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McLaren W1 First Drive: Ferocious Hypercar Transcends the Track

You know things are getting serious when McLaren rolls-out the ‘1’ suffix. The origin story is, of course, the very first road car McLaren ever built, the F1. Designed by visionary Formula 1 aerodynamicist and engineer Gordon Murray, it arrived in 1992 and rendered all other supercars obsolete. The tiny, lightweight F1 embraced carbon-fibre material technology, adopted a radical centre seat driving position with two passengers set back and either side and was powered by a 6.1-litre V12 engine from BMW that might as well have been passed down directly from the Gods. Game-changer? That doesn’t even come close to describing its impact, even if at the time sales didn’t come easy… The P1 was very different. Rather than a unique side project from the Formula 1 team, it was instead a statement piece for McLaren Automotive, a new road car division still in its infancy. It arrived in 2013 and was a wild-eyed showstopper. It traded the long-legged gait and supple suspension of the F1 for a weaponized hybrid system capable of delivering 903bhp and huge blue flames from its drainpipe exhaust. In Race mode, it lowered by 2-inches and its massive concave rear wing extended into the sky. The P1 was all about aerodynamic downforce, crazed acceleration and a snorting, angry soundtrack that mixed venomous twin-turbocharged V8 with the manic whirr of electric motors. Not so much a car as a force of nature. And now there’s this: The W1. It’s a true successor to the P1 with a similar brief and, on the face of it, it evolves rather than radically reinvents McLaren’s vision for the ultimate hypercar. This is not a criticism. How could it be when the result is this dramatic and has such staggering, other-worldly potential? The W1 has 1258bhp delivered to the rear wheels. It’s capable of 0-124 mph in 5.8-seconds, the quarter mile in 9.6-seconds at 167 mph and produces 2205lbs of downforce at 174 mph. The active aerodynamics – particularly a rear wing that extends way out beyond the rear of the car – are pure performance art and deliver massive aerodynamic efficiency. The result, aside from looking extremely cool, is that the W1 is McLaren’s fastest road car around a racetrack. Ever. Their benchmark circuit is the breath-taking Handling Track at the Nardo proving ground in southern Italy, where the W1 beats their previous benchmark, the flyweight McLaren Senna, by three seconds per lap. Or “a lifetime” as they call it in racing. Maybe two lifetimes! Core to the W1’s performance is the new ‘Aerocell’ carbon fibre tub. With integrated seats and a raised footwell to allow for inboard pushrod-operated front suspension – which in turn gives air a clean path to the huge underbody diffuser – it’s light, stiff, space efficient and has been instrumental in McLaren realising a full ground-effect concept. Just like last year’s F1 cars, which were the fastest ever made. There is also an active front wing and the aforementioned complex rear wing dubbed ‘Active Long Tail’. All of which is very admirable. But the ‘anhedral’ or gullwing doors and the fantastically shirnked-wrapped feel to the minimalist, highly-focussed interior are a pretty good side effect. The W1 feels special. Those fixed seats are perhaps a shade more upright than expected, and the driving position is less obviously racecar than, for example, the Aston Martin Valhalla or Ferrari F80. However, once you’ve adjusted the pedals (they move on a slider) and the delicate, slim-rimmed and alcantara-trimmed steering wheel, there’s an overwhelming sense of purpose. The cabin is so tightly tailored and imparts a sense of lightness and agility before you so much as start the all-new 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine, which makes 916bhp all on its own and revs to 9200rpm. Reach up to a roof-mounted control panel to find the starter button. Maybe this fighter plane trope is a little corny, but somehow you feel thrilled rather than manipulated. The W1 has a sense of humour as well as all that motorsport-derived sophistication. There’s a short delay, but when the engine does fire it’s instant – as the high-powered hybrid system negates the need for an old-school starter motor. A sharp flare of revs tells you that this engine is hyper-responsive and angry. On some deep level your brain and body have been sent all the signals required to prepare for something new and intense. Ahead of us, an empty Mugello racetrack, so press and hold the blue button next to the red starter to select Race mode. The centre display graphic shows the W1’s transformation in real time as it lowers by 37mm at the front and 17mm at the rear whilst simultaneously undocking all that active aero goodness. Race mode is not road legal and is geo-locked. You can show your friends and neighbours the aero dance, but it won’t allow you to select a gear to actually drive unless you’re at a circuit. Incidentally, the rocker switches either side of the display binnacle allow