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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

A detailed wristwatch, reminiscent of Hublot's innovative design, features a complex, exposed mechanical movement and a rugged gray case paired with a blue strap. This piece echoes the bold aesthetics of Samuel Ross' Big Bang Tourbillon collaboration.

By Jordan Aquistapace – December 06, 2024

Hublot x Samuel Ross Unveil The $143,000 Big Bang Tourbil...

Hublot and Samuel Ross are back with another jaw-dropping watch collaboration. Hublot and Samuel Ross have teamed up once again to create something truly special, the new Big Bang Tourbillon Carbon SR_A. Debuting at Miami Art Week, the collaboration watch remains true to Hublot’s “Art of Fusion” perspective by combining innovative materials with Ross’s unmatched design style. Featuring a 44mm honeycomb-patterned case in frosted grey carbon, a sapphire dial, and both light and dark blue accents, Hublot's newest watch stands out as a serious statement piece. With a self-winding HUB6035 skeleton Tourbillon movement and a 72-hour power reserve, function is just as important as style. The partnership between Hublot and Samuel Ross dates back to 2020, and the duo's new model takes things even further. Ross’s signature design elements include geometry, texture, and unexpected colors, all of which are on full display. The honeycomb pattern continues from the case to the perforated rubber strap, while the bezel’s mix of satin and micro-blasted finishes adds an extra layer of depth. With only 50 pieces available, the Big Bang Tourbillon Carbon SR_A is bound to be an anticipated model for collectors and fans of modern design. The all-new Big Bang Tourbillon Carbon SR_A is now available at Hublot boutiques worldwide with a price tag of $143,000. View this post on Instagram A post shared by duPont REGISTRY Discovery (@dupontregistry_discovery) Source: Hublot

By Jordan Aquistapace – December 02, 2024

Richard Mille Honors Its Iconic Dive Watch Series With Th...

For decades, Richard Mille has continued to reimagine what a true sports watch can be. Whether performing on the tennis court or withstanding the deepest depths of the ocean, Richard Mille watches come engineered with the materials and technology to keep up with the most prominent athletes. The all-new RM 032 Automatic Flyback Chronograph Ultimate Edition is a farewell to Richard Mille’s iconic dive watch series. Limited to just 80 pieces, the newest addition combines technical mastery with state-of-the-art materials like grade 5 titanium and Carbon TPT. It features a unidirectional bezel, a locking crown system for added water resistance, and a striking silhouette that blends durability with style. The lightweight yet strong construction makes it an ideal match for underwater adventurers like world-record-holding free diver Arnaud Jerald. Inside, the RMAC2 caliber powers the watch with a PVD-treated titanium baseplate and bridges, guaranteeing precision under extreme conditions. A variable-geometry rotor stores energy across dual barrels and showcases an impressive 50-hour power reserve. Functional features include hours, minutes, seconds, a 12-hour totalizer, and an annual calendar with an oversized date display. Super-LumiNova indicators and custom-designed DLC titanium date discs improve readability, even in the dim light of the ocean depths. The RM 032's 50mm case and 300-meter water resistance make it a practical tool for divers. As the final piece in the RM 032 collection, the Ultimate Edition celebrates over a decade of ingenious watchmaking. With its exclusivity and expert craftsmanship, this limited-edition dive watch cements Richard Mille's legacy in creating durable, functional, and stylish watches for the world’s most challenging environments. View this post on Instagram A post shared by duPont REGISTRY Discovery (@dupontregistry_discovery) Source: Richard Mille

By Jordan Aquistapace – November 25, 2024

How To Buy: Edifice x Honda Racing Corporation's Motorspo...

