I can't remember a more anticipated magazine launch than this one: monocle magazine, called a cross between Vice and The Economist (with pictures, and four different paper stocks) Wallpaper doesn't count though, as it was a surprise.

The content, as hinted on by many, aims to satisfy readers looking for serious content. (whatever happened to the joy of reading peer-reviewed journals?) If the first issue's lengthy articles on Chinese Imperialism in Africa and a few more all totalling 50,000 words (about the average novel) are any indication of what's in store, then Tyler Brule (and the H&M twins) have really got something going. The magazine will be flanked by a strong web presence (the former head of Interactive Design and Technology at BBC is making this happen) and is staffed with formers from the Independent and The New York Times Travel Magazine.

My luck of being in Manila, the Brits will get their hands on it first. I'm retreating to back issues of the New Yorker.