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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 Jordan Aquistapace – April 05, 2021

URWERK Releases The Limited-Edition UR-100V "Blue Planet"...

The one-of-a-kind examples designed and manufactured by URWERK Watches are meant to push the boundaries of design, while the performance and functionality speak for themselves. The UR-100 Collection is one of URWERK’s most popular models, making limited-edition models like the new “Blue Planet”, some of the most coveted pieces on the market. The UR-100V Blue Planet is limited to 25 pieces, using state-of-the-art movement technology to help track the earth and our solar system. The 41mm blue PVD steel case houses the head-turning matching blue dial with accents of vibrant green complimenting indicators. The transparent back case allows for a closer look at the in-house UR 12.02 self-winding mechanical movement, while the outer case is engraved to signify the limited-edition release and production number. The matching blue strap is made from nylon and leather to ensure comfortable wear for the owner, further highlighting the time transition between earth and space. The limited-edition URWERK UR-100V Blue Planet watch is currently available through an authorized dealer for the price of $51,250. For more Watch news, Check out Autodromo Unveils The Limited-Edition Group B Series 2 Night Stage III Watch

By Jordan Aquistapace – April 05, 2021

Autodromo Unveils The Limited-Edition Group B Series 2 Ni...

Autodromo is known for incorporating the true design and heritage aspects of motorsports into each of their uniquely designed watch collections. The timeless design of the Group B Series 2 resulted in all examples produced selling out, until now. Not only is Autodromo proud to announce the re-release of the coveted Group B Series 2, but also its new Limited-Edition Group B Series 2 Night Stage III watch. Limited to only 200 pieces, the Night Stage III by Autodromo features a 39mm titanium and stainless-steel case designed to pay homage to the 1980s Group B motorsports era. Driving the black and red grid-style dial is the Miyota 9015 automatic movement, capable of holding a 50-meter water resistance. The Group B Series 2 watch comes in a hand-crafted aluminum box with a numbered plaque, and the integrated bracelet can be removed with a spring bar tool so that the watch can be worn with a strap if desired. Celebrate the most exciting era of motorsport racing with the new highly-anticipated watch from Autodromo. The Limited Edition Autodromo Group B Series 2 Night Stage III is currently available to pre-order for $975, with a shipping time estimated for May 30th. For more Watch news, Check out Discover The Ernst Benz x John Varvatos 47mm ChronoScope Collection

By Jordan Aquistapace – April 05, 2021

Discover The Ernst Benz x John Varvatos 47mm ChronoScope ...

The blend of traditional and modern styling that Ernst Benz incorporates into each of their timepieces allows for endless opportunities to collaborate with world-renowned designers like John Varvatos. The contemporary menswear designer teamed up with Ernst Benz to create a Limited-Edition ChronoScope model. The Ernst Benz x John Varvatos ChronoScope Collection is presented in a 47mm stainless-steel case and features both Matte Black and Anthracite dial versions. Five coats of Super-LumiNova applied over base color with matching Cathedral hands result in exceptionally low light visibility both in the cockpit for pilots and all other unilluminated conditions. The collaboration is marked on the dial using a vibrant red John Varvatos logo just below the date counter. Driving the ChronoScope and its seconds, minutes, and hours sub-dial functions is the Automatic Valjoux 7750 movement. The transparent back case allows for a closer look at the inner workings and features engravings around the outside signifying the partnership with John Varvatos. Finishing the contemporary style of the ChronoScope is a genuine black leather strap and stainless steel buckle. The Ernst Benz x JohnVarvatos 47mm ChronoScope is available through an authorized by clicking the link below. Shop Ernst Benz For more Watch news, Check out H. Moser & Cie. Unveils The Limited-Edition Endeavour Centre Seconds Concept x Seconde-Seconde

By Jordan Aquistapace – April 01, 2021

H. Moser & Cie. Unveils The Limited-Edition Endeavour Cen...

Minimalism meets the watch world In 2015, H. Moser & Cie. took on a bold approach by removing the logo from its Concept dials, giving the design a minimalistic feel. Six years later, H. Moser & Cie. is proud to announce the release of its Endeavour Centre Seconds Concept x Seconde-Seconde, a special edition example limited to only 20 pieces produced. In partnership with horology artist Seconde-Seconde, Edouard Meylan, CEO of H. Moser & Cie., appreciates the modern and artistic edge that alias Romaric Andre, has brought to this piece. The limited-edition timepiece features a 40mm stainless-steel case paired with a head-turning Funky Blue fumé dial. Underneath the dial, an in-house HMC self-winding movement powers the watch, holding a functional 72-hour power reserve. The transparent back case not only displays the rotating flywheel and inner mechanism, but also numerical engravings signifying the limited-edition release. Each H. Moser & Cie. is equipped with a classic black large-scale alligator leather strap, adding contrast to the polished steel case. The newest release from H. Moser & Cie. is currently available through an authorized dealer for the price of $21,900. For more Watch news, Check out Makes And Movements: 2021 BRABUS 800 WIDESTAR x Ulysse Nardin Blast

By Jordan Aquistapace – March 31, 2021

Discover The Hublot "Bigger Bang" NFT Auction Featuring J...

