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McLaren W1 First Drive: Ferocious Hypercar Transcends the Track

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

By Jordan Aquistapace – September 27, 2021

IWC Schaffhausen Releases The Pilot's Watch Chronograph 4...

Take to the skies with the new green IWC Schaffhausen Pilot's Watch Chronograph. The Pilot’s Watch Collection by IWC Schaffhausen embodies the design of a fine handcrafted luxury watch with the functional use of tools dedicated to those with aviation backgrounds. Nonetheless, the collection continues to grow in popularity as one of the brand's most iconic models in its line. IWC Schaffhausen is proud to present a new look to the Pilot’s Watch Chronograph 41, which features a new vibrant green dial design. The 41mm chronograph is presented in stainless steel with added hours, minutes, and seconds displayed using three sub-dials. Along with the day and date window, the elegantly styled green dial changes shades as the gloss finish provides the perfect shimmer at any angle. MUST-READ: The Best Luxury Watches Under $5,000 Delivering power to the Pilot’s Watch Chronograph 41 is IWC Schaffhausen’s in-house 69385 automatic self-winding movement, which provides an impressive 46-hour power reserve and 100-meter water resistance. Designed as an everyday watch, the IWC Pilot’s Watch 41 is available in a comfortable stainless-steel bracelet with a quick-change system or a traditional genuine brown leather strap. Either way, the new IWC is presented, the vibrant green dial will complement and steal the show. The all-new IWC Pilot’s Watch Chronograph 41 with the green dial is now available through an authorized dealer starting at $6,500. https://www.instagram.com/p/CUVWgMBl0IU/ Media/Information Source: IWC Schaffhausen

By Jordan Aquistapace – September 27, 2021

Audemars Piguet Launches 'Night Blue' Dials On Two New Ro...

The “Grande Tapisserie” dial encompasses the iconic blue hue of the original Royal Oak, a colour referred to as “Night Blue, Cloud 50” in the archives. The Royal Oak Collection from Audemars Piguet features an array of uniquely designed timepieces that sport state-of-the-art movement technology. The most appealing configuration of the Royal Oak features the brand’s iconic blue dial, now viewed as a premium aspect for buyers and collectors. Audemars Piguet is proud to release two new additions to the Royal Oak Collection featuring a new blue style for the Perpetual Calendar model. The new shade of ‘Night Blue’ is presented in a lighter fashion upon the ‘Grande Tapisserie’ dial, which includes a chronograph layout with the perpetual moon phase located at the 6 o’clock position. The two new 41mm Royal Oak designs are available in a Stainless-Steel and 18k Pink Gold with open case backs. MUST-READ: Audemars Piguet Unveils Two New Complications To Its Collection Driving power to the Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar is Audemars Piguet’s in-house 5134 Self-Winding movement, which provides a lengthy 40-hour power reserve and 20-meter water resistance. Completing the elegant style of Audemars Piguet, the two new Royal Oak models come with a matching stainless-steel or pink gold bracelet with the AP folding clasp. As blue dial watches continue to grow in popularity, we believe the new ‘Night Blue’ Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar models are sure to be a hit for Audemars Piguet owners and collectors. The all-new additions to the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar Collection are now available through an authorized dealer starting at $80,000. https://www.instagram.com/p/CUVDGWdL_XX/

By Jordan Aquistapace – September 24, 2021

Zenith Watches Welcomes Felipe Pantone To Its Headquarters

Felipe Pantone takes a trip to Zenith for a tour of the facility. Zenith watches continues to diversify its collection of luxury timepieces with brand ambassadors that offer their areas of specialty to highlight luxury timepieces. Argentine-Spanish contemporary artist Felipe Pantone is one of those key individuals using his iconic vision of colors into the luxury collection of Zenith Defy 21 models. Felipe took to his Instagram today to document his trip to the Zenith headquarters, where his artistic touch is incorporated into the building itself. MUST-READ: Zenith Debuts the Limited Edition Defy 21 Felipe Pantone Along his tour through the facility, he was given insight as to how each piece is created by hand. After demonstrations throughout the manufacturing process and a stop at the boutique to try on some new releases, Felipe concluded the action-packed day by signing the building using black spray paint. The video ends with a shot of a perfect pair of Zenith Defy 21 models departing in a Porsche until Felipe's next visit. https://www.instagram.com/p/CUNajEujgl4/

