Lifestyle

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 Jordan Aquistapace – December 15, 2021

The GearBox: Porsche GT Style

As we hit the coldest months of the winter season, it means that the holidays are just around the corner. With all the traveling happening around the world, it's best to do it in a vehicle with the perfect amount of space and performance. The all-new Porsche Cayenne Turbo GT is the go-to pick for the Christmas commute, with its extra space complemented by a 541-horsepower 4.0L Twin-Turbocharged V8. This week’s GearBox focuses on the warmest styles and baggage to pack for the winter road trips during the holiday season. Shop all of the products and accessories featured in this special by clicking the links below. Check back into duPont REGISTRY Daily for more luxury gear news and releases. Porsche Cayenne Turbo GT Porsche The Cayenne Turbo GT, which is only available in the Coupe body style, is equipped as standard with an array of performance-enhancing suspension systems and high-performance tires that were made exclusively for this model. The result is a performance SUV that remains very much a Cayenne to its core, and yet possesses reserves of power and ability that allow it to be adept on a demanding road or even a track. By way of demonstrating its capabilities when pushed to the extreme, Porsche test driver Lars Kern took to the legendary Nürburgring Nordschleife where he set a new official SUV lap record of 7:38.9 minutes with the Cayenne Turbo GT for one 12.9-mile lap. Price: MSRP $180,800 View All Porsche Cayenne Turbo For Sale Porsche Design 1919 Globetimer UTC Porsche The 1919 Globetimer UTC brings a sports car feel to the wrists of business travelers. Derived from the simple and precise operability of the Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK), the time zone display can be adjusted in 1-hour intervals without interrupting the steady tick of time. All at the touch of a button. You no longer need to adjust the time using the winder and thus save valuable seconds: simple and precise, it also automatically adapts the displayed date. Price: $6,750 Buy From Porsche Design Melin Aviator Thermal Melin Aviator Thermal was engineered with water, wind, and stain repellent exterior panels and buttery soft faux fur lining for heat retention and insulation. Price: $139 Buy From Melin Porsche Design evoKNIT Midlayer PUMA Like the cars themselves, Porsche Design is all about top quality and sleek aesthetics. This sophisticated midlayer uses evoKNIT technology to provide the perfect combination of comfort and flexibility, with a water-repellent finish to help keep you dry. The contrast material blocking with multicoloured yarn and bold seam details give this piece a high-class, contemporary feel. Reflective Porsche Design branding at the collar adds an understated motorsport touch. Price: $290 Buy From PUMA Norse Project GM x NP Niels Stick Drawing Cotton Graphic Tee Nordstrom Designed in collaboration with artist Geoff Mcfetridge, this sweet Norse Project cotton tee sports a cool design and offers street-ready appeal. Price: $110 Buy From Nordstrom Rag & Bone Fit 2 - Foster Rag & Bone The Fit 2 — most loved. For good reason. Here in Authentic Stretch: selvedge-inspired denim with an optimal, shape-holding touch of comfort stretch. Foster is an Italian denim in a medium indigo wash. Button fly. Price: $195 Buy From Rag & Bone PUMA x FIRST MILE Porsche Design Wild Rider Winterised Motorsport Shoes PUMA Embrace the creativity and luxury of our Porsche Design series in our Porsche Design Wild Rider Winterised Men's Motorsport Shoes. These stylish and durable shoes feature state-of-the art winterizing materials to let you pound the pavement more effectively and at the peak of refinement, just like the finely tuned engines built by Porsche. Price: $260 Buy From PUMA Porsche Design Sunglasses P´8913 Porsche Design Extremely practical technology, stunning appearance: The revolutionary, maintenance-free Ball Tec ball-and-socket hinge on the Porsche Design P'8913 sunglasses perfectly encapsulates the Porsche Design philosophy: maximum function, timeless form. Slender temples crafted in pure titanium put the emphasis on the innovative ball joint whilst being a contrast to the striking front made of ultra-lightweight RXP® high-performance polyamide. Price: $520 Buy From Porsche Design Porsche Design Duffle Bag PUMA Featuring a clean design, this Porsche Design 2-in-1 Duffle Bag is a must-have. Whether it's for a weekend trip or a trip to the gym, this bag is irreplaceable. With its spacious main compartment, webbing straps for easy transport and adjustable buckles on the side, our duffle bag has your back. Price: $400 Buy From PUMA Porsche Design Backpack PUMA This sleek Porsche Design Backpack is made with recycled polyester and features plenty of premium features. We've made comfort a priority with our unique shoulder strap system with pre-moulded pads. There's a large main compartment with multiple pockets to store everything you need and external shoe and laptop compartments with independent access. Price: $485 Buy From PUMA

By Jordan Aquistapace – December 06, 2021

Bang & Olufsen x CLOT Release A Limited-Edition Beosound ...

