Our favourite offerings from Watches and Wonders 2024
The year’s biggest watch event, Watches and Wonders 2024 has begun in Geneva and with 54 brands revealing releases, there is plenty going on to keep us enthralled.
So far Vacheron Constantin has been flashing vintage dials, IWC has displayed a fabulous Eternal Calendar complication and Bulgari has hit back (again) with the world’s thinnest watch.
We love seeing everything new from the big brands, so without further ado, here are just a few of our favourite pieces from the world of horology.
Rolex Oyster Perpetual GMT-Master II
We knew there would be some kind of GMT reinvention on the cards. The new Oyster Perpetual GMT-Master II by Rolex pays homage to its rich history of crafting virtually scratchproof ceramics.
This timepiece boasts a bezel crafted from graduated grey and black ceramic, which rotates bidirectionally. Available with either an Oyster or Jubilee bracelet, it maintains its assured waterproof quality, capable of withstanding depths of up to 100 meters.
Bulgari Octo Finissimo Ultra COSC
Everyone recalls when Richard Mille stole Bulgari’s shine for the world’s thinnest watch with the seemingly-impossibly 1.75mm tall RM UP-01 Ferrari.
But the brand has hit back… Bulgari has regained the crown with its new version of the Octo, which is just 1.70mm thick. The 40mm case contains a 170-component manually wound movement with a tungsten carbide back for extra durability, given its thin disposition.
Patek Philippe World Time 5330G
Patek Philippe has unleashed the latest addition to its collection: the new World Time reference with a stunning blue-grey dial. Originally launched in Tokyo last year as a limited edition exclusively for Japan, the 5330G is now available globally.
What sets this timepiece apart? Powered by the cutting-edge Patek caliber 240 HU C, introduced in 2023, it’s not just a world timer; it’s the FIRST to accurately track both time and date simultaneously for each time zone. Plus, with its automatic movement and impressive 38-48-hour power reserve, we can forgive the rather odd denim-style calfskin strap.
Hublot Big Bang MP-11 Water Blue Sapphire
Hublot has released another sapphire offering. In quite the bold 45mm x 14.4mm, check out the MP-11 with its unique case materials! Powered by the HUB9011 calibre, it boasts an impressive 14-day power reserve thanks to seven series-coupled barrels. Keep track of your reserve on the display at the far left.
Discover the intricate mechanics, like the 90-degree helical worm gear at 10 o’clock, and the balance wheel at 2 o’clock. Water resistant to 30m and compete with a blue transparent lined structured rubber strap with titanium deployant buckle clasp.
Rolex 1908 in platinum
This one is our favourite new Rolex by a country mile. After the disappointment of ditching the Cellini collection and unveiling the 1908 last year, there’s now an additional glimmer beyond the yellow and white gold models. Say hello to platinum….
Featuring a captivating dial and retaining its sleek, elegant aura, the fresh Rolex 1908, reference 52506 presents a more substantial and ‘edgy’ option with a sky blue guilloche dial. Through the sapphire crystal caseback is the Rolex calibre 7140 introduced last year and developed for this line.
Tudor Black Bay 58 in yellow gold
Tudor, after introducing a gold version three years ago, has now unveiled a Black Bay 58 in yellow gold, complete with an 18k gold bracelet. It’s as if the brand has returned to add the finishing touch to its creation— and with a touch of sophistication. The 39-mm timepiece boasts a fully matte and satin finish, is water-resistant to 200 meters, and offers a power reserve of 70 hours.
The public days of the Geneva exhibition end on Monday at 5pm but if you didn’t get the chance to go and are still dreaming about that Rolex, our team here in Epping can strive to source new and preloved watches from your favourite brands. Call us today on 020 8038 6750.