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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

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By Tyler Rampersaud – August 16, 2024

Jacob & Co. x Bugatti Reveal New Chiron Tourbillon Sapphi...

Craftsmanship, opulence, and stunning design take on new color. Many know Jacob & Co. as a pop culture icon with stunning jewelry and watches. However, its partnership with Bugatti has produced watches of a genuinely captivating caliber, with ambitious designs and uncompromised luxury. The Bugatti Chiron Tourbillon Sapphire Crystal is one of the most stunning examples of Jacob & Co.’s haute horlogerie. With a W16 engine with moving parts in miniature scale housed inside and a gorgeous display of mechanical marvels, its unique sapphire crystal case is a window into a true watchmaking marvel. Jacob & Co. has announced a new version of the Chiron Tourbillon Sapphire Crystal, redesigning the masterpiece in a fresh new color: pink. Redesigned with its bright pink color, the stunning watch is crafted from a single block of solid sapphire, giving the owner a beautiful, uninterrupted view of the watch’s intricate inner workings. Inspired by the eponymous Bugatti Chiron hypercar, a historic engineering marvel that has now given way to the new Bugatti Tourbillon, the design of the Chiron Tourbillon Sapphire Crystal embodies the Chiron hypercar’s iconic Bugatti horseshoe-shaped grille and houses the car’s unforgettable W16 engine in miniature scale. One of the most monumental engineering achievements of the 21st century, the W16 engine is only now being retired. In its new pink sapphire crystal, the spectrum of the unparalleled Bugatti Chiron Tourbillon Sapphire Crystal from Jacob & Co. expands. View All Bugatti Chirons For Sale View this post on Instagram A post shared by JACOB & CO. (@jacobandco)

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By Jordan Aquistapace – August 14, 2024

Bright Colors Shine In Glashütte Original's New Seventies...

Glashütte Original revives Seventies style with limited-edition chronographs in bold "Watermelon" and "Swimming Pool" colors. Glashütte Original is bringing back the vibrant spirit of the 70s with its latest limited-edition Seventies Chronograph Panorama Date. The German watchmaker has introduced two striking new models featuring dials in "Watermelon" and "Swimming Pool" hues, capturing the era's iconic boldness. With only 100 pieces of each model available, these retro-inspired chronographs are set to be as rare as they are eye-catching. Inspired by the groovy fashion of the Seventies, the vivid colors are complemented by a polished and satin-brushed 40mm stainless steel case, offering a perfect blend of nostalgia and contemporary design. The Seventies Chronograph Panorama Date is more than just a pretty face. It's powered by the Calibre 37-02 manufactory movement, known for its precision and reliability. This automatic movement drives not only the time and date displays but also a chronograph function with a flyback feature, making it as functional as it is stylish. The dials' soft, velvety finish, along with black-ringed totalizers, add a refined touch, ensuring these watches are both versatile and sophisticated. Available from August 2024, these bold and bright chronographs are a must-have for any watch enthusiast looking to add a splash of color to their collection. Whether you're drawn to the playful "Watermelon" or the refreshing "Swimming Pool," these limited-edition timepieces from Glashütte Original are sure to make a statement. Discover the Seventies Chronograph from Glashütte Original's Vintage Collection by clicking the link below. Discover Glashütte Original's Seventies Collection Source: Glashütte Original

By Jordan Aquistapace – August 08, 2024

Discover The New TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph Seafarer x...

