Buyer of First Armani Superyacht Revealed as Italian Eyewear Magnate Family

According to French fashion media Glitz Paris, the first Armani-branded superyacht Admiral 72 has been officially purchased—by a family member of Del Vecchio, founder of Italian high-end eyewear group Luxottica.

In early 2023, the Italian Sea Group held a major event at its shipyard in Marina di Carrara, unveiling the construction plans for this yacht for the first time. This yacht is the first of two superyachts built in collaboration with Admiral, with both interior and exterior designs personally overseen by designer Giorgio Armani.

Reportedly, the yacht can accommodate 14 guests in seven cabins. The crew can reach up to 20 people. Onboard facilities include a swimming pool, private SPA, and helipad.

According to Superyacht Times, the Admiral 72 was sold at a price of €105 million.

The founder and chairman of Italian high-end eyewear group Luxottica was the late Leonardo del Vecchio. Born in Milan in 1935, he grew up in an orphanage. During Italy's post-war economic recovery, Del Vecchio built his business from scratch, becoming one of Italy's most successful and wealthiest entrepreneurs.

Above: Giorgio Armani (left) and Leonardo del Vecchio (right) in a photo taken during his lifetime.

Coincidentally, this comes at a time when the partnership between Armani and EssilorLuxottica may be further deepening.

Leonardo Del Vecchio's heirs currently hold a significant stake in EssilorLuxottica. As early as 1988, Luxottica had already reached an eyewear cooperation agreement with Armani. In his will, Giorgio Armani indicated that EssilorLuxottica, along with LVMH and L'Oréal, were interested parties to take over 15% of the group's shares.

Recent reports suggest that EssilorLuxottica has expressed interest in acquiring 5% to 10% of Armani Group's shares, but has also stated that it will not participate in the actual operational management of the fashion house.

｜Sources: MFFASHION, lasicilia

｜Image credit: Brand official website