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McLaren W1 First Drive: Ferocious Hypercar Transcends the Track

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

By Edward Jones – March 22, 2021

Hublot Classic Fusion Chronograph Shepard Fairey Debuted

Hublot and Shepard Fairey have teamed up to create the positively stunning Classic Fusion Chronograph Shepard Fairey. There's no doubting that you have seen Shepard Fairey's artwork in some shape or form. His career started back in 1989 when he created the "Andrew the Giant has a Posse" sticker. This sticker then turned into a massive OBEY GIANT campaign that's still popular to this very day. Fairey also created the famous 2008 "Hope" portrait of Barack Obama that sparked a fresh and popular style of artwork. Now, Fairey artistic style can be found on the new Hublot Classic Fusion Chronograph Shepard Fairey. This new timepiece features a mandala, a symbol that represents harmony, the cycle of life and the elements. The precise engravings are made on a black-brushed titanium case that measures 50mm. As for its movement, that's handled by the HUB1155 self-winding skeleton chronograph movement. Just 50 examples of the Hublot Classic Fusion Chronograph Shepard Fairey will be created, each of them costing $22,000. To shop the watch, be sure to click the button below. Shop Now Source: Hublot

By Jordan Aquistapace – March 19, 2021

The New Carl F. Bucherer Limited-Edition Heritage BioComp...

As the watch market is littered with countless new examples, watchmakers are paying homage to the models that lead the way for its brand. Carl F. Bucherer is following this process with the new Heritage BioCompax Annual, which is nicknamed the “Reverse Panda” to signify the black and white dial. The 50s-inspired 41mm case features a stainless-steel design fitted with a double-domed sapphire crystal with an anti-reflective coating. The black dial presents a tachymeter on the outer ring with two white sub-dials placed in the center to hold minute and small seconds functions. The transparent back case allows for a Bette view of the CFB 1972 Automatic movement, while the outer case is engraved to signify the limited 888 examples produced. Finishing the elegant style of the Carl F. Bucherer Heritage BioCompax Annual is a matching black genuine calfskin strap and stainless steel buckle. The newest limited-edition release from Carl F. Bucherer is available through an authorized dealer for $7,200. For more Watch news, Check out Discover The Limited-Edition Gerald Charles Maestro 2.0 Premier

By Jordan Aquistapace – March 19, 2021

Discover The Limited-Edition Gerald Charles Maestro 2.0 P...

While some luxury timepieces are considered head-turning examples, most take on a similar construction, finding other ways to differentiate themselves. Gerald Charles prides itself on differentiating itself from other brands in every way possible, starting with the case. The Swiss watchmaker is proud to announce the release of the limited-edition Maestro 2.0 Premier 2021. The ultra-thin 18-carat Rose Gold case is designed to push elegance and performance to their limits while housing a vibrant green and gold dial. An Automatic GCA3002 movement drives the Gerald Charles timepiece, maximizing the movement's accuracy and 50-hour power reserve. Functionality within the Maestro 2.0 Premier 2021 is found within the 100-meter water-resistance as well as the Green Emerald vulcanized rubber strap. The new Gerald Charles Maestro 2.0 Premier production is limited to 25 pieces for the price of $31,400. For more Watch news, Check out Franck Muller x BWD x Arsham Studios x King Nerd Unveil A Limited-Edition Casablanca

By Jordan Aquistapace – March 16, 2021

Franck Muller x BWD x Arsham Studios x King Nerd Unveil A...

When a watch manufacturer enlists help from well-known brands on limited-edition collaboration examples, the anticipation and collector value increases significantly. Franck Muller x Bamford Watches x Daniel Arsham x King Nerd are proud to unveil a head-turning limited-edition Casablanca timepiece. The 39mm square-style stainless-steel case features intricate Daniel Arsham logo engravings by expert King Nerd. The faint pattern follows its way onto the iconic Arsham Studio Green dial, where other small details of the collaboration are displayed. The back case features a detailed Arsham Studios x Casablanca engraving as well as numerics signifying the limited five pieces produced. Tying together the artistic rendition of the Franck Mueller Casablanca is an Arsham Studios monogram embossed leather strap with a stainless-steel buckle. The new Limited-Edition Bamford Watch Department x Arsham x King Nerd x Franck Muller Casablanca is the best blend of traditional luxury watchmaking and modern artistic design. For more Watch news, Check out Hublot Releases The Classic Fusion Orlinski In Blue Ceramic

By Jordan Aquistapace – March 15, 2021

Hublot Releases The Classic Fusion Orlinski In Blue Ceramic

In the past, we covered the Hublot Classic Fusion Orlinski collection, featuring a white ceramic chronograph. The Swiss watch manufacturer is proud to announce the release of the Classic Fusion Blue Ceramic, a 40mm traditionally styled watch paired with a matching faceted blue dial that highlights titanium finished indicators. Underneath the geometric-style case lies Hublot’s in-house HUB 1100 self-winding movement, capable of holding a 42-hour power reserve. Although derived from an artistic point of view, the Classic Fusion is designed as a functional daily watch, equipped with a 50-meter water resistance. A transparent back case allows for a closer look at the mechanism that drives the Hublot Classic Fusion. The vibrant blue theme flows into a smooth matte rubber strapped equipped with a titanium clasp, ensuring comfortable wear. The Hublot Classic Fusion Orlinski Blue Ceramic is currently available through an authorized dealer for the price of $13,600. Shop Now For mor Watch news, Check out Breitling Announces Its New Select Watch Subscription

