Watches

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

Two luxury Richard Mille wristwatches, featuring exposed mechanical dials and black rubber straps, are displayed side by side on a black background—an exquisite showcase of modern horology.

By Jordan Aquistapace – July 17, 2025

Reshaping The Future Of Horology With Richard Mille's All...

Richard Mille welcomes the newest addition to its ever-growing lineup. Marking nearly 25 years as a heavyweight contender in haute horology, Richard Mille's relatively quick rise to the upper echelon of ultra-luxury watches places the brand among pioneers with centuries of expertise. What first began as a swing for the fences in 2001 with the debut of RM 001 Tourbillon quickly transformed into one of the hottest watch trends, catching the appeal of collectors and enthusiasts with its tonneau-shaped case, lightweight design, and complex movement technology. Richard Mille ended up breaking its own mold with other iconic models like the RM 025, RM 25-01, RM 033, and RM 33-02, presenting its same signature DNA on more traditional case shapes. Today, Richard Mille is proud to showcase its innovative spirit in the ever-evolving world of watchmaking by revealing its all-new RM 33-03 collection. The Richard Mille RM 33-03 Automatic is available in either full titanium or Carbon TPT and red gold, using premium material combos you'd expect from Richard Mille. The new skeletonized RMXP3 movement is ultra-thin at just 3.28mm and uses a platinum micro-rotor mounted off-center, which quietly powers the movement. The whole assembly sits on a titanium baseplate treated with Titalyt for extra durability, while black PVD-coated bridges keep everything locked down and running precisely. Even with all the openworked elements, it's designed to wear comfortably without trying too hard to impress. The case shape carries some of the ergonomic curves from Richard Mille's more sculpted models. With a 40-plus hour power reserve and a balance system that can be fine-tuned with tiny weights, the RM 33-03 feels like a thoughtful evolution for the brand. It's a piece that sticks to the brand's technical roots while experimenting just enough with form to keep things interesting. Source: Richard Mille

A silver Ulysse Nardin wristwatch with a visible mechanical movement, blue strap, and metallic accents, displayed against a gradient gray background.

By Jordan Aquistapace – July 16, 2025

Ulysse Nardin’s $126,600 BLAST Free Wheel Maillechort Red...

Ulysse Nardin has long carved a path as one of the more daring names in watchmaking, with a reputation for pushing technical and stylistic boundaries. The renowned Swiss watchmaker proudly reveals the all-new BLAST Free Wheel Maillechort as a clear reflection of that spirit. Limited to just 50 pieces, the special edition BLAST takes a different approach by placing its mechanics on full display under a sculpted sapphire crystal that feels more like a transparent stage than a standard case design. The flying tourbillon with constant force escapement and a floating double-barrel system makes for a futuristic look, with key features balanced across the dial. The case itself is sharp and geometric, crafted in white gold and finished with satin and polished highlights using laser technology. What stands out most, however, is how Ulysse Nardin mixes this forward-thinking engineering with traditional material choices. The dial is made from Maillechort, an alloy of copper, zinc, and nickel that develops a subtle patina over time. Its matte texture and warm tone contrast beautifully with the ultra-modern mechanics above it. Around the movement are an intermediate wheel, power reserve differential, and winding mechanism, each with a role in the watch's 7-day power reserve. The static power reserve indicator at 4 o'clock doesn't move, but the dial bands behind it provide a visual signal for energy remaining. The BLAST Free Wheel Maillechort doesn't aim to appeal to everyone, and that's part of its draw. It's more like an engineering experiment made wearable than a watch designed around tradition. From silicon components to the hollowed-out sapphire box construction, every choice here leans toward showcasing how far mechanical watchmaking can go. For collectors interested in Ulysse Nardin's newest masterpiece, this is a piece that's more about experimentation than everyday practicality. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ulysse Nardin (@ulyssenardinofficial) Source: Ulysse Nardin

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By Jordan Aquistapace – July 11, 2025

Richard Mille's Mechanical Marvels: The Best RM Watches E...