Premium sound quality with a stylish new look from Bang & Olufsen x CLOT. When it comes to offering a wide selection of stylish luxury audio products, the professionals at Bang & Olufsen are industry leaders in the automotive, at-home, and on-the-go sectors. While music is best enjoyed on the go to make your commute to work more pleasant, Bang & Olufsen is proud to present a new limited-edition Beosound A1 2nd Gen wireless speaker. The look of limited-edition Beosound is reimagined by the fashion specialists at CLOT, featuring the brand’s famous all-red design. The red design incorporates the significance of the color within traditional Chinese culture, which was chosen by CLOT to introduce the Eastern heritage to the modern age. MUST-READ: Lamborghini Squadra Corse x Master Dynamic Release Its Mantis Green Collection Beosound A1 is the perfect portable speaker with loud and captivating bass-rich sound, designed to be shared by everyone around, for hours on end. Fully dust and waterproof, Beosound A1 is primed for up to 18 hours of non-stop play. True360 omnidirectional sound makes this speaker the natural center of attention, while the Multipoint feature lets two devices connect and control the tunes. Beosound A1 provides crystal clear voice calls thanks to its speakerphone performance, Bluetooth 5.1 and three internal microphones give the best connection for online meetings and hands-free calls. The CLOT x Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 is set to release in Bang & Olufsen stores and online on December 12th for $299. Click the link below to prep for the release and to shop the extensive collection of luxury audio products from Bang & Olufsen. Check back into duPont REGISTRY Daily for more luxury gear news and releases. Shop Bang & Olufsen Source: Bang & Olufsen

By Edward Jones – December 03, 2021

For a Limited Time, Get 20% Off Every Skip Barber School ...

Presented by Skip Barber Racing School - The green flag is waving at the Skip Barber Racing School with an incredible 20% Black Friday discount on our Schools and Gift Certificates. From our Teen Safe Driving to our most popular Three Day Racing School, discounts are available on every course for a VERY short time. This offer comes around the track only once a year, and THIS is that one time. " width="680"> The Skip Barber Racing School is the premier racing school in North America, conducting racing schools, defensive and high-performance driving schools, and corporate team-building events. The Skip Barber Race Series provides competitors with a training environment that covers the key elements to ensure a successful career in motorsports. Our road racing tracks include Lime Rock Park in Lakeville, CT, Laguna Seca in Salinas, CA, Virginia International Raceway in Alton, VA., Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas, Road Atlanta in Braselton, GA and Sebring International Raceway in Sebring, FL. The Skip Barber Racing School has trained over one-third of all Indianapolis 500 competitors and one-quarter of NASCAR Cup competitors. Our graduates have distinguished themselves with podium appearances in all the major international series, including Formula 1, NASCAR, IndyCar, IMSA, World Challenge America, and TransAm. Join us and be part of this very distinguished group. Use code BLACKFRIDAY22 at checkout. Don’t get lapped! Visit SkipBarber.com GET YOUR SEAT NOW!