The Big Bang Collection from Hublot stands out as the Swiss watchmaker’s most iconic model in the lineup of luxury watches. Former LVMH President Jean-Claude Biver is extremely familiar with the model, as he once worked with the brand. During his time at Hublot, Biver created a one-of-one “Bigger Bang” Tourbillon Chronograph prototype. The all-black piece unique Hublot is now available as an NFT Auction in partnership with WISeKey. The blockchain authentication service is responsible for launching the first-ever digitally certified watch, and yes it was also a Hublot. The winning bidder of the NFT Hublot “Bigger Bang” will receive the digital copy of the original Hublot Tourbillon, while Jean-Claude Biver will keep the physical watch in his collection. The auction is currently running through OpenSea, where bids are placed using the cryptocurrency Ethereum as the source of funds. All funds raised for the NFT Hublot “Bigger Bang” Auction featuring Jean-Claude Biver will be donated to the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, which supports Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene. For more Watch news, Check out TAG Heuer Unveils Four New Formula 1 Models For Its 2021 Collection

By Jordan Aquistapace – March 31, 2021

TAG Heuer Unveils Four New Formula 1 Models For Its 2021 ...

The TAG Heuer Formula 1 Collection embodies the historic aspect of the wristwatch in the world of motorsports. Worn by some of the most iconic drivers in the world, TAG Heuer continues to lead the way in automotive-inspired luxury watches. TAG Heuer is proud to announce four new models to its 2021 Formula 1 Collection. Each example features a 43mm stainless-steel case designed as a Quartz Chronograph, with an added online exclusive piece. Using vibrant shades of orange, green, and yellow, TAG Heuer highlights areas such as the bezel and dial. The quality quartz movement is equipped to hold a power reserve of 42-hours and 200-meter water resistance. On the back case, checkered flag engravings are found to signify the importance of not only the collection itself but the heritage of automotive racing as a whole. Depending on the selection, each watch is fitted with either a textile strap, leather band, or matching stainless-steel bracelet. The newest models featured in the TAG Heuer Formula 1 Collection are sure to be enjoyed by all watch enthusiasts and Formula 1 fans. For more Watch news, Check out ArtGrails Host The First-Ever Jacob & Co. NFT Luxury Watch Auction

By Jordan Aquistapace – March 31, 2021

ArtGrails Host The First-Ever Jacob & Co. NFT Luxury Watc...

In recent events, the ever-growing popularity of NFTs has finally hit the watch industry and it begins with one of the biggest names on the market. Jacob & Co. is proud to announce that it will be auctioning off the first NFT Epic SF24 Tourbillon through ArtGrails, the new luxury NFT auction house founded by Avery Andon. An NFT (Non-Fungible Token) is described as one-of-one items that hold proof of being the original example, commonly seen in the world of art after the digital artwork of Beeple was sold for $63.9 million at Christie’s. The Jacob & Co. NFT watch takes inspiration from the Epic SF24 and features a working Flap System that will display assorted cryptocurrencies. The piece unique Jacob & Co. NFT SF24 Tourbillon watch will be sold in a 5 Day Auction, starting at $1,000 on April 4th and ending on APRIL 8th at 1 pm EST. Visit ArtGrails for your chance to bid on the first-ever NFT luxury watch by Jacob & Co. For more Watch news, Check out Audemars Piguet Unveils New Royal Oak Models For Its 2021 Collection

By Jordan Aquistapace – March 30, 2021

Ulysse Nardin Teases New Vertical Odyssey Timepiece

Discover The Ulysse Nardin Vertical Odyssey The Ulysse Nardin X Collection features an array of diversely styled luxury timepieces designed for watch enthusiasts of all kinds. Each example boasts inspiration, whether it comes from the five elements of nature or a geographical landmark on the planet. Ulysse Nardin has taken to its Instagram to tease the upcoming unveiling of the Swiss watchmaker's next highly-anticipated piece. As part of the Watches and Wonders 2021 event, Ulysse Nardin has deemed the special occasion its “Vertical Odyssey”, pulling inspiration from the deepest depths of the ocean to the highest points of the stars. Although media and other information have yet to be announced, one thing is for sure, the release is sure to be celebrated by all watch enthusiasts and collectors worldwide. Check back in for coverage on Ulysse Nardin’s Vertical Odyssey during Watches and Wonders 2021. Shop all of the current watch collections from Ulysse Nardin by clicking the link below. Shop Ulysse Nardin For more Watch news, Check out Audemars Piguet Unveils Five New Royal Oak Models For Its 2021 Collection

By Jordan Aquistapace – March 30, 2021

Audemars Piguet Unveils New Royal Oak Models For Its 2021...

