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 – January 05, 2022

TAG Heuer Releases The Limited-Edition Carrera Tiger

TAG Heuer celebrates the year of the tiger with a new Carrera model. The new year celebrates change and new beginnings, with watch brands on the list as those looking to start off 2022 in good spirit. TAG Heuer is incorporating the 2022 Chinese Zodiac into its new limited-edition release. TAG Heuer is proud to present the new Carrera Tiger, a commemorative model with a design that represents the revealer of one’s strength of character. The TAG Heuer Carrera Tiger features a 41mm case design crafted from stainless steel, which includes a contrasting solid 18k 5N solid rose gold crown. The dial layout presents itself in a texturized blue finish that represents the stripes of a tiger, with additional rose gold highlights incorporated into the indexes and hands. MUST-READ: Its All About Porsche And TAG Heuer For Photographer Richard Pardon Delivering power to the new limited-edition Carrera Tiger is TAG Heuer’s in-house Caliber 5 Automatic movement, capable of holding a 38-hour power reserve under a 100-meter water resistance. The transparent sapphire back is laser etched with an emblematic blue and black tiger decal to signify the special edition model. TAG Heuer sets the new Carrera Tiger on a matching blue leather strap with gold contrast stitching and a steel folding clasp. The all-new TAG Heuer Carrera Tiger is limited to only 300-pieces and is currently available through an authorized dealer for $3,750. Check back into duPont REGISTRY Daily for more luxury watch news and releases. View this post on Instagram A post shared by duPont REGISTRY Watches (@dupontregistry_watches) Source: TAG Heuer

By Jordan Aquistapace – January 04, 2022

Vacheron Constantin Unveils A Piece Unique Grand Complica...

The Vacheron Constantin model that tells a lot more than just time. Timepieces that hold grande complications highlight the craftsmanship, movement technology, and attention to detail behind a luxury watch manufacturer. Vacheron Constantin continues a long-standing tradition of incorporating this complex thought into various one-off examples through its Made-To-Measure Service. Vacheron Constantin is proud to unveil the newest addition to its piece uniqué collection, the Les Cabinotiers Grande Complication Bacchus. The one-of-a-kind timepiece made for a special client represents astronomy and mythology throughout its design. The Les Cabinotiers Grande Complication takes shape as a 47mm case design crafted from 18K 5N Pink Gold, featuring a double-sided face to help display all of its 16 functions. The design also includes detailed hand-crafted engravings of vine leaves that are accompanied by 113 rubies to represent a bunch of grapes. MUST-READ: Omega Reveals The New Speedmaster Caliber 321 18K Canopus Gold Collection for 2022 The front side of the timepiece displays the indications of hours, minutes, small seconds at 6 o’clock on tourbillon carriage, minute repeater, tourbillon, perpetual calendar (date, day of the week, month, leap year), power reserve, equation of time, sunrise time, sunset time, and alarm torque. As if that is not enough, flipping the Vacheron Constantin to its backside will display the sky chart, age and phases of the moon, sidereal hours and minutes, seasons, and zodiac signs. Delivering the power to operate the multitude of functions that the Les Cabinotiers Grand Complication Bacchus is Vacheron Constantin’s in-house 2755 GC16 mechanical movement, which includes 839 components and 42 jewels. Vacheron Constantin adds a dark brown Mississippian alligator leather strap with a hand-engraved 18K 5N pink gold folding clasp and buckle. The all-new Vacheron Constantin Les Cabinotiers Grande Complication Bacchus highlights the true expertise of the watchmakers behind the magnifying loupe. Check back into duPont REGISTRY for more luxury watch news and releases. View this post on Instagram A post shared by duPont REGISTRY Watches (@dupontregistry_watches) Source: Vacheron Constantin

By Jordan Aquistapace – January 04, 2022

Omega Reveals The New Speedmaster Caliber 321 18K Canopus...