By Jordan Aquistapace – December 01, 2021

The GearBox: Ferrari Frost Bite

As the weather conditions start to change for the winter season, many supercar owners sadly hang up the keys of their favorite performance cars until the warmer months. For Ferrari GTC4Lusso owners, the fun has only begun with the Italian supercar’s modern all-wheel-drive system. The Ferrari GTC4Lusso is able to unleash all of its 602-horsepower from the 3.8L Twin-Turbocharged V8 in the deep snow with complete control. This week’s GearBox special focuses on the perfect cold-weather style to pair with the Ferrari GTC4Lusso. Shop all of the products and accessories featured in this special by clicking the links below. Check back into duPont REGISTRY Daily for more luxury gear news and releases. Ferrari GTC4Lusso Ferrari Powerful yet sophisticated, sporty yet luxurious. Ferrari's new 12-cylinder really does make every journey a radically different experience. Whether being driven solo or with all four seats occupied, the latest addition to the Ferrari range puts people at the centre of a whole new world. The GTC4 Lusso was designed to deliver different and entirely surprising emotions. Price: MSRP $260,000 View All Ferrari GTC4Lusso For Sale Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Chronograph WatchBox Pre-Owned Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Chronograph (26331STOO1220ST01) self-winding automatic watch, features a 41mm stainless steel case surrounding a blue Grande Tapiserrie dial on a stainless steel bracelet with folding buckle. Functions include hours, minutes, small seconds, date and chronograph. This watch comes complete with box and papers. J Serial. We back this watch with a 2-Year Watchbox warranty! Price: $68,000 Buy From WatchBox Canada Goose Standard Wool Blend Beanie Nordstrom A touch of stretch and a water-resistant finish bring all-weather comfort to the Canada Goose beanie knit from a warm wool blend. Price: $95 Buy From Nordstrom Ferrari Padded Recycled Nylon Bomber Jacket Ferrari Store Featuring a casual yet understated appeal and functional details, this men's fully foldable padded bomber jacket has a jet-setting personality. The straight silhouette, front zipper closure and horizontal quilting pattern define its minimalist style. The understated and elegant tone-on-tone Ferrari Shield appears on the chest. Price: $490 Buy From The Ferrari Store Puma Scuderia Ferrari Race Big Shield Tee PUMA A must-have for Scuderia Ferrari Racing fans and aficionados of the cool and casual tee alike. Made from 100% sustainably sourced cotton, this clean-lined tee features the iconic Ferrari Prancing Horse shield in a gradient print for a fierce look that'll have you streets ahead in the style race. Price: $50 Buy From PUMA Ralph Lauren Purple Label Jeans Nordstrom Faded in all the right places for a lived-in look, the Ralph Lauren Purple Label's lightweight jeans feature a slim fit with legs that taper at the ankle. Price: $495 Buy From Nordstrom Allen Edmonds Park City Weatherproof Boot Allen Edmonds The Park City Lace-Up Weatherproof Boot is featured in the classic 4253 burgundy color way and crafted from genuine leather. Its waterproof protection ensures that any adventurous individual will stay dry no matter the conditions. Price: $331.50 Buy From Allen Edmonds Persol Persol This style has the same iconic, unique and untouchable pilot shape as the 649 but with a slimmer profile. The model perfectly embodies/encapsulates the value and images evoked by the icon, for true Persol lovers for whom the 649 is a cult classic. This reinterpretation is particularly suited to both men and women thanks to its lighter, thinner execution. Price: $261 Buy From Persol Ralph Lauren Saddle Leather Billfold Wallet Ralph Lauren Handcrafted in England using traditional methods, this Ralph Lauren billfold wallet is made from Whitehouse Cox's famed saddle leather and will develop a rich patina over time. Price: $275 Buy From Ralph Lauren Dents Griffin Driving Gloves Dents Designed in collaboration with The Suited Racer, our Griffin gloves feature a bold two colour design with contrasting forchettes and strap. Price: $154 Buy From Dents Shinola The Runwell Backpack Shinola This casual and refined piece in smooth Navigator leather includes adjustable padded shoulder straps, a deluxe top carry handle and silver-toned hardware. The cotton-lined interior features dedicated pockets for your laptop and phone. So head into the office, then into the gym and into the weekend without missing a beat. Price: $995 Buy From Shinola For more GearBox specials, Check out The GearBox: Electrified GT

By Jordan Aquistapace – November 24, 2021

The Art Effect by The Foundry Michaelangelo

Presented by Treasure Investments What looks like leather, but isn’t soft? What has a horn, but isn’t loud? What looks like paint, but can’t be rubbed off and will likely outlive all of us? The answers to these questions are in the art around you every day. The bronze and silver sculpture you see, but don’t notice. That bison piece on the credenza behind the desk of that guy you like, in that TV show you watch. You love it and it makes all the difference, but you don’t realize it. THAT is what we like to call “The Art Effect”. Discover Treasure Investments We at Treasure Investments Corp. dba Foundry Michelangelo manufacture, distribute, sell and maintain the bronze and precious metal artwork you don’t even know you love. From the little 6” bald eagle sculpture on your desk at work to the 10’ tall rearing stallion piece made with 1,200 lbs of 304 stainless steel, that matches the emblem on your favorite 458 horsepower stead in the stable. That’s right, your Ferrari collection is only missing a giant, rotating monument that embodies Italian luxury. Oh, and if Ferrari isn’t your flavor and you’re more of a Lamborghini person, we have a life-size Lamborghini bull that sports a whole different attitude, but speaks with the same Italian accent. Whether you’re into automotive inspirations, patriotic eagles and flags, wildlife, biblical, fantasy, or renaissance masterpieces from Michelangelo, we can do it. Custom 3D scanning, digital mold creation, and one-off original castings open your mind to literally any option you can think of, created in sculpture. Adding sculpture to your life, your home, and your office will enhance your space, change your focus, and ensure that the Jones’ are running their race in a Yugo. We can help you start or upgrade your collection today. Foundry Michelangelo is casting a world of masterpieces. Discover Treasure Investments Instagram: @treasureinvestmentscorporation Facebook: Treasure Investment Corporation Source: Treasure Investments