further options now: Toggle up the Handling control on the left for Race+ (for F1-spec super smooth tracks) or stick to Race for gnarlier ones. On the right toggle select ‘GP’ for sustained performance over a stint or ‘Sprint’ to unleash all 1258bhp for a time attack. There’s also a DRS and Boost function on the steering wheel. But I guarantee you won’t have the mental capacity to use them… Exit the pitlane, pin the throttle and W1 takes maybe a millisecond or two to gather its might (the gearing stretches to around 60mph in first, nearly 100mph in second, primarily to aid traction), but then lunges at the first turn with incredible ferocity. It instantly feels light, almost like inertia is no longer a thing. McLaren really does prize lightweight engineering, and at 3084lbs (dry) the W1 has a 278lbs advantage over the Ferrari F80. Plus, Ferrari uses figures for cars fitted with every single carbon fibre option. In reality, the gap is probably wider still. The impression of agility and stunning control continues as the track is unravelled at startling pace. The electric motor mounted to the side of the new 8-speed dual-clutch transmission is good for 342bhp and 324lb ft and it boosts any low rev lethargy the new flat-plane crank V8 might have (spoiler alert: It doesn’t appear to have any), so the W1 just feels massively, almost impossibly powerful at any revs. Even so, there’s real reward for wringing it out to 9200rpm and the power curve feels superheated but organic, too. In Race mode the steering – still hydraulically powered – has less assistance and it is noticeably heavier than other McLarens. However, that resistance is welcome as it gives you something to push against and imparts so much information about the front grip level. New Pirelli Trofeo RS tyres with a bigger front footprint than P1 or Senna really help. The front-end feels incredibly secure and the rear-axle follows with perfectly-aligned precision. The whole car feels super-stiff, completely locked into the surface and inspires confidence, but there’s an inherent agility and adjustability that means you’re quickly confident to push at its limits and really impose yourself on the chassis. It’s such a complex car but the driving experience is intuitive, and the driver feels a key contributor rather than just amazed (or terrified) observer, holding on for dear life. Every dynamic ingredient really is shockingly effective and yet has a subtlety and lightness of touch. From that delicious steering to the incredible brakes, the W1 just feels so mission-focussed, so hooked-up. Only the new 8-speed gearbox is a slightly disappointment. It’s fast and punchy, but after the scintillating energy of the Ferrari F80 ’box it feels competent rather than inspired. Other quibbles – it’s okay to quibble when the starting price is $2.1-million before tax and destination charge. Well, that new twin-turbocharged V8 sounds tightly wound and aggressive but if you have a P1 tucked in the garage you’ll miss the snorting, Darth Vader-style soundscape and all the drama that goes with it. Ferrari does this better, too. The F80 sounds deathly dull from the outside but is a riot of turbochargers, electric motors and all sorts of mechanical fury within the cockpit. Even so, the W1 is wildly entertaining on track, and the rear-drive configuration makes it more of a challenge and more satisfying than the F80 when chasing lap times or just sliding around for fun. In the Ferrari, you must second-guess what the front e-axle might do, whereas in the W1 it’s all on you. There are plenty of tools to help, including the ingenious Variable Drift Control, but somehow the W1 is more heroic. Or at least fools you into feeling more heroic – which is surely the point! On the road? Nimble, loaded with feel and sublime response. The ride is noticeably tougher than, say, a 750S but the control is ramped-up too, and with a bit more speed the whole car finds a delicious rhythm. Sport mode for the drivetrain brings some nice turbo whooshes and chirps, but the noise remains high-quality rather than extreme excitement. It is perhaps the one area the W1 feels just a little too tame. Of course, there’s nothing tame about the raw performance… which is genuinely shocking and literally hurts your neck muscles after a few hours. How McLaren has given the W1 such immense traction through just two driven wheels is beyond me. So, is it worthy of that ‘1’? I think so. Perhaps we won’t be talking about $25-million auction results for the W1 in 30 years from now, as we are for the F1. Perhaps it doesn’t quite have the amazing presence and jaw-dropping star quality of the simply gorgeous P1. But it is such an intense experience and the way it marries stunning track performance with delicate poise and entertainment on normal roads is something akin to magic. Maybe not ‘the one’ but definitely a searing, outrageous addition to McLaren’s fiercest family line. Just 399 W1’s will be built and they’re all sold. I’m not surprised at all. View All McLarens For Sale Images: McLaren Automotive