With so many stunning examples to choose from, these are our picks for Richard Mille's best creations. Richard Mille has rapidly ascended the ranks of the horology scene, with prices for its watches on the secondary market often exceeding double the original retail value. The Swiss watchmaker's popularity isn't solely due to its expert craftsmen, it also benefits from an extensive roster of high-profile celebrities and athletes who proudly sport Richard Mille timepieces. These brand ambassadors are experts in their respective fields and often wear bespoke Richard Mille models. From manufacturers like Ferrari to individuals like pro golfer Bubba Watson, Richard Mille surrounds itself with these leaders to showcase the diverse abilities of their timeless creations. Over its 22-year history, the brand's watches have continued to gain traction among collectors who are always on the hunt for these highly sought-after pieces. In our special feature, we round up the most iconic Richard Mille watches ever produced. While many RM models are nearly impossible to acquire due to limited runs, a select few can be found on the pre-owned market through specialized dealers. Discover and explore the best of the best Richard Mille luxury watches in our carefully curated list by following the link below. Richard Mille RM UP-01 Ferrari Richard Mille The RM UP-01 Ferrari is an allusive piece to Ferrari’s values, developing sporting mechanisms that are as elegant as they are immediately recognizable. Their models make no concessions and frequently contradict current trends to create new aesthetical codes. The RM UP-01 Ferrari bears witness to this partnership of the best know-how these two iconic brands have to offer in the combination of their ideas, understanding, respective developments and shared values. Additionally, the new RM UP-01 Ferrari establishes its dominance as one of the most expensive Richard Mille watches ever made. Richard Mille RM UP-01 Ferrari Retail Price: $1.888 Million Richard Mille RM 40-01 McLaren Speedtail Richard Mille Despite the extraordinary anatomy of the case, Salvador Arbona, Richard Mille's Movement Technical Director, created a horological 'engine' that seamlessly occupies all the available space and introduces a level of mechanical sophistication that makes the RM 40-01 an appropriately extraordinary companion to the Speedtail. McLaren's relentless pursuit of aerodynamic efficiency provided the starting point for the design of the RM 40-01 Automatic Tourbillon McLaren Speedtail. Richard Mille RM 40-01 Speedtail Retail Price: $1,300,000 Richard Mille RM 38-02 Bubba Watson Richard Mille The RM 38-02 Tourbillon Bubba Watson is the fourth watch of the collection bearing Bubba’s name over the sportsman’s 10 years with the Richard Mille family. Produced in a numbered limited edition of 50 pieces, it is pretty much the watchmaking equivalent of a hole in one. Richard Mille RM 38-02 Bubba Watson Price: $980,000 Richard Mille RM 69 Erotic Richard Mille The RM 69 offers its wearers the pure pleasure of the new Richard Mille “Oracle” complication, a mechanism that sets off the rotation of three grade 5 titanium engraved rollers like Tibetan prayer wheels, displaying a random phrase. This tripartite tonneau-shaped case is fully curved, which enables the watch to be ergonomic and comfortable, but is time consuming to produce