By Edward Jones – November 23, 2021

Exclusive License Plates Add Fuel To The Pursuit of "1-of-1"

Presented by MMPlate.com – Is the US ready for a license plate aftermarket? Yes, and it’s long overdue. The prestige of ‘one-of-one’ collectibles is paving the way. It’s an early weekend morning in West Hollywood, California. A line of exotic cars stretches over a mile on Sunset Boulevard, all of them waiting to pull into the parking lot of the Sunset Plaza. Everything from higher production Porsche, Lamborghini, and Ferrari models, to limited edition Bugattis, McLarens and Koenigseggs proceed slowly up the driveway and into their designated parking spots. When there are so many cars, how do you set yourself apart? Owners keep pushing the modification limits in pursuit of the exclusive title… “one-of-one.” Custom livery, creative wraps, roof scoops, widebody kits, twin turbos, burble tunes, and exhaust notes that can wake the dead. The team from Daily Driven Exotics removed the windshield on their Huracan Evo Spyder, and real estate mogul Manny Khoshbin works with House of Hermès to customize his hypercars. But does this really make the car “one-of-one” or just an exclusive spec of a production car? The owner of the recently released Ferrari BR20 would probably tell you the latter. Enter license plates. License plates, by design, are one-of-one. There can be variations in color or style, but the message must be unique. It links the owner to a vehicle. Vehicles come and go, but a personal plate endures indefinitely. The license plate aftermarket is already a thriving business in countries like the UAE, Qatar, and the UK. In August, a new Lamborghini SVJ (1 of 900 worldwide) was spotted in Qatar with a $12 million license plate. The record still belongs to businessman Saeed Abdul Ghafour Khouri who paid $14.3 million for a plate in 2009. We may not know what car wears that plate today, but we remember the details of that record sale. “The addition of rare, high-value plates is the inevitable next step for car culture in the United States, and California is the perfect place to start,” says Michael Modecki, the founder of ThePlateBroker.com and MMPlate.com. Earlier this year, Modecki minted the first NFT specifically made to accompany an actual registered license plate configuration. “It’s the perfect pairing. Both are one-of-one. Once you have it, no one else can. NFTs are reinforcing the value of scarcity and exclusivity.” His plate configuration, MM, is already one of the rarest possible in California, 1 of only 35 that can feature two repeating characters (there are no single-character plates available to the public). The addition of the non-fungible token (NFT) makes the MM plate even more exclusive while establishing provenance and preserving authenticity, all within blockchain technology. As of this writing, the asking price for the MM plate is an astonishing $26,822,784. There is a reason for that price. “When I first listed it on OpenSea.io, the asking price of 5888 ETH positioned the plate to be the most valuable one ever sold, even when adjusted for inflation,” Modecki explained. “Now that the value of ETH has grown, the asking price has grown.” After doing some math, it seems that an offer at $19 million would still beat the current world record, in today’s dollars. Of course, that’s still a large sum of money for a license plate, but with 189 billionaires and over 1 million millionaires in CA, the buyer pool exists. Factor in international buyers with creative legal teams and this plate should soon find a new owner. The record-breaking sale of this plate would be the catalyst for establishing a nationwide movement. “After releasing the MM plate, I received multiple requests for help from people all over the US wanting to sell their rare plates. Of course, I was happy to connect with them,” Modecki revealed. “" title="YouTube video" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen>, but it would be great to parlay the sale of MM into a full-time business. The timing seems right.” A good candidate to acquire the MM plate is the company MMCrypto, which is currently headquartered in Dubai. A powerplayer in the crypto space, the MMCrypto founders collect NFTs and supercars. This would be the perfect investment to bolster publicity and brand awareness while adding to their collection of rarities. There are many brands and celebrities who may see the value in a status symbol like this. Off the top of our heads, we can think of: M&M Candies, MetaMask, Maker’s Mark, Meek Mill, Mohammed Maktoum, Miller Motorcars, and Floyd “Money” Mayweather just to name a few. And of course, let’s not forget the Musk brothers. If Elon and Kimbal are looking for a special holiday gift for Mom, this would be perfect for their mother Maye. And if Maye moved to Texas along with Elon, the Texas MM plate is for sale as well. Visit MMPlate.com Photos courtesy of ThePlateBroker.com and TacticalFleet.com

