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

By Jordan Aquistapace – November 29, 2022

Makes And Movements: Hennessey Venom F5 x Skeleton Concep...

Exotic cars and fine handcrafted timepieces complement each other in a similar way that salt and pepper do. They just work. In many cases, watch manufacturers create pieces that tailor to the exotic automotive industry and even specific vehicles altogether. Makes and Movements will be selecting spectacular products available through duPont Registry and pairing them with current or pre-released watches. The diversity of both the vehicles and timepieces will shed light on different brands and help educated on new areas of each industry. Skeleton Concept Venom F5 Concept Showcasing its talents as a handcraft atelier with a focus on watch customization, Skeleton Concept shares similar values with the American tuning house professionals at Hennessey Performance Engineering. The art of modifying highlights the inner beauty of engineering and design, whether it comes from the luxury watch industry or the hypercar world. Since venturing from aftermarket upgrades to full-scale vehicle production with the Venom GT, Hennessey Special Vehicle is proud to continue its push to be the fastest American-made hypercar with the new Venom F5 platform. As an exclusive release with only 24 chassis in production, Skeleton Concept is proud to partner with Hennessey to create a line of bespoke watches to commemorate the astonishing capabilities of the Venom F5. Using characteristics from Hennessey’s hypercar development process, the Skeleton Concept Venom F5 Concept watch is the perfect accessory to pair with the 1,817 horsepower beast. Made From Sapphire And Carbon Fiber Skeleton Concept The new Hennessey Venom F5 Concept Chronograph boasts a case made out of a single optically-pure polished sapphire crystal. Starting as a factory Rolex Daytona, the ceramic bezel is replaced with a custom-fixed forged carbon bezel that displays an engraved tachymetric scale in white. A skeletonized dial offers a clear. A skeletonized dial design offers a clear view of the watch’s movement in action, similar to the see-through engine cover of the Hennessey Venom F5. Each sub-dial on the chronograph is reimagined using gold accents, drawing attention to its small-seconds, 30-minute counter, and 12-hour counter functions. Tracking lap times in the Venom F5 is even easier with quick-push crowns that operate the ability to track time within 1/8 of a second. This mirrors the steering wheel-mounted gear-shift paddles of the F5 that are similarly tactile and mechanical. In-House Rolex Caliber 4130 Movement Skeleton Concept Delivering power to Hennessey’s first-ever vehicle-inspired watch is Rolex’s Caliber 4130, an in-house automatic movement that holds an impressive 72-hour power reserve. Each limited-edition timepiece is inscribed with an individual Venom F5 chassis number on its sapphire backcase, which additionally showcases a laser-etched Hennessey logo. The Hennessey Venom F5 chronograph comes equipped with an Oysterflex bracelet in the color of the car on which it is based. Priced at $200,000, just 24 examples of the new Hennessey Venom F5 Concept will be created. Exclusively Designed To Match The Each Hennessey Venom F5 Skeleton Concept Why To Buy The new Skeleton Concept x Hennessey Venom F5 Concept is the next best addition to any watch collection because of its milestone mark as Hennessey Special Vehicle’s first-ever horological creation. Based on the American-made hypercar engineered to be the fastest on the planet, this watch holds significance between the watch and automotive industries. Lastly, each of the 24 examples produced will mimic the configuration of every Venom F5 hypercar that rolls off Hennessey’s production floor. The all-new Hennessey Venom