and requires a high level of quality control. Richard Mille RM 69 Erotic Retail Price: $783,000 Richard Mille RM 052 Skull Richard Mille The RM 052 Skull presented in 2012 is a visualisation of these precepts. This new caliber represents the fullest expression of liberty and nonconformity and as such, very much typifies the philosophy of the brand. Extreme technique, high performance, the highest level of aesthetic and hand-finishing: the Richard Mille Skull watch is true Haute Horlogerie. Richard Mille 052 Skull Retail Price: $500,000 Richard Mille RM 35-02 Rafael Nadal Richard Mille Developing the Nadal line, always an attractive prospect, means ambitiously pursuing continued technical improvements, while keeping the watch’s aesthetics up to date through advantageous use of new materials—like the Carbon TPT® line—and new colors. Inspired by the RM 35-01, the RM 35-02 emerged in response to a request from many Richard Mille customers for a self-winding mechanism at the heart of a Nadal calibre. Richard Mille RM 35-02 Rafal Nadal Price: Waitlist Richard Mille 61-01 Yohan Blake Richard Mille The RM 61-01 Yohan Blake takes all of its cues from the RM 59-01 tourbillon designed for the Olympic medallist and 2nd fastest man over 100m and 200m. It incorporates the calibre RMUL2, whose highly skeletonised grade 5 titanium movement is treated with PVD and Titalyt® to provide maximum performance. Richard Mille RM 61-01 Yohan Blake Retail Price: $145,000 Richard Mille RM 11-04 Roberto Mancini Richard Mille The idea of creating a mechanical watch with a dedicated dial for tracking half-time, extra time and overtime might seem an obvious one, however, the ingenious display, combined with the availability of a flyback chronograph, gives Roberto complete mastery of time on the playing field. While conceding nothing of the ingenuity that characterised the RM 11-01, the RM 11-04 incorporates the brand’s latest style codes, as seen in the new lines of the crown, its variable-geometry rotor and its ultra-sporty case in Carbon TPT® with raised crenulations. Richard Mille RM 11-04 Roberto Mancini Retail Price: $189,500 Richard Mille RM 67-02 Richard Mille Starting with the RM 67-01, whose lightness, thinness and ergonomics made it a perfect candidate, we reworked its lines to highlight its hidden athletic qualities. The definition of the bezels and case with four extensions, in addition to being a hallmark of the brand’s sports watches, contributes to the reinforcement the case structure. The RM 67-02 weighs a mere of 32 grams, thanks to the combination of TPT® composite materials, grade 5 titanium and the elastic wristband, the lightest strap ever created by the brand. Richard Mille RM 67-02 Retail Price: $120,500 Richard Mille RM 52-05 Pharrell Williams Richard Mille Conjuring the visions, fantasies, and other imaginary projections of the brand’s partners is a familiar quest for Richard Mille, one that begins all over with every new adventure. A truly artistic project, the development of the RM 52-05 is special for the way it hinges on interpreting an idea, a symbol and a desire. This last has taken the form of a tourbillon whose originality lies in its astonishingly multidisciplinary techniques. Richard Mille 52-05 Pharrell Williams Retail Price: $969,000 Check Out The Full List of Richard Mille's Historical Models Source: Richard Mille