By Jordan Aquistapace – November 10, 2021

The GearBox: Rezvani Adventure

With automotive design, manufacturing, and technology at an all-time high, brands are incorporating luxury and functional aspects into their fleet of vehicles. Rezvani is a prime example of using the best of both worlds when it comes to the Tank, a luxurious SUV built to take on anything in its way. Alongside the six-figure custom build, your wardrobe should feature the same sense of versatility. This week’s GearBox focuses on the best style to complement the adventurous lifestyle of the Rezvani Tank. Shop all of the products featured in this special by clicking the links below. Rezvani Tank Rezvani Born from the vision of a pure driving experience, the Rezvani Tank was designed to be the most capable vehicle on and off the road. At it’s heart is an optional 500 horsepower 6.4L V8 Dodge SRT motor or a 1,000 Horsepower 6.2L Supercharged V8 from the Dodge Demon. A 3.6L V6 is standard. Two unique off-road packages provide high ground clearance, top of the line 3.0 inch FOX off-road suspension, and equally capable tires allowing for unstoppable capabilities over any terrain. Price: MSRP $155,000 View All Rezvani Tanks For Sale Ernst Benz Chronodiver Ernst Benz World renowned for its theme of exploration, Ernst Benz developed this Limited Edition PVD coated version of the ChronoDiver using the Benz Micro Gauge as inspiration. The legibility, color variations, depth of the sub-dials and size of the hour-markers and hands achieve absolute clarity, which has become one of the most distinguishing features of the Great Circle Collection. Price: $6,825 Buy From Ernst Benz Melin A-Game Hydro Walk On Melin The A-Game Walk On HYDRO is designed with a water-resistant exterior, antimicrobial sweatband and moisture wicking lining. Built to outlast your toughest workouts. Price: $69 Buy From Melin Buck Mason Bruiser Leather Bomber Jacket Buck Mason Buck Mason took the classic military A-1 bomber jacket silhouette and rendered it in supple lambskin hide. Designed to keep pilots warm at the dawn of the Jet Age, this timeless bomber is cut full with a slightly cropped fit. Price: $295 Buy From Buck Mason Carhartt WIP Graphic Tee Nordstrom Machine-engineered Carhartt Work In Progress logotype spans the chest of a tee made for exceptional comfort from soft, breathable organic cotton. Price: $48 Buy From Nordstrom Buck Mason Selvedge Maverick Jeans Buck Mason A slim, mid-rise blue jean in rugged selvedge denim. The fabric is completely untreated and tough at first, but will soften and shape to your body over time. Raw denim rarely needs to be laundered, and can easily last a decade if you treat them right. Button fly. Price: $145 Buy From Buck Mason Magnanni Baker Boots Magnanni The Baker is a high-top sneaker with the ankle stability of a boot for a hybrid look and feel. This sporty sneaker boot features a mix of materials for a texture block effect akin to athletic classics. Durable and comfortable, the Baker is suitable for all-day wear. Price: $425 Buy From Magnanni Persol 649 Sunglasses Persol Combining the best of design and technology, this unique shape has become the unmistakable brand icon over time. The keyhole bridge, legendary arrow and Meflecto system are the details that have made this model a timeless classic. Price: $261 Buy From Persol DANGO D01 R-Spec Wallet DANGO nspired by the fruits of the automotive industry, we developed a very special line of wallets called the R-Spec Edition. It not only incorporates clean lines with contrasting elements and textures, but also includes the finest materials that define high performance. Price: $99 Buy From DANGO Arc'teryx Blade 20 Backpack Arc'teryx Arc’teryx designs for use, conditions and environment. The Blade 20 is geared for both moving through the urban landscape and exploring the world. Its 20 L capacity holds a laptop, tablet, smaller electronics, travel documents, a jacket and lunch. Access and organization are key design components. The clamshell design opens wide for full exposure to the main compartment, and a side zip provides quick entry. Laptops up to 15 inches are protected in a dedicated padded compartment, and an additional sleeve secures a tablet. Price: $150 Buy From Arc'teryx For more GearBox specials, Check out The GearBox: Off The Grid LOKI

