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 Roberta Naas – November 15, 2017

duPont REGISTRY Fall Watch Guide 2017

duPont REGISTRY takes a dive into the fine watches for the Fall season of 2017. Watches from watchmakers around the globe are included in the guide below, written by Roberta Naas, veteran award-winning journalist in the watch industry with 30 years of experience. You can read more from her by visiting her website ATimelyPerpective.com.By Roberta Naas AUDEMARS PIGUETRoyal Oak ChronographCrafted in 18-karat rose gold with a blue Grande Tapisserie dial and large chronograph pink gold subdials, this Royal Oak Chronograph is a vision in blue and pink. The hand-stitched alligator strap is offered in a rich blue to match the dial. With a diameter of 41mm and a case thickness of 11 mm, this watch works under a suit jacket and with blue jeans. The gold applied hour markers and Royal Oak hands feature a luminescent coating for easy readability. The self-winding watch offers chronograph functions, small seconds, and date. The integrated column-wheel chronograph has a power reserve of 40 hours. Approx. $38,300. Royal Oak Offshore ChronographA master at creating luxurious sport appeal, Audemars Piguet pulls out all the stops in this Royal Oak Offshore Chronograph that brings together jet-black ceramic with 18-karat rose gold and bold red accents. The 44mm timepiece, which offers chronograph functions, date at 3:00, and hours, minutes and small seconds, is an intriguing mix of stealth and bold beauty. The rich black Mega Tapisserie dial with gold-colored flange is a startling look against the black ceramic bezel. Water resistant to 100 meters, the watch is powered by a self-winding movement with 365 pieces inside and offering 50 hours of power reserve. Approx. $45,900. Royal Oak Offshore ChronographCrafted in stainless steel, this 42mm Royal Oak Offshore Chronograph is a statement in gray. From the Mega Tapisserie dial to the exotic hornback alligator strap, the high-tech timepiece easily goes from office to outdoors. The brand’s in-house-made Caliber 3126/3840 that consists of 365 parts, including a cam chronograph mechanism and oscillating weight with ceramic ball bearing, powers the chronograph watch. The sapphire crystal and sapphire caseback – perfect for viewing the movement – are glare proofed. The watch, which is water resistant to 100 meters, is a singular statement of sporty chic. Approx. $26,000. Royal Oak Offshore DiverIf the bright tangerine orange Mega Tapisserie dial of this Royal Oak Offshore Diver doesn’t grab your attention, then maybe the technology behind the watch will nab you. A rugged yet boldly beautiful professional instrument, this watch dons an orange and blue color scheme perfect for the oceans. Water resistant to 300 meters, the stainless steel case features blue rubber-clad screw-locked crowns and is equipped with an orange rubber strap. The dial (with luminescent coated hands and markers) has a blue rotating inner bezel with diving scale and zone from 60 to15 minutes in orange. Powered by a 280-part self-winding movement, the watch offers hours, minutes, center seconds and date in addition to dive-time measurements. Approx. $19,900. Visit Website Carl F. BuchererManero FlybackAn elegant statement in luxury sport watches, this striking Manero Flyback Chronograph incorporates sophisticated colors and styling with state-of-the-art mechanics. Powered by the automatic CFB 1970 caliber, the flyback chronograph function means that the wearer need only push start and reset when timing an event; there is no need to push stop. This means the hand flies back to zero to start timing the next event with the smallest possible gap in timing of consecutive events. All of the chronograph functions operate without affecting the constant measuring of real time. The 43mm watch is crafted in stainless steel and is further equipped with date and tachymeter bezel for measuring speeds. The sapphire crystal is anti-reflective on both sides and there is a sapphire caseback. Water resistant to 30 meters, the watch is finished with a gray Louisiana alligator strap. Approx. $6,900. Patravi Traveltec BlackEasily one of the most coveted sport watches, the Carl F. Bucherer Patravi TravelTec now has a new version created in stainless steel with black DLC (Diamond Like Coating) for a stealth appeal. The automatic watch houses the CFB 1901.1 movement that indicates hour, minute, time in three zones, seconds, date and chronograph functions. The COSC-certified chronometer chronograph measures 46.6mm in diameter and is water resistant to 50 meters. The precision watch is finished with a screw-down crown, sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating on both sides. The rubber strap is stitched and embossed. Approx.