By Edward Jones – May 28, 2020

'Fast & Furious Crossroads' Video Game Gets New Trailer a...

A new addition to the Fast & Furious franchise is coming later this year, but it's not a movie. The new video game 'Fast & Furious Crossroads' will be releasing on August 7, 2020. It was originally supposed to release in May 2020 with the new 'Fast & Furious 9' movie but was pushed back to a later date. This new video game will feature stars like Vin Diesel and Michelle Rodriguez who will be talking to the player as they go on action-packed missions. Players will also get to drive some wild cars packed with all of the gadgets you could imagine. If you're a fan of the action featured in the most recent films, you will definitely feel right at home playing this. There will also be multiplayer modes, however, the specifics of how this will work have yet to be revealed. You can check out the new gameplay trailer for yourself down below. It will be releasing for PS4, Xbox One and PC. You can pre-order for PS4 and Xbox One by clicking the buttons below. PS4 Preorder Xbox One Preorder

By Edward Jones – May 26, 2020

Bell & Ross Reveals New Limited Edition White Camo Watch

Bell & Ross is back again with a new limited edition watch that features a stylish white camouflage design. Called the BR 03-92 White Camo, this watch features the Bell & Ross calibre BR-CAL.302 automatic movement that includes hours, minutes, seconds and date functions. As for the dial, it dons the black camo pattern with black Super-LumiNova®. The case has a width of 42mm and comes in matte black ceramic that's paired with either the black rubber strap or calfskin white camo strap. Bell & Ross knows just how popular this camo design is and they hit it out of the park with this new watch. If you're looking for a modern and eye-catching watch that would pair well with a monochromatic outfit, here you go. It comes with a $3,800 price tag and can be purchased by clicking the button below. Shop Now Source: Bell & Ross

By Edward Jones – May 21, 2020

Jacob & Co. Unveil New 'Scarface' Timepiece

Jacob & Co. have been hard at work creating a complex and magnificent timepiece that honors the film 'Scarface'. Within this watch are so many details that cannot be overlooked if you want to truly appreciate it. Called the Scarface Opera, it follows the path of the other Opera timepieces in Jacob & Co.'s collection. This path is one of music. Yes, this Scarface can actually play a song but not just any song. Jacob & CO. worked with NBC/Universal Pictures to be able to use not only the image of the title character Tony Montana but also the song "Bolivia" from the movie. The integrated Swiss music box can play the 120-note song when activated by the pusher at 10 o'clock. In total, there are 658 individual parts that make up the Scarface Opera, including an incredibly complex triple-axis high-speed tourbillon. There are two different variations of this watch, one with a Black DLC Grade 5 Titanium case and the other with an 18k Rose Gold case. You can learn more about this phenomenal timepieces by click the button below. View Collection

By Edward Jones – May 21, 2020

OMEGA Seamaster Planet Ocean 36th America’s Cup Announced

Omega has made two very special announcements, both being related to each other. The first is that they will be the Official Timekeeper of the 36th America's Cup, the third time that they have served this role. On top of this, Omega has also announced the new Seamaster Planet Ocean 36th America’s Cup Limited Edition watch. This new watch has a blue ceramic diving bezel that includes white and red liquid ceramic that marks a 5-minute countdown for racing. On the white dial, the name of the competition can be found to commemorate the event. Omega also included the America's Cup logo as a counterweight for the central seconds hand. If you turn the watch around, you'll also find the competition's logo on the sapphire crystal. If you're a fan of sailing, contact your local boutique to inquire about this watch or shop online and be sure to watch the 36th America's Cup when it sets sail in March 2021.

By Edward Jones – May 20, 2020

Save Time and Money With Orbita Watchwinders Memorial Day...

Anyone with an automatic watch knows how annoying it can be if you let a watch sit around to the point where its power reserve it depleted. This leaves you with a watch telling the wrong time, forcing you to reset it and winding that bad boy up. This is why watchwinders come in handy. Instead of setting your watch on your dresser, you can place it in a watchwinder where it will never run out of power. If this sounds like something you need, you're in luck because Orbita is having Memorial Day sale on their luxurious watchwinders. Within their collection are a wide-range of watchwinders that can house anywhere from one watch to 36. Click the button below to see the sale for yourself and maybe get yourself the watchwinder you've been looking for. View Sale

By Edward Jones – May 20, 2020

Eberhard & Co. Unveil New Aquadate Chrono

Eberhard & Co. has just announced that their new Aquadate collection will include a chronograph version called the Aquadate Chrono. This new watch stays true to the Aquadate's design, but adds two new dials thanks to it being a chronograph. The bezel is complete with knurls while the dial has a “vagues-droites” decoration and their shield at 12 o'clock. Staying true to the name, the date is still viewable at 6 o'clock is the date. As for the case holding this all in, it measures in at 41 mm and is water-resistant up to 10 meters. Eberhard & Co. has picked a "Charme" type bracelet that matches the case perfectly. This new variant of the Aquadate is a perfect addition to Eberhard & Co.'s lineup. To learn more, be sure to click the button below. View Eberhard & Co. Website

