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 Edward Jones – February 22, 2021

New OMEGA Seamaster Diver 300M America’s Cup Chronograph ...

OMEGA is celebrating their role as the Official Timekeeper of the 36th America's Cup with their new Seamaster Diver 300M America’s Cup Chronograph. This new timepiece is 44mm chronograph with a blue ceramic dial and bezel ring that match the deep hues of the ocean. The relationship between the ocean and this watch is furthered by the wave-pattern found on the dial. Contrasting against the blue are the red details on the ‘regatta countdown indicator ring’, small seconds hand, central seconds chronograph hand, one of the rubber pushers, and 'Seamaster' logo. What's more interesting a bout this new timepiece is its Quick Change system that allows its wearer to swap out the strap with the press of button. The OMEGA Seamaster Diver 300M America’s Cup Chronograph comes with a special presentation box and Source: OMEGA

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By Jordan Aquistapace – February 04, 2021

Omega Unveils The Seamaster Diver 300M "Beijing 2022" Oly...

As the official timekeeper of the Olympic Winter Games Bejing 2022, Omega is preparing for the global event with a special-edition watch. The Seamaster Diver 300M “Beijing 2022” Special Edition features a 42 mm case crafted from stainless steel and includes a unique grade 5 titanium bezel ring with a 60-minute diving scale. The sun-brush dial features laser-engraved waves along with Super-LumiNova indexes and hands. As a special tribute to Beijing 2022, there are five special minute-markers at 2H, 4H, 8H, 10H, and 12H, with each one created in the five colors of the iconic Olympic Rings. On the backcase is an engraving indicating the 30th occasion with the Beijing 2022 Olympic logo in polished steel. As we think back to past Olympic edition examples, it is easy to see that this will be a collector’s example for any watch enthusiast. The Omega Seamaster Diver 300M “Beijing 2020” will be available through an authorized dealer this time next year, just in time for the sport-focused festivities. For more Watch news, Check out Makes And Movements: Koenigsegg Agera X Jacob & Co. Astronomia Tourbillon

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

By Jordan Aquistapace – January 05, 2021

Omega Releases Its 4th Generation Speedmaster Moonwatch ...

The Omega Speedmaster continues to hold significant relevance within the community of watch collectors and enthusiasts, as it was the model worn when Buzz Aldrin first stepped on the moon. The Swiss watch manufacturer is proud to announce the 4th generation of the Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional Collection. The watch features an asymmetrical 42mm case in stainless steel covered in optional hesalite or sapphire crystal glass. Each model is driven by the Omega 3861 manual-winding chronograph movement with Co-Axial escapement. A power reserve of 50 hours and 50-meter water resistance makes the new Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional a perfect watch to wear daily. Although a traditional nylon and leather versions are still available, the stainless-steel bracelet is redesigned using a new clasp sporting the Omega logo. The 4th generation Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional is currently available via waitlist through the company site. Shop the new Speedmaster release from Omega by clicking the link below. Shop Now

By Jordan Aquistapace – December 14, 2020

Omega Unveils Two De Ville Trésor Watches For One Great C...

Omega is proud to announce the release of two special versions of the De Ville Trésor model to help support Orbis, an international non-profit NGO. The Omega De Ville Trésor is a 40mm stainless-steel watch sporting a domed gradient blue dial with polished hands and applied domed indexes in 18K white gold. The difference between the two new models is that Omega is offering a polished stainless-steel bezel or a factory diamond-set bezel option. The simplistic design of the Omega De Ville Trésor features a blue ombre dial that flows to the matching blue large-scale alligator leather strap. The hidden feature that separates this Orbis model from the traditional De Ville Trésor, is an Orbis Teddy Bear that replaces the number 8 on the date indicator. A charming mascot shaded in the same light blue as the varnished second's hand. Each watch purchased will result in proceeds donated to Orbis and its team of high-trained medical professionals to help move forward in the fight against illnesses. Visit the link below to learn more about the newest release from Omega, as well as the other collections. Shop Omega

By Jordan Aquistapace – December 09, 2020

Omega Introduces 5 New Dials To The De Ville Prestige Col...

