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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 – June 28, 2021

Franck Muller Releases A Vanguard Racing Collection For B...

The perfect Franck Mueller Vanguard to wear to the race track. Franck Muller Geneve pays tribute to motorsport and one of the greatest drivers of all time with a USA limited edition dedicated to the driver Bill Auberlen and BMW. With redefined lines and a marriage between the world of craftsmanship and the automobile, Franck Muller has developed this unique timepiece filled with passion using an elegant in-house skeletonized movement turned reminiscent of an engine that you can admire through the open back. To date, he has won 63 races and is officially the most successful sports car driver in North American history. With redefined lines and a marriage between the world of craftsmanship and automobile, Franck Muller has developed this unique timepiece filled with passion. A true ambassador of motorsport, Bill Auberlen shares the same values of performance and perfection as Franck Muller. For this US limited Edition, the seconds' indications start from the bottom and not from the top as on a car counter, allowing the seconds to be read at both ends of the hand. To further accentuate the skeletonized design, the date numerals have also been fully skeletonized. Designed for competition, remarkably elegant, and deliberately sporty, the Vanguard™ Racing Skeleton Bill Auberlen line is available in 18-carat Rose gold, Carbon, and Macro Molecular Technologie Bleu. This last material is made from high purity metals and exotic elements that have been deconstructed to the macromolecular level. The new limited-edition Franck Muller Vanguard Racing Collection honoring Bill Auberlen and BMW Motorsport is now available through an authorized dealer https://www.instagram.com/p/CQq4TTVsx6O/ Media/Information Source: Franck Muller For more Watch news, Check out Jacob & Co. Releases A $340K SF24 Tourbillon Baguette Blue Dial

By Jordan Aquistapace – June 28, 2021

Jacob & Co. Releases A $340K SF24 Tourbillon Baguette Blu...

The only way to make an exclusive timepiece most desirable is by incorporating 104 baguette diamonds. Jacob & Co. highlights its use of premium materials and state-of-the-art movement technology with the SF24 Tourbillon collection, which features a uniquely shaped case design that acts as a blank canvas. Jacob & Co. is proud to announce its release of the new SF24 Tourbillon Baguette Blue Dial. The 45mm case is made from 18k Rose Gold, while the horseshoe-shaped bezel is made of 104 baguette-cut diamonds that flow into the dial. The most noticeable function of the new Jacob & Co. SF24 is the groundbreaking split-flap time zone display. The true beauty lies beneath the dial where the in-house self-winding JCAA03 Caliber powers the timepiece, which provides a 42-hour power reserve for owners. Completing the elegant styling of the SF24 Tourbillon Baguette Blue Dial is a matching blue large scale alligator leather strap paired with an 18k Rose Gold clasp. The all-new Jacob & Co. SF24 Tourbillon Baguette Blue dial is currently available through an authorized dealer. https://www.instagram.com/p/CQqiQK4jnwz/ For more Watch news, Check out Top Timepieces Released This Week

By Jordan Aquistapace – June 25, 2021

Top Timepieces Released This Week

A quick recap on the luxury watches released this week. Recently, We created duPont REGISTRY Watches as a new Instagram page dedicated to posting the newest and most exclusive luxury timepieces. Today, we have compiled a list of the top watch releases of the week from the best brands in the industry. Click any of the links below for more information on the current watches. Ulysse Nardin x Beau Lake Chronometer https://www.instagram.com/p/CQZZPChsBRb/ Learn More Hublot MP-09 Tourbillon Bi-Axis Collection https://www.instagram.com/p/CQbLdiAs2wz/ Learn More Graham Superlight Translucent Carbon Skeleton https://www.instagram.com/p/CPqIPG4M1Js/ Learn More Tudor Black Bay 58 Bronze https://www.instagram.com/p/CQdzSz_MFH8/ Learn More Audemars Piguet Royal Oak 'Jumbo' Extra-Thin Collection https://www.instagram.com/p/CQgbLOIM0QX/ Learn More Richard Mille RM 60-01 Les Voiles de Saint Barth https://www.instagram.com/p/CQgjI3sMa-W/ Learn More For more Watch news, Check out The Top 10 Watches To Start Your Watch Collection

By Jordan Aquistapace – June 24, 2021

Richard Mille Unveils The New RM 60-01 Chronograph Les Vo...