F5 Concept is currently available by clicking on the link below. Learn More Hennessey Special Vehicle Venom F5 Alongside modifying Cadillac, Chevrolet, Dodge, Ford, and Jeep models, Hennessey’s business model also compromises Hennessey Special Vehicles as a division that engineers hypercars from the ground up. The Texas-based auto manufacturer is most well-known for challenging other hypercar brands with its first Venom GT in 2014. Since then, the performance specialists went back to the drawing board to create a vehicle that truly differentiates itself from all other competitors in the market. The Venom F5 is an all-new hypercar designed and built with one goal in mind: To be the absolute fastest road car on earth. Monocoque Carbon Fiber Construction Hennessey Special Vehicle The Hennessey Venom F5, from Hennessey Special Vehicles, is a bespoke mid-engine hypercar engineered to exceed 300 mph while delivering unparalleled performance and the world’s most exhilarating driving experience. Engineered and built in the USA, the Venom F5 boasts state-of-the-art construction. Mirroring F1 race cars, the F5 utilizes a carbon fiber monocoque passenger tub with aluminum alloy subframes. Carbon fiber skins the exterior, meticulously sculpted to cheat the wind while maximizing aerodynamic stability. Driver-Focused Interior Cabin Hennessey Special Vehicle On the inside the F5 proudly exhibits premium simplicity, promoting a driver-focused cabin layout that is similar to a pilot sitting in a fighter jet cockpit. The interior is true to the car’s roots displaying raw carbon fibre throughout, but with hints of luxury from leather panels on the doors, dashboard and seats. As the driver opens the F5’s butterfly door, they are greeted with a bespoke carbon fibre steering wheel, which is inspired by an airplane ‘yoke’ and an F1 racing car’s steering wheel. A pair of carbon fiber bucket seats secure the driver and passenger for the ride of a lifetime, while the cushioned leather inserts offer support during acceleration, braking, and cornering. The Venom F5 features state-of-the-art technology that not only delivers comfort and entertainment amenities, but also performance aspects that lets the driver select from Sport, Wet, Drag, Track, and F5 modes. Hennessey V8 Twin-Turbo 'Fury' (1,817HP/1,193FT-LBS) Hennessey Special Vehicle At the heart of the Venom F5 is the custom Hennessey-built 6.6-litre, twin-turbocharged, V8 engine dubbed “Fury.” The hand-assembled V8 utilizes precision components crafted from iron, aluminum, titanium, and Inconel. Under full boost, the engine develops a stratospheric 1,817 horsepower and packs 1,192 lb-ft of torque. Power is sent to the rear wheels through a 7-speed, single-clutch, automated gearbox. Deploying this unprecedented level of horsepower results in prodigious acceleration: 0-62 mph takes less than three seconds and the Venom F5 will smash a 0-124 mph run in under five seconds. The production F5 is targeting an independently validated top speed in excess of 500 km/h (311 mph). Why To Buy Although the Hennessey Venom F5 has been sold out of its 24 chassis production since its original announcement, it proves to be the perfect addition to any garage because of its innovative approach to being the most powerful hypercar on the planet. Along with popularity and performance, each new owner holds the ability to personalize their configuration with an array of custom options offered by the creative team at Hennessey Special Vehicle. For those who were lucky enough to secure an allocation, they will be forever encapsulated in the history of Hennessey. Discover the new Hennessey Special Vehicle Venom F5 by clicking on the link below. Learn More For more Makes and Movements, Check out Makes And Movements: Porsche Design GT3 RS Chronograph x Porsche 992 911 GT3 RS