By Jordan Aquistapace – June 26, 2025

The Top 10 Watches To Start Your Watch Collection

With so many options to choose from, here are our top watches to start a collection. The interest in watch collecting is growing faster than ever as prices continue to skyrocket in the second-hand market. The industry is flooded with countless examples from brands all over the world, some more desirable than others. With watches now reaching up to $1 million, it is important to do your research, but more importantly, invest in what you like. This special is dedicated to informing new watch enthusiasts and collectors on some of the best luxury watches to start a collection. From automotive-inspired chronographs to casual dress watches for the perfect occasion, our list of carefully curated luxury timepieces is sure to capture the attention of any first time watch buyers. Discover and shop any of the high-end watches featured in this special by clicking the links below. Check back into duPont REGISTRY for more upcoming luxury watch news and releases. Brietling Navitimer B01 Chronograph Watches of Switzerland First introduced in 1952, the navigation timer, or the Navitimer, was designed to allow pilots to perform all necessary flight calculations in the sky. Two years later, it was named the official timepiece of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, the largest pilot’s club in the world. Price: $9,900 Shop Now Cartier Santos de Cartier Watches of Switzerland Created in 1904, the Santos de Cartier collection pays tribute to aviation pioneer Alberto Santos-Dumont who inspired the original watch. Based on the concept of form, a taste for minimalism, the precision of proportions, and an eye for detail, the collection is characterized by its square case with rounded corners and functional screws that are deliberately left visible. Price: $7,500 Shop Now Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Automatique Watches of Switzerland The Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Automatique 5015-1130-52 features a 45mm stainless steel case with saphhire crystal glass protecting the clean white dial. Other features include a self-winding automatic movement with a power reserve of 120 hours, a date complication, a Faraday cage, and a Sail-canvas strap. Price: $17,200 Shop Now IWC Schaffhausen Pilot 43mm Watches of Switzerland Paying tribute to the special, long-lasting relationship between IWC and aviation, the Pilot’s collection showcases sophisticated models that are perfectly equipped to deliver exceptional timekeeping in the skies. Price: $7,400 Shop Now Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional Watches of Switzerland The Speedmaster Moonwatch is one of the world’s most iconic timepieces. Having been a part of all six moon landings, the legendary chronograph is an impressive representation of the brand’s adventurous pioneering spirit. Price: $7,300 Shop Now Rolex Submariner No-Date Watches of Switzerland Rolex presents the new generation of its Submariner and Submariner Date, watches that exemplify the historic links between Rolex and the world of diving. Both timepieces now feature a redesigned, slightly larger 41 mm case – whose profile is highlighted by the light reflections from the case sides and lugs – and are fitted on a remodeled bracelet. Price: $14,950 Shop Now TAG Heuer Vintage Monaco Watches of Switzerland A timeless emblem of rebellious style, the Monaco collection is characterised by a unique, square case represents a move away from traditional watch design. Inspired by the world of motor racing, the instantly recognisable, cutting-edge silhouette is loved by connoisseurs around the world. Price: $8,100 Shop Now Tissot Skeleton Watches of Switzerland Tissot is revealing the innermost secrets of its deep-rooted expertise in precision watchmaking with this mens watch, the Tissot T-Complication Squelette. In this watch, modernity meets meticulous craftsmanship via a wheel-inspired design and a hand-wound, mechanical skeleton movement visible through the dial. Price: $2,125 Shop Now Tudor Pelagos Watches of Switzerland The impressive Pelagos collection is a symbol of adventure, boasting high performance technical features for extreme underwater conditions, including guaranteed waterproof to 500 meters, it is a diver’s essential tool watch. Price: $5,325 Shop Now Zenith Chronomaster Open Watches of Switzerland The Chronomaster Open offers a view of the beating heart of the El Primero movement from the dial. Crafted in a sleek 39.5mm steel case, this version features a matte silver dial with tricolour counters and a transparent counter for the running seconds, paired with an integrated steel bracelet. Price: $10,300 Shop Now

A silver Richard Mille RM 30-01 LMC watch with a skeleton dial, orange crown, and teal strap, displaying intricate mechanics and chronograph features against a black background—a true Le Mans Classic edition.

By Jordan Aquistapace – June 25, 2025

Richard Mille Celebrates The Le Mans Classic With Its New...

The 24 Hours of Le Mans is one of the most legendary events in motorsports history. Since 1923, this grueling endurance race has pushed drivers and race cars to their absolute limits, with competitors flying around the Circuit de la Sarthe for a full day straight. It's a proving ground for performance, precision, and staying power, which is probably why the luxury watch world has always been drawn to it. Created in 2002 by Peter Auto, in association with the Automobile Club de l'Ouest, Le Mans Classic offers a fantastic retrospective of the 24 Hours of Le Mans. During four days of festivities, Enthusiasts and fans will be able to travel back in time, with an appearance from almost 700 racing cars and over 8,000 classic cars. Continuing its tradition that dates back to 2008, Richard Mille is proud to honor the Le Mans Classic with the release of its new, limited-edition RM 30-01 LMC. Limited to 150 pieces, the special edition RM 30-01 reflects the spirit of endurance racing with a design steeped in Le Mans heritage. The green and white color scheme, synonymous with the event since its inception, is carried through the Green Quartz TPT caseband, racing-vented green rubber strap, and signature detailing, most notably the checkered flag framing the oversized date window and the Le Mans Classic logo etched into the sapphire crystal caseback. Powered by the skeletonized Calibre RMAR2, the movement has been reworked to include a 24-hour counter, marked by a green "16" at the top as a nod to the race's 4 PM start. The movement also features a power reserve indicator, clutch engagement display, and a function selector, all integrated into a reimagined dial that draws subtle inspiration from the curves and flow of a racetrack. Titanium bridges and the signature openwork architecture enhance the mechanical complexity, allowing each complication to shine through with clarity and purpose. It's a watch that speaks to motorsport fans and collectors who appreciate a timepiece where form and function pay equal tribute to history. " width="680"> Source: Richard Mille