$13,600. Visit Website Cuervo y SobrinosHistoriador Tradicion ChampagneCelebrating its 135th anniversary this year, Swiss brand Cuervo y Sobrinos unveils a remake of a vintage masterpiece that is faithful to the original 1950’s design found in the historical archives in Havana. The new Historiador Tradicion Champagne watch offers stunning classic appeal thanks to the bubble shaped crystal and finely decorated dial. In fact, the dial features a grid-shaped “frappage” motif, with trapezoid markers at 3:00 and 9:00, intermixed with eight raised circular markers and a Cuervo y Sobrinos cartouche at 12:00. Even the brand name on the dial is written in a vintage style script. The 40 mm stainless steel automatic watch offers 42 hours of power reserve and is created in a limited edition of just 882 pieces. The sapphire caseback has a coin center motif with the dates 1882 and 2017 on it, and the crystal is printed with the watch number on it. Approx. $3,850. Robusto Day-Date “Churchill” Limited EditionIn his day, Winston Churchill, cigar aficionado, was a loyal customer of the Cuervo y Sobrinos boutique in La Habana. Now, the brand continues to pay homage to the statesman with its fourth edition of the Robusto Churchill collection: Robusto Day-Date Churchill Limited Edition. The three-part case features an innovative crown system inspired by an antique pocket watch – complete with a unique key system almost integrated into the case. The stunning white ceramic dial is lacquered in marbled grey anthracite for a crackle effect – giving the 43mm watch a vintage appeal. Just 200 pieces will be made, all numbered on the dial at 6:00. The Swiss made automatic movement has a power reserve of 38 hours. Approx. $4,340. Visit Website Eberhard & Co. Chrono 4 130In honor of its 130th anniversary this year, Eberhard & Co., founded in 1887, celebrates its Swiss watchmaking heritage with several new limited edition Chrono 4 timepieces. The Chrono 4 has a unique and patented design that features four counters horizontally across the center of the dial depicting minutes, hours, 24 hours and small seconds. There are three new dial versions of this watch, including the argente silver one seen here with alluring azure’e finishing and blue accents. The watch offers luminescent applied indices, an outer tachymeter scale and date at 12:00. The sword-shaped skeleton hands have luminous points. The chronograph push buttons are drop-shaped for ergonomic appeal. Approx. $6,600. Chrono 4 130 Edition LimitéeThis Limited Edition Chrono 4 130, Reference 31130, is also created in an edition of just 130 pieces. The highly technical mechanical chronograph with a patented, registered design offers the four counters arranged in a horizontal row on the dial for daring appeal. Powered by the EB.251 121/2” caliber with ETA 2894-2 base, the automatic movement displays minutes, hours, 24 hours and small seconds in the four counters, while the date is shown at 12:00. The rotor has a circular design finished in a Cotes de Genève pattern and featuring the number 130 in blue. Crafted in steel with a satin and polished finish, the 42mm watch is water resistant to 50 meters. The alluring black dial is opened in the center to allow for viewing of the partially skeletonized movement. Approx. $10,640. Visit Website GrahamGraham Chronofighter Vintage Nose Art Ltd., LillyRecalling the whimsical and often glamorous illustrations of 1940’s military plane art, Graham brings the pin-up life to the wrist on the dials of its newest Chronofighter Vintage Nose Art Ltd series of watches. There are four pin-up girls being offered, each in a limited edition of 100 pieces. This 44mm stainless steel watch features Lilly prominently on the dial. It was believed that paintings on the fighter planes helped to boost morale, a concept that seems right on target on the wrist. The watch is powered by an automatic chronograph movement, and offers day, date and sub-seconds dial. Lilly is perched at 3:00, as though sitting on the nose of a plane. Each watch has a serial number at 9:00 and is water resistant to 100 meters. Approx. $5,450. Graham Chronofighter Vintage GMTInspired by the original historical timepieces used in military aviation, Graham unveils the Chronofighter Vintage GMT watch in army green. The automatic chronograph with GMT timing/second time zone indication is a statement in form and function. With sunbrushed radial gradient khaki green dial and matching green calf leather strap, the bold chronograph with big date makes a powerful statement. Crafted in steel, the 44mm watch features a ceramic unidirectional rotating bezel with GMT scale, chronograph with fast-action start/stop trigger, domed sapphire crystal and see through sapphire case back. With hands and markers in luminous material, the watch is water resistant to 100 meters. Approx. $6950. Visit Website HublotBig Bang FerrariThe newest addition to the Hublot Big Bang Ferrari line, a Ferrari-inspired collaboration that began six years ago, is the Big Bang Ferrari King Gold watch which brings together luxury and mechanical prowess. The dial, which allows for viewing of the movement inside, resembles the autos that inspired it, with a minute counter and date window at 3:00 designed to emulate a tachymeter. The date indication takes the yellow color of Ferrari, while the famed Prancing Horse logo at 6:00 brings the concept full