By Jordan Aquistapace – September 24, 2021

Top Watch News This Week

A quick recap on the luxury watches released this week. Recently, We created duPont REGISTRY Watches as a new Instagram page dedicated to posting the newest and most exclusive luxury timepieces. Today, we have compiled a list of the top watch releases of the week from the best brands in the industry. Click any of the links below for more information on the current watches. MB&F Unveils The New HM10 ‘Panda’ To Benefit The Only Watch Auction https://www.instagram.com/p/CUDMKqVrtUp/ Learn More Bell & Ross Unveils The BR 01 Cyber Skull For The Only Watch Charity Auction https://www.instagram.com/p/CUC6O6RANtm/ Learn More BRABUS x Panerai Unveil The Limited Submersible S Brabus Black Ops Edition https://www.instagram.com/p/CUIC854LolE/ Learn More Hublot Releases The New Limited-Edition Big Bang Unico Berluti Aluminio https://www.instagram.com/p/CUKrPerrjnG/ Learn More TAG Heuer Releases The New Connected Bright Black Smartwatch https://www.instagram.com/p/CUNd2jcrlhQ/ Learn More Omega Releases The New Speedmaster Co-Axial Master Chronometer Chronograph Collection https://www.instagram.com/p/CUNM6RprxaO/ Learn More Bell & Ross Releases The Limited-Edition BR 05 Skeleton Gold https://www.instagram.com/p/CUNJq8nrW5Z/ Learn More Ulysse Nardin Releases Two New Watches To The Marine And Diver Collections https://www.instagram.com/p/CUNZOCgreSa/ Learn More For more Watch news, Check out The Best Luxury Watches Under $5,000

By Jordan Aquistapace – September 24, 2021

Ulysse Nardin Releases Two New Watches To The Marine And ...

The two new Ulysse Nardin pieces created to celebrate the return of the Monaco Yacht Show. When it comes to ocean-inspired luxury timepieces, Ulysse Nardin sits at the top of the chart with collections dedicated to the sea. As part of the announcement of the Monaco Yacht Show returning in 2021, Ulysse Nardin is proud to present two new examples created to celebrate the worldwide event. The new collections feature the 44mm Diver Chronograph Monaco Yacht Show Limited Edition and the 44mm Marine Mega Yacht Watch. The release embodies the 175-year history that Ulysse Nardin incorporates into designing and creating new timepieces to reflect the rhythm of the waves. The Monaco Yacht Show and Ulysse Nardin, the Show’s official sponsor for over 10 years, share a passion for the sea, excellence, precision, and innovation. After a "year off", the Monaco Yacht Show is back in action and will once again welcome lovers of sumptuous yachts, incredible destinations, and luxury getaways in Port Hercules at the end of September. Shop The New Ulysse Nardin Releases 44mm Diver Chronograph Monaco Yacht Show Limited Edition Ulysse Nardin Needless to say, the Swiss Manufacture produces some of the most reliable and contemporary diving watches on the market. The new Monaco Yacht Show Limited Edition is the jewel in the crown of the DIVER collection, an ultraresistant model that does not falter in the face of any attack, even from the most ferocious sharks. The limited edition, available in only 100 pieces, has a sapphire caseback and is driven by the Manufacture UN-150 automatic movement with silicium and a 48-hour power reserve. The model is also adorned with touches of red: from the bezel joint and the seconds hand, to the hands on the small counters and the date. Also, the “MONACO YACHT SHOW” signature is featured under the Ulysse Nardin logo. The case, the bezel and the UN element are made of titanium and the bezel is coated with rubber. Naturally, this model has all the features of a diver's watch: ultra-resistant sapphire crystal, screwdown crown, Superluminova on the 0, rotating inverted bezel for optimal readability, even in the deepest waters, and water resistant down to 300 meters. There are several strap options: rubber, metal or fabric with a Velcro fastener. 44mm Marine Mega Yacht Ulysse Nardin Today, the Marine Torpilleur is the watch that best symbolizes this innovative and cutting-edge style. This year, to celebrate its 175th anniversary, Ulysse Nardin has supplemented its Marine Torpilleur collection with two new movements, details, chronographs, and enamel dials. But also a new Marine Megayacht in rose gold, to complement the 2019 platinum version. Built in the same spirit as a luxury mega yacht, the new Marine Mega Yacht watch, crafted in pink gold in a special edition of only 30 pieces, is regulated by a flying tourbillon equipped with a cage modeled on a latest-generation ship’s propeller. Intimately linked to the concept of the mega yacht, this timepiece displays on its 3D “grand feu” enamel dial, reminiscent of a ship’s bow plowing its way through the ocean waves, not only the time but also a precise representation of the Moon with an ultra-detailed surface, a sophisticated tide indicator across its width, together with an anchor raised by a chain attached to a windlass positioned at 12 o’clock indicating the power reserve. Media/Information Source: Ulysse Nardin