A modern take on the iconic Seafarer watch, limited to 968 pieces! Hodinkee and TAG Heuer have teamed up once again, unveiling the TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph Seafarer × Hodinkee as their newest collaboration watch. This limited-edition timepiece is a tribute to the iconic Abercrombie & Fitch Seafarer, which TAG Heuer originally created in the mid-20th century. The new Carrera Seafarer preserves the spirit of its vintage predecessor with design elements like the black opaline dial and sky-blue accents, reminiscent of the sea and sun-soaked era in which the original Seafarer thrived. The watch comes housed in a 42mm Carrera "Glassbox" case featuring a domed sapphire crystal essential for any modern adventure. With only 968 pieces available, the TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph Seafarer × Hodinkee is sure to be highly coveted by collectors and enthusiasts, priced at $7,950. Each watch reflects the dedication to quality and heritage that both brands are known for, with 125 pieces available exclusively through the Hodinkee Shop and the rest through TAG Heuer boutiques worldwide. The new Seafarer is designed for those who appreciate the legacy of TAG Heuer and the innovative spirit of Hodinkee. Whether you're a TAG Heuer collector or a Hodinkee fan, this limited-edition Carrera Seafarer is a must-have piece. Shop the all-new TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph Seafarer × Hodinkee by clicking the link below. Shop TAG Heuer x Hodinkee View this post on Instagram A post shared by duPont REGISTRY Discovery (@dupontregistry_discovery) Source: TAG Heuer

By Jordan Aquistapace – August 06, 2024

Tiffany & Co. Reveals Its Limited Edition $42K Airplane C...

The Tiffany Airways clock combines Swiss watchmaking with aviation-inspired design. Tiffany & Co. continues to elevate its collection of high-end table clocks, transforming them into true works of art meant to upgrade any home or office. The Tiffany Airways clock demonstrates this innovative process, drawing inspiration from both Swiss watchmaking tradition and the adventurous spirit of 1930s aviation. Crafted from aluminum and finished with Tiffany Blue paint, the clock's design is reminiscent of an airplane, complete with functional wheels that mimic landing gear. The time is displayed on large stainless steel disks at the nose of the plane, with an arrow-shaped cockpit cage displaying the hours and minutes. Further adding to its unique design, the Tiffany Airways clock features a "TCO" monogram on the tail wing and Tiffany & Co. engraving on the nose, positioned just in front of the time display. Setting the time involves rotating the openwork engine clockwise, while winding the movement is done by turning it counterclockwise. Measuring 6.3 inches wide, 13.9 inches long, and 17.4 inches high, and weighing 6.6 pounds, the clock comes with a removable stainless steel stand and hard-wearing rubber tires. Tiffany & Co.'s all-new Airplane Clock is now available at boutiques worldwide with a price tag of $42,000. View all luxury watches for sale on duPont REGISTRY by clicking the link below. View All Luxury Watches For Sale Source: Tiffany & Co.

By Jordan Aquistapace – August 05, 2024

Audemars Piguet Debuts Three New Royal Oak Offshore Watches

Audemars Piguet just introduced three new models to its Royal Oak Offshore collection, diversifying each version with a distinct style and variety of precious metals. These latest additions include self-winding and self-winding chronograph models, available in 37 and 43mm sizes. The collection showcases a mix of colored rubber, stainless steel, 18-carat pink gold, and black ceramic, bringing new tones of bronze, ivory, and blue to the lineup. The 37mm model is designed for smaller wrists, featuring an 18-carat pink gold case with a grey rubber-coated bezel. The rhodium and ivory tones of the Grande Tapisserie dial, combined with pink gold hour markers and luminescent hands, create a refined yet sporty look. An extra black mosaic rubber strap offers a versatile option. The 43mm self-winding model pairs a stainless steel case with a blue rubber-coated bezel and strap. Its smoked blue Méga Tapisserie dial and rhodium-toned gold markers display a striking contrast. The 43mm Royal Oak Offshore Selfwinding Chronograph rounds out the new releases. This model features a stainless steel case with a steel bezel and black ceramic crown and push-pieces. The smoked bronze dial, complemented by a black inner bezel with a tachymeter, provides a cohesive and sophisticated appearance. The chronograph functionality, including a flyback feature, adds practical versatility. Each watch is fitted with Audemars Piguet's latest in-house, self-winding movements, visible through a sapphire case back that reveals the intricate mechanics and detailed finishes. The newest Royal Oak Offshore models from Audemars Piguet are now available at boutiques worldwide, starting at $27,400. View all luxury watches for sale on duPont REGISTRY Discovery by clicking the link below. View All Luxury Watches For Sale View this post on Instagram A post shared by duPont REGISTRY Discovery (@dupontregistry_discovery) Source: Audemars Piguet

By Jordan Aquistapace – July 30, 2024

Blancpain Debuts Two New Fifty Fathoms Models In Full 18k...