A new Speedmaster that pays homage to its original release from 1957. The Omega Speedmaster is defined as one of the most iconic watches in timepiece history, with its legendary chronograph collection first launched in 1957 for professional racing car drivers. Omega is proud to announce the new Speedmaster Caliber 321 18K Canopus Gold as part of its first major release for 2022. The new Omega Speedmaster Caliber 321 Collection features two new models that incorporate the perfect blend of vintage styling and modern movement technology. While the new release marks the 65th anniversary of the first Speedmaster, Omega presents the exclusive 18K white gold alloy case design in its original 38.6mm size from 1957. The traditional deep black onyx dial layout includes Omega’s vintage logo proudly stamped at the 12 o’clock position with three classic Speedmaster subdials that display small seconds, 30-minute, and 12-hour functions. MUST-READ: The Top 10 Best Richard Mille Watches Ever Created Along with its multitude of functions, the re-imagined classic highlights the tachymeter scale on the bezel with the original Speedmaster’s dot over ninety and dot diagonal to seventy. The engine driving power to the new Omega models is the manual-winding Caliber 321, the first movement ever used in the Speedmaster model. The transparent sapphire back case allows for a closer look at the inner workings of the watch, while the outer portion features an engraving of the iconic Speedmaster logo. The Speedmaster Calibre 321 watch is set on an 18K Canopus Gold bracelet with a comfort release adjustment system and is presented in a special wooden box. Crafted with a Rosewood-like pattern in honor of the collection’s 65th anniversary, the shape and design of the box is inspired by the original Speedmaster packaging that customers would have received in 1957. The all-new Omega Speedmaster Caliber 321 18K Canopus Gold Collection is currently available through an authorized dealer starting at $81,000. Check back into duPont REGISTRY Daily for more luxury watch news and releases. View this post on Instagram A post shared by duPont REGISTRY Watches (@dupontregistry_watches) Source: Omega

By Jordan Aquistapace – December 24, 2021

Makes & Movements: Porsche Design GT4 RS Chronograph x Po...

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 718 Cayman GT4 RS Chronograph The Porsche Design brand is a branch of the German automotive manufacture assembled to take the lifestyle of Porsche to of the driver seat and onto the fashion runway. With its collections of luxury apparel and accessories, Porsche Design embodies the same quality and attention to detail as the performance-focused vehicles coming off the production line. As a collaborative effort with the release of the all-new Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS, Porsche Design is proud to welcome the 718 Cayman GT4 RS Chronograph as part of its Exclusive Vehicle Watch Collection. The new Porsche Design Chronograph is meant to highlight all the best qualities of the Porsche GT4 RS while continuing to operate as a functional daily timepiece for any owner. The Porsche Design GT4 RS Chronograph and Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS complement each other perfectly for any on or off-track experience. Porsche Design The commemorative piece is available only for the lucky new owners of the Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS. The Porsche Design GT4 RS Chronograph is presented in two configurations, one being the Weissach Package Edition. The case design is crafted from lightweight titanium, which is offered in natural silver or black PVD. The chronograph dial layout clearly displays the multitude of functions with a choice of black or carbon fiber to style the timepiece. The engine that drives the new GT4 RS Chronograph is Porsche Design’s in-house Calibre WERK 01.200 movement, which provides a lengthy 48-hour power reserve. The transparent backcase features a GT4 RS wheel as the rotor, which allows for a close look at the inner working of the watch. Taking inspiration from the interior of its new performance chassis, Porsche Design adds a comfortable black Alcantara strap with the GT4 RS logo proudly stamped into the center. The all-new Porsche Design GT4 RS Chronograph is available for Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS owners, with the option to further customize the watch for select markets. Porsche Design Why To Buy A “why to buy” quickly turned into a “why to own” considering the Porsche Design 718 Cayman GT4 RS Chronograph is only offered to purchase for new Porsche GT4 RS owners. The styling and performance of the GT4 RS Chronograph by Porsche Design perfectly compliments the all-new Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS. As an exclusive release, this timepiece will grow in collector value for both watch and Porsche enthusiasts. Discover The Porsche Design 718 Cayman GT4 RS Chronograph Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS Porsche presents itself as a brand that continues to push the boundaries of design and performance through its line of versatile sports cars. While every model incorporates an aspect of sports driving, the growing collection of GT cars are what Porsche offers as the closest representation of a track car for the public roads. Since its initial launch in 2015, the Porsche Cayman GT4 grew in popularity as the well-priced track-inspired option that included perfect weight and power distribution. Porsche is proud to take a step further by offering the all-new Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS, the new flagship model in the 718 family. Porsche The new Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS features more performance and a lighter construction to help break the mold of the previous generation Cayman GT4. Starting with the heart of the beast, Porsche adds a naturally-aspirated flat-six engine that revs to 9,000 rpm and makes an impressive 493-horsepower and 331-lb ft of torque. The power is managed through the available options of either an automatic PDK or 6-speed manual transmission, which is Porsche’s homage to keeping three-pedal production cars on the road and track. The exterior of the new Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS incorporates a lightweight carbon fiber front splitter, hood, fender vents, rear diffuser, and swan neck wing to provide the appropriate aerodynamics while at high speeds. While the exterior of the Porsche GT4 RS boasts a modest design for the RS family, the interior layout portrays an aggressive sport-like feel with optioned Weissach Package sport seats, sports Chrono gauge, and carbon fiber trim accents. The welcoming interior design makes it the perfect driving experience for any driver level. The all-new Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS is best described as a mid-engined sports car with racing DNA that offers maximum driving pleasure. Porsche Why To Buy The Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS is the best addition to any garage because of its versatility as a performance supercar for the road and track. Designed as an aggressively modest body style, the Porsche GT4 RS is incognito for most but a head-turning example for any automotive enthusiasts. The configuration process allows each new owner to incorporate their own vision when ordering a 718 Cayman GT4 RS, making each build limitless. Discover the all-new Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS by clicking the link below. Discover The Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS For more Makes and Movements, Check out Makes And Movements: Ernst Benz Chronoscope x Bentley Continental GT Speed

