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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 – December 14, 2020

Phillips "Racing Pulse" Watch Auction Sells $27 Million A...

Recently, we covered a few select special timepieces that were headed to the Phillips Auction in New York City as part of the Racing Pulse collection. The exquisite pieces featured in the auction included a Paul Newman owned Rolex Daytona Ref. 6263 (Sold $5,475,000), a TAG Heuer Monaco, worn by Steve McQueen in the Le Mans movie (Sold $2,208,000), and a five-timepiece collection by Sylvester Stallone (Sold $3,100,000). The auction also sold countless other high-end luxury timepieces, totaling sales to $27,584,570. The story of the event is the TAG Heuer worn by Steve McQueen, as it is now holds the World Record for most expensive TAG sold at auction. Although hard to part ways with these top-notch examples, the new owners will enjoy their collector’s pieces until they sell again. Click the link below to see all of the watches sold at the Phillips Racing Pulse Auction. Phillips Racing Pulse Collection

By Edward Jones – December 10, 2020

Vossen Wheels Teases a New Limited Edition Watch

In May of this year, Vossen Wheels launched their first limited edition watch. Limited to just 50 examples, this watch sold out quickly and for good reason. With a carbon fiber dial, stylish full stainless steel 45mm case, Miyota 8215 movement and all-around attractive design, their first watch is a looker. Now, Vossen has just teased yet the launch of their second limited edition watch. This time Vossen will limit the release to 100 units. While there may be twice as many as the first release, they will still be a hot ticket so be sure to follow their Instagram for updates. https://www.instagram.com/p/CImEcW2hS8v/

By Jordan Aquistapace – December 09, 2020

Hublot Releases A $348,000 Rainbow And Gold Inspired Big ...

Most luxury hand-crafted timepieces have enough detail behind the technology and design to the turn heads of watch collectors but can be overlooked by the untrained eye. Hublot made sure that its newest release would be seen by all using one of the most unique design characteristics that the company has ever produced. Hublot is proud to announce the release of the Big Bang Unico Full Baguette King Gold Rainbow. The most eye capturing an aspect of the watch is the 290 gemstones- 24 carats surrounding the 45mm Chronograph. The polished 18K Pink Gold finish pairs just right with the multicolor rainbow Sapphires and Tsavorites. A Unico manufactured self-winding movement drives the heart of the truly unique piece, which is viewable from the transparent dial and case back. The rainbow inspiration follows the black and multicolored alligator strap that also features a stone set 18K gold titanium clasp. The Hublot Big Bang Unico Full Baguette Kind Gold Rainbow is available for $348,000 and is not limited to specific production numbers. Shop and learn more about the newest release from Hublot by clicking the link below. Shop Now

By Jordan Aquistapace – December 09, 2020

Omega Introduces 5 New Dials To The De Ville Prestige Col...

The attention to detail within each luxury timepiece highlights the craftsmanship and design, while the use of precious metals and color lure the eyes of watch enthusiasts. Omega ensiles this combination in their watch collections, most recently with the classic De Ville Prestige. The Swiss watchmaker announces five new dial designs that are sure to turn heads. The 39.5mm watch now features two Stainless-Steel and 18k Red Gold models paired with Silver, Linen, Greened, or Blued dials. The movement driving the uniquely design Omega De Ville Prestige Collection is the Co-Axial Calibre 2500. Except for the power reserve model, which draws on OMEGA’s Co-Axial Calibre 2627. There are leather straps and matching bracelet options available depending on the case material. Shop the colorful Omega De Ville Prestige Collection by clicking the link below. Shop Now

By Jordan Aquistapace – December 08, 2020

Watch John Mayer Explain His Love For The Limited Edition...

After the anticipation and hopefully successful buy for watch collectors, the John Mayer x Hodinkee x G-Shock Reference 6900 has hit the watch market. Kept quite a secret, the limited-edition piece still leaves many wondering; what is John Mayer’s connection to the brand? In a YouTube video released on the Hodinkee channel shortly after an 8-minute sellout, John explains the reasoning behind the collaboration, as well as his love for the Casio SK-5 Sampling Keyboard. The in-depth explanation gives insight as to the reasoning behind the model chosen and the colors that represent the partnership. Check out John Mayer’s love for the Hodinkee Limited Edition Casio G-Shock by clicking the link below. " width="680">

By Jordan Aquistapace – December 08, 2020

Watch Sylvester Stallone Show His 5 Timepieces Headed To ...