The Blancpain Fifty Fathoms, introduced in 1953, is celebrated as one of the most iconic watches in horological history. Known for its pioneering design, it was one of the first to feature a rotating bezel, water resistance up to 300 meters, and an anti-magnetic movement. Blancpain continues making Fifty Fathoms history by introducing new Bathyscaphe Quantième Complet and Chronographe Flyback models, both crafted from 18K red gold. Blancpain's new releases aim to stun the watch world with an ultra-luxury look showcasing the brand's meticulous craftsmanship. The full red gold case and bracelet design make a bold statement on the wrist. The bracelet itself undergoes painstaking production, featuring hand-satin-brushed links connected by transverse pins for added flexibility and comfort. This design approach, which includes screws hidden on the back of the links, guarantees a smooth and seamless look that complements the watch. The Bathyscaphe Quantième Complet and Chronographe Flyback dials are decorated with a stunning blue gradient, enhanced by a sunburst finish that adds depth and luminosity. The contrast between the blue dial and the radiant red gold case and bracelet highlights the exceptional craftsmanship and design that Blancpain is renowned for. The all-new Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe Quantième Complet and Chronographe Flyback are now available at boutiques worldwide for $55,300. View all luxury watches for sale on duPont REGISTRY by clicking the link below. View All Luxury Watches For Sale View this post on Instagram A post shared by duPont REGISTRY Discovery (@dupontregistry_discovery) Source: Blancpain

By Jordan Aquistapace – July 24, 2024

Discover Swatch x Omega's New MoonSwatch Mission to the S...

The all-new Bioceramic MoonSwatch Mission to the Super Blue Moonphase is a celebration of summer and the first super blue moon of the year on August 19, capturing the festive beach vibes and the beauty of the full blue moon. Available only from August 1 to August 19, this special edition can only be found at select Swatch sales locations during the blue hours from 5 pm onward. The watch showcases a chronograph function and a multi-shade blue moon phase with UV ink, set against a dark celestial background at the 2 o'clock subdial. In addition to its jaw-dropping design, the Bioceramic MoonSwatch Mission to the Super Blue Moonphase features a blue pulsometer scale on the bioceramic bezel, allowing wearers to measure their heart rate easily. Initially designed for medical professionals, this function is now a convenient feature for all sports enthusiasts. The dial includes contrasting blue subdials, and various shades of blue, ranging from light to dark. Made from Swatch's patented Bioceramic, the watch combines ceramic and bio-sourced materials, guaranteeing durability and sustainability. Fans will appreciate the design nods to OMEGA's legendary Speedmaster Moonwatch, including the asymmetrical case and distinctive highlights. Available exclusively at select stores, Swatch x Omega's new release is sure to be a hit among collectors and enthusiasts. View all luxury watches for sale on duPont REGISTRY Discovery by clicking the link below. View All Luxury Watches For Sale View this post on Instagram A post shared by duPont REGISTRY Discovery (@dupontregistry_discovery) Source: Swatch

By Jordan Aquistapace – July 03, 2024

Joseph Quinn Stuns The Red Carpet With Glashütte Original...

Joseph Quinn turned heads at the New York premiere of "A Quiet Place: Day One" last week, held at the AMC Lincoln Square Theater. Known for his impeccable style, Quinn wore the Glashütte Original PanoMaticLunar, a watch that epitomizes both luxury and precision with an unmatched design. The PanoMaticLunar, known for its sophisticated styling and expert craftsmanship, complemented Quinn's look perfectly, making it a night to remember. The star-studded event also featured notable names, including director Michael Sarnoski, Lupita Nyong'o, Alex Wolff, and Djimon Hounsou. John Krasinski, who initiated the franchise with "A Quiet Place" in 2018, also made an appearance, adding to the evening's glamour. Quinn's choice of the PanoMaticLunar from Glashütte Original highlights his keen eye and love for haute horology, aligning him with a renowned watchmaker like Glashütte Original. Glashütte Original's PanoMaticLunar stood out at the premiere, showcasing its vibrant green design, moon phase display, and off-center dial. As he walked the red carpet, the PanoMaticLunar stood out as a statement of sophistication, capturing the attention of both the media and stars. Joseph Quinn's choice undeniably set a high bar for red carpet fashion. Discover the PanoMaticLunar, as well as all Glashütte Original Collections, by clicking the link below. Discover The Pano Collection Source: Glashütte Original

By Jordan Aquistapace – July 01, 2024

Discover Audemars Piguet's New Royal Oak Double Balance W...

