KLM Unveils 106th Delft Miniature House with Hidden Gem from America

KLM's 106th Delft Collectible House Unveiled with Unique U.S. Connection On October 7, KLM, the oldest airline in the world operating under the same name, celebrated its 106th anniversary by unveiling its latest Delft miniature house collectible. The newest addition to the series, Villa Rameau, is an unassuming house with a significant historical connection to the United States. According to Mark Zegeling, KLM's director of product development, "The Delft houses have become a beloved tradition for our passengers and collectors around the world." Each year, the airline gifts a new blue and white ceramic replica house to World Business Class passengers on long-haul flights. The houses are filled with Bols Genever, a Dutch spirit, making them highly sought after by frequent flyers. Villa Rameau's unique U.S. connection lies in its design inspiration from an 18th-century American colonial-style house. This marks the first time KLM has drawn inspiration from outside of Europe for one of its Delft houses. "We wanted to create something that would resonate with our passengers and collectors, while also paying homage to our rich history," said Zegeling. The Delft houses have become a staple in the world of collectibles, with many travelers booking flights specifically to acquire new additions for their collection. The tradition dates back to the 1950s, when KLM first introduced the concept as a way to showcase Dutch culture and craftsmanship. In an interview, Ramsey Qubein, contributor to Forbes, noted that "the Delft houses have become a symbol of KLM's commitment to its heritage and its passengers." Qubein has been following the airline's collectible house tradition for years and has written extensively about their popularity among collectors. The unveiling of Villa Rameau marks a new chapter in the history of KLM's Delft houses. As the airline continues to innovate and push boundaries, it will be interesting to see how future designs are inspired by different cultures and historical periods. Background: KLM has been operating for 106 years, making it one of the oldest airlines in the world. The airline's commitment to its heritage is evident in its Delft houses, which have become a beloved tradition among passengers and collectors worldwide. Additional Perspectives: The Delft houses are not only a testament to KLM's dedication to its history but also a reflection of the airline's role in promoting Dutch culture and craftsmanship. As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, it will be fascinating to see how future designs incorporate elements from different cultures and historical periods. Current Status and Next Developments: The unveiling of Villa Rameau marks the beginning of a new era for KLM's Delft houses. With its unique U.S. connection, this latest addition is sure to spark interest among collectors and passengers alike. As KLM continues to innovate and push boundaries, it will be exciting to see what the future holds for its collectible house tradition. Sources: Mark Zegeling, KLM's director of product development Ramsey Qubein, contributor to Forbes *Reporting by Forbes.*