Born from the track as part of its ongoing partnership with the performance professionals at Honda Racing Corporation (HRC), Casio's Edifice continues to evolve its collection of race-inspired watches with models that embody the DNA of purpose-built race cars. The duo has teamed up to debut the Sospensione ECB2000HR-1A as the ultimate motorsport-inspired watch. Capturing Honda’s racing legacy with its striking tricolor design, the watch showcases red for victory, blue for technology, and white for fans. The band features luxurious Alcantara with stitching and engravings that honor HRC’s iconic colorway. The bezel and case are made with carbon fiber-reinforced resin, resembling the suspension arm design of track-focused Honda race cars. Special logos and detailed designs of Honda’s racing engine valve also root the watch in the world of motorsport. Beyond mere looks, the ECB2000HR-1A delivers cutting-edge functionality. Bluetooth connectivity syncs with smartphones for effortless time management, while Tough Solar technology guarantees reliable power throughout its life on your wrist. A countdown indicator, lap memory, and other advanced features make it both stylish and practical. Whether you’re on the track or simply admire precision engineering, this limited-edition watch collaboration commemorates the heart of Honda Racing and Edifice. Shop the all-new, limited-edition Sospensione ECB2000HR-1A from Edifice x Honda Racing Corporation by clicking the link below. Shop Now Source: Casio

Close-up of the SeaQ Series watch's sapphire crystal case back, showcasing the intricate mechanical movement inside. The engravings and visible rotor are adorned with gold accents, a hallmark of Glashütte Original, standing out against a dark background.

By Jordan Aquistapace – November 21, 2024

Glashütte Original Evolves Its SeaQ Series With A New Sap...

The Glashütte Original SeaQ now offers a sapphire crystal case back. Celebrating 50 years of its diving watch legacy, Glashütte Original just upgraded the coveted SeaQ line with a sapphire crystal case back option. The newly announced option provides collectors and enthusiasts an up-close glimpse into the meticulous craftsmanship of the in-house Calibre 39-11 movement, featuring Glashütte's iconic three-quarter plate, swan-neck fine adjustment, and double-G skeletonized rotor. First launched in 2019 as a nod to the legendary Spezimatic RP TS 200, the SeaQ combines tradition with the modern performance that watch buyers expect these days. Maintaining a water resistance of 200 meters, this latest addition marks yet another milestone in Glashütte’s storied watchmaking journey. Starting December 2024, all stainless steel and bi-color SeaQ models will feature this case back upgrade. Owners of earlier SeaQ watches can opt for a retrofitted sapphire case back starting January 2025 through Glashütte Original’s customer service. Whether you're a fan of its historical roots or modern look and feel, the SeaQ continues to make waves as a masterpiece of German engineering and design. Discover Glashütte Originals' SeaQ collection by clicking the link below. Discover The Glashütte Original SeaQ Collection View this post on Instagram A post shared by duPont REGISTRY Discovery (@dupontregistry_discovery) Source: Glashütte Originals

A high-end wristwatch featuring a unique skeletal design with X-shaped markers and gear-like elements, reminiscent of the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Tourbillon, set against a light neutral background.

By Jordan Aquistapace – November 19, 2024

Audemars Piguet x KAWS Debut An Exclusive $226K Royal Oak...

It combines the best of both worlds! At the forefront of both historic horology and the future of luxury watchmaking, Audemars Piguet continues to diversify its lineup and lineage through creative collaboration that captures moments in time. As part of its forward-thinking approach to an age-old industry, AP is proud to join forces with world-renowned artist KAWS on a special project that combines contemporary art with Swiss watchmaking. At the heart of this partnership is the limited-edition Royal Oak Concept Tourbillon “COMPANION,” priced at 200,000 CHF ($226,644). The 43 mm Royal Oak features KAWS’ iconic COMPANION figure displayed underneath a sapphire crystal. Limited to just 250 pieces, the watch combines KAWS’ iconic aesthetic with the complexity of Audemars Piguet’s Concept collection. In addition to the watch, the collaboration features a massive 33-foot sculpture mounted on the roof of Audemars Piguet’s headquarters in Le Brassus, Switzerland. Unveiled during a private event attended by celebrities like Mark Ronson, J Balvin, and Romeo Beckham, the art installation will remain in place until December 20, 2024. Whether on the wrist or towering over the Vallée de Joux, KAWS’ COMPANION invites collectors and enthusiasts to reimagine the role of fine watchmaking in today’s world, bridging art, time, and imagination in a truly unique way. View this post on Instagram A post shared by duPont REGISTRY Discovery (@dupontregistry_discovery) Source: Audemars Piguet

A man with sunglasses and tattoos holds a microphone, wearing a printed sleeveless shirt, multiple necklaces, and earrings. He sports a $7M watch while channeling Jake Paul's bold style.