The new Richard Mille to take out on the boat during the summer days. The design and creation of each Richard Mille timepiece include not only incorporating premium materials but also a vision to draw inspiration. Whether it’s inspired by motorsports or sailing, the brand continues to provide key elements with each example base upon the intended use. Richard Mille is excited to announce its newest addition to the lineup, the all-new RM 60-01Automatic winding flyback chronograph Les Voiles de Saint Barth. The most noticeable difference compared to traditionally-styled Richard Mille, is that the RM 60-01 features a circular case design made from Grade 5 Titanium. With inspiration from sailing the seas, the complex dial layout includes multiple functions dedicated to navigation and timekeeping. The Richard Mille RMAC2 caliber lies beneath the colorfully designed dial, where it delivers power to the luxury timepiece. Along with holding an impressive 50-hour power reserve, the RM 60-01 also shows its colors as an aquatic-themed piece with its 100-meter water resistance. The one-of-a-kind style of the RM 60-01 is complemented with a traditional black rubber strap and titanium buckle to ensure its reliability in the outdoors. The all-new Richard Mille 60-01 Automatic winding flyback chronograph Les Voiles de Saint Barth is currently available through an authorized dealer. https://www.instagram.com/p/CQgjI3sMa-W/ For more Watch news, Check out Audemars Piguet Releases Three New Diamond-Set Versions Of The Royal Oak “Jumbo” Extra-Thin

By Jordan Aquistapace – June 24, 2021

Audemars Piguet Releases Three New Diamond-Set Versions O...

The most desired Audemars Piguet just got a lot more exclusive. As the watch market continues to explode in popularity, there are a handful of select timepieces deemed as ‘must-haves’ for any collector or enthusiasts. The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak is right at the top of the list as one of the most desired examples in the world. Made in an array of sizes and styles, the iconic Royal Oak line continues to grow as demand for the watch skyrockets. Audemars Piguet is proud to announce three new diamond-set examples as part of the Royal Oak “Jumbo” Extra Thin Collection. Each model is presented as a 39mm, with the choice of 18-carat pink or white gold case material. The beauty behind the minimalistic dial is in the “Petite Tapisserie” pattern, while the hour markers feature baguette-cut diamonds. A light blue dial option is available in a choice of 18-carat pink gold or white gold with color-coordinated Royal Oak hands with luminescent coating. The third option pairs a black dial with an 18-carat white gold case and hands. In addition to the brand’s name positioned below noon, an “AP” logo is located in the lower portion of the dial, consistent with the “Jumbo” convention. At the heart of this watch is the Manufacture Calibre 2121, visible via the glare-proofed sapphire caseback. Staying true to the intricate case and dial design, Audemars Piguet finishes each new model with a matching diamond-set bracelet and folding clasp. The three new diamond-set Audemars Piguet Royal Oak “Jumbo” Extra-Thin models are currently available through an authorized dealer. https://www.instagram.com/p/CQgbLOIM0QX/ For more Watch news, Check out The Top 10 Watches To Start Your Watch Collection

By Jordan Aquistapace – June 23, 2021

The New Tudor Black Bay 58 Bronze Features A Matching Bra...

Tudor introduces its new bronze bracelet with an all-new rapid-adjustment system. The Black Bay 58 Collection by Tudor is one of the brand’s most iconic models, which incorporates an array of unique designs equipped with quality movement materials to provide a luxury experience for any watch enthusiast or collector. Tudor is proud to announce the new Black Bay 58 Bronze, featuring for the first time a bronze bracelet fitted with a new clasp with a rapid adjustment system. The 39mm satin-brushed bronze case contrasts perfectly with the shaded matte brown-bronze dial. Along with the aesthetically pleasing design, the Black Bay 58 is driven by an in-house MT5400 self-winding mechanical movement, capable of providing an impressive 70-hour power reserve. For the first time ever, Tudor incorporates a matching bronze bracelet into the Black Bay 58 Bronze, which also includes the all-new rapid adjustment system and clasp. Along with the new bronze bracelet, a traditional brown and gold nylon strap is included with the packaging as a complimentary band. The new Tudor Black Bay 58 Bronze is now available for $5,252 through an authorized dealer. https://www.instagram.com/p/CQdzSz_MFH8/ For more Watch news, Check out Discover The New Ulysse Nardin Summer 2021 Diver Collection