circle. Powered by the Hublot UNICO movement, the watch offers flyback chronograph function. The iconic star spoke design of the rotor, inspired by the Ferrari wheel rims, is visible via a sapphire caseback. While the watch is available as limited edition in all metals offered, only 500 pieces of this King Gold version will be made. Approx. $42,200. Techframe Ferrari Tourbillon Chronograph in TitaniumThis highly creative Hublot Techframe Ferrari Tourbillon Chronograph celebrates the partnership of these two luxury brands, as well as the 70th anniversary of Ferrari. The open-worked case of this timepiece is conceived of at the Ferrari Design Center in the same way they design the cars. This is the first non-automotive item created by the historic brand. Hublot in its Swiss workshops then crafts the case. Combining strength, performance and precision, the new watch is offered in three versions, each with just 70 pieces being made. This Titanium version is lightweight yet durable. The 45mm case is made of micro-blasted titanium and is water resistant to 30 meters. The watch features the Ferrari logo on the crown and the Ferrari red lever for the pushbutton of the chronograph is made in anodized aluminum. Powered by the 253-part HUB6311 manual wind movement, the tourbillon chronograph offers 115 hours of power reserve. Approx. $127,000. Visit Website MTM WatchMTM 3-GERLooking for true form and function? MTM Watch offers an exquisite timepiece that is a deft blend of craftsmanship and technology, the MTM 3-GER watch. Powered by the automatic chronograph ETA 7750 COSC-certified chronometer movement, the 46mm titanium 3-GER is a must-have collectible. Skillfully refined in a limited production, the MTM 3-GER watch is offered in four distinct finishes: Black true DLC, Gray Sandblast, Brushed Silver and Gold Plated. Each watch is developed, engineered, and assembled in the United States. The 3-GER watch offers certain customizable elements, such as its bezel, hands, dial, calendar, bracelet links and ball bearings, to name a few. With these options customers can create their own unique watch. The 3-GER is also equipped with a spring-loaded raised bezel that can be elevated 1mm above the sapphire crystal for added protection, or level down for a thinner more elegant profile. $9,000 to $10,000 depending on customized options. MTM 3-GERThe MTM 3-GER's most unique element is its bracelet. Exclusive and patented, the ball bearing titanium bracelet is the only bracelet in the world made using ball bearings instead of traditional pins. The bracelet is a patented construction using high-tech CNC machined links that are connected with ball bearings to ensure high standards of quality, performance and smooth ergonomic comfort. The ball bearings on the bracelet are also interchangeable and can be ordered and customized with Blue “Spinel Sphere crystals” or “Red ruby jewels” giving each watch the ultimate revolutionary touch of elegance and value. Each 3-GER watch is water resistant to 200 meters and comes with a three-year warranty attesting to its standards of craftsmanship. $9,000 to $10,000 depending on customization. Visit Website OrbitaPiccoloOrbita’s patented Rotorwind technology is the force behind the brand’s beloved Piccolo series of automatic winders. Designed to fit in small spaces, each individual Piccolo is covered in elegant black leatherette and is offered in a variety of face panel options in terms of colors and materials. When you purchase three individual Piccolo winders, Orbita offers an elegant outer wood storage compartment with a felt-lined tray on top for convenient storage of the individual winders. Additional compartments can also be purchased ($195), as they are stackable for optimal space conservation. Made in the USA. Individual Piccolo winders: $395. Milano 12Sleek and edgy, the Milano 12 from Orbita offers cutting-edge style for winding of 12 of your favorite watches. With a carbon fiber faceplate and 6mm thick tempered glass doors against a 10mm thick smoked tempered glass case, the Milano 12 is a display piece and a conversation starter, as well as a functional device. The Milano 12 sits atop four feet and houses 12 of Orbita’s acclaimed watch winders with patented Rotorwind technology. Brushed nickel hinges and a nickel lock finish the stealth, contemporary look. An A/C adapter powers Milano 12. Approx. $12,995. Visit Website ReservoirGT Tour 371 SEDesigned to emulate vintage car gauges and dashboard instruments, the Reservoir Swiss Made GT Tour 371 SE watch brings the automotive spirit to new heights. The dial displays time in a decidedly different manner. The mechanical automatic movement, caliber 2824-2, is equipped with a proprietary module featuring another 97 components that enables it to display the time via a red-orange retrograde minute hand and a jumping hour at 6:00 that emulates the RPM gauges. Like the Reservoir logo inspired from the fuel jerrican, the power reserve indicator beneath the jumping hour recalls a fuel gauge. Crafted in black PVD 316L stainless steel with a satin finish, the watch features