Audemars Piguet has just introduced three stunning new Royal Oak Double Balance Wheel Openworked models to its growing collection, each bringing a unique touch of luxury to the wrist of collectors and enthusiasts worldwide. Available in stainless steel, black ceramic, and 18-carat yellow gold, these 41mm versions highlight the brand's legendary craftsmanship. The selfwinding Calibre 3132 movement, showcased in the Royal Oak's pinnacle models, is an example of the skill and precision of Audemars Piguet's expert watchmakers. Notably, two of the examples feature new pink-gold highlights. The stainless steel and black ceramic versions are particularly attention-grabbing, with pink-gold toned movements and pink-gold bezel screws. The steel model offers easy readability with its white gold hour markers and hands, while the ceramic version stands out with blackened rhodium details. Both watches feature Audemars Piguet's signature polished and satin-brushed finishes, which play with light to emphasize the Royal Oak's iconic geometric design. The black ceramic model is also a limited edition of just 150 pieces, making it an ultra-rare find for AP collectors. On the other hand, the 18-carat yellow gold model combines a bold and sophisticated look with an anthracite grey openworked movement. The matching yellow gold hour markers and hands ensure clarity, even in low light. Audemars Piguet's new watches are powered by the Calibre 3132, known for its innovative double-balance wheel mechanism, which improves precision and stability. Audemars Piguet's expertise in the delicate art of openworking, a specialty since the 1930s, shines through in its newest batch of releases. With its new series now making waves at boutiques around the world, the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Double Balance Wheel Openworked watches are currently available with retail prices ranging from $76,400 to $101,100. View all luxury watches for sale on duPont REGISTRY Discovery by clicking the link below. View All Luxury Watches For Sale View this post on Instagram A post shared by duPont REGISTRY Discovery (@dupontregistry_discovery) Source: Audemars Piguet

By Jordan Aquistapace – June 28, 2024

Ulysse Nardin x Wempe Unveil Its New Limited Diver NET Si...

Ulysse Nardin and marine clock specialists Wempe have teamed up to release an exclusive limited edition watch that combines cutting-edge horology with environmental consciousness. The Diver NET Signature Collection, limited to just 75 pieces, celebrates both brands' rich history in marine chronometers and luxury watchmaking. The marine-inspired release showcases Ulysse Nardin's pioneering use of ingenious materials, including a 95% recycled stainless steel case and components made from upcycled fishing nets and aircraft manufacturing offcuts. This 44mm diver's watch uniquely combines Nylo and Carbonium materials. Nylo®, made from recycled fishing nets and Carbonium, used in advanced aircraft construction, makes the watch environmentally friendly, incredibly strong, and lightweight. The matte-black dial, paired with white and orange luminescent markers, ensures visibility under any lighting conditions, while the anti-reflective sapphire crystal enhances readability. The watch is powered by the self-winding caliber UN-118, presenting a date display and a 60-hour power reserve. The Diver NET Signature Collection is a collector's example, with each piece individually numbered to emphasize its exclusivity. The watch comes with two rubber straps in orange and black, decorated with a black ceramic element, and the Wempe Signet, closed by a titanium and ceramic double-folding clasp. With only 75 pieces available, the Diver NET Signature Collection by Ulysse Nardin and Wempe is now available at boutiques worldwide for $15,900. View all luxury watches for sale on duPont REGISTRY by clicking the link below. View All Luxury Watches For Sale View this post on Instagram A post shared by duPont REGISTRY Discovery (@dupontregistry_discovery) Source: Ulysse Nardin

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