By Edward Jones – December 22, 2021

Graham Chronofighter Vintage Aviator Limited Edition

Presented by Graham 1695 - The new Chronofighter Vintage Aviator Limited Edition provides a sensory experience par excellence. Pull the trigger, feel at one with the watch and awaken the chronograph in the blink of an eye. And then, when life’s pressures threaten to raise your stress levels, touch the crimped edge of the vintage-themed bezel and experience its capacity to soothe the soul. Can you resist touching this latest creation from Graham?To appreciate a timepiece fully, every sense must be employed. Look at the numerous dial details, listen to the sound when winding the crown, inhale the smell of the luxurious leather strap and feel the overall quality through the tips of your fingers. Indeed, touch can reveal much about a watch. The Graham Vintage Aviator Limited Edition features an aviation-themed bezel, inspired by English pilots’ watches produced in the early part of the 20th century. The fixed bezel on this new Graham model invites the wearer to touch its crimped edge, rewarding the senses with a cathartic encounter. However, this new limited-edition model offers much more than smile-inducing tactility. Its luminous modern-style hour and minute hands efficiently impart information, free of ambiguity. They converse with a crisp track, making read-off eminently simple. The blue central chronograph seconds hand is enlivened with a yellow tip, reaching towards the flange and collaborating with a dedicated track, displaying elapsed seconds in a highly lucid form. The dial is not burdened with unnecessary information. A small seconds display is located at 3 o’clock, while a 30-minute chronograph register resides at 6 o’clock. A date aperture is discreetly positioned within the latter subdial, legible but understated. Nothing detracts from the presentation of hours and minutes. Once again, Graham indulges the wearer’s sense of touch with another ergonomically optimized interface, the brand’s legendary trigger. This hugs the left flank of the case, delivering an intuitive means of commanding the chronograph. Its optimal design mitigates the time gap between observing an event and actuating the stopwatch function. The shorter the gap between observing an event and pressing the trigger, the more validity the recorded elapsed time really has. It is for this reason that the trigger is operated with the thumb, the fastest-acting digit. Another benefit of positioning the combined crown and trigger on the left is that it confers superior wearer comfort. Often when a watch is worn and the wearer flexes their wrist, the protrusions on the right flank of the case gouge the wrist, chafe the skin or inhibit free movement. The left-handed trigger sidesteps such problems. The Graham Vintage Aviator Limited Edition is housed in a 44mm stainless steel case that is united with a glass box sapphire crystal, imbuing the watch with a wonderfully retro aesthetic. At the heart of the watch is a Swiss automatic movement, conferring both precision and reliability. The model is limited to just 100 pieces and is available worldwide from all authorized Graham retailers or www.graham1695.com. Visit Graham1695.com

By Jordan Aquistapace – December 20, 2021

Watch Porsche Design Sit Down With Rod Emory To Talk Cust...