By Jordan Aquistapace – September 24, 2021

Bell & Ross Releases The Limited-Edition BR 05 Skeleton Gold

This year, like an ingot, the BR 05 is dressed entirely in rose gold to make the wrist of its wearer sublime. The Bell & Ross brand is known for creating various renditions of luxury timepieces featuring its iconic square case design. The combination of premium materials and state-of-the-art movement technology is what makes the watchmaker one of the leaders in the industry. Bell & Ross is proud to announce the release of its newest model, the BR 05 Skeleton Gold. Handcrafted entirely of Rose Gold, the BR 05 Skeleton is presented as a 40mm geometric watch. MUST-READ: Bell & Ross Unveils The BR 01 Cyber Skull For The Only Watch Charity Auction The focus of gold flows into the skeleton dial, which allows for a closer look at the inner workings of the in-house BR-CAL.322. caliber. The Automatic movement provides an impressive 42-hour power reserve and 100-meter water resistance. While the use of precious metals could categorize this piece as a dress watch, the quick swap from its 18k rose gold bracelet to an optional black rubber band makes it the perfect everyday watch. The BR 05 Skeleton Gold is limited to only 100-pieces starting at $23,700. Shop the all-new limited-edition Bell & Ross BR 05 Skeleton Gold by clicking the link below. Shop The Bell & Ross BR 05 Skeleton Gold Media/Information Source: Bell & Ross

By Jordan Aquistapace – September 23, 2021

Hodinkee Teases A Hermés Collaboration Collection Release

The two luxury powerhouses shock the watch world with its upcoming collaboration. Hodinkee operates as a brand that holds the true passion for horology close to its heart, which results in amazing collaborations with brands and watchmakers that help make the watch industry what it is today. In a recent post to the Hodinkee Instagram page, a simplistic imaging reading ‘HERMÉS Paris x HODINKEE’ shocked the luxury world. Although the initial news of the collaboration was released, an actual product list and imagery have left a secret until the launch of the collection. As a leader in luxury hand-crafted leather goods, many believe that the collection will either incorporate a line of watch straps or even a timepiece in itself. No matter what releases from the dynamic duo, it is sure to be one of the most highly-anticipated releases of the year for watch collections and enthusiasts. The all-new HERMÉS Paris x Hodinkee Collection is set to release on September 28th. Sign up to receive updated release information by clicking the link below for more information. Learn More About HERMÉS Paris x Hodinkee

By Jordan Aquistapace – September 23, 2021

Omega Releases The New Speedmaster Co-Axial Master Chrono...

