Watches & Wonders 2021 Archives

The Future Of Panerai Is Sustainble

Panerai has made it very clear this edition of Watches & Wonders, where its future lies. With the Submersible eLad-ID they have introduced a watch that sets the new standard for recycled products within the watch industry, as by weight, 98.6 percent of the Submersible eLab-ID was used in a previous product. The brand was also very clear that reusing such a high percentage of materials was not easy to achieve. Panerai achieved this by teaming up with its suppliers, tackling the challenges as a joint effort. To ensure that other watch brands don't have to go through these same hoops and invent the wheel once more, Panerai even disclosed its partners and invited the rest of the industry to approach them and start using (more) recycled products in their own collections. This is an unprecedented step in which Panerai sends a clear signal to the rest of the industry that becoming more sustainable is a joint effort that surpasses the interests of the luxury groups and even that of individual brands.

By Martin Green

The Hottest Ladies Watches Of Watches & Wonders 2021

Watches & Wonders was a great success, even though it was with the exception of the event in Shanghai, a virtual event. The watch brands quickly adapted to the new reality and dazzled from abroad through the digital channels. What, fortunately, didn't change was the vast amount of amazing watches that they introduced. For men, but also for ladies, there are plenty of new models to choose from. A current trend for women's watches is that mechanical movements are the new standard, of course, accompanied by a generous dash of elegance.

Louis Vuitton Seizes The Day With Complex New Tambour Carpe Diem

Louis Vuitton's 'La Fabrique du Temps' houses not only a tremendous amount of expertise but also a great deal of passion. In the past, we have already seen that the two combined can result in tantalizing creations that redefy watchmaking. With the new Tambour Carpe Diem, Louis Vuitton succeeds in that again by bringing to life a skull and snake that not only tells the time but also serves as a constant reminder to savor it.

Rolex Continues The Subtle Art Of Evolution In All Of Its New 2021 Models

Rolex has always been a brand that honors evolution. For this, they have a good reason, given the fact that many, if not all, of their watches have become the benchmark in their category. In 2021, they further refine their offerings, proving that evolution can be very exciting.

Haute Complication: Patek Philippe’s New Ref. 5236P-001 In-line Perpetual Calendar

The perpetual calendar is a complication that has always held an important place in the history of Patek Philippe. In 1925 the brand already launched its very first perpetual calendar wristwatch, and in 1941 the brand introduced Ref.1518, combining a perpetual calendar with a chronograph, something that has never been done before on a watch made in series. Patek Philippe always had a strong presence when it came to pocket watches as well, and in 1972 they introduced a novel perpetual calendar with in-line display. Now, part of its rich legacy in this field merges with the introduction of the new Ref. 5236P-001 In-line Perpetual Calendar.

Zenith Takes The Defy Into The Extreme

With the launch of the new Defy, Zenith is taking this collection into the extreme, and quite literally so. As founding partner and official timekeeper of Extreme E, they are sending their watches off the grid. This new and exciting off-road championship will challenge both the drivers as well as their machines but also adds something unique into the mix, as all the cars are electric.

With Its Latest Creations Ulysse Nardin Rules Below And Above Water

Ulysse Nardin is continuing its path of combining classic watchmaking with disruptive creations at Watches & Wonders 2021. They showcase not only the brands' expertise and craftsmanship but also their future-minded nature and eye for tantalizing design. They achieve this by pushing the boundaries of not only themselves but watchmaking as a whole, serving existing connoisseurs, as well as a new generation of watch collectors.

Five Hot New Watches From Watches & Wonders 2021

While digital, Watches & Wonders 2021 kicks off immediately in high gear, showing that the industry is still strong, even during a pandemic. Many exciting new watches have already been introduced, of which the following five in particular caught our eye:

Hublot Kicks Off Watches & Wonders 2021 With Groundbreaking Big Bang Integral Tourbillon Full Sapphire

At Hublot, they have a passion for materials. Whether it is gold, ceramic, or sapphire, they love to see if they can improve it or give it a color that has never been achieved before. In 2016 the brand introduced its very first sapphire watch, and things developed quickly in the years after. Not only was Hublot able to create sapphire in different colors they could also make them in modest volume. While this sounds less exclusive, the production process of sapphire watches is so intensive that being able to make more of them is a major achievement. Hublot kicks off Watches & Wonders 2021 with another amazing accomplishment, and that is a Big Bang Integral Tourbillon where both the case and the bracelet are made of sapphire.

Cartier Launches New Ballon Bleu In The Perfect Size

In watchmaking, a millimeter more or less can make all the difference. This year, Cartier is launching the Ballon Bleu in a new 40mm large case. With this, 'La Maison' keeps the watch in line with current trends and on point in terms of design. Initially launched in 2007 has the Ballon Bleu quickly become one of the best-selling models of Cartier, and one of the pillars of the brand's watchmaking collection. Thanks to its pebble-shaped case, is it one of the most comfortable watches to wear, while its crown guard gives it a unique appearance.