Build a Porsche Design watch to match your favorite custom Porsche. Since the earliest days of Porsche, creative individuals found ways to reimagine models using design, technology, and performance to add a sense of personalization. When it comes to customizing Porsche vehicles, vintage builder Rod Emory is the most well-known throughout the industry. The passion starts with an “old rusty 356” and continues to the present day, where Emory Motorsports operates as a successful shop that restores and customizes Porsche 356 builds for its clientele. With his close ties to Porsche and the world of customization, Rod Emory sits down with the timepiece professionals at Porsche Design to talk watches. Rod explains his passion for the brand and even gives insight into his growing collection of custom Porsche Design timepieces. MUST-READ: Makes & Movements: Porsche Design GT4 RS Chronograph x Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS In a video released to the Porsche Design Instagram page, Rod explains the steps of designing a timepiece to match his Porsche 911 GT3 RS using the configuration process. The breakdown of choosing each custom component helps to highlight the 1.5 million possible designs, giving Rod the idea of incorporating the process into his one-of-a-kind customer experience. The Porsche Design custom timepiece collection embodies all that Rod Emory and Emory Motorsports stand for in the automotive world. Shop and configure the custom timepieces from Porsche Design by clicking the link below. Check back into duPont REGISTRY Daily for more luxury watch news and releases. Shop Porsche Design Timepieces View this post on Instagram A post shared by duPont REGISTRY Watches (@dupontregistry_watches) Source: Porsche Design

By Jordan Aquistapace – December 20, 2021

Vacheron Constantin Reveals The Complete Calendar Openfac...

Vacheron Constantin shows off its engineering with two new examples. While the construction of modern luxury timepieces highlights the design behind each example, the true beauty lies behind the dial where the movement intricately operates. With a growing interest in exposing the inner workings of a timepiece, industry leaders create unique collections dedicated to skeletonized models. The timepiece professionals at Vacheron Constantin are proud to release its new Complete Calendar Openface Collection, featuring two variations that sport precious metal designs. The new Complete Calendar Openface Collection presents itself as a 41mm chronograph crafted from a choice of 18k Pink Gold or 18k White Gold. The skeletonized dial design includes a 31-day calendar that surrounds the inner bezel, with Month, Date, and Moon functions. MUST-READ: The 2021 duPont REGISTRY Holiday Watch Gift Guide Delivering power to the new release from Vacheron Constantin is an in-house 2460 QLC/2 self-winding movement, capable of holding a 40-hour power reserve under a 30-meter water resistance. The transparent backcase of the Complete Calendar Openface provides a secondary view of the mechanism behind the grand complication, while the outer portion features engravings to signify the special release. The traditional styling of Vacheron Constantin is incorporated into its luxurious grey Mississippiensis alligator leather strap and metal-matching Adrillon buckle. The all-new Vacheron Constantin Complete Calendar Openface Collection is now available through an authorized retailer with a price tag of $47,300. Check back into duPont REGISTRY Daily for more luxury watch news and releases. View this post on Instagram A post shared by duPont REGISTRY Watches (@dupontregistry_watches) Source: Vacheron Constantin

