Editor’s Note: Watches & Wonders (formerly SIHH) has moved online this year, so keep up with us to check out all the newnewss from the show — we’ll be updating this page as more watches debut. You can also stay on top of the rest of this year’s best new watch releases here.
Quite a bit has changed in the watch landscape this year: first, many brands pulled out of Baselworld 2020; then, the coronavirus forced the cancelation of Watches & Wonders Geneva; then Baselworld itself was canceled for the year; and then, Rolex, Tudor, Patek Philippe, Chanel and Chopard pulled out of Baselworld 2021 to start their own show.
But, just last week, the Foundation de la Haute Horlogerie, which puts on the Watches & Wonders shows, decided that the fair would indeed continue this year, albeit in online-only form for journalists, retailers, and collectors. And so, dear friends, we’re going to continue to bring you the best in watch news from the Richemont Group and several independents over the next week, and collect all of our favorites for easy perusal right here. The list will be updated as new watches are announced, so be sure to check back with us.
Our Favorites
IWC Yacht Club Moon & Tide
Why It Matters: A mechanical tide indicator requires a stunning amount of precision mathematics and engineering. IWC’s version is housed in an elegant gold case provides a tidal information in conjunction with a modified moon phase display.
Who It’s For: Collectors and the whimsically inclined. A mechanical tide indicator is something you invest in when money is literally burning a hole in your pocket.
Key Specs: $33,100; 44mm, 18-carat 5N gold case; tide indicator
Cartier Tank Asymétrique
Why It Matters: It’s not much of a surprise that Cartier would add this model to the Privé collection — the Asymétrique is a historical reference from the 1930s that deserves to have new life breathed into it. We love that it’s kitted out with a thin, manually winding movement — the one bummer is that we don’t get a more down-to-earth steel-cased version for slightly less money.
Who It’s For: Collectors again. The price on these puppies pushes them way out of “I’d love to own a Tank”-territory and into “I’d love to own my seventh Tank”-territory.
Key Specs: $26,400-$30,100; 26.22mm precious metal case; 30-degree offset dial
Lange Odysseus in White Gold
Why It Matters: The Odysseus made a big splash when it was first announced in late 2019 as the first Lange “casual watch.” Now it’s available in white gold, bringing us back somewhat to more typical Lange territory.
Who It’s For: (Also collectors, to be honest). While the Odysseus in steel was for the guy who wanted a Lange but also wanted to wear it every day, the Odysseus in white gold is more for the guy who wants a Lange, but also wants a Lange.
Key Specs: $40,600; white gold case; water-resistant to 120m