By Jordan Aquistapace – October 26, 2022

Makes And Movements: Porsche Design GT3 RS Chronograph x ...

Exotic cars and fine handcrafted timepieces complement each other in a similar way that salt and pepper do. They just work. In many cases, watch manufacturers create pieces that tailor to the exotic automotive industry and even specific vehicles altogether. Makes and Movements will be selecting spectacular products available through duPont Registry and pairing them with current or pre-released watches. The diversity of both the vehicles and timepieces will shed light on different brands and help educated on new areas of each industry. Porsche Design 911 GT3 RS Chronograph Having a motorsport division at its disposal, Porsche is spoiled with engineering capabilities that further enhance the design, performance, and technology of its collection of sports cars. Alongside its on-track development, the German automotive manufacturer extends its luxury lifestyle through the Porsche Design branch. The two powerhouses work in unison to deliver quality high-end products, while showcasing the shared similarities and values of both industries . After recently debuting the new 992 generation of the legendary Porsche 911 GT3 RS, the horologists at Porsche Design were quick to follow up the news with a limited-edition watch to commemorate the occasion. Adding another example to its family of exclusive vehicle watches, the Porsche Design 911 GT3 RS Chronograph pairs perfectly with the newly redesigned Porsche 992 911 GT3 RS. Made From Lightweight And Durable Titanium Porsche Design The limited-edition example follows the same production process as the 718 Cayman GT4 RS watch, with each exclusively available for owners of the new 992 911 GT3 RS. The Porsche Design 911 GT3 RS Chronograph features a matte black titanium case design, with matching pushers and a gloss black bezel that control its performance functions. While the new Porsche 911 GT3 RS presents first-ever characteristics like carbon fiber doors, Porsche Design adopts the same thought by incorporating the lightweight material into its dial design. The automotive-inspired chronograph dial configuration displays a series of sub-dials that help track lap times and other functions, with a power reserve indicator that includes the GT3 RS logo and the statement “Born in Flacht”. In-House Porsche Design Caliber WERK 01.200 Porsche Design An in-house Porsche Design caliber WERK 01.200 acts as the engine behind the dial, allowing it to start, stop and reset in one operation. A transparent sapphire backcase illuminates the meticulous inner workings of the match, which is seen through a factory GT3 RS wheel rotor. The outer portion includes engravings and individual production numbers to signify the special edition release from Porsche Design. The strap choice for Porsche Design’s new timepiece showcases a black perforated leather band with vibrant accents and contrast stitching. The Porsche Design 911 GT3 RS Chronograph comes with the same available Weissach package as the vehicle, which comes with a special plaque or your individual watch in addition to an engraved 911 GT3 RS model. Exclusive To New Porsche 911 GT3 RS Owners Porsche Design Why To Buy Although the Porsche Design 911 GT3 RS Chronograph proves to be a perfect on or off-track tool for any car enthusiasts, the production series is available exclusively for owners of the new model. Being a vehicle-exclusive model, the rarity behind the piece will carry far beyond the secondary watch market and onto the vast community of Porsche enthusiasts. If you happen to be one of the lucky individuals to receive a vehicle allocation, enhance the experience by customizing the watch to match your specific build. Learn more about the 911 GT3 RS Chronograph and Porsche Design’s custom chronograph configurator by clicking on the link below. Learn More Porsche 992 911 GT3 RS Ever since its introduction into Porsche’s lineup, the 911 GT3 RS continues its uprise with updates that make it one of the most popular sports car models in automotive history. The 911 GT3 RS family is made up of seven generations that all incorporate characteristics and aspects from its predecessors, setting the benchmark for performance car production around the world. Nineteen years after its initial debut, Porsche is proud to keep its historic lineage going with the new 992 generation 911 GT3 RS. Because of the incredible power of the 911 GT3 RS’ engine, Porsche focused on aerodynamics and weight reduction to make the 992 Porsche 911 GT3 RS better than ever. Porsche 992 GT3 RS Horsepower Torque, 0-60 Full Carbon Fiber Bodywork With F1-Inspired Aero Porsche Incorporating elements from Formula One racing, the Porsche 911 GT3 RS is equipped with a drag reduction system (DRS) for the first time. The system achieves lower drag and higher speeds at the push of a button, activating airbrake positions through the swan neck rear wing, front, and rear of the car. Porsche increases airflow and cooling with front wheel-arch ventilation and distinctive louvered openings inspired by the iconic Le Mans-winning 911 GT1. The aggressive ride height of the Porsche 911 GT3 RS is managed through an easy-to-use driving dynamic system, offering Normal, Sport, and Track modes. In an industry where every ounce counts, Porsche upgrades the 911 GT3 RS exterior with racing DNA and an intelligent lightweight construction. Track-Inspired Interior Cabin Porsche The interior of the 911 GT3 RS showcases a driver-oriented cabin, highlighting itself as a weapon purely designed for the track. The comfortable carbon fiber bucket seats make use of contrasting microfiber cloth, with the color-matching GT3 RS logo beautifully embroidered in each headrest. Behind the Alcantara sports steering wheel lies the digital gauge cluster, which features the track screen already familiar from the 911 GT3. At the touch of a button, the driver can reduce the digital displays on the two seven-inch side displays to essential information only. Lightweight carbon fiber reinforced plastic is also used in the interior, including the standard full bucket seats, trimmed in black leather and Race-Tex joining carbon fiber trim throughout the interior to characterize the pure, sporty ambience. 4.0L Naturally-Aspirated 6-Cylinder (518HP) Porsche At the heart of the beast is Porsche’s high-revving 4.0L Naturally-Aspirated 6-Cylinder Boxer engine, increasing its overall power output to 518 horsepower. The seven-speed Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) has a shorter overall gear ratio than the 911 GT3 and is aided by air intakes on the underbody to ensure that the transmission can withstand even extreme loads during frequent use on the track. The 911 GT3 RS accelerates from zero to 60 mph in 3.0 seconds and reaches a top speed of 184 mph in seventh gear. Why To Buy The new 992 generation Porsche 911 GT3 RS is the best new addition to any garage because of its rich legacy as the perfect road-legal race car. Establishing itself as one of the most anticipated car releases of the year, every collector is racing to a dealership in hopes of securing a build slot for 2023. Along with popularity and performance, Porsche also offers an extensive configuration process that customizes each build exactly to the owner’s wants and needs. For those lucky enough to acquire a chassis, Porsche Design welcomes owners to configure a limited-edition chronograph to commemorate the purchase. View all of the current Porsche 911 GT3 RS examples for sale on duPont REGISTRY by clicking on the link below. View All Porsche 911 GT3 RS For Sale For more Makes and Movements, Check out Makes And Movements: Roger Dubuis Excalibur Spider Huracán MB x Lamborghini Huracán GT3 EVO2