By Roberta Naas – December 17, 2021

The 2021 duPont REGISTRY Holiday Watch Gift Guide

A selection of the best luxury timepieces on the market for the holiday season. The holidays are upon us and that means it’s time for some evening soirees, a black tie New Year’s Eve or some other exciting holiday event. Sure, it’s easy to don a tux or a nice dark suit, maybe even dress it up with an eccentric bow tie. But the real measure of elegance comes down to the watch you wear on your wrist. And don’t even think about going without a watch; that’s like being naked in a boardroom. Watches are a real status symbol today, perhaps more so than ever before. During the pandemic, many a collector (car, watch, coin, whiskey – you name it) indulged in their passions instead of traveling. That means sales of the finest timepieces were on the rise. Sometimes rampantly so. Additionally, interest in the certified pre-owned watch market surged as the waiting lists for new watches from top brands were too unwieldy for enthusiasts to grapple with. This all translates to a real cognizance about the importance of watches. So, to look your best and to show off just a little this holiday season, don a watch. Don’t be fooled, either, into thinking that the watch needs to be a classic three-hands gold watch. There is a surge in the sales of stainless steel watches, as well. Including those with integrated bracelets. In fact, this go-for-the-steel concept has collectors all over the world vying for stainless steel watches – driving the prices of steel almost as high as gold, and in some instances, higher. With all of these new watch trends on the rise, now more than ever, elegance translates to a host of different styles. Longines may say it best in their tag line, “Elegance is an attitude.” It isn’t a price, it isn’t a style, it is what you want it to be. Sure, elegant watches can be classic watches, maybe even icons like the Cartier Tank or the Jaeger-Le-Coultre Reverso. They can also be timepieces that are re-editions of yesteryear watches or vintage-inspired pieces. Sometimes these watches, usually with a great back story, are real conversation starters and nothing says “elegant” like a watch inspired by the art deco era, the vivacious 1950’s and even the brazen 1970’s. Kerbedanz Cadanz by Kerbedanz Cruise Date An all new line from Kerbedanz, the new Cadanz collection is decidedly modern and geometric in appeal. Thanks to the three different diameter sizes (32mm, 36mm, 41mm) that the contemporary Cadanz watches are created in, they are a perfect unisex watch. This collection marks the brand’s foray into series-production watches, in addition to its one-off s and limited edition timepieces. Distinguishing marks of the Cadanz line include a center dial that is beautifully guilloche’ and a crown at 2:00 on the case instead of 3:00 for better ergonomics. An automatic movement with 189 parts and 50 hours of power reserve powers the watches. This Cadanz Cruise Date watch boasts a silver dial with blue hands and a bold orange rubber strap. The case is bezel-less and allows for a much larger viewing of the dial, which is especially nice since this model boasts an arched aperture at 2:00 to display the date. This version is crafted in stainless steel with double-sided anti-reflective sapphire crystals. Price: $10,600 Shop Now Cadanz by Kerbedanz Signature Date This Cadanz by Kerbedanz Signature Date watch offers hours, minutes, seconds and date display in a classical look, but with a twist. The crown is placed at 2:00 on the case for a contemporary appeal and for ergonomics. The small circular window display at 2:00 on the dial showcases the date. The navy blue sunray dial boasts silver hands and markers, as well as stylized numerals for great readability. The Signature Date watch is powered by the Automatic KRB-05 caliber with 189 components and 50 hours of power reserve. It is water resistant to 3 ATM. The bold blue matching strap is made of rubber with an orange lining on the wrist side. Price: $10,600 Shop Now Ernst Benz ChronoLunar Officer DLC Swiss-made to exacting standards, Ernst Benz watches are all about legibility and performance. Powered by mechanical movements meant to accompany the wearer anywhere, these instruments are also aesthetically appealing and make a statement all their own. A prime example is the ChronoLunar Officer DLC watch whose stealth black Diamond Like Carbon coating on stainless steel make this watch ultra-appealing. Aptly named ChronoLunar, the watch is combination chronograph offering hours and minute counters and central seconds hand, as well as a calendar complete with lunar or moonphase indicator. Thanks to an outer chapter ring, it offers date indication, and via apertures at 12:00 within the minutes register, it displays day and month. The layout offers both harmonious balance and incredible readability. The black dial is off set nicely by soft yellow accents and luminescent hands and markers. Available in 44mm and 47mm. It is powered by an automatic Valjoux 7751 movement. Price: $8,275 Shop Now ChronoLunar A tried and true precision instrument with classic lines and contemporary appeal, the stainless steel ChronoLunar watch boasts all of the functions of the ChronoLunar Officer DLC (chronograph, moonphase, day, date, month), but does so in a way that offers city chic appeal thanks to the polished 47mm (also available in 44mm) case and the white dial with white luminous applied numbers and hands. The watch even boasts a transparent sapphire exhibition case back for viewing the automatic Valjoux 7751 movement with such high-tech components as Incabloc shock protection, Glucydur Balance, Nivarox Alloy Hairspring and more. The knurled crown is fitted with a double-O ring and the entire watch is water resistant to 50 meters. It is finished with a handmade alligator strap. Price: $7,625 Shop Now Orbita Sparta Bold A great holiday gift or self-purchase, the entry-level Sparta Bold collection of watch winders are ideal for use in a safe since they are battery operated and don’t need to be plugged in. This single-watch winder is equipped with long-life lithium D cell batteries that operate on Orbita’s 8-minute winding cycle, 12-minute winding cycle or even an extended winding cycle that can be selected using a toggle switch behind the mounting cup. The longer the cycle selected, the longer the batteries live, with most lasting for years. Orbita American-made winders gently swing the watches on the mounting cup in a way that emulates the natural wrist movement. Price: $295 Shop Now Siena A beautiful statement piece on any dresser, this three-watch Orbita Siena watch winder is classically elegant. When closed, the box features a beveled glass panel on the sloped front that allows for viewing of the three watches within. Superbly finished hinges raise the lid with little effort and securely hold it in place for easy removal of any watch. The interior of the box is finished in soft suede and the outer surfaces are crafted in wood that is lacquered with a high-gloss polyester finish. Naturally, the base of the winder is suede covered in order to not inflict damage on furniture tops. The rotor-wind technology is powered by batteries (beneath the drive modules) and can be set to different winding times. Price: $1,995 Shop Now Vortic Watch Company The Springfield 439 A magnificent timepiece from Illinois Watch Company that Vortic has beautifully restored, this unique wristwatch was once a pocket watch. Vortic Watch Company is dedicated to finding useable American-made pocket watches of yesteryear and restoring them in their American workshops in Colorado. In an effort to preserve the legacy of American watchmaking, Vortic combines traditional and cutting-edge technology to create its small batch custom watches. This wristwatch is powered by a restored American-made pocket watch movement and boasts an original dial and hands. The watch measures 46mm in diameter and was originally made in Springfield, IL in 1920. The dial has garnered a beautiful patina and the beauty of the blue stylized numerals are underscored by the blued hands and a rich blue leather strap. The onion-type crown at 12:00 is accented in gold against the stainless steel case. From the sapphire case back, one can view the 101-year-old movement with rose gold gears and 17 screw-set jewels. Price: $2,995 Shop Now The Military Third Edition Known for finding antique pocket watches, restoring the original movements, and converting them into wristwatches, Vortic takes its job seriously – paying close attention to every detail. Taking America-made watches of yesterday and updating them for today in wristwatch format, Votic just released its third-generation Military Edition wristwatch on Veteran’s Day, November 2021. Just 50 Military Edition watches are released annually. Each houses the original movement, hands and dial. This watch is the Master Navigation watch that was issued during World War II to the US Army Air Corps for bomber pilots. It was the first of its kind to keep 24-hour military time while also acting as a stop-watch. The dark black dial sits beautifully in a stainless steel wristwatch case with curved lugs and finished with a military style khaki canvas strap. Price: $6,995 Shop Now