By Jordan Aquistapace – November 15, 2024

Jake Paul Shows Off His New $7M Watch Ahead Of Netflix's ...

Prepping for the fight with in a seven-figure watch. Whether you love him or hate him, there's no denying that Jake Paul has been at the center of mainstream media since the successful uprise of his professional boxing career. Fighting for millions of dollars in sold-out arenas around the globe, Jake's adventurous lifestyle comes complete with mansions in Puerto Rico, a fleet of Ferraris, and an incredible collection of top-tier timepieces. The 27-year-old is now preparing for his biggest event yet as he goes head-to-head with boxing legend Mike Tyson in an 8-round fight tonight at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. Ahead of last night's face-off, Jake Paul was featured on Jacob & Co.'s Instagram page wearing the famous $7 million Billionaire watch, which he ultimately wore on stage face-to-face with Tyson. In the video, he wristrolls the diamond-covered tourbillon watch and says, "Thank you Netflix." Standing as the pinnacle of Jacob & Co.'s lineup, Jake now joins an exclusive group of Billionaire owners that include A-list celebrities like Floyd Mayweather, Rick Ross, and DJ Khaled. The Jacob & Co. Billionaire features a case and bracelet entirely set with over 260 carats of emerald-cut diamonds. Each stone is hand-placed within a white gold framework, showcasing a skeletonized movement housed within the diamond-covered case. In a collection full of rare Rolex and Richard Mille watches, the Jacob & Co. Billionaire definitely takes the cake as Jake Paul's most expensive watch. Netflix's Live Jake Paul vs Mike Tyson Fight is set to air tonight, November 15th at 5:30 ET. View this post on Instagram A post shared by JACOB & CO. (@jacobandco) Source: Jacob & Co. Instagram

By Jordan Aquistapace – November 12, 2024

How To Buy: The James Brand x Timex GMT, Limited To 750-P...

The James Brand × Timex Automatic GMT is back for a second collaboration, and it’s all about adventure. Crafted from titanium, the 41mm watch combines a luxurious look with the toughness you’d expect for any journey. Powered by a Miyota 9075 automatic GMT movement, it keeps track of two time zones at once, perfect for travelers or anyone with a foot in two worlds. Plus, it’s water-resistant to 200 meters. It also comes with both a titanium bracelet and a resin strap, so it’s easy to switch things up based on your plans. Timex and The James Brand took a fresh approach with this collaboration, opting for a minimalist look over the usual rugged field-watch style. Lightweight yet durable, the titanium case feels great on the wrist and has an anti-reflective sapphire crystal and exhibition case back to show off the automatic movement inside. With Super-LumiNova accents on the dial and just 750 pieces in this run, the GMT packs a lot of character, with each individually numbered. Whether you’re pairing it with the titanium bracelet or swapping to the resin strap, the James Brand × Timex GMT has you covered for any adventure. Shop the all-new James Brand × Timex GMT by clicking the link below. Shop Now Source: The James Brand

By Jordan Aquistapace – November 08, 2024

Shop TAG Heuer's Racing-Inspired Carrera Chronograph Extr...