By Jordan Aquistapace – November 03, 2021

The GearBox: Electrified GT

As the world of electric vehicles continues to grow, more manufacturers are incorporating state-of-the-art EV technology into performance-focused chassis. The Audi RS E-Tron GT is just one of the newest examples that push the performance to supercar capabilities. The blend of comfort, luxury, and performance should also make its way into your wardrobe with premium pieces that add to your style. This week’s Gearbox focuses on the perfect fit to complement the new Audi RS E-Tron GT. Shop all of the products featured in this special by clicking on the product links below. Audi RS E-Tron GT Mercedes-AMG Delivering customers the performance, design and driving dynamics they expect from an Audi high-performance machine, the 2022 Audi e-tron GT and RS e-tron GT are the brand’s first electric grand tourers and serve as the halo of the ever-growing Audi electric portfolio. With this pinnacle addition, beyond premium vehicle attributes, customers will also enjoy a number of available benefits including a new three year public DC fast-charging plan through Electrify America at no additional cost, available customized in-home Level 2 charging solutions, and a concierge customer experience. Price: MSRP $142,400 View All Audi RS E-Tron GT For Sale TAG Heuer Connected Smartwatch Watches of Switzerland By combining the elegance of its chronographs with the best of connected technology, TAG Heuer is redefining Swiss watchmaking. A stainless steel case, scratch-resistant sapphire crystal and ultra-light black ceramic bezel: innovative high-end watchmaking materials for a 45 mm timepiece that is water resistant to 50 meters. With clean lines, intelligent integrated functions, a configurable dial and a full touch screen, the TAG Heuer Connected pushes the limits of design and technique. Much more than a watch, it's a masterful tool. Price: $1,800 Buy From Watches of Switzerland SSAM Baseball Cap MR PORTER SSAM founder Mr Flavio Girolami told us that his passion for handmade items stems from his Italian upbringing and one of his key aims is to preserve local craftsmanship. This textured baseball cap is made from a blend of GOTS-certified organic cotton and silk with embroidered eyelets for ventilation and an adjustable tab at the back. Price: $275 Buy From MR PORTER Carhartt WIP Kilda Vest END Clothing Utilitarian style is what Carhartt WIP does best – and this vest is proof. Crafted from polyester poplin, it’s styled in black, then decorated with four flap pockets to drive home the workwear look. To finish, a reflective take on the brand’s signature square label sits proudly near the hem. Price: $295 Buy From END Clothing French Connection Turtleneck Sweater Nordstrom Tommy Bahama embodies laid-back sophistication. Best known for island-inspired sportswear in luxuriously soft silks and cottons, Tommy Bahama offers a full range of clothing and swimwear for both men and women. Shoes and accessories round out the collection, providing everything needed for a permanent-vacation mindset. Price: $98 Buy From Nordstrom Rag & Bone Fit 2 Joyce Jeans Levi's The Fit 2 — most loved. For good reason. Here in our new, unbelievably soft Loopback Denim. Knit in an ultra-lightweight, four-way stretch using Loopback construction that mimics a French Terry, making it epically comfortable and soft to the touch. Joyce is a medium indigo wash. Price: $225 Buy From Rag & Bone Magnanni Sona Sneakers Magnanni From the Tech Runner series, the Sona is displayed on an assortment of combinations utilizing supple suedes, perforated calfskins, and tumbled leathers. A modern sport sole and a cushioned insole bring technical upgrades while the mixed-media layering and sport silhouette complete the Sona's perfect blend of function and design. Price: $350 Buy From Magnanni Saint Laurent Transparent SL 28 Square Sunglasses Ssense Square transparent acetate-frame sunglasses. Mirrored silver-tone lenses with 100% UV protection. Integrated nose pads. Logo etched at temples. Exposed core wire at temples. Silver-tone hardware. Size: 49.23 140. Price: $367 Buy From Ssense Montblanc M_Gram 4810 Wallet Montblanc Crafted from black leather embossed with M print, this wallet stands in the long traditions of crafting products with fine leather quality. Inside it can fit up to eight credit cards in the allocated slots, banknotes in the two compartments and other documents in the two additional pockets. Price: $410 Buy From Montblanc Montblanc UltraBlack Backpack Montblanc Crafted from black leather embossed with M print, noted for its softness and natural hand-feel. The backpack is equipped with exterior and interior pockets including a padded compartment for laptop. It is spacious enough to accommodate A4 documents, a laptop up to 13'', a mobile phone in the allocated pocket and 2 writing instruments loops. The functional emblem buckle closure represents a distinctive element and allows for easy opening. Please note that this product contains magnets. Price: $1,915 Buy From Montblanc For more GearBox specials, Check out The GearBox: Off The Grid LOKI