The Limited-Edition Ulysse Nardin Blast 'Sparkling Rainbow' features an exposed mechanical movement and a bezel adorned with multicolored gemstones, set on a chic white strap for true luxury flair.

By Jordan Aquistapace – June 25, 2025

Ulysse Nardin Introduces The Limited-Edition $476,500 Bla...

Ulysse Nardin shows off its vibrant side. Ulysse Nardin has been pushing the boundaries of watchmaking for over 178 years, earning a reputation as one of the true pioneers in horology. As the industry continues to evolve with new trends, fresh materials, and cutting-edge movement tech, the brand keeps pace with a lineup that feels more like a creative playground than a traditional catalog. Ulysse Nardin’s latest creation, the Blast Sparkling Rainbow, limited to just eight pieces, is anything but subtle. It takes the skeletonized Blast platform, complete with a flying tourbillon at 6 o’clock and a micro-rotor at 12, and styles it in over 200 invisibly set rainbow-colored sapphires. That includes the case, bezel, dial, crown, and even the buckle. The sapphires are arranged in a full 360-degree gradient that looks effortless but actually takes weeks of painstaking work. Ulysse Nardin uses a rare “mystery setting” technique, which hides the metal underneath each stone, giving the illusion that the sapphires are floating. But the watch isn’t just about looks. Underneath all that color is the UN-172 in-house skeleton movement, featuring Ulysse Nardin’s signature silicon tech that the brand first introduced with the Freak back in 2001. It’s automatic, has a 72-hour power reserve, and shows off its mechanical side through an open dial design. For a piece that looks like a piece of wrist art, it still stays true to the technical roots that have defined Ulysse Nardin for close to two centuries. The case measures 45mm in white gold, and it’s paired with a white rubber strap to keep things fresh and comfortable. While this definitely isn’t an everyday watch, it fits right in with Ulysse Nardin’s habit of mixing fierce aesthetics with serious craftsmanship. Shop All Ulysse Nardin Watches Source: Ulysse Nardin

Close-up of a Girard-Perregaux Laureato 50th Anniversary watch featuring a textured blue dial, silver hands and indices, date display at 3 o'clock, and a sleek stainless steel case.

By Jordan Aquistapace – June 23, 2025

Girard-Perregaux Kicks Off The Laureato's 50th Anniversar...