By Jordan Aquistapace – November 18, 2020

Top 10 Automotive Inspired Watches

Watches have always played a key role in the automotive industry. A tool for drivers as well as a platform for manufacturers to collaborate. The uniqueness of design and functions allow for any auto enthusiast to find the perfect watch to represent what they love about motorsports. The difficulty in choosing that kind of timepiece is the endless amount of companies and references that deliver examples in the vast majority of classes. The biggest differentiator is the price, with watches starting under a thousand dollars and reaching a million. It's almost like a staircase that every watch enthusiast hopes to climb, upgrading, and obtaining more exclusive pieces along the way. Our top ten list this week reflects that metaphorical staircase, displaying automotive-inspired watches from least to most expensive. Autodromo Intereuropa $1,250 The Intereuropa watch takes its name from the Coppa Intereuropa race for sporting coupes held at Monza from 1949-1964 as a support race for the Italian Grand Prix.Exquisite alloy-bodied berlinettas by the likes of Ferrari, Maserati, Alfa Romeo, and Lancia were campaigned by gentleman drivers at the Coppa Intereuropa. Shop Now Ferro Distinct 3.0 Gold Edition $4,900 The Distinct 3.0 Gold Edition Inspired by vintage Le Mans race. With an unmatched level of sophistication, the Distinct 3.0 Gold Edition is sure to captivate even the most discerning watch collector with its retro-inspired, timeless design, and it's even waterproof up to a dizzying 30 meters so you know it'll last. Shop Now Porsche Design 1919 Chronotimer Flyback $6,350 The Chronotimer brings lightweight construction to the wrist with the use of high-tech titanium, guaranteeing maximum comfort. Titanium is around 40 percent lighter than steel and has been key to race car engine construction for several decades. The new Porsche Design Werk 01.200 chronograph with flyback function and black P-icon rotor was also inspired by motorsports. Shop Now TAG Heuer X Grand Prix De Monaco Historique $7,050 This Monaco is a 1000 pieces limited-edition, celebrating the partnership with the GPHM (Grand Prix Historique de Monaco). This Monaco stands out even more from the crowd with an exclusive red sunray dial, the iconic square box from the Monaco collection, and our in-house Heuer 02 movement with a 80 h power reserve, visible from the saphire case back. Shop Now Breitling Premier B01 Chronograph Bentley Edition $8,500 This Premier B01 Chronograph 42 Bentley celebrates Breitling’s partnership with one of the great names in luxury motoring. It features a 42 mm stainless steel case. It has a British racing green dial with contrasting black small seconds and 30-minute chronograph counters that indicate the Manufacture mechanical movement inside. Shop Now Rolex Cosmograph Daytona $13,150 An iconic model introduced in 1963, the Cosmograph Daytona was designed to meet the needs of racing drivers. Fitted with a tachymetric bezel and a high-performance mechanical movement developed and manufactured by Rolex, this chronograph is legendary for its reliability: it is the instrument of choice for measuring time intervals and determining average speeds. Shop Now IWC Pilot's Watch Double Chronograph Top Gun Ceratanium $14,600 Ceratanium® was developed by IWC and combines the advantages of titanium and ceramic in a single material. Based on a titanium alloy, the patented material is as light and rigid as titanium itself but at the same time as hard, wear-free and scratch-resistant as ceramic. Other compelling features are its skin-friendliness, high corrosion-resistance and striking matte black colour. Shop Now Hublot Big Bang Ferrari Unico $29,400 Hublot's partnership with Ferrari allows for unique collaboration collections such as the Big Bang Ferrari Unico. The idea behind the design is to incorporate the attention to detail as well as premium materials just as Ferrari does at the factory in Maranello, Italy. Shop Now Richard Mille RM 11-03 $191,500 Since the brand’s debut, Richard Mille watches have distilled performance in an unparalleled range of areas. To appreciate this, one need look no further than the RM 011. In terms of design, of materials used, of its details, its movement and its extraordinary adaptability, this piece embodies everything the brand stands for. Shop Now Jacob & Co. TT Bugatti La Montre Noire $1,000,000 Jacob & Co. is introducing the one-off TwinTurbo Furious Bugatti La Montre Noire. Encased in 18K black gold and set with natural black baguette-cutsapphires, resulting in a unique all-black aesthetic, this timepiece channels the spirit of both remarkable cars, combining the grand complication of the Twin Turbo Furious with the singular history of La Voiture Noire. Shop Now