an anti-reflective sapphire crystal and is water resistant to 5 ATM. The bold black dial with orange accents is complemented by a black perforated leather strap with red/orange stitching for true auto-inspired appeal. Approx. $3,400. Tiefenmesser BronzeOffering a totally different look and feel than its auto-inspired sibling, the Reservoir Tiefenmesser Bronze watch has a vintage appeal that is at once timeless and classic, drawing inspiration from submarine instruments. Like all watches in the Reservoir lineup, the Tiefenmesser displays time via a jumping hour and retrograde minute hand. In this instance, though, the 43mm case is crafted in solid bronze with a satin finish. The bronze case surrounds a white dial with black minute track and light blue accents. The long minutes hand is pale blue, as are the jumping hour numerals. The power reserve indication, instead of being shown in hours, is depicted using circles that turn red as the power reserve winds up. Finished with vintage-style brown leather strap for classic appeal. Approx. $3,700. Visit Website Roger DubuisExcalibur Spider Pirelli Automatic SkeletonAfter entering into an agreement earlier this year with Pirelli, Roger Dubois unveils some pretty exciting timepieces that incorporate used Pirelli racing tires from winning cars only. Such is the case with this Excalibur Spider Pirelli Automatic Skeleton watch in block and bold yellow - one of the official colors of the Pirelli logo. The 45mm case is black DLC titanium with Block DLC crown overmolded with bold yellow rubber. The automatic skeletonized movement consists of 167 finely finished components and a micro-rotor. The strap is made of a black rubber base with an inlay of winning Pirelli motorsport tire rubber There is a unique Pirelli tire motif on the inside of the strap. This yellow version is one of a trilogy of three that includes a blue one because the winning tires of the Monaco GP Fl race in 2016 had the blue Pirelli code, and a red one to honor Pirelli's other official logo odor. All the Roger Dubuis Excalibur Spider Pirelli limited editions carry the Hallmark of Geneva certification. Just 88 pieces of each will be made. Approx. $66,500. Excalibur Spider Carbon Skeleton Flying TourbillonTaking its a!reody avant-garde style to new heights, Roger Dubois introduces the revolutionary Excalibur Spider Carbon Skeleton Flying Tourbillon. Focusing on performance and design, the futuristic-looking watch deftly brings together lighter weight materials, higher power reserve and a skeletonized flying tourbillon. The 45mm case is made of multi-layers of carbon and titanium, overmolded with red rubber. The fluted carbon bezel is a great contrast with the bold red markings. red rubber overmolded crown and red minute track on the carbon flange. The bi-color strop is mode using a rubber base and red RubberTech fabric inlay. The watch is powered by the brand's Skeleton Flying Tourbillon PAD509S0 caliber with 179 parts and 90 hours of power reserve. it is the first movement in the industry entirely made of carbon and it holds the Poincon de Geneve certification. Just 88 pieces will be made. Approx. $190,003. View Website VorticAmerican Artisan Series, SpringfieldVortic is pairing cutting edge technology with beautiful, authentic, quality watch movements and other watch parts made more than 100 years ago. This unusual approach represents an effort to preserve an important part of United States watchmaking history in a functional way. The American Artisan Series is a line of fully American Made wristwatches powered by restored, U.S.-made pocket watch movements. Each complete watch consists of the original movement, dial and hands from a vintage (1880’s – 1950’s) pocket watch made by one of the original great American watch companies. Contrasting to that history, every watchcase is a 3D printed case. Models such as "The Chicago," "The Boston," and "The Springfield" are named after the location of their original manufacturer (Elgin, Waltham, Illinois, etc.). Every watch is one-of-a-kind. "The Springfield 051" shown here (MSRP $2,095) has a 49mm 3D printed titanium case with “Bronzed” finish. Also available in 46mm. Prices range from $995 to $3,995. American Artisan Series, Museum GradeWhile every piece in the American Artisan Series is one-of-a-kind, the “Museum Grade” goes a step beyond this, offering a new level of customization. Usually commissioned by customers, Museum Grade watches feature a case that is 100% customized for the movement inside of it. Where "standard" American Artisan Series pieces use a relatively standardized case design in 46mm and 49mm, one-off Museum Grade cases are designed from the ground up in virtually any size desired. Any customization requests, from precious metals, to aesthetic design features, sizes, etc., are possible. The 36mm watch shown here features a 0size pocket watch movement made by the Waltham Watch Company of Waltham, Massachusetts in 1898. Vortic cast a unique Sterling Silver case around it and created a one-off solid silver crown. Prices range from $2,995 to $9,995. Visit Website

