The relationship uniting thewatches The connection to the automobile is rooted in a purely sociological logic where timepieces, the first widely distributed mechanical objects, paved the way for the car for centuries by awakening in people a passion for technical objects capable of expressing their power. Since then, these two worlds have been rich in constructive associations. The proof is in the objects themselves!
It must be admitted from the outset that, ten years ago, the links between watch manufacturers and construction companies automobiles were closer than they are today. The rise of an environmental movement that has yet to fully grasp the extent of the flaws in its anti-pollution measures sometimes strains the relationship between watchmakers most attuned to eco-responsible principles and car manufacturers. However, the passion between these two worlds remains structurally intact, and the ties between them remain close.
Watchmakers on the track
Among the brands most deeply rooted in the world of motorsports, we must include TAG Heuer whose presence on the circuits dates back to 1961, when Jack Heuer invented the Carrera chronograph during the 12 Hours of Sebring. The brand was also the first to see its logo appear on a Formula 1 car in 1969, the year of the launch of the Monaco, an automatic chronograph that became famous on Steve McQueen