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By Roberta Naas – October 02, 2020

duPont REGISTRY 2020 Luxury Watch Guide

duPont REGISTRY 2020 Luxury Watch Guide By Roberta Naas With the unprecedented health and economic stresses put upon us this year by COVID-19, the concept of time has become monumental. Some of us have too much time on our hands and no place to go to spend that time. Others are busier than ever as we juggle work-from-home zoom calls and social-distance meetings. However, almost all of us are highly aware of time and are planning what we want to do when we can go back into the real (albeit different) world. Most of the time, a wristwatch accompanies us on our journeys. For some that watch is sporty, for others it’s classic. Yet others want a connected watch to track our moves, and the true lovers of horology and all things mechanical are most likely making that wrist companion a complicated watch -- maybe even one with three-dimensional movement architecture. The thing is, the wristwatch industry – even despite being closed down for several months earlier this year due to the pandemic – is a multi-billion-dollar business that believes in delivering exactly what the customer wants. Variety is the spice of life and watch brands are complying with demands that run the gamut from retro-inspired to racing-inspired and everything in between. Additionally, the new watches making their way (finally) to stores this fall are available in all price ranges, from the affordable below $1,000 realm to the million dollar sky’s-the-limit realm. So, how do you decide which watch (or watches if you’re building a collection) is right for you? There are some good rules of thumb when considering a watch for your adventures – even if that adventure is simply an elegant dinner out at a nice restaurant. KNOW YOUR MECHANICAL LIKES Just like when you are buying a car, you know if you like something just by the looks of it. However, you can’t always judge by looks alone. Most likely you have a wish list of what you want under the hood, of the performance you’re looking for and the details inside. The same is true of a watch – looks will draw you in, but make sure the entire package is there. Do you want a self-winding mechanical watch (also called an automatic), or do you want a movement that is manually wound – meaning you have to physically turn the crown to power it up Some people love the ease of the watch winding itself as you wear it; others love the power of breathing life into the watch each time it is wound. Some people don’t care, as long as the watch is mechanical. Think about if this matters to you before you start shopping. BE TRUE TO YOURSELF Another important consideration is your interests and hobbies. If you are a car enthusiast, you may want to look at racing-inspired watches from brands that partner with vintage rallies, contemporary super-speed races or even racecar drivers. If you’re a lover of all things vintage, you may want to look at the recreations of yesteryear that many brands are unveiling today to pay homage to their roots. Similarly, if you are into diving or aviation, there are entire genres of watches that go the distance with you and also speak volumes on your wrist about who you are and what you enjoy. For those who love the idea of a smart watch, Apple is not the only option. Today so many of the traditional watch brands are creating top-notch hybrid connected watches that offer dynamite dials and still perform the functions you want. DON’T BUY BLINDLY One of the most important things to know before you shop is your budget. You have no idea how fast the prices can jump when it comes to watchmaking.This is because – just like a car – some watches are hand-made with exacting attention to detail and in one-off or limited editions. Others have a certain amount of hand craftsmanship involved, but also utilize today’s top production processes and are more readily available. DON’T DISCOUNT THE LITTLE GUY In addition to the big-brand names we all know off the tops of our heads, there is an entire category of smaller, independent watchmaker brands that have a lot to offer when it comes to horology. Many of these brands create smaller numbers of watches that offer think-outside-of-the-box designs and features. LOOK FOR NEWNESS There are also a host of great watch brands on the market that are either names you may not have heard of because they are either relatively new to the U.S. market, or relatively new to the watch market as a whole. Just because you never heard of the brand, don’t shy away from it. Ask questions and be open-minded to newness in ideas and brand names. In the end, though, these four words should be your governing theme: Buy what you like. Ulysse Nardin Blue Blast An incredible work of architecture, color, mechanics and geometrics, the new Ulysse Nardin Blue Blast takes you on a mesmerizing journey into its soul. A simple tour around the three-dimensional skeletonized movement – the UN 172 automatic caliber – and you won’t take your eyes off your wrist. The watch boasts a silicium flying tourbillon inside an X-shaped cage and surrounded by a multitude of finishes. The barrel of the watch – located at 12:00 on the non-existent dial – is highly visible and evokes a sense