By Edward Jones – October 27, 2017

Rolex "Paul Newman" Daytona Now Most Expensive Watch Ever...

The famous Rolex "Paul Newman" Daytona watch owned by Paul Newman himself has sold for the highest amount ever recorded in an auction for a timepiece.Bidding for the watch, hosted by Phillips in Association with Bacs & Russo, started at a staggering $10 million. With more than 700 people in the room watching the auction take place, competing phone bidders went back and forth until the hammer price of $17.8 million was settled on by the winner. Total length of time spent bidding was 12 minutes.HYT: Another Step Forward into Motorsports with Panis-Barthez Compétition and the H4 Watch "It was an absolute privilege for Phillips to offer Paul Newman's own "Paul Newman" Daytona – arguably the most iconic collector's wristwatch of the 20th century," said Aurel Bacs, Senior Consultant, and Paul Boutros, Head of Watches, Americas. "This record result is a testament to the historic importance and continued legacy of this Rolex, which is responsible for creating an entirely new market and inspiring a new generation of collectors."https://vimeo.com/239889473

By Edward Jones – September 22, 2017

Lamborghini x Roger Dubuis: Excalibur Aventador S

Roger Dubuis and Lamborghini have teamed up for a collaboration that spans from your wrist to the race track. Announced yesterday was the new Huracan Super Trofeo Evo and the fact that Roger Dubuis will be one of the main sponsors for the Super Trofeo series. As for your wrist, Roger Dubuis has unveiled the new Excalibur Aventador S timepiece.There will be two different models of this timepiece, one using multi-layered carbon and the other using C-SMC (same technology used in Lamborghini cars). As for the latter model, it will come in Arancio Argos (orange) and will be limited to only 8 pieces, with the other being limited to 88 pieces in Giallo Orion (yellow). RD103 duotor calibre

By Andrew Nabors – September 19, 2017

Breitling Unveils the Bentley GT Dark Sapphire Edition

All good things come to those who wait, and Bentley is not in the business of beating the clock. Attention to detail is needed to build such luxurious automobiles. As such, an all-new Continental GT has been in the works for years. What began in 2003 has evolved with subtle revisions. But the new 3rd generation will arrive as the most anticipated luxury coupe in years. So Breitling has decided to celebrate the occasion with a new timepiece. Limited to 500 examples, the Bentley GT Dark Sapphire Edition was unveiled at the Frankfurt Auto Show. Taking inspiration from the new car, the dial mirrors the same "diamond in diamond" pattern of Bentley leather. It is also the introduction of Breitlight, their new composite material. Resistant to scratches and corrosion, it is hypo-allergenic and non-magnetic. Movement is provided by their B06 Calibre which is chronometer-certified for accuracy. The 48mm case contains 47 jewels, 70 hours of reserve power, and a Bentley GT rubber strap. Expect to see Breitling and Bentley's latest achievements in our 2017 Watch Guide. Stay with us for all your timekeeping updates.

