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McLaren W1 First Drive: Ferocious Hypercar Transcends the Track

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

By Jordan Aquistapace – January 18, 2021

Roger Dubuis Releases A Limited Edition Excalibur Double ...

Complicated movements encased inside luxury handcrafted timepieces are view more as a piece of art than a mechanism that drives a watch. Each model from Roger Dubuis portrays the movement as the main design feature, giving the owner a closer look at how it operates. The watchmaker is proud to announce yet another grand complication, the Excalibur Double Flying tourbillon. The new collection by Roger Dubuis includes three styles, including rose gold, white gold, and rose gold/diamond set. The full skeleton dial focuses on the craftsmanship of the Roger Dubuis Excalibur with subtle markings indicating numerals. The two Two tourbillon carriages entirely made of titanium for a power reserve of 72 hours are located at the 5 and 7 o’clock positions. Each of the three models is limited to 8 pieces each, making the already special timepiece even more collectible for watch enthusiasts. The Roger Dubuis Excalibur Double Winding Tourbillon Collection is currently available, starting at $273,500. For more Watch news, Check out Makes And Movements: Porsche 911 Heritage Design Edition x Porsche Design Heritage Chronograph

By Jordan Aquistapace – January 15, 2021

The New Hublot Big Bang Integral Collection Features The ...

The Big Bang Collection by Hublot remains an iconic model, with an array of styles, designs, and special editions. The one aspect that all Big Bang models have in common is the comfortable non-metal bands fitted to each until now. Hublot is proud to announce the release of the Big Bang Integral Collection. The first Big Bang with an integrated bracelet since its release 15 years ago. The 42mm chronograph is released in three materials inextricably linked to the history of Hublot: lightweight titanium, hard-wearing, scratch-proof ceramic (500 pieces), and King Gold, a unique alloy of gold, copper, and platinum, which results in an intensely red 18-carat gold and is exclusive to Hublot. The newly styled chronograph from Hublot uses the HUB1280 UNICO movement, which holds a 3-day power reserve. The Hublot Big Bang Integral is an example of a watch manufacturer successfully adapting to new ideas. For more Hublot news, Check out Hublot Releases A $348,000 Rainbow And Gold Inspired Big Bang Unico

By Jordan Aquistapace – January 14, 2021

Jacob & Co. Unveils The Astronomia Solar Baguette Dragon ...

The Astronomia Collection by Jacob & Co. is not only an iconic series in the fleet. It is also a blank canvas for the most unique creations of the NYC-based manufacturer. The most recent design is the Astronomia Solar Baguette Dragon and Tiger, a 47mm 18K rose gold flying tourbillon covered in 144 finely place white baguette diamonds. Intertwined throughout the dial are dragon and tiger figures, rotating around the notorious 3D spinning globe. The piece unique example features a large-scale green alligator leather strap, contrasting the shine from the 18K rose gold. The Jacob & Co. Astronomia Solar Baguette Dragon and Tiger is yet another example of how the luxury timepiece manufacturer continues to break the molds of traditional watch design. For more Jacob & Co. news, Check out Conor McGregor Shows Off His New Rolls-Royce And Jacob & Co. Astronomia Tourbillon

By Jordan Aquistapace – January 14, 2021

Conor McGregor Shows Off His New Rolls-Royce And Jacob & ...

It is clear to anyone who watches UFC that Conor McGregor’s style is just as important as the fights that make him a champion. On the other end of the spectrum, most watch enthusiasts know him as an avid collector with some of the rarest and unique examples on the market. The Irish MMA professional took to Instagram to show off one of the new watches in his collection. A Jacob & Co. Astronomia covered in meticulously placed diamonds throughout the case with a large scale blue alligator leather strap. In the short clip, Conor styles the seven-figure luxury timepiece with a new 2021 Rolls-Royce Dawn and custom-tailored light blue suit. It is an example that people from all backgrounds and industries share the same passion for luxury timepieces, opening the doors to new opportunities. Conor McGregor’s Car Collection For more Celebrity Watch news, Check out Angelus Watches Introduces Thibault Magnin As New Brand Ambassador https://www.instagram.com/p/CKBy1crJeiP/

By Jordan Aquistapace – January 13, 2021

H. Moser & Cie Release A Limited Edition Endeavour Concep...

For some watch enthusiasts, the true beauty of a luxury timepiece lies behind the dial, where complicated movements drive the piece. H. Moser & Cie applied that thought into its new Endeavour Concept Minute Repeater Tourbillon featured in Electric Blue. Inside the 43mm titanium case sits a blank blue dial, while a majority of the attention is on the transparent tourbillon located at 6 o’clock. An in-house HMC 903 caliber drives a minute repeater with hour, quarter-hour, and minute chimes. The H. Moser & Cie Endeavour Concept Minute Repeater Tourbillon collection is limited to 20 examples, each engraved on the transparent backcase to signify the production numbers. A hand-stitched black alligator leather strap with a matching titanium clasp pulls the sleek design together. Check back in for more releases from H. Moser & Cie, as well as all other watch news. For more Watch news, Check out Angelus Watches Introduces Thibault Magnin As New Brand Ambassador

By Jordan Aquistapace – January 13, 2021

Angelus Watches Introduces Thibault Magnin As New Brand A...