By Jordan Aquistapace – June 23, 2021

Discover The New Ulysse Nardin Summer 2021 Diver Collection

Three new Ulysse Nardin diver watches just in time for summer. As the warmer weather months take over, its means time to pick the perfect summer watch for watch enthusiasts or collectors. This usually means pieces that incorporate a head-turning design with the reliability of being water-resistant for days on the boat. Ulysse Nardin is stretching its aquatic arms with a new Diver Collection, presenting three new models for men and women. The Ulysse Nardin Summer 2021 Diver Collection features the Diver 42mm, 39mm Lady Diver, and Chronometer 44mm, all highlighting the use of quality materials and state-of-the-art technology. Ulysse Nardin The Diver 42 mm Grey and Rose Gold is a contemporary design made for the deep that is just as cool at home in the city as it is on a sun-drenched shore. With a stainless, “shark gray” PVD satin-finish and polished case, a rose gold 5N and gray rubberized, a unidirectional rotating, concave bezel, and a domed sapphire glass, this new Diver is highly functional and dashing, a watch that will take its wearer from sandy beaches to coral reefs. The gray alligator strap is secured with a stainless steel gray PVD buckle that can withstand the most arduous of feats. Ulysse Nardin Beautiful to the eye and accurate to a fault, the 39mm Lady Diver Rose Gold is set with 40 diamonds for a total of .80 carats that glisten brightly in the midday sun. Bearing all the hallmarks of a classic Ulysse Nardin Diver, this watch is proof that you cannot judge a book by its cover, and that beauty is not skin deep. Inside the stunning case is the powerful UN-816 movement, an automatic movement that functions at 4 Hz and 28 800 V/H. The mother of pearl dial bears 11 diamonds totaling .12 carats and the white alligator strap is held in place by a 5N rose gold buckle. This is a watch for people who appreciate the aesthetics of fine design yet are unafraid of confronting the unknown in the name of adventure. Ulysse Nardin The Ulysse Nardin Chronometer 44 mm, with its deep-sea blue color and rose gold details, is the ultimate navigator’s watch. With an escapement wheel and anchor in Diamonsil, the 260 components work in harmony for a flawless look and precise performance. The open sapphire case back testifies to the fine horological mastery that is the rule at Ulysse Nardin, showcasing the balance spring in silicium along with the other parts made in-house to create this technical marvel. Crafted to withstand up to 300 meters of water pressure, it redefines functional elegance and audacious design. Shop the all-new Ulysse Nardin Summer 2021 Diver Collection by clicking the link below. Shop Ulysse Nardin Summer 2021 Diver Collection Information/Media Source: Ulysse Naridn For more Watch news, Check out Graham Watches Releases The New Chronofighter Superlight Translucent Carbon Skeleton

By Jordan Aquistapace – June 22, 2021

Graham Watches Releases The New Chronofighter Superlight ...