of power and authority. This version is crafted in titanium with a PVD/DLC coating and ceramic upper middle case and bezel. The Ulysse Nardin Blast was 18 months in the making and features some exceptionally ingenious technology and mechanics. The movement was incredibly well thought-out and boasts alluring features such as the tripletoothed round bezel and the double X clamp that joins the movement in a sandwich style. There is even a patented three-blade system on the self-deploying strap buckle that snaps open with a single clasp. There are four versions available, including this Blue Blast, the Rose Gold Blast seen on the cover, a Black Blast and a White Blast. The Blue Blast, with titanium middle case, blue titanium bezel, blue brass rectangular bridge, blue tourbillon cage and the double X pattern is both blue and grey. $44,000.00 Shop Now Arnold & Son Ultrathin Tourbillon Koi Utilizing one of its most sophisticated movements for this elegant lotus and koi fish adorned watch, Arnold & Son brings technical prowess and artistic mastery to the forefront. This 42mm 18-karat 5N rose gold watch is equipped with the manually wound A&S8200 one-minute flying tourbillon (an escapement that compensates for errors in timekeeping due to the effects of gravity when the watch is in certain positions on the wrist). The tourbillon escapement, which constantly rotates, is located in an aperture at 6:00, opposite the smaller dial that indicates the hours and the minutes. The rest of the dial is freed up for the miniature painting of lotus flowers and koi fish – all on a black mother-of-pearl dial. The watch highlights Arnold & Son’s tradition of bespoke excellence. $96,700.00 Shop Now Nebula 38 SteelAptly named Nebula because its architectural three-dimensional open-worked movement recalls an inverted star, this watch is a favorite among collectors. Here, Swiss brand Arnold & Son reflects on its British history to create a highly technical caliber inside a clean and sophisticated case. The A&S5101 hand-wound mechanical movement showcases its gears, wheels and balance on the dial side, where the dial has been reduced to a black lacquer flange. The symmetry of the seven bridges that span the four axes is like a dream to lovers of mechanical wonders. The 38mm case features a sapphire crystal case back for unobstructed views of the machine inside. It is offered for the first time in stainless steel. $14,500.00 Shop Now Eberhard 1887 Scafograf 300 MCMLIX This bold re-edition of the original Scafograf 300 dive watch that burst onto the scene in the 1960’s is a perfect rendition of a vintage-inspired tool watch. Eberhard was a leader in dive watches – releasing the first Scafograf (water resistant to 100 meters) in 1959 and then moving on to greater water resistance in the ensuing years, moving from 100, to 200, 300 and even, eventually 1000 meters. The 43mm stainless steel automatic winding dive watch - the MCMLIX version - recalls the Roman numerals of the year the Scafograf collection was born. It is built according to the strictest codes and boasts a unidirectional rotating black ceramic bezel, curved sapphire glass and a helium escape valve at 9:00. The black dial features hands and markers with vintage-style luminescence. The case back features a starfish engraved on it. $2,890.00 Shop Now Nuvolari Legend “The Brown Helmet” Easily one of the most important European racing legends of yesteryear, Tazio Nuvolari holds a special place in the watch line-up of Eberhard 1887. The brand has an entire collection dedicated to this master and it is one of the most sought-after by car lovers around the world. The newest, “The Brown Helmet” watch, is a vintage-inspired chronograph that takes its color way of warm brown dial from the soft leather driving helmet (as well as the vest and the gloves) of the famed racer. Hence the name, “The Brown Helmet.” The 43mm stainless steel Nuvolari Legend is inspired by the pocket chronograph from the 20th century that Nuvolari carried, but it boasts a thoroughly modern mechanical movement with automatic winding and two counters. The watch features a tachymeter spiral scale in hours and kilometers and the case back offers a checkerboard motif recalling the starting flag in racing. $5,840.00 Shop Now Hublot Big Bang MP-11 Red Magic There is no color as powerful as red, and when Hublot tackles it – creating it in high-tech ceramic – very little can rival it. This Big Bang MP-11 watch deftly combines horological prowess with state-ofthe-art technology. The three-dimensional Caliber HUB9011 manual-wind movement, made in-house, offers an incredible 14 days of power reserve thanks to the seven barrels on the lower portion of the dial. A portion of the 270 parts of the movement, including gears and wheels, is visible on the top half of the watch. The magnificent case is made of the brand’s exclusive high-tech ceramic that was developed in its Research and Development laboratory and is protected by three patents for the machining and components. Just 100 pieces will be made. $86,000.00 Shop Now Big Bang e Hublot has been creating connected watches in the traditional watchmaking realm since 2018, but this new iteration of the brand’s Big Bang offers cutting-edge updated design. The 42mm Big Bang e is crafted of