By Edward Jones – August 24, 2017

ICON 4x4 Reveals Their First Watch: The Duesey

ICON 4x4 is known for their capable renditions of classic vehicles like the Bronco, but not they have entered the world of fine timepieces. Introducing, The Duesey by ICON Watches.I'll start off by saying that this new watch is not a rehash of a watch that already exists. No, this is an entirely new watch that was designed and modeled entirely by Jonathan Ward, the main man behind ICON 4x4. It features a "Jump Hour display with wandering minutes" that perfectly matches the styling you'd find inside one of ICON 4x4's custom vehicles. The watch itself is Swiss manufactured and is extremely limited to only 50 examples. As for the movement, it features the Swiss Dubois-Depraz Automatic 14400 module.Check Out - Floyd Mayweather Says He Just Bought Two LaFerrarisBut, this isn't the only watch ICON Watches will create. They note that they will "move well beyond the traditional automotive design themed watches we have all seen, by drawing from a much deeper well of knowledge and inspiration, free of the constraints of tradition and big brand bureaucracy." I can easily say I'm excited for what they make next!Buy NowFerraris For Sale

By Edward Jones – July 13, 2017

Lux-Tech: Louis Vuitton Tambour Horizon Smartwatch

Many fashion designers have been creating their own smartwatches, and the latest to do so is none other than Louis Vuitton. Just recently, the fashion designer unveiled their Tambour Horizon smartwatch, a timepiece unlike any other that LV has created.Its 1.2-inch AMOLED screen will display all of the information that Android Wear 2.0 can offer. Along with the apps available through the app store, there are a handful of apps that are exclusive to Louis Vuitton, as well as watchfaces. This includes the City Guides app that can guide you into the direction of the finest locations where ever you are. The other is My Flight, which will display up-to-date flight information.Louis Vuitton is currently offering the watch at $2,450. It will work with both Android and iOS devices, and can utilize both Bluetooth and WiFi.Buy Now

By Edward Jones – June 09, 2017

Singer Debuts Their $40,000 Track 1 Watch

The automotive world is very educated about the masterpieces that are known as Singer Vehicle Design Porsches. Each of the customized 911s that Singer creates are customized to be more impeccable in every way than the original. With retro-styling and style that cannot be matched, these $500k+ automobiles are admired across the world.With such a pedigree, Singer decided to take their expertise into another market: the watch market. To do this, they created Singer Reimagined, which will be the company creating their watches.The new Singer Track 1 is an exceptional chronograph that is the first of its kind. Track 1 is the result of a collaboration between Rob Dickinson, founder of Singer, and Marco Borraccino, the designer of the watch with a idea for a new type of chronograph.Instead of creating a typical chronograph with separate small subdials, he wanted to create one that was easier to read. This is why the Track 1 tells time via two rotating dials on the outside and the chronograph features displayed on the face by three hands mounted in the center. Such a face is unlike any other in the watch market, surely making it a watch that will be sought after for years to come.According to A Blog to Watch, each of the Track 1 Launch Editions will cost $40,000 and will be limited to just 50 pieces.

By Edward Jones – May 16, 2017

Gold Rolex "Paul Newman" Sells for $3.7 Million, Most Exp...

At Phillips' recent Geneva Watch Auction, a rare Rolex Daytona known as "The Legend" went up for auction and ended up selling for a record price. The 18k yellow gold Rolex Oyster watch with a "Paul Newman" dial ended up selling for $3.7 million, making it the most expensive Daytona ever sold. This is what Hodinkee.com had to say about the winner of the watch: "The eventual winner even decided to get up and walk out of the auction room before Aurel Bacs finally dropped his gavel. He turned around just in time to hear confirmation of his winning bid, but he was the first person out of the auction room. Perhaps he was just keen on getting his hands on his new watch." That's a pretty epic exit. Most Expensive Sports Cars in the World According to the watch's listing on Phillips.com, it is the three known and correct example of its kind to ever appear in public. They also noted that for decades, a yellow gold Paul Newman wristwatch, like this one with screw down pushers, has been the subject of mystery for collectors and scholars. This was because the existence of such a watch was unknown. Well, now we know that they do exist and they cost a pretty penny.

