Our Top Picks from Watches and Wonders 2024 - Part I

Watches and Wonders 2024 has unveiled some of the most spectacular timepieces that blend traditional craftsmanship with innovative technology. Our curated selection includes standout models that not only tell the time, but also tell stories of heritage, precision, and avant-garde aesthetics.

Patek Philippe 5980G

The Patek Philippe 5980G stands as a quintessential representation of luxury and meticulous craftsmanship. Encased in a white gold case, this model distinguishes itself not only through its sunburst blue dial which reflects Patek Philippe’s commitment to elegance and functionality, but also through its innovative denim strap—a first for the brand which marries traditional luxury with a decidedly modern and casual material.

Equipped with the CH 28-520 C caliber movement, this piece is a perfect fusion of traditional horological techniques and contemporary technology. The flyback chronograph, integrated into a Nautilus case design, not only highlights its robust functionality but also its sleek, timeless aesthetics. This material choice for the strap highlights Patek Philippe’s willingness to push the boundaries of traditional watchmaking by combining elements of high horology with materials from contemporary fashion, making each watch a bold statement of style.

The intricate movement is visible through the sapphire-crystal case back, showcasing the mechanical perfection inside and confirming the 5980G’s status as a masterpiece of functionality and design. This model perfectly illustrates the watchmaker’s ability to innovate while preserving the heritage and excellence for which it is globally renowned.

Cartier Santos-Dumont "Rewind"

The Cartier Santos-Dumont "Rewind" revisits the classic elegance of early aviation timepieces with a bold and innovative twist: an inverted dial. This model captures the spirit of Alberto Santos-Dumont, reflecting both audacity and refinement in its design. This innovative feature invites a unique interaction with the watch, requiring the wearer to look at it from a different angle to read the time, making it as much a topic of conversation as it is a time-measuring tool.

Its slim profile combined with a large dial ensures optimal legibility, a crucial characteristic for past aviators and a stylish nod to today's enthusiasts. With a manually wound 430 MC caliber, this watch emphasizes Cartier’s dedication to both form and function, promising precision wrapped in sophistication.

The timeless design of the case, paired with the unusually mounted dial, creates a work of art that defies expectations while staying true to the brand’s horological heritage. The Santos-Dumont "Rewind" is a celebration of Cartier’s pioneering style, perfect for those looking to stand out with their choice of watch.

IWC Portugieser Perpetual Calendar

The IWC Portugieser Perpetual Calendar stands out in the world of watchmaking for its elegant complexity and technical innovation. This model features a perpetual calendar fully synchronized with a moon phase display, an achievement that combines classic aesthetics with cutting-edge functionality.

Powered by the IWC-manufactured 52610 caliber, the watch boasts a 7-day power reserve, showcasing high efficiency and mechanical prowess. This considerable reserve power demonstrates the mastery and mechanical efficiency that IWC has developed over the years, thus ensuring unparalleled durability and reliability for the wearer.

This model is not only practical due to its simplified complexity but is also a pleasure to behold. The double moon phase display, which only requires correction after 577.5 years, is a tribute to accuracy and horological innovation. The transparent case back provides a spectacular view of the internal mechanism, revealing precisely assembled gears and meticulous finishes that reflect IWC’s artisanal excellence.

Chopard L.U.C XPS

Chopard innovates with the L.U.C XPS in green, introducing a touch of natural elegance to its collection. This model stands out not only for its refined aesthetics but also for its commitment to the environment, a first for the house in this hue. Presented with a sector dial, this timepiece combines luxury watchmaking and ecological awareness.

Equipped with the ultra-thin L.U.C 96.12-L caliber, the watch is a striking example of Chopard’s technology and craftsmanship. This movement, visible through a sapphire back, is notable for its precision and reliability and is also produced using ethically sourced materials, affirming Chopard's commitment to sustainable watchmaking.

The subtlety of the green sector dial not only alludes to the color of nature but truly encapsulates the essence of understated luxury. This design choice is not arbitrary; it reflects Chopard’s commitment to using materials that minimize its environmental impact, making the L.U.C XPS the perfect companion for the environmentally conscious aficionado. With its white gold case, this model remains true to the brand's luxury standards while advancing towards greener practices

Norqain Wild One Skeleton

The Norqain Wild One Skeleton captivates with its bold orange skeletonized dial that showcases the advanced mechanics within. This visually striking model is built to endure, housed in a robust NORTEQ case. Coinciding with the announcement of Stan Wawrinka, the renowned Swiss tennis player, as the new brand ambassador, this launch adds a familiar face to an exceptional piece.

Designed for the adventurous spirit, the watch features a lightweight, hypoallergenic frame and a Manufacture Calibre NN20/1 that ensures accuracy and durability. Wawrinka's choice, known for his resilience and powerful style on the courts, perfectly reflects the identity and values of the Wild One Skeleton. His commitment to excellence and precision in sport echoes Norqain’s philosophy of watchmaking.

With its vibrant design and technical prowess, the Wild One Skeleton is for those who embrace boldness in every aspect of life. This model, with Stan Wawrinka as its figurehead, is sure to captivate those looking to combine style, innovation, and functionality in their timepiece.

In this first instalment of our Watches and Wonders 2024 favourites, we highlight how contemporary design meets optimum functionality in the world of luxury watches. Stay tuned for our second selection.