By Jordan Aquistapace – October 27, 2021

The GearBox: Halloween Horsepower

The Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series is best defined as a track monster for the road, transforming anyone behind the wheel into a race car driver. While Halloween approaches, it may be the perfect costume idea for any automotive enthusiasts. If you are still looking for the perfect outfit, we’ve got you covered. This week’s GearBox focuses on building a style around the spooky season. Shop all of the products featured in this special by clicking the links below. Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series Mercedes-AMG At the heart of the all-new AMG GT Black series lies the new Handcrafted AMG V8 engine featuring a flat- plane crankshaft, developing 720 hp from 6,700-6,900 rpm, with a peak torque of 590 lb-ft available from 2,000-6,000 rpm. This new engine lends the Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series a completely unique character while enabling remarkable driving performance. The new GT Black Series accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 3.1 seconds and can reach 124 mph in under nine seconds. The top speed is 202 mph. Price: MSRP $325,000 View All Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series For Sale Graham 1695 Chronofighter Superlight Carbon Graham 1695 The Chronofighter Superlight Carbon weighs less than 100 grams. Its 47mm case is formed of carbon composite, while the widespread use of 3K carbon further contributes to the model’s featherlight mass. This was the first watch to feature a carbon case, trigger, bezel, dial and buckle. Even the strap contains carbon, helping it retain its factory-fresh shape. Lastly, the chronograph trigger delivers an ergonomic interface between the watch and its wearer. Price: $11,950 Buy From Graham 1695 NOAH Felt Patch 6-Panel Hat NOAH Made in USA. 100% wool. Embroidered die cut wool graphic at front. Leather strap with brass clasp closure. Price: $58 Buy From NOAH Rag & Bone Dane Padded Shirt Jacket Nordstrom rag & bone offers innately wearable styles that blend classic tailoring and an edgy-yet-understated New York aesthetic. Puffed quilting textures this cozy collared jacket that's full of everyday outdoorsy ease. Price: $395 Buy From Nordstrom A$AP Ferg Strive & Prosper Graphic Tee Nordstrom Tommy Bahama embodies laid-back sophistication. Best known for island-inspired sportswear in luxuriously soft silks and cottons, Tommy Bahama offers a full range of clothing and swimwear for both men and women. Shoes and accessories round out the collection, providing everything needed for a permanent-vacation mindset. Price: $13.80 Buy From Nordstrom Levi's 541™ Athletic Taper Jeans Levi's The perfect fit for muscular builds. The 541™ Athletic Taper gives you more room in the thigh and seat for comfort and mobility, but starts to taper at the knee down to the ankle for a sharp, streamlined aesthetic. The end result? A contemporary look with a relaxed feel and a slightly tailored finish. We made this pair with Levi's® Flex, our advanced stretch technology engineered to deliver maximum flex and comfort. Price: $79.50 Buy From Levi's On-Running Cloud X On-Running The Cloud X uses materials high in quality and low on weight. Flexible but tough, the engineered mesh upper has a function-focused weave pattern for durability, breathability and agility. And the no-sew design maintains a perfect fit during any activity that gets you fit. Price: $139.99 Buy From On-Running Persol PO3281S Sunglasses Persol This style evolves Persol vintage shapes with precise geometric angles and elegant metal elements creating an original style. Price: $367 Buy From Persol Comme des Garçons Super Fluo Wallet Cettire The Comme des Garçons Super Fluo Wallet is finely crafted from 100% goatskin leather and features a head-turning vibrant orange color way. Price: $117.24 Buy From Cettire TUMI Harrison Warren Black Leather Backpack Nordstrom Minimalist design and maximum organizational potential merge in this leather TUMI Harrison Warren backpack that's a must-have for commuting and travel alike. Price: $695 Buy From Nordstrom For more GearBox specials, Check out The GearBox: Off The Grid LOKI