Presented by Graham Watches - The Graham Superlight Translucent Carbon Skeleton weighs less than 100 grams. Despite having a low mass, the model’s torso remains remarkably strong. The case is formed of epoxy resin, infused with a red dye. Within its structure are metalized carbon fibers, presented in bronze tones, bestowing contrast. Graham Watches The Graham Superlight Translucent Carbon Skeleton is equipped with the brand’s legendary thumb-operated trigger, positioned on the left side of the case. This instrument is operated using the thumb, the fastest-acting digit. With this design, a right-handed person will instinctively place their plumpest digit on the trigger and press it intuitively at breakneck speed. Another key benefit of positioning the crown and trigger on the left is that it provides superior wearer comfort. Often when a watch is worn and the wearer flexes their wrist, the protrusions on the right flank of the case gouge the wrist, chafe the skin or inhibit free movement. No such problems affect the Graham Superlight Translucent Carbon Skeleton. Lastly, the trigger is formed of 3K carbon, again contributing to the model’s low mass. Graham Watches Shop Now The black rubber reset pusher, embellished with Clous de Paris decoration, delivers notable grip, a useful attribute during the heat of competition. In common with all Graham chronographs, the Superlight Carbon Translucent Skeleton demonstrates the company’s overriding obsession with ergonomics. Graham doesn’t do ordinary or bland. Its watches are intended to engage with hearts and minds. The Superlight Translucent Carbon Skeleton features an open-worked dial revealing several naked components that are usually hidden from view. Prominent hour and minute hands, lined with Super-LumiNova, come to the fore to lucidly convey the time. Two counters, a 30-minute register at 3 o’clock and a small seconds counter at 9 o'clock, employ red hands to impart meaning. The dial is framed with a black carbon (3K) bezel combining black and grey hues, underscoring the sporty character of the watch.

By Jordan Aquistapace – June 22, 2021

Hublot Unveils Its Colorful $200k MP-09 Tourbillon Bi-Axi...

While Hublot worries about the design and technology, you just have to pick a color. The fascination of grand complications within the watch world continues to grow as some of the biggest names in the industry focus efforts and resources on creating the most unique examples. Hublot is proud to announce its re-introduction into that category with its new MP-09 Tourbillon Bi-Axis Collection featuring four colorful versions. The 49mm color-matched carbon case presents the openwork dial, where the operation of the in-house HUB9009 movement is viewable. Along with the beauty behind the rotating tourbillon, its performance is notable as it provides a 120-hour power reserve with a 30-meter water resistance. The transparent back case allows for another view of the mechanism at work, while the outer case is engraved to signify the limited-edition release. Completing the MP-09 Tourbillon Bi-Axis Collection, Hublot equips each version with a color-matched strap and black titanium clasp. The new Hublot MP-09 Tourbillon Collection is limited to 8-pieces each, and currently available through an authorized dealer for $200,000. https://www.instagram.com/p/CQbLdiAs2wz/ For more Watch news, Check out Top 2021 Automotive-Inspired Watches

By Jordan Aquistapace – June 21, 2021

Ulysse Nardin x Beau Lake Release The Limited-Edition Div...

The only watch known to come with a complete paddle-board set as part of the packaging. With its close ties to the ocean, Ulysse Nardin incorporates not only aquatic inspiration from mother nature, but also from brands that share a similar love for the water. Ulysse Nardin is proud to announce the new Diver Chronometer, in collaboration with Canadian luxury waterside experienced professionals at Beau Lake. The collection features a limited-edition chronometer timepiece emboldened with the Beau Lake logo, and a customized Malibu paddleboard paired with a Hybrid paddle featuring Ulysse Nardin branding. Equipped with the Ulysse Nardin in-house UN-118 movement, the satin blue and gold-finished example is set to operate using a 60-hour power reserve under a 300-meter water resistance. The Beau Lake branded logos are incorporated into the titanium base plate, while a matching blue rubber strap is added for comfort. As part of the limited 15-piece produced, the Ulysse Nardin x Beau Lake Diver Chronometer packaging comes with a Beau Lake Malibu paddleboard featuring a chromed Ulysse Nardin emblem, a paddle embossed with the Ulysse Nardin emblem, and a travel bag. The all-new Ulysse Nardin x Beau Lake Chronometer package is available in all authorized Ulysse Nardin retailers in North America, on request, with direct deliveries to the customers’ address. Shop the newest release from Ulysse Nardin x Beau Lake by clicking the link below for more information. Shop Ulysse Nardin Diver Collection https://www.instagram.com/p/CQZZPChsBRb/ For more Watch news, Check out Top 2021 Automotive-Inspired Watches

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