Mercedes-Benz’s made-to-measure programme has the potential to create bespoke, one-off vehicles
People often mistakenly regard the most expensive, off-the-rack model as top dog in terms of luxury. This works fine if you are the sort to tie the concept of luxury to a price or a physical product, because in reality, this is just the starting point.
Why? Well, true luxury is less tangible, because it takes the form of freedom — freedom from time constraints and freedom of choice, for instance. In such a segment, price is already a matter of no object, so the only limit is one’s creative expression, because money can buy many things, except good taste. (But, hey, even if it is questionable, at least it is your taste.)
This also means you enjoy the best things in life on your own terms, which is where customisation programmes like Mercedes-Benz’s “Manufaktur” and the even more bespoke “Manufaktur Made to Measure” come into play.
Manufaktur Made to Measure offers an even more intimate level of personalisation — in terms of colours, threads, stitching and equipment — beyond the standard Manufaktur palette. This means it is possible to create one-offs based on either one’s preferences or it could be thematic.
An example of the latter is the one-of-one V12-engined Mercedes-Maybach S 680 Edition Beyond 60 we were there to see, which commemorates Singapore’s 60 years of independence.
Based on global sales figures from January to May, the brand tells us 46% of all Mercedes-Benz (and its AMG and Maybach offshoots) vehicles sold have at least one Manufaktur option. With rising affluence and the owners’ desire to stand out from their neighbours, this will only increase.
Through the lens of craftsmanship and individuality, the Edition Beyond 60 was created to honour Singapore’s 60 years of innovation, resilience and transformation, while also looking ahead to its next chapter of progress.
“The Mercedes-Maybach S 680 Edition Beyond 60 is more than a showcase of bespoke craftsmanship — it’s a celebration of Singapore’s spirit of progress and innovation,” says Marcel Luis Mustelier Perez, president & CEO of Mercedes-Benz Singapore.
He adds, “This one-of-one creation symbolises how we see the future of luxury – deeply personal, emotionally resonant and shaped around the individual. With Manufaktur Made to Measure, we want to give our customers the freedom to create something that truly speaks to who they are. Because to us, luxury is most meaningful when it becomes a reflection of identity, purpose and vision.”
Resplendent in Maybach’s characteristic two-tone paintwork, the stunning Edition Beyond 60 is finished in High-Tech Silver and Manufaktur Exclusive Carneol Red metallic.
And then you open the doors to appreciate the exquisite Maybach Exclusive special Nappa leather in Manufaktur Crystal White and Manufaktur Exclusive Bengal Red, which was carefully curated to embody Singapore’s spirit of progress and modernity.
There are lovely details in the Singapore-flag red-and-white-themed cabin, with a laser-engraved motif depicting Singapore’s skyline set against a Manufaktur black piano lacquer trim at the heart of the dashboard — a first for Maybach.
This intricate linework was created in collaboration with Singaporean multi-disciplinary artist Andre Wee.
The centre console also bears a “1 of 1” edition badge, an emblem that highlights the exclusivity of the luxe limo.
The aesthetic elements never threaten to overwhelm the plushness of the luxurious cabin, but instead create a cohesive theme with the exterior that throws the spotlight on national pride.