By Jordan Aquistapace – March 15, 2021

Breitling Announces Its New Select Watch Subscription

The ever-growing market of watches makes it hard for anyone to decide on the perfect example, especially when dealing with high-end luxury timepieces. Breitling recently announced a new program where there is no longer a need to decide which watch is best to purchase. Breitling Select is the new subscription-based program that allows the consumer to enjoy three watches over a 12-month period, based on their selection from a dedicated portfolio of watches. Registration for Breitling Select is done through the companies website and easily managed using smartphone capability. Participants will pay a one-time subscription fee of $450 and subsequently make a monthly payment of $129. At that point, they’ll be ready to choose their first watch, which will soon be delivered to their home. The innovative business model is celebrated as a first for the watch industry. Choose a new timepiece every few months from the comfort of your home with the new Breitling Select Program. The Breitling Select subscription registration is open to the public by visiting the company’s website. For more Watch news, Check out Bremont Watches Release A Limited-Edition Jaguar E-Type 60th Anniversary Collection

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By Jordan Aquistapace – March 12, 2021

Bremont Watches Release A Limited-Edition Jaguar E-Type 6...

The Jaguar E-Type is still considered to be one of the most beautifully designed vehicles in automotive history, highlighting its elongated front end and classic wire wheels. As a celebration of its 60th anniversary, Bremont Watches is proud to announce the release of its Jaguar E-Type 60th Collection featuring two limited-edition pieces. The 43mm stainless-steel chronograph is coated with a scratch-resistant DLC treated case barrel. A vintage-style dial is presented as a reflection of gauges found incorporated into the dash of the ‘60s Jaguar E-Type. A modified caliber 13 1/4” BE-50AE automatic movement drives the watch while providing a 38-hour power reserve. The transparent back case features a miniaturized Jaguar E-Type steering wheel rotor, as well as a numerical engraving signifying the limited 60-piece release. Each watch is fitted with a 22mm Jaguar genuine leather strap. The Bremont Jaguar 60th Collection is presented in Drop Out Everything Green and Flat Out Grey color options. The newest limited-edition chronograph collection from Bremont is currently available for $16,495. For more Watch news, Check out TAG Heuer Releases Golf And Wellness Updates For Its Connected Collection

By Jordan Aquistapace – March 11, 2021

TAG Heuer Releases Golf And Wellness Updates For Its Conn...

The TAG Heuer Connected Collection features a line-up of smartwatches capable of keeping you in touch with an array of cellular and social functions. TAG Heuer is proud to announce that its most recent software update to Wear OS, launching the platform into a new category for health and fitness. The health benefits feature applications focused on tracking targeted goals set by the user, with an additional wellness portion that includes heart rate monitoring, As TAG Heuer holds a close relationship with the sport of golf, the new Golf app allows users to take advantage of new features like highly detailed imaging, shot distance tracking, and an option for club choice. The TAG Heuer Connect collection was created to help make daily activities easier on users, and now that the daily routine is taken care of, health and wellness is the newest objective for the company. The TAG Heuer Connected series equipped with the new Wear OS update is currently available by clicking the link below. Shop Now For more Watch news, Check out Zenith Debuts the Limited Edition Defy 21 Felipe Pantone

By Edward Jones – March 10, 2021

Zenith Debuts the Limited Edition Defy 21 Felipe Pantone

Zenith Watches has tapped famous artist Felipe Pantone for a collaboration that has resulted in a magnificent timepiece called the Defy 21 Felipe Pantone. Felipe Pantone's signature geometric patterns and an array of hues are on full display across the face of this new watch, allowing this watch to truly act as a piece of art-- even the bezel features a grid pattern to complete the look. Fans of Felipe Pantone and art, in general, will easily be able to recognize his style with just a glance at this new watch. As for its internals, this watch has a 1/100th of a second chronograph movement with a 30-minute counter at 3 o'clock, a 60-second counter at 6 o'clock, and a power reserve indicator at 12 o'clock. Just 100 examples of the Zenith Defy 21 Felipe Pantone will be created and they will be available for purchase on the Zenith e-shop and boutiques at 6AM EST on March 15, 2021.

By Jordan Aquistapace – March 08, 2021

Richard Mille Unveils The New Female-Focused RM 07-01 Col...

Richard Mille is known for implementing state-of-the-art design and technology into each of its collectible examples. The Richard Mille women’s line continues this process with the all-new RM 07-01, a collection of two elegant variations sporting head-turning bracelet options. The all-black Carbon TPT case is complimented with hand-polished 5N Red Gold accents throughout the dial, with an available diamond-set version symbolizing a starry night. The RM 07-01 uses the CRMA2, an in-house automatic movement with hours, minutes, and a variable geometry rotor. The two versions of Richard Mille’s newest female-focused watches feature a traditional matching Carbon TPT bracelet, as well as a uniquely designed fusion bracelet combining Carbon TPT and 5N Red Gold. The lightweight design of the new Richard Mille RM 07-01 is sure to be a limited collector’s example for any watch enthusiasts. The new RM 07-01 from Richard Mille is currently available through an authorized dealer. For more Watch news, Check out Top 10 Luxury Lady’s Watches For Her Collection

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