By Jordan Aquistapace – October 13, 2021

The GearBox: Porsche RS Style by PUMA

The Porsche brand displays luxury and performance through its fleet of GT-styled chassis, including the 700-horsepower Porsche 911 GT2 RS. Along with providing a top-notch vehicle to track, the German automotive manufacturer focuses its efforts towards a luxury lifestyle division with Porsche Design, and its longtime partnership with the professionals at PUMA Motorsport. This week’s GearBox focuses on the perfect fit and accessories to compliment the Porsche 911 GT2 RS with help from the fashion experts at PUMA Motorsports. Click the links below to shop for all of the products and accessories featured in this special feature. Check back into duPont REGISTRY Daily for more GearBox specials. Porsche 911 GT2 RS Porsche Its mission is ultimate performance: Porsche’s Motorsport division has developed the fastest and most powerful street legal 911 of all time. Weighing 3,241 pounds with a full tank of fuel, the 700 horsepower twin-turbo flat-six engine propels the two-seater from 0 to 60 mph in 2.7 seconds. The GT2 RS accelerates to 124 mph (200 km/h) from 0 in 8.3 seconds, completes the quarter mile in 10.5 seconds, continues on to 186 mph (300 km/h) in 22.1 seconds and reaches a top track speed of 211 mph. Thanks to a race-bred suspension and ultra high-performance tires, the 911 GT2 RS is also capable of achieving cornering speeds that rival those of supercars. Price: MSRP $292,200 View All Porsche 911 GT2 RS For Sale Porsche Design Chronotimer Series 1 Flyback Porsche Design This has been the objective of all Porsche Design timepieces since 1972. And, since 2018, of the new Chronotimer Flyback Special Edition. Its fine, matte black carbon dial with white indices and hands create a sporty look in combination with optimal readability. By using titanium from the casing to the clasp Porsche Design guarantees the comfort one has come to expect. The chronograph features the new Werk 01.200 with flyback function. It ensures typical motorsports precision and creates an easily recognizable look with the black Porsche Design rotor. The result is exceptional performance, which is highlighted by the perfect combination of design and function inspired by motorsports. Price: $6,700 Buy From Porsche Design Porsche Legacy Low Curve Cap PUMA Celebrate the intersection of performance motors and elite luxury with the refined lines and sophisticated styles of the Porsche Legacy line. Our Porsche Legacy Low Curve Cap features a sleek silhouette accented with colour contrasting details and a stand-out silicone Porsche Targa logo. Price: $35 Buy From PUMA Porsche Design evoKNIT Midlayer PUMA Like the cars themselves, Porsche Design is all about top quality and sleek aesthetics. This sophisticated midlayer uses evoKNIT technology to provide the perfect combination of comfort and flexibility, with a water-repellent finish to help keep you dry. The contrast material blocking with multicoloured yarn and bold seam details give this piece a high-class, contemporary feel. Reflective Porsche Design branding at the collar adds an understated motorsport touch. Price: $290 Buy From PUMA Porsche Legacy Graphic Tee PUMA Celebrate the intersection of performance motors and elite luxury with the refined lines and sophisticated styles of our Porsche Legacy line. This design features statement graphics inspired by the iconic Porsche Targa cars, so you too can become part of the legacy. Price: $45 Buy From PUMA Porsche Design Cargo Pants PUMA When it comes to cargo pants, you want versatility and style. And these pants have both of those to spare. There are two cargo pockets on the legs, two hands pockets with angled entry and two back welt pockets - that's a total of six pockets, plenty enough room for your belongings. And as you would expect from a collaboration between these two style powerhouses, they have a certain understated elegance, and feature reflective PUMA and Porsche Design logos. Price: $180 Buy From PUMA Porsche Design Xetic RFLCT Motorsport Shoes PUMA These shoes feature technology developed by some of the world's brightest scientists. Xetic technology was born in collaboration with MIT, and uses a combination of foam and structure to give you a cushioning system specifically designed for peak performance. There are reflective details on the upper as well as a leather eyestay. And, to top it off, all textiles and upper materials are recycled, and the leather is chrome free. Price: $280 Buy From PUMA Porsche Design Sunglasses P´8661 Porsche Design Minimalism meets innovative technology. This lightweight, high-performance concept is the perfect symbiosis of functionality and unique design. The screw-less ball-hinge represents the core element and offers an unique wearing comfort through an extremely precise production. Price: $560 Buy From Porsche Design Porsche Design Duffle Bag PUMA Featuring a clean design, this Porsche Design 2-in-1 Duffle Bag is a must-have. Whether it's for a weekend trip or a trip to the gym, this bag is irreplaceable. With its spacious main compartment, webbing straps for easy transport and adjustable buckles on the side, our duffle bag has your back. Price: $400 Buy From PUMA Porsche Design Backpack PUMA This sleek Porsche Design Backpack is made with recycled polyester and features plenty of premium features. We've made comfort a priority with our unique shoulder strap system with pre-moulded pads. There's a large main compartment with multiple pockets to store everything you need and external shoe and laptop compartments with independent access. Price: $485 Buy From PUMA For more GearBox specials, Check out The GearBox: Off The Grid LOKI

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