The Laureato has long been a cornerstone of Girard-Perregaux's watchmaking legacy, combining its sporty design with top-tier craftsmanship for the past 50 years. As one of the brand's most recognizable models, it continues to evolve with modern movement innovations and creative collaborations that push the collection into new territory without losing sight of its roots. To help celebrate the 50th anniversary of its legendary Laureato, Girard-Perregaux is pleased to present the Laureato 42mm in Infinite Grey as the newest tribute piece to its iconic design. Girard-Perregaux's latest release brings serious attention and detail thanks to a Grand Feu enamel dial crafted entirely in-house. The bluish-grey tone results from a painstaking, high-temperature firing process repeated up to ten times, with only the most flawless dials making the cut. Under the translucent enamel, a sunray flinqué motif adds depth and texture, shifting the dial's tone depending on the light. This version of the Laureato keeps all the familiar visual cues untouched: the octagonal bezel, the tonneau-shaped case, and the mix of polished and brushed finishes on the steel. Even the bracelet stays true to form, offering a slim, integrated design that's been part of the Laureato identity since the '70s. Inside, the watch runs on the in-house GP01800 automatic movement, developed and assembled in La Chaux-de-Fonds. It's just 3.97 mm thick and offers a 54-hour power reserve, with Côtes de Genève, mirror-polished screws, and a pink gold rotor all included. The result is a modern take on the Laureato that respects its roots without leaning on nostalgia. Girard-Perregaux's release makes a clear case for why the Laureato remains one of the brand's most enduring designs. This new enamel-dial version will be available at Girard-Perregaux retailers starting today. Shop All Girard-Perregaux Watches Source: Girard-Perregaux

Three framed posters of wristwatches labeled "Pioneer" from the H.Moser watch collection are displayed on a dark wall, each featuring a different design and artistic background.

By Jordan Aquistapace – June 18, 2025

H.Moser Shows Its Vibrant Side With The New Pioneer Spice...

Watch collectors and enthusiasts are often interested in pieces with historical context or a compelling backstory. Sometimes, it's less about the watch itself and more about the events or people connected to it. On the other hand, some watches are designed simply to look good on the wrist. The horologists at H. Moser & Cie. have taken the same forward-thinking approach to their vibrant new release, the Pioneer Spiced Aqua Collection. H. Moser & Cie. introduced three new additions to its Pioneer lineup that lean into a bold color combination and visible mechanics. The Pioneer Cylindrical Tourbillon Skeleton, Pioneer Tourbillon, and Pioneer Centre Seconds Spiced Aqua bring a mix of bright turquoise and orange into steel cases rated to 120 meters, with each watch powered by a unique in-house movement. The openworked design of the Skeleton model, the double hairspring setup in the Tourbillon, and the straightforward look of the Centre Seconds offer something different in terms of movement and precision. The watches feature details like luminescent inner flanges, fully exposed dials, and the option to pair with rubber, leather, or steel bracelets. What stands out most here is the lack of branding, with no logos or indices in some cases, focusing on materials and contrast. The Tourbillon Skeleton strips everything down to its components, while the Tourbillon and Centre Seconds rely on bold color blocking and dial textures to carry the visual weight. Here, the mechanics are on full display, the colors are direct, and the overall message is simple: this is what happens when a brand decides to build something on its own terms. Shop All H.Moser Watches

At a New York Watch Auction hosted by Phillips, the auctioneer takes bids on a luxury wristwatch as a participant raises a numbered paddle and others watch the proceedings.

By Jordan Aquistapace – June 09, 2025

PHILLIPS' The New York Watch Auction: XII Exceeds $25 Mil...