In the world of fine handcrafted timepieces, brand ambassadors play a significant role, putting watches to the test in various areas of expertise. It is the best way to market towards watch enthusiasts, revealing the functionality, style, and new technology behind new models. Angelus is proud to announce its new brand ambassador, Thibault Magnin, a talented young Spanish-Swiss skier in the world freestyle scene specializing in big air and slope-style. The adventure driven professional chose an Angelus U41 Tourbillon to take to the slopes, helping enthusiasts realize that complicated movements are great for daily wear. Check back in for more news on Angelus timepieces. For more Watch news, Check out Seiko x NEIGHBORHOOD Announce A Limited Edition Prospex Watch

By Jordan Aquistapace – January 12, 2021

Seiko x NEIGHBORHOOD Announce A Limited Edition Prospex W...

Seiko continues to differentiate its classic collections with limited edition collaboration models that help introduce the watch world to new enthusiasts. Seiko Japan recently announced a collaboration project with NEIGHBORHOOD, an iconic Japanese streetwear brand founded in 1994 by Shinsuke Takizawa. The limited-edition example presented as a Seiko Prospex is a 44.3mm diving inspired timepiece with a design versatile for any occasion. The black stainless-steel case features a unique grey bezel and matching black dial with the NEIGHBORHOOD logo printed in vibrant red. The backcase includes the classic wave stamp, approving that it is a dive inspired timepiece, as well as an engraving signifying the limited edition collaboration. The Seiko x NEIGHBORHOOD Prospex SBDY077 is a Japan-only release with 1000 pieces limited to in-store availability on January 15th, 2021. For more Watch news, Check out Chopard Releases A Limited Edition L.U.C XP Urushi Spirit Of Shí Chen Timepiece

By Jordan Aquistapace – January 11, 2021

Chopard Releases A Limited Edition L.U.C XP Urushi Spirit...

When it comes to luxury hand-made timepieces, there is a fine line between design and state-of-the-art technology. Chopard is watch manufacture that tends to balance this equation perfectly with models such as the L.U.C Collection. The Swiss watchmaker is proud to announce a limited-edition model that stems from the Élégance branch of the collection. The Chopard L.U.C XP Urushi Spirit of Shí Chen is a 40mm Rose Gold automatic watch. The animals of the zodiac that symbolize the hours. They slowly rotate along on an Urushi lacquer disk featuring the symbol of prosperity and its god Lu Xing. The backcase of the timepiece includes a sapphire transparent case that features engravings signifying the limited edition release. A large black square alligator leather strap pairs well with the luxury watch, adding contrast to the rose gold and black dial. The Chopard L.U.C XP Urushi Spirit of Shí Chen is currently available through an authorized dealer. For more Chopard news, check out Chopard Celebrates Luftgekühlt With A Special Edition Mille Miglia GTS Watch

By Jordan Aquistapace – January 11, 2021

Skagen Releases Falster 3 Smartwatch Collection By Intern...

As an international DJ, Norwegian artist Kygo has to stay connected throughout the day, which means that all of his essentials must keep up with his electrified lifestyle. The Denmark watch manufacturer, Skagen, is following that way of life with a new smartwatch collection. The Skagen Falster 3 by Kygo is the 3rd generation of connected watches, recently announced at CES 2021. The Falster 3 features a minimalist design incorporated into the 42mm stainless steel case. The latest Falster takes an evolutionary leap with proprietary battery-saving modes, double the storage, 1GB of RAM, and new speaker functionality. The speaker allows users, both Android and iPhone, to make and receive phone calls directly from their Bluetooth-enabled watch. The Skagen Falster by Kygo is currently for $295 with an array of colors and strap materials. Click below to shop the new release from Skagen x Kygo. For more Watch new, Check out Omega Releases Two New Gold 4th Generation Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional Models Shop Now

By Jordan Aquistapace – January 07, 2021

Omega Releases Two New Gold 4th Generation Speedmaster Mo...

Recently, we covered Omega releasing its 4th generation Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional, which includes two versions made from stainless-steel. The second round of Speedmasters added to the collection are made from Sedna (Yellow) and Canopus (White) Gold. The precious metal versions of the iconic watch worn during the first trip to the moon also include sapphire crystals covering the dial and transparent backcase. Each Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional features a matching gold bracelet and a newly designed clasp. The 42mm chronograph timepieces are currently available through Omega, the Sedna Gold version for $34,800, and the Canopus Gold for $45,300. For more Omega news, Check out Omega Releases Its 4th Generation Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional Collection

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