TAG Heuer's Carrera Extreme Sport collection merges racing heritage and cutting-edge design. With historic ties to racing and motorsports, TAG Heuer is proud to unveil its latest collection of Carrera Extreme Sport models, blending its love for performance with modern materials and creative designs. This reimagined collection includes the Carrera Chronograph Extreme Sport and the Carrera Chronograph Tourbillon Extreme Sport, each showcasing TAG Heuer's expertise in the field of watchmaking. With bold aesthetics inspired by motorsports, these watches feature skeleton dials for improved legibility and intricate mechanical details. Materials like titanium, ceramic, and even 18K rose gold highlight their durability and luxurious feel, while integrated rubber straps provide comfort during high-speed activities. These six new timepieces reflect TAG Heuer's deep connection to the world of racing, with each model offering unique color and material combinations. From vibrant orange details on the chronographs to sleek, black DLC-coated titanium, the collection pushes the boundaries of both performance and style. Additionally, the tourbillon models further elevate TAG Heuer's commitment to horological excellence with advanced movements like the TH20-09 caliber. These new Carrera Extreme Sport watches represent the perfect fusion of high-performance engineering and haute horology, delivering a statement piece for both motorsport fans and watch collectors. Shop the all-new TAG Heuer Carrera Extreme Sport by clicking the link below. Shop Now View this post on Instagram A post shared by duPont REGISTRY Discovery (@dupontregistry_discovery) Source: TAG Heuer

A colorful, Takashi Murakami-inspired flower-shaped jewel-encrusted watch with a white band, set against a soft background with iridescent bubbles.

By Jordan Aquistapace – October 23, 2024

Hublot x Takashi Murakami Reveal Its New $374,000 MP-15 S...

The MP-15 Murakami Tourbillon Sapphire Rainbow perfectly blends art and watchmaking Hublot has built a reputation for pushing the boundaries of traditional watchmaking, teaming up with some of the world’s most renowned artists, athletes, and designers. Hublot's latest release, the MP-15 Takashi Murakami Tourbillon Sapphire Rainbow, brings Murakami’s iconic smiling flower to life as a limited edition example. Its first-ever central flying tourbillon takes center stage underneath a domed crystal featuring Murakami’s iconic flower face. Each of the 12 petals on the flower-shaped case is crafted from polished titanium and set with 444 rainbow gems, including rubies, sapphires, and topazes. At the heart of the MP-15 is HUBLOT’s new HUB9015 movement, featuring a manual-winding movement with an impressive 120-hour power reserve. The hands are positioned beneath the tourbillon cage, showcasing a rechargeable stylus that easily winds the barrels at over 100 revolutions. Takashi Murakami's MP-15 is finished with a transparent strap decorated with his floral motif and a sapphire crystal buckle. Available exclusively upon request through HUBLOT boutiques and authorized retailers, the MP-15 Tourbillon Sapphire Rainbow is now available for $374,000. Shop all Hublot watches by clicking the link below. Shop All Hublot Watches View this post on Instagram A post shared by duPont REGISTRY Discovery (@dupontregistry_discovery) Source: Hublot

By Jordan Aquistapace – October 23, 2024

Glashütte Original Debuts Its New Platinum PanoLunarInver...

As a celebration of the moon and its involvement in the history of horology, Glashütte Original just unveiled the PanoLunarInverse with celestial inspiration. Limited to just 200 pieces, its new release puts a spin on the classic moon phase display, focusing on meticulous details like the background of a star-filled night sky. Aventurine gives the dial a sparkling night-sky effect, originally used by Venetian glassmakers centuries ago. The moon, with its craters and textures precisely laser-engraved, remains clear as it orbits underneath the grey-blue sapphire crystal. The movement is where the PanoLunarInverse really stands out, as Glashütte flips the script by revealing the intricate inner workings of the mechanism from the front. The off-centered hour and minute display ties into the moon phase complication, all powered by the 91-04 automatic movement with an impressive 45-hour reserve. The platinum 42mm watch comes with two strap options: a grey Louisiana alligator nubuck leather strap and a blue synthetic option made from recycled yarn. Glashütte also welcomes its customers to explore the extensive selection of strap colors and materials. The PanoLunarInverse release represents a subtle nod to Glashütte’s deep roots to both horology and astronomy. The PanoLunarInverse will be available through official retailers starting October 2024, giving collectors a chance to own a piece of German watchmaking at its finest. Discover and learn more about the new Glashütte Original PanoLunarInverse by clicking the link below. Discover Glashütte Original PanoLunarInverse View this post on Instagram A post shared by duPont REGISTRY Discovery (@dupontregistry_discovery) Source: Glashütte Original

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