The attention to detail within each luxury timepiece highlights the craftsmanship and design, while the use of precious metals and color lure the eyes of watch enthusiasts. Omega ensiles this combination in their watch collections, most recently with the classic De Ville Prestige. The Swiss watchmaker announces five new dial designs that are sure to turn heads. The 39.5mm watch now features two Stainless-Steel and 18k Red Gold models paired with Silver, Linen, Greened, or Blued dials. The movement driving the uniquely design Omega De Ville Prestige Collection is the Co-Axial Calibre 2500. Except for the power reserve model, which draws on OMEGA’s Co-Axial Calibre 2627. There are leather straps and matching bracelet options available depending on the case material. Shop the colorful Omega De Ville Prestige Collection by clicking the link below. Shop Now

By Jordan Aquistapace – October 05, 2020

Omega Announces The Speedmaster "Silver Snoopy Award" 50t...

To most people, Snoopy is viewed as an animated beagle that plays a key role in the comic strip Peanuts. Watch enthusiasts view the character in a different light, as a staple part of the Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Collection. Omega watches that have featured the comic style beagle in the past have gone on to be some of the most sought-after pieces that the Swiss watch company has released. Omega has announced the release of the Speedmaster “Silver Snoopy Award” 50 Anniversary, commemorating the watch’s vital support during the rescue of Apollo 13. The Speedmaster features a 42mm case, with a silver and blue color combination on the chronograph style dial. Snoopy is seen on the 9 o’clock sub-dial, as well as the beautifully designed back case. The matching blue strap is made from coated nylon, ensuring comfortable wear. The Omega Speedmaster “Silver Snoopy Award” 50th Anniversary is available by clicking the link below. Shop Now " width="680">

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By Jordan Aquistapace – September 28, 2020

Omega Celebrates Rory McIlroy With A Special Edition Spee...

Rory McIlroy has a close partnership with Omega, to which both have been perfecting their crafts since the beginning. A special edition Speedmaster ’57 is being created to commemorate a significant achievement in Rory’s past. At the age of 16, the professional golfer set a course record at Royal Portrush Golf Club with a score of 61. This event helped push him into the next stage of his career. The Omega Speedmaster ’57 Rory McIlroy Special Edition uses gold as the material throughout the watch. The 41.5mm case holds Omega’s 9301 calibre that has a power reserve of 60 hours. The uniquely designed sub-dials are designed with a 60-second and 12-hour function. When illuminated at night the 9 o’clock sub-dial clarifies numbers 16 and 61, which cannot be viewed during the day. Other than gold, black accents are found on the dial and tachymeter to compliment the precious metal. The Special Edition Omega Speedmaster ’57 Rory McIlroy is priced at $34,600 and currently available for preorder by clicking the link below. Shop Now

By Edward Jones – December 06, 2019

New Omega Seamaster Inspired by James Bond 'No Time To Di...

In the upcoming 'No Time To Die' James Bond film, 007 will be wearing a special new Omega Seamaster watch. Guess what? You can actually buy this very watch. The new Seamaster Diver 300M 007 Edition was designed in collaboration with Daniel Craig and the producers of the film. The timepiece itself comes in at 42 mm and built out of grade 2 titanium. Omega used a "tropical brown" aluminum for the dial and bezel ring, adding style and decreasing the timepiece's weight. Omega is releasing the Seamaster Diver 300M 007 Edition as a non-limited edition and it will be available in their collection starting in February 2020. See More Watch News Girard-Perregaux Laureato Absolute Rock Now Available duPont REGISTRY 2019 Sports Watch Guide OMEGA James Bond Limited Edition Set Revealed Carbon Fiber Casio G-Shock MT-G Announced HYT Soonow Drop One Watch Announced Source: Omega

By Edward Jones – November 26, 2019

OMEGA James Bond Limited Edition Set Revealed

In September, OMEGA announced the new Seamaster Diver 300M James Bond Limited Edition watch and it was an instant hit. To continue to the success of this watch, OMEGA is now releasing the Seamaster Diver 300M James Bond Limited Edition Set. Just 257 sets have been created and each comes in a Globe-Trotter™ suitcase. Inside are two Seamaster Diver 300M James Bond Limited Edition timepieces, along with a few extras. The first has a stainless steel case with a black rubber strap, black ceramic bezel and white enamel diving scale. The second watch comes in 18k yellow gold with a black rubber strap, 18k yellow gold bucks, 18k white gold case plate and black ceramic bezel. This watch also has a diving scale in OMEGA Ceragold™. OMEGA also included a few extra pieces in the set that go together perfect with the watches. An extra stainless steel bracelet, two NATO straps and more come in the set. For more information, click here. More Watch News: Carbon Fiber Casio G-Shock MT-G Announced HYT Soonow Drop One Watch Announced What Exactly is a Sports Watch? Singer Reimagined Track1 Emirates Edition Motorsports-Inspired Chronoswiss Regulator Classic Carbon Racer Revealed

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