New F1 SingTel Singapore Grand Prix trophy unveiled

The trophy, made by Nathan Yong, is inspired by a modern take on the symbolic laurel wreath.

In a release, Royal Selangor is producing the winner’s trophy for the 2012 Formula 1 SingTel Singapore Grand Prix. Designed by Singaporean designer Nathan Yong, the trophy is a modern take on the laurel wreath, a symbol of victory used since ancient Greece.

Cast in pewter, the ring-shaped trophy exudes fluidity and dynamism, sculpted in relief with a diamond-shaped pattern derived from interweaving olive leaves.

The circular form conveys connection, speed as well as unity, reflecting the unifying spirit of different nationalities coming together and driving home SingTel’s theme of ‘F1 for everyone’. The pewter laurel is mounted onto an acrylic base.

Nathan said, “While searching for inspiration for the SingTel F1 trophy design, I looked into the history of sports as I wanted this design to derive from a language of great heritage and prestige. I found that the most recorded and recognised sports events were from the Greek period where laurel wreaths made of olives were given to the winner. I felt it was time to bring back the laurel with new language and meaning for the new era.”

LRA recipient of the prestigious Singapore President’s Design Award Designer of the Year in 2008, Nathan was also selected one of the most promising Young Designers at the 2011 International King size supplement INTERNI at Salone del Mobile, Milan. His works are inspired by simple visual memories from everyday life, but pared down with a restrained lightness. He captures the poetry of products through research and engineering, creating fresh styles and functions that fit effortlessly into modern life.

According to Chen Tien Yue, Executive Director of Royal Selangor Marketing said “Our designers and craftspeople worked very closely with Nathan, to create this unique design. The low relief pattern with a highly polished finish catches light to convey the excitement and exhilaration of high speed, capturing the spirit of the Formula 1 race. A modern laurel wreath for modern times, this trophy is a fitting prize for a Formula 1 race winner.”

In celebration of the new trophy design, Royal Selangor will be conducting two contests around the F1 theme:

5 for 5 (to commemorate the fifth Grand Prix held in Singapore) – For every S$50 spend at Royal Selangor, customers will receive 1 lucky draw ticket to win prizes. 5 prizes will be given away worth S$250 each.

Embracing the F1 Spirit – A photo contest where Singapore gets to view the new Formula 1 SingTel Singapore Grand Prix trophy and take pictures beside it, and email the photos and a relevant caption to trophycontest@royalselangor.com.sg. The picture with the best caption wins prizes worth S$500.