light-weight titanium. The numerals and markers on the bezel are placed beneath the sapphire crystal, which is covered with an AMOLED high-definition touch screen. Like a traditional mechanical Big Bang, the crown controls the electronic functions thanks to its integrated pusher. The new functions include digital interpretations of traditional watch complications, such as the perpetual calendar (shown here) with precise moon phase indication. New dials will be unveiled, as well. The connected portion of the watch is powered with Wear OS by Google™. Even with its digital technology, the watch is water resistant to 30 meters. $5,200.00 Shop Now Orbita Avanti 6 Macassar Have a half a dozen watches or more that you want to keep wound? The Avanti 6 Macassar winder offers modular appeal and is Orbita’s most popular winder. Designed to wind six watches, it also has two storage drawers for other timepieces. Each watch has its own power switch, allowing stations not in use to be switched off. The Avanti 6 is sold with either the Orbita Programmable technology or with Orbita’s patented Rotorwind technology. The case is covered in exotic Macassar veneer on the sides and features a carbon fiber front and trim – adding a cutting-edge, impressive appeal. There is also a key lock on the tempered glass front. $4,995.00 Shop Now Voyager Travel Winder While you may be still quarantining, and not traveling as much, you might be taking some road trips and Orbita’s Voyager Travel Winder is ready to go with you. The Voyager comes in a cylindrical carrier that features a mounting system similar to its Futura winders, so it sets up in a snap to keep your watch perfectly wound. Simply take the winder base and mount out of the cylinder case and set it on the desk, press a button and watch the magic happen. The winder is powered by four AAA batteries, or by the supplied AC/DC adapter. The base, the mount and even the mounted watch fit securely in a suedelined leather carry case. It measures a scant 4” H x 6” W x 4” L. $395.00 Shop Now Vortic Watch Company Military Edition-Second Edition American-based Vortic is known for its unique work taking original pocket watch movements and transforming them into incredible wristwatches. Each year on Veterans Day (November 11), the brand introduces a 50-piece Military Edition timepiece. Last year’s watches sold out in just under eight hours. For this year’s 2020 edition, the brand releases the Second Edition Military piece that is built using the movement, dial and hands of a pocket watch originally made for the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II. That watch, the Master Navigational Watch, was used by navigators on American bomber planes. The movements have been meticulously restored by Vortic. $5,995.00 Shop Now Chicago Railroad 039 The unique watch brand Vortic is known for salvaging and restoring antique pocket watches – preserving their original integrity – and transforming them into unique wristwatches. There is no serial production here. There is no mass marketing. Instead, the watchmakers and engineers at Vortic create one-of-a-kind conversation pieces that recall American history. This Chicago Railroad 039 watch is the first pocket watch to be completely made in the USA since the 1960s. It was the first pocket watch the brand made and it was sold within a half an hour. The case was cut at Vortic’s Colorado manufacturing facility from a block of bronze and a vintage chain was sourced to match the patina. The movement, hands and dial are all original from a Railroad Grade Elgin pocket watch that was made in 1922. This example of the work Vortic executes sold for $3,995.00 Shop Now WOLF Churchill British Racing Green For those who love watch collecting as much as car collecting, having the perfect safe is critical. WOLF has you covered with its bespoke safe series – made to order exactly as you wish. A fine example is this handmade British Racing Green Churchill Safe that brings the vintage 1920s international motor racing color to the forefront. Forged in steel, it features a distinctive three-dimensional angled panel across the front of the safe, with fine detailing such as goldcolored hardwood and pebbled leather. Top-grain leathers, rare woods or paneling can also be custom ordered. The Bluetooth-controlled watch winders precisely count the turns per day using WOLF’s patented technology. The interior of each safe can also be tailored by adding drawers or additional winders. WOLF’s bespoke safes retail starting at $95,995.00 Shop Now British Racing Green Triple Watch Winder If a large safe is just too much for your current collection, take a look at the WOLF Triple Watch Winder, shown here in British Racing Green leather. The lush, vegan-friendly, pebble-grained leather features a quad-angled, three-dimensional lid, a glass front to view the watches as they wind and gold foil accents and hardware. The cushion-close hinges make for easy opening and closing and there is storage at the top of the winder box for five additional watches. Only a WOLF winder counts the exact number of rotations with a patented innovation and rotation options can be set between 300 and 1,200 turns per day. It also features winding clockwise, counter-clockwise and bi-directionally. $1,719.00 Shop Now