By Edward Jones – May 15, 2020

Meet the BOVET 1822's Récital 26 Brainstorm® Chapter One

The Récital 26 Brainstorm® Chapter One was developed to specifically showcase the House of Bovet’s Engineering Brilliance featuring a 48mm mono-block Sapphire-crystal in a “writing slope” trademarked case. The premier of this case in sapphire enables the architecture of this exclusive movement to follow the case’s inclined construction at the angle of 9 degrees.⠀⠀The Récital 26 Brainstorm® Chapter One is presented with a hemispherical hand-painted precision moon that glows in the dark and a domed transparent red quartz dial. It features 486 hand-finished components and a remarkable 10-days power reserve with a single barrel. The price for this magnificent timepiece is $319,000. For more information, click the button below. Visit BOVET.com Technical Specifications Reference Number - R260012, convex red quartz dial LIMITED EDITION to 60 movements including 10 with red quartz dial CASE Type - Dimier « writing desk » case Diameter - 48 mm Thickness - 15.50 mm Material - Sapphire with titanium lugs and case-back Bracelet - Full skin alligator Buckle - 18K white gold ardillon Water resistance - 30m MOVEMENT Caliber - 17DM04-SMP Type - Hand wound movement Diameter - 38.50 mm (17 1/3’’’) Frequency - 18,000V/h Power reserve - 10 days Functions - Hours, minutes, seconds on tourbillon, big date, power reserve indicator, hemispherical moon phase indicator DIAL - Convex red or green or blue quartz or propeller shape dial GUARANTEE - 5 years PATENTS - Spherical winding system Tridimensional toothing with multiple gearing Double face flying tourbillon PRICE - $319,000 USD

By Andrew Nabors – May 14, 2020

Sonos Unveils the Arc Smart Soundbar

Before the virus, we could find entertainment at pubs, taverns, clubs and bars. However, since they have been closed it has made many reevaluate their life choices. Being quarantined and binge-watching new series has made me realize how inferior my home audio system truly is. So if you really want to make a change for the better, stay away from the bars and upgrade to the new Sonos Arc Smart Soundbar. It is the first soundbar to be compatible with Dolby Atmos, the new standard for HD audio. Potent processors run proprietary software that was written for Sonos by leading Hollywood Sound Engineers. That is how it can transform 2-channel stereo inputs like Bluetooth or even a record player into room-filling 3D sound. What's more, it has Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, along with voice control of all functions. Multiple woofers, mids, and tweeters have a 270-degree arc of fire. Having nearly every input available, it can play anything at any time, regardless of the TV being on or off. It has modes for night, action, vocals, instrumental, and many others. Most TVs made after '09 have an ARC-compatible HDMI port, and it will allow the Sonos Arc to replace your receiver, pre-amp, sub, and every other part of your 7.1 system. Click the button below to learn more and stay with us for all your home theater news. Learn More

By Edward Jones – May 14, 2020

Commemorative Garmin MARQ Captain: American Magic Edition...

Garmin has just announced the new MARQ Captain: American Magic Edition, a new commemorative watch that was designed in cooperation with the Magic sailing team. This new watch celebrates the sailing team through is navy blue silicone strap and the engraving of the 'American Magic' name on the bezel. Also coming with this watch are two exclusively designed faces. “We are honored to be a part of the legacy of American Magic and its challenge for the America’s Cup, the pinnacle of sailing and the oldest trophy in international sports,” said Dan Bartel, Garmin vice president of global consumer sales. “We are confident our watches will give the team the tools they need as they compete for the trophy, and we’re excited to be a part of their success on the water.” When owners of the watch open up the box it comes in, they'll be presented with preloaded topographical maps and support for BlueChart® g3 coastal charts and GPS navigation, maritime profiles and weather forecasts. As you can see, this is perfect for any sailor or boater. There are, of course, plenty of other features like SOS functionality, contactless payment and more that come loaded with the watch. As for the battery that powers all of this, it has 12 days of life when in smartwatch mode, 48 hours in UltraTrac mode and 9 hours in GPS mode with music. You can pick one up for yourself now for $1,750. Shop Now Source: Garmin

By Edward Jones – May 13, 2020

MB&F Launches New Starfleet Explorer, An Intergalactic Clock

In 2014, MB&F unveiled the Starfleet Machine as their very first table-clock collaboration with L’Epée. Now, this stunning clock is returning in a much more compact size. Introducing the new Starfleet Explorer. This new clock measures in with a diameter of 16.5 cm and a height of 11 cm, allowing it to fit in any table space. As for its design, it's pack with stunning features. At the top, the minutes can be read on a revolving disc when they appear in the center of a fixed metal aperture. The ring below tells the hour, but it's motionless, with a revolving hand indicating the hour. A new and exciting element for the Starfleet Explorer are the three small spacecrafts that are lined up along the the same axis and are found in the movement itself. They revolve around the movement, with one full turn every five minutes. The Starfleet Explorer is truly a mothership, guiding the trio of spacecrafts. The new MB&F Starfleet Explorer is available in three different and vibrant colors: blue, green and red. They are, of course, very limited with only 99 examples being made for each color. For the price and more information, be sure to click the button down below. Shop Now

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