Recently, we covered a story featuring Sylvester Stallone’s five piece watch collection that will be heading to Phillips Auction. Stallone sat down with Phillips Watches and went through each piece, telling the background stories and roles that each played on the big screen. The single Panerai and four Richard Mille examples that will be cross the block are not just any ordinary high-end luxury watches, they are specific pieces that are considered some of the most sought-after in the world. The entire collection is estimated to bring up to $1.9 million. Each of these watches will be auctioned off during the “Racing Pulse” New York Watch auction on Saturday, December 12, 2020. To see the watches for yourself, be sure to scroll down below. To learn more about the auction and the watches included, click the button below to visit Phillips.com. View Phillips Listing " width="680">

By Jordan Aquistapace – December 08, 2020

How To Buy: John Mayer x G-Shock Watch By Hodinkee

Hodinkee is continuing its release of limited-edition watch collaborations with a new piece from G-Shock x John Mayer. The iconic guitar player and longtime friend at Hodinkee is joining the trio for his first-ever watch collaboration. A sample video of John Mayer playing a Casio SK-5 while wearing the limited-edition watch is teased below the countdown on the Hodinkee website. The digital model looks to have a sleek grey color with hints of light blue and orange throughout the piece. As always, the Hodinkee watch collaborations will continue to hold significance as a watch collector’s piece. If you wan to buy the John Mayer x Hodinkee x G-Shock, click the link below for release information. When: December 8th at 11AM EST Where: Hodinkee Price: $180

By Jordan Aquistapace – December 04, 2020

How To Buy: The Ralph Lauren Automotive Collection Timepi...

When most think of Ralph Lauren, they think of the luxury clothing brand that sports the iconic Polo logo. The collection has grown throughout time expanding its product offerings to new industries and ventures, such as the timepiece market. Ralph Lauren is proud to announce a new selection of automotive-inspired watches. The Ralph Lauren Automotive Collection is styled to incorporate past and present style using a blend of materials inspired by Ralph's Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic Coupe. The most noticeable feature of the watch is the gloss wood-style bezel, which is meant to symbolize the vintage steering wheel. Click any of the links below to shop the Ralph Lauren Automotive Collection timepieces. Ralph Lauren Automotive Tourbillon $62,500 Shop Now A celebration of Ralph Lauren's love of the open road, this distinctive watch features a rich amboyna burl wood bezel, which was inspired by the dashboard of Mr. Lauren's 1938 Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic Coupe. Ralph Lauren 45mm Steel $16,500 Shop Now Meticulously crafted in Switzerland with a smoky sapphire case back, the striking timepiece bridges the worlds of high-performance automobiles and horology. Ralph Lauren 39mm Steel $15,400 Shop Now The hand-cut amboyna burl wood dial emulates the legendary Bugatti's steering wheel, while Super-LumiNova® Arabic numerals on the matte black dial evoke the dashboard's gauges. Ralph Lauren 39mm Chronometer Steel $5,100 Shop Now With a COSC-certified movement, the finely engineered stainless steel design embodies Mr. Lauren's passion for the open road.

By Edward Jones – December 03, 2020

Roger Dubuis Excalibur Spider Huracan STO Revealed

After the exciting launch of the new Lamborghini Huracan STO, Roger Dubuis knew what they had to do. With an already stunning lineup of Lamborghini-inspired watches within the Excalibur range, they have just added the Excalibur Spider Huracan STO timepiece. This new timepiece has a color scheme that matches the debut example of the Huracan STO. As with the other Excalibur Spider Huracan timepieces, this new timepiece features the RD630 caliber that was developed specifically for Roger Dubuis' partnership with Lamborghini Squadra Corse. Special touches were given to this caliber to signify the partnership, including the rotor that was designed after a supercar wheel rim. Just 88 pieces of the exquisite Roger Dubuis Excalibur Spider Huracan STO will be created, each with a price of $56,500. If you're interested, they can only be purchased at Roger Dubuis boutiques. To learn more, be sure to click the button below to visit RogerDubuis.com. Visit RogerDubuis.com

By Edward Jones – December 02, 2020

URWERK Reveals the EMC White Ceramic 'Stormtrooper' Watch

A new timepiece from URWERK has just landed from a galaxy far away called the EMC White Ceramic aka 'Stormtrooper'. Why the name Stormtrooper? Well, just look at it. If you're familiar with the Star Wars franchise, as you probably are, you know that the black and white colorway of their outfits is unmistakable. This new watch features that same colorway, through its white ceramic case and matte black surfaces on the dial. What's more, the futuristic design of the dial matches up perfectly with the Stormtrooper vibe. Powering the Stormtrooper is the calibre UR-EMC2, which controls the separate indications on the dial. On the dial, the wearer will see the hours and minutes dial, 80-hour power reserve indicator, seconds dial, and precision and amplitude indicators. While that seems like a lot, URWERK has placed each indicator perfectly so the dial is not overwhelmed. Just five examples of the URWERK EMC Stormtrooper will be created. For more information, be sure to visit URWERK.com for more.

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