By Edward Jones – January 06, 2017

Time and Speed: A Look at Cars and Watches

You can’t bring your car into the boardroom, but with an auto-inspired timepiece, you can make the statement anyway.Today’s finest watchmakers are inspired by the auto-racing world. From design to high-tech materials and ultra precision, the synergies between these two mechanical arenas are uncanny.Both were born at just about the same time in the early 1900’s and grew up together right from the start. Early 20th century watches were the driver’s best accompaniment, especially when they began offering chronographs and tachymeter scales.Publishers Pick: Luxury Living in Tampa BayToday, both premier car builders and luxury watchmakers are driven by the quest to track time to the tiniest fraction of a second. Both regularly strive for mechanical perfection – building part upon part, adding complexity after complexity --to achieve the ultimate mechanical machine.Many watchmakers even borrow high-tech lightweight yet rugged materials from the auto industry, including titanium, carbon fiber and aluminium, to help make their watches more durable and more automobile inspired.Additionally, some watch brands partner with car brands to build watches in their name, while others partner with races as official timekeepers, or as sponsors of a team or a driver. Year after year, the partnerships abound, all with the concept of offering today’s discerning customer an auto-inspired timepiece that roars his passion for mechanics and cars right from the wrist. Baume & Mercier Capeland Shelby(R) Cobra 1963 ChronographJust about two years ago, Baume & Mercier partnered with Shelby American to create an all new timepiece inspired by the man behind the legendary Cobra, as well as the cars and the drivers in the golden age of 1960’s racing. This Baume & Mercier Capeland Shelby(R) Cobra 1963 Chronograph is one of two limited edition “Spirit of Competition” watches unveiled this year to celebrate the Cobra 289 victory in 1963 at 12 Hours of Sebring. It is powered by a mechanical self-winding movement and offers chronograph functions, tachymeter scale and date indication. The 44mm case is crafted in steel and the back is engraved with “Shelby® Cobra Edition” “One out of 1963.” Retail: $4,450., www.baume-et-mercier.com TAG Heuer MonzaThis year, TAG Heuer celebrates 40 years of Monza with a numbered special edition watch. The 42mm Monza automatic chronograph is crafted in brushed and polished titanium with a black carbide coated case and bezel. The black dial features chronograph central seconds hand in red and subdials with red accents. Luminescent markers and hands make for easy reading, and the outer flange of the dial features printed tachymeter and pulosometer scales. The watch, powered by the TAG Heuer Caliber 17, features a vintage Heuer logo and “Monza” lettering on the dial. Retail: $5,200., us.tagheuer.com Graham Silverstone RS Racing BlueGraham is involved in races around the world, and its auto-inspired timepieces go the distance. This Graham Silverstone RS Racing watch offers chronograph functions (seconds, 30 minutes, 12 hour counters), as well as a day/date indication, in addition to hours, minutes and seconds. The Caliber G1749 automatic chronograph movement with Incabloc shock absorber powers it. The 46mm stainless steel case sports a blue composite bezel with a white tachymeter scale on it. The sapphire caseback enables viewing of the movement, which offers 48 hours of power reserve. Retail: $5,780., www.graham1695.com Zenith El Primero Range RoverSwiss watch brand, Zenith, has just announced a multi-year partnership with British Land Rover. To inaugurate the relationship, the brand has unveiled the El Primero Range Rover limited edition timepiece. Offered with either a blue or an ivory perforated calfskin strap (backed by rubber), the watch is powered by the 326-part El Primero 400B automatic watch with column-wheel chronograph. The matte gray dial features both the Zenith and Range Rover names and the rotor, visible via a sapphire caseback, is inscribed with both brands’ logos. Retail: $7,700., www.zenith-watches.com Breitling Bentley Mulliner TourbillonFor nearly 15 years, Breitling and Bentley have worked together to create timepieces worthy of both brands when it comes to power, precision and mechanics. Both with winged B signature logos, their partnership seemed destined. The Breitling for Bentley watches house high-performance COSC-certified chronometer movements and a refined aesthetic. This 18-karat rose gold Breitling for Bentley Mulliner Tourbillon chronograph timepiece is a COSC-certified chronometer. It is powered by the brand’s hand-wound Caliber 18B. The dial, with tachymeter bezel, is created in shades taken from the Bentley bodywork options. Retail: $155,000., www.breitling.com Rolex Oyster Perpetual DaytonaRolex has long been intimately involved in the world of auto racing, and its association with Daytona dates back more than half a century, and the brand’s Daytona watch is easily one of the most iconic watches in history. This Oyster Perpetual Rolex Daytona (Ref. 116515LN) is a 40mm Oyster case in the brand’s proprietary Everose gold. The black monobloc Cerachrom bezel is crafted in ceramic and engraved with a tachymeter scale. The Rolex self-winding Caliber 4130 offers perpetual mechanical chronograph and is a Superlative Chronometer (COSC + Rolex certified after casing). Retail: $28,800., www.rolex.com Chopard Superfast Chrono Porsche 919Chopard has entered into a collaboration with Porsche Motorsport as the Official Timing Partner. This Superfast Chrono Porsche 919 Edition, dedicated to the new Porsche 919 hybrid, is a COSCcertified chronometer. Its flyback chronograph allows for timing of multiple events at once. Built in a limited edition of 919 pieces, the 45mm stainless steel watch is powered by the Chopard 03.05-M self-winding mechanical caliber with 60 hours of power reserve. Water resistant to 100 meters, it features a tachymeter scale and has a sapphire caseback engraved with “Official Timing Partner Porsche Motorsport.” Retail: $12,890., www.chopard.com Parmigiani Fleurier Type 390Parmigiani Fleurier works with the famed Bugatti brand to create intriguing three-dimensional watches inspired by the exceptional details of its cars and engines. This all-new Parmigiani Fleurier Bugatti Type 390 Concept Watch represents the newest generation of super car and super watch. The watch is conceived of as a motor bloc on the wrist, with tubular movement and concentric shape. Two barrels ensure constant energy. The watch is equipped with a 60-seconds flying tourbillon for mesmerizing appeal. It is so new that it has not yet been priced, but expect it to retail for approximately $350,000., www.parmigiani.ch Hublot MP-05 LaFerrari SapphireHublot takes its relationship with LaFerrari to new heights with the MP-05 LaFerrari Sapphire – a totally transparent sapphire cased watch that pays tribute to the 1200HP hybrid supercar, FXX K. The incredible engine-inspired case is made from seven blocks of sapphire and it takes more than 600 hours of work to produce a single ultra-light case. The historic 3D movement, (HUB9005.H1.PN.1) of this watch is also made of ultra lightweight carbon compounds. The 637-part movement has 11 barrels and offers an unprecedented 50 hours of power reserve. Retail: $575,000., www.hublot.com