classic fusion aerofusion aspen snowmass 45 mm ad shot

By Jordan Aquistapace – December 16, 2021

Hublot Releases The New Limited-Edition Classic Fusion Ae...

Hublot celebrates 75-years of Aspen Snowmass with a commemorative Classic Fusion model. The Hublot brand is best known for its limited-edition collaboration timepieces that reimagine classic models with creative design characteristics and hidden features. Hublot is proud to present the all-new Classic Fusion Aerofusion Aspen Snowmass to commemorate the iconic ski resort’s 75th Anniversary. The new Classic Fusion Aerofusion Aspen Snowmass presents itself as a 45mm limited-edition chronograph crafted from black and white ceramic to signify the winter months of operation. The skeletonized dial design makes for a perfectly open view of the inner workings of the timepiece while providing a multitude of efficient and easy-to-use functions. MUST-READ: Hublot Releases The $106,000 Classic Fusion Takashi Murakami Sapphire Rainbow Delivering power to the limited-edition Classic Fusion Aerofusion is Hublot’s in-house HUB1155 self-winding chronograph movement, which holds an impressive 42-hour power reserve while operating under a 50-meter water resistance. The transparent backcase includes the Aspen Snowmass logo laser etched on the sapphire crystal, with the outer potion featuring engravings to signify the special release. The matching white calfskin leather and black rubber strap ensures a comfortable daily wear for any watch collector or enthusiast. The all-new Hublot Classic Fusion Aerofusion Aspen Snowmass is limited to only 25-pieces and is currently available for $18,500 by clicking the link below. Check back into duPont REGISTRY Daily for more luxury watch news and releases. Shop Hublot x Aspen Snowmass View this post on Instagram A post shared by Hublot (@hublot) Source: Hublot

By Jordan Aquistapace – December 15, 2021

Stephen Curry Gifts New Rolexes To Draymond Green And And...

Celebrating a new all-time 3-point shooter with a pair of Rolexes. The gesture of gifting to celebrate success with colleagues usually includes a bottle of champagne and a toast, but for NBA superstar Stephen Curry the appropriate thank you gift is a luxury watch. In a video recently uploaded to the ESPN YouTube channel, Steph surprises his teammates Draymond Green and Andre Iguodala with a pair of brand new Rolexes outside the locker room. MUST-READ: Keanu Reeves Gifts The John Wick 4 Stunt Cast With New Rolex Submariners The special event took place as a thank you after Stephen Curry broke the all-time 3-point record at Madison Square Garden. Although the camera view is just out of reach to accurately decipher the exact model, the oyster bracelet on Draymond Green’s watch leads us to believe it's a sports model. The kind gesture from Stephen Curry is celebrated with hugs and handshakes from the NBA professionals, along with a quick moment to help size the watches. Check back into duPont REGISTRY Daily for more celebrity watch news and luxury watch releases. Source: ESPN YouTube

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