Audemars Piguet continues to lead the way as one of the most successful and popular watchmakers in the industry today. The Royal Oak Collection is the desirable model loved by watch enthusiasts and collectors of all kinds. The Swiss watchmaker is happy to share with the world that it has released five new models totaling 15 examples, each more luxurious than the one before it. From entry-level luxury timepieces to grand complications with six-figure price tags, the newest releases from Audemars Piguet are sure to make a huge impact on the watch market. Check out all of the 2021 Audemars Piguet Royal Oak models by scrolling down below. Royal Oak Offshore Audemars Piguet Audemars Piguet releases three new 42 mm Royal Oak Offshore Divers in stainless steel. Powered by a new movement, Calibre 4308, these models are fit for the wildest adventures in and out of the water. These three watches in khaki, blue or grey sport a new dial aesthetics as well as a new interchangeable strap system to style up your dive. Royal Oak Offshore Tourbillon Audemars Piguet Audemars Piguet is happy to announce the release of a new complication in the Royal Oak Offshore collection. Limited to 100 pieces, the new selfwinding timepiece combines flying tourbillon with flyback chronograph in a brand new case diameter of 43 mm, paving the way for a new generation of redesigned Royal Oak Offshore models. Although it retains the essence of the Royal Oak Offshore’s original characteristics, the case has evolved to offer optimum ergonomics and aesthetics while the dial reveals the muscular architecture of the new movement hand-finished to the nines. Complemented with the Manufacture’s new interchangeable strap system, this high complication brings together efficiency and technical sophistication. Royal Oak Self-Winding Chronograph Audemars Piguet Audemars Piguet is pleased to unveil a new evolution of the Royal Oak Selfwinding Chronograph, upholding the Manufacture’s forward-thinking spirit while keeping with traditions. Housed within a 41mm 18-carat pink gold case, this model is equipped for the first time with the latest generation chronograph movement, the Selfwinding Manufacture Calibre 4401, visible through the watch’s sapphire caseback. Two dial options are available, executed in blue or brown hues. Royal Oak "Jumbo" Extra Thin Diamond Set Audemars Piguet Audemars Piguet is pleased to announce the release of three new diamond-set versions of the Royal Oak “Jumbo” Extra-Thin. Each example is housed in a 39mm case, executed in 18-carat pink or white gold. The case, bezel and bracelet are dressed with 1,102 brilliant-cut diamonds (〜7.09 carats). The dial is enriched with a “Petite Tapisserie” pattern and incorporates baguette-cut diamond hour-markers. Green Hues For The Royal Oak Audemars Piguet Audemars Piguet, is pleased to unveil several new Royal Oak models enriched with green dials. The new offerings include a 950 platinum Royal Oak “Jumbo” Extra-Thin with a smoked green dial embellished with a sunburst pattern, as well as a limited-edition Royal Oak Selfwinding Chronograph with an 18-carat yellow gold case and a green “Grande Tapisserie” dial. Lastly, the Manufacture also presents three new Selfwinding Flying Tourbillon variants in pink gold or titanium, all of which incorporate green hues. For more Watch news, Check out Jacob & Co. Releases The New Bugatti Chiron Tourbillon Blue Titanium

By Jordan Aquistapace – March 30, 2021

Jacob & Co. Releases The New Bugatti Chiron Tourbillon Bl...

The luxury partnership between Jacob & Co. and Bugatti results in exclusive handmade timepiece collections that pay homage to the hypercars built to push the limits of performance. The Bugatti Chiron continues to be the platform for the inspiration behind its own Jacob & Co. Tourbillon Collection. Jacob & Co. and Bugatti are proud to announce the release of the Chiron Tourbillon Blue Titanium. The newest addition to the collection features a 44mm blue titanium case, which resembles the body lines and curvatures of the Bugatti Chiron. Underneath the sapphire crystal lies the dial design inspired by the 16-cylinder quad-turbocharged engine, capable of 1,500 horsepower. The Chiron Tourbillon Blue Titanium is driven by an in-house manual-winding JCAM37 movement, which provides a lengthy 60-hour power reserve and functional 30-meter water resistance. Tying together the aggressively elegant timepiece by Jacob & Co. x Bugatti is a comfortable black rubber strap with a black DLC titanium deployment buckle. The Jacob & Co. Bugatti Chiron Tourbillon Blue Titanium Collection is limited to 126 examples and is currently available through an authorized dealer. For more Watch news, Check out Makes And Movements: 2022 Porsche 911 GT3 x Porsche Design 911 GT3 Chronograph

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