By Roberta Naas – November 22, 2019

What Exactly is a Sports Watch?

By Roberta Naas: If you Google it, the term “sports watch” has a lot of different definitions. Not all of them are correct. In fact, one definition says that a sports watch must combine water resistance with a stopwatch and an alarm. Another definition says it must be a tactical watch with LED lighting. The list goes on and on – with most definitions being only partially accurate. The truth is that what defines a sports watch is a host of factors. Among them: its function-ability for the specified use. Sports watches should be water-resistant (to varying degrees based on the end use). They should be made of durable material such as titanium, carbon or steel that can take a bit of a beating without being damaged. Similarly, their crystals should be made of an equally as shock-resistant material. Sports watches should be highly legible. Let’s face it, if you’re climbing a mountain or flying a plane at night, you want to be able to glance at that watch and see the time instantly. Typically, a sports watch will have luminous hands and markers for easy readability, and often they will be clean in design. Additionally, a sports watch should have functions built into it that are useful for the activity. A stopwatch – or chronograph – is great for a runner or a racer (as is having a tachymeter scale for measuring speeds or distances), but may be less important for a diver. Divers might want rotating, ratcheted bezels for measuring dive and resurfacing times. If you’re into hiking, camping and climbing, you may prefer a watch that offers altimeters, compass points and other information. Other sport-related functions include alarms, tide indications, regatta functions and more. For those who are into truly rugged sports, ones that amass G-forces and shocks, having a mechanical movement with added shock resistance is critical. Many fine sports watches are built with an Incabloc (or similar) shock-absorption system that includes a spring-loaded mounting system to support the bearings of the balance wheel, protecting the balance wheel pivots and giving it a little latitude either vertically or horizontally when it is jarred. Some haute horology brands are even turning to implementing their own systems using pulleys and other shock-resistant methods. Lastly, we have to admit that looks also play a role in defining a sports watch. Rarely will you find an ultra-thin complicated watch doubling as a sports watch. Generally, sports timepieces have a certain look to them—often one that correlates to its use. Many sports watches inspired by the world of automobile racing, for instance, will have bright colored dials or bold-hued accents. Typically, though, the looks are offered as backup to all of the afore-mentioned sports watch defining criteria. This article was featured in the October 2019 issue of duPont REGISTRY. More Watch News: Motorsports-Inspired Chronoswiss Regulator Classic Carbon Racer Revealed Palladium MB&F Legacy Machine 101 Announced: Limited to 18 Richard Mille Unveils RM 52-06 Tourbillon Mask TAG Heuer Unveils Monaco 2009-2019 Limited Edition Pharrell Williams x Richard Mille Watch is Out of This World

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