s guests, Geordie Willis and Peter Howarth, discuss how these institutions have lasted up to now and why would you want to be a member.

Available on Spotify, YouTube & Apple.

The Luxury Dispatch is produced by Listen, a Platform Media label. Follow us on socials: https://linktr.ee/theluxurydispatch

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London Clubland: A Companion For The Curious - https://amzn.eu/d/d7Vj4mp

Palaces of Power: The Birth and Evolution of London's Clubland - https://amzn.eu/d/8HzpR0G

The London Club: Architecture, Interiors, Art - https://amzn.eu/d/dNXjRPj

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How did an ancient practice of "back alley symbols" become the ultimate playground for European royalty?

In the latest episode of The Luxury Dispatch, Tom Chamberlin sits down with Mo Coppoletta, the world-renowned artist who transformed ink into a high-society decorative art. Together, they explore the "refined and rare" history of tattoos, from the skin of King George V to the master craftsmanship of Clerkenwell.

The Luxury Dispatch is produced by Listen, a Platform Media label.

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The off-roader was never meant to be perfect, polished or precious. So how did it become one of the most desirable luxury objects of the modern age?

In Episode 7 of The Luxury Dispatch, Tom Chamberlin and Simon de Burton dig into the history, myths and contradictions.

The Luxury Dispatch is produced by Listen, a Platform Media label.

Follow us on socials: https://linktr.ee/theluxurydispatchLearn more about your ad choices at podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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How does a socialist revolution accidentally create one of the world’s most recognisable luxury brands?

In Episode 6 of The Luxury Dispatch, Nick Foulkes joins Tom to discuss the perfect cigar, scarcity and assassination attempts.

The Luxury Dispatch is produced by Listen, a Platform Media label.

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In this episode of The Luxury Dispatch, Tom Chamberlin is joined by actor and lifelong cricket obsessive Rafe Spall for a deeply personal conversation about the game that shapes time, memory and character.

Rafe also draws striking parallels between elite sport and acting, recounting the moment he stepped on stage opposite Rachel Weisz & Daniel Craig, locking eyes with Steven Spielberg.

The Luxury Dispatch is produced by Listen, a Platform Media label.

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In this festive special of The Luxury Dispatch, Tom Chamberlin is joined by Mike Tindall and James Haskell for a spirited Christmas gift guide unlike any other.

From accessories and aftershave to cigars, golf gadgets, wine, whisky and the psychology of luxury pricing, the trio explore how to buy brilliantly, and thoughtfully, for the most important people in your life.

Expect honest opinions, sharp humour and plenty of festive chaos as The Good, The Bad & The Rugby Podcast duo bring their trademark energy to the world of luxury.

The Luxury Dispatch is produced by Listen, a Platform Media label.

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The Rolex Submariner isn’t just a watch – it’s the blueprint for the modern dive watch and one of the most recognisable objects in luxury.

In this episode of The Luxury Dispatch, Tom Chamberlin is joined by watch historian and author Nick Foulkes to explore how a tool built for divers, scientists and the military became a global cultural symbol worn by explorers, movie heroes and collectors alike.

From Hans Wilsdorf’s obsession with precision to the Oyster case, the rise of underwater exploration, the James Bond effect, military testing, early prototypes, the Deep Sea Special, and why today’s Submariner still looks like the one you saw in childhood advertising – this is the full story of an icon.

Nick also breaks down the myths, the folklore, the collector frenzy, the military lore, the engineering breakthroughs and the psychological appeal that makes the Submariner a watch that “never fails to proceed.”

Buy Nick's book, The definitive history of the Oyster Perpetual Datejust, here - https://www.wallpaper.com/store

The Luxury Dispatch is produced by Listen, a Platform Media label.

Chapters

00:00 What Makes the Submariner Unique for Everyone

00:38 The Rolex Deep Dive Begins

01:22 The Origins of Rolex & Hans Wilsdorf

04:00 The Oyster Case: Precision Above All

09:00 The Three Ages of the Submariner

15:02 Underwater Exploration Changes Everything

20:52 Rolex Conquers the Mariana Trench

27:40 Bond, Pop Culture & the Icon Era Follow us on socials: https://linktr.ee/theluxurydispatch

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Giorgio Armani didn’t just redefine Italian tailoring – he reshaped global menswear. In this episode of The Luxury Dispatch, Tom Chamberlin is joined by Armani expert Peter Howarth and film producer Hani Farsi to explore how a boy from Piacenza became Hollywood’s first true fashion designer, transformed the unstructured jacket into a global uniform, and built an empire spanning film, red carpets, furniture, and hotels. From American Gigolo to Miami Vice, from deconstructed tailoring to the rise of Emporio Armani, this conversation dives into the life, craft, philosophy, and legacy of the most influential designer of the past 50 years. The Luxury Dispatch is produced by Listen, a Platform Media label. Follow us on socials: https://linktr.ee/theluxurydispatch

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In the debut episode of The Luxury Dispatch, Tom Chamberlin sits down with Hollywood director – and the King’s by-appointment cocktail maestro – Paul Feig, alongside writer and historian Nick Foulkes, for a spirited exploration of the art, lore and irresistible glamour of cocktails, uncovering how certain drinks become icons and why they remain one of life’s enduring pleasures.

00:00 - Intro to the pod.
01:59 - Meet Paul Feig
06:09 - Brief history of cocktails
09:24 - Paul’s first drink
13:56 - Covid cocktails (daily IG show)
16:25 - Making a cocktail for the king!
19:07 - Shaken vs stirred.
35:41 - The best bars (according to Paul)
46:11 - Sign off.

The Luxury Dispatch is produced by Listen, a Platform Media label.

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Join Tom Chamberlin and an extraordinary lineup of guests as they delve into the refined and the rare. Each episode explores a different subject, uncovering the craftsmanship, heritage, and subtle details that define the world of luxury. First episode is released Tuesday 2nd December. The Luxury Dispatch is produced by Listen, a Platform Media label.

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