Inside this timepiece are the revolutionary components that guarantee the highest standards of performance. While Omega continues to cross milestones within the watch industry, making limited-edition commemorative collections that much more special to watch collectors and enthusiasts. The Speedmaster is one of the most iconic models created by Omega, incorporating collaborations stretching from the moon to the racetrack. Omega is proud to present the all-new Speedmaster Co-Axial Master Chronometer Chronograph Collection, paying homage to Omega’s original chronograph wristwatches from the 1940s. As part of the new collection, a series of four new styles are presented on the 43mm case design with material options including Stainless-Steel and Bronze Gold. MUST-READ: The Best Luxury Watches Under $5,000 The vintage-style dial blends the modern styling with traditional functions like Chronometer, Pulsometer, and Tachymeter. The design is available in three different options (Blue, White, Black) in the stainless-steel version, while the special edition bronze gold model incorporates a contrasting brown dial. Driving power to the new Speedmaster Chronometer Collection is an in-house Omega 9908 manual-winding movement with Co-Axil escapement, which provides a lengthy 60-hour power reserve. Served as a functional tool, each Speedmaster comes available with a stainless-steel bracelet or matching nylon/leather strap. The 18K bronze gold example is complete with a genuine leather band that perfectly matches the dial. The all-new Omega Speedmaster Co-Axial Master Chronometer Chronograph Collection is currently available starting at $8,650 by clicking the link below. Shop The Omega Speedmaster Co-Axial Chronometer Collection Media/Information Source: Omega

By Jordan Aquistapace – September 23, 2021

TAG Heuer Releases The New Connected Bright Black Smartwatch

Exclusive gold-colored designs of the Connected watch faces have been crafted to match this black and 5N PVD watch. The TAG Heuer Connected Collection continues to grow in popularity as the brands push towards the future of smartwatches. The collection incorporates aspects of both traditional and modern watchmaking. It varies from the initial design to the technology that powers the piece. TAG Heuer is proud to release the new Connected Bright Black smartwatch, which features a 45mm case design crafted from titanium. MUST-READ: The Best Luxury Watches Under $5,000 As the name suggests, the new TAG Heuer is presented in a matte/gloss black and bronze theme incorporated into the bezel. The crystal clear OLED 1.39” display allows for owners to quickly interchange watch faces from modern designs to traditional watch dials. The connectivity incorporated into powering the TAG Heuer helps to make a busy workday more efficient. While the Connected Bright Black comes with a matching black rubber/leather strap, the quick interchangeable system makes swapping bands much easier. TAG Heuer offers a wide variety of strap colors and materials to best fit the wants and needs of each watch enthusiast. The all-new TAG Heuer Connected Bright Black smartwatch is currently available for $2,550 by clicking the link below. Shop The TAG Heuer Connected Bright Black Media/Product Information: TAG Heuer

By Jordan Aquistapace – September 23, 2021

Hublot Releases The New Limited-Edition Big Bang Unico Be...

The new Big Bang Unico Berluti Aluminio leverages this shared know-how and provides an understated, elegant, monochrome and timeless piece. Hublot is best known for creating truly unique luxury watches, but also for incorporating inspirations from other brands and individuals through collaborations. Hublot is celebrating its 5th anniversary with prestigious leather maker Berluti, with a commemorative Big Bang model. Hublot is proud to present the new Big Bang Unico Berluti Aluminio, a 44mm chronograph styled by featuring premium materials from Berluti. The case is finely crafted from satin-finished and polished titanium, while the titanium bezel is overlaid with a genuine patinated Venezia leather insert. MUST-READ: Hublot Releases The New Spirit Of Big Bang Gold Crystal The use of hand-crafted leather makes its way onto the matching dial where the Big Bang Unico features its sub-seconds function. The transparent back case allows for a closer look at Hublot’s in-house MHUB1280 self-winding movement, which provides a 72-hour power reserve and 100-meter water resistance. The outer case back includes an etching that reads ‘ LIMITED EDITION 100NUM’ and ‘BERLUTI’ to signify the special commemorative piece. Tying into the vision of Hublot x Berluti, the Big Bang Unico features black rubber and genuine patinated Venezia leather strap with a titanium deployment buckle clasp. The all-new Hublot Big Bang Unico Berluti Aluminio is currently available for $25,200 and is limited to only 100-pieces. Shop the newest collaboration from Hublot x Berluti as well as the rest of its luxury timepiece collection by clicking the link below. Shop The Hublot Big Bang Unico Berluti Aluminio Media/Information Source: Hublot

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