New World Records set for F.P.Journe, Cartier, Harry Winston, and Bulgari. Phillips’ New York Watch Auction: XII capped off the season with a perfect sell-through and an impressive $25 million in sales, marking the ninth consecutive “white glove” auction in the city. These results show a strong collector demand for vintage watches and independent watchmakers, with bidding from over 70 countries. Patek Philippe led the charge, including a yellow gold Ref. 1518 that sold for $1.45 million (nearly four times its low estimate) and a rare stainless steel Ref. 570 that brought in over $1 million. Phillips continues to prove that New York is a hot bed for watch auctions, thanks to U.S. collectors and exclusive examples from Rolex, Audemars Piguet, A. Lange & Söhne, and Cartier. Patek Philippe, Ref. 1518 Perpetual Calendar Chronograph Top 10 Sales 1) Patek Philippe, Ref. 1518 Perpetual Calendar Chronograph, circa 1950 (Lot 20) - $1,451,500 2) Patek Philippe , Ref. 570 Calatravone “Three-Tone Breguet Numerals”, 1943 (Lot 95) - $1,066,800 3) F.P. Journe , Tourbillon Anniversaire Historique “T30”, 2014 (Lot 8) - $889,000 4) Harry Winston x F.P. Journe, Ref. Piece Unique Opus One Chronomètre à Résonance Piece Unique, 2002 (Lot 84) - $838,200 5) A. Lange & Söhne, Ref. 414.049 1815 Chronograph “2022 Best of Show, Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este”, 2022 (Lot 11) - $736,600 6) F.P. Journe , Répétition Souveraine Smoked Sapphire, 2023 (Lot 82) - $685,800 7) Audemars Piguet, Grand Complication Clock Watch with Grande and Petite Sonnerie, 1892 (Lot 26) - $508,000 8) Patek Philippe, Ref. 5213G-001 Perpetual Calendar Minute Repeater, circa 2013 (Lot 36) - $469,900 9) Patek Philippe, Ref. 5004G-015, 2010 (Lot 61) - $457,200 10) Biver, Carillon Tourbillon No. 1, 2023 (Lot 28) - $444,500 Stacked from 21 images. Method=B (R=8,S=4) Independent brands made their mark too, with F.P.Journe and Harry Winston’s Opus One hitting record highs. F.P. Journe’s Tourbillon Anniversaire Historique “T30” sold for $889,000, while a Répétition Souveraine brought in $685,800 after a six-minute bidding war. Harry Winston’s Opus One fetched $838,200, setting a new record for the series. Cartier surprised with every lot exceeding estimates like a yellow gold Coussin Bamboo “Jumbo” that beat its estimate by more than five times. A notable Rolex “Big Red” Daytona once owned by French F1 legend Jean-Pierre Jabouille added a motorsport touch to the weekend, selling for $215,900. With consistent results and growing international interest, Phillips is positioning itself for a promising future ahead. Shop All Luxury Watches For Sale F.P. Journe , Répétition Souveraine Smoked Sapphire Source: Phillips

A beige IWC Schaffhausen Pilot's Watch automatic wristwatch with a fabric strap, gray dial, white numerals, and date display, inspired by the Mojave Desert, photographed on a white background.

By Jordan Aquistapace – June 02, 2025

IWC Schaffhausen Launches The Pilot's Watch Automatic 41 ...

The Pilot's Watch now comes in one of IWC's most popular finishes. Centered around the art of watchmaking and the evolution of an age-old tradition, watch brands are constantly looking for new ways to highlight some of their most iconic models. Whether it be the styling of a new case material or movement improvements for precision, these subtle and substantial changes create a timeline in the lineage of world-renowned watchmakers. For IWC Schaffhausen, one of its innovative ideas came to fruition in 2019 when the brand introduced "Mojave Desert" as the first ceramic color in its "Colors of TOP GUN" collection. Today, IWC is proud to debut the Pilot's Watch Automatic 41 TOP GUN Mojave Desert (Ref. IW328106) as part of its collection inspired by the flight suits of naval aviators and the desert landscape around China Lake. The Pilot's Watch features a 41mm case crafted in sand-colored ceramic, which begins life as a raw, pre-formed "green body" before undergoing a high-temp treatment to achieve its distinctive color. A brown dial with matching numerals and minute scale sits inside the ceramic case, all treated with Super-LumiNova for low-light legibility. A beige rubber strap with a textile inlay and a titanium pin buckle completes the desert-ready look and feel. Powering the Pilot's Watch is IWC's in-house 32112 automatic movement, which offers a strong 120-hour power reserve thanks to its bidirectional winding system and smooth 4 Hz operation. The titanium case back, engraved with the iconic "TOP GUN" logo, pays homage to the watch's aviation roots. Shop All IWC Schaffhausen Pilot's Watches for sale by clicking the link below. Shop All IWC Pilot's Watches Source: IWC Schaffhausen

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