By Nicole Slaughter-Graham – September 14, 2016

Hublot's LaFerrari Sapphire Watch Pays Tribute to the Fer...

The incredible speed, power, agility and performance of the Ferrari FXX K serves as the inspiration for the all new, first ever Hublot animated film, which also features the brand's technologically advanced MP-05 LaFerrari Sapphire timepiece. With the fusion of Swiss movement and exotic materials, the LaFerrari Sapphire is definitely out of this world, as is the film. Hublot gathered 50 of its most prestigious clients, gave them first-class seats in iconic Ferrari models in front of a drive-in style movie screen for the debut.With insane special effects and graphics, Hublot shows the world why it is a leader in innovation in the watchmaking world. The Ferrari FXX K looks better than ever, twisting and turning through rugged, out-of-this-world terrain. Even though superior animation and technology saturate the film, the driving experience feels all too real, and for good reason. As stated in a Hublot piece about the debut of the video and the watch:The whole FXX K environment has been reconstituted with special computer effects. All the images have been animated by a real-life driver at the steering wheel, and the technical features of the car have been configured to provide the most realistic driving experience possible.Both graphics and sound effects are of the highest, most realistic quality, giving viewers the full experience of what it's like to drive the iconic hyper car.Ferrari For SaleCheck out the full video and more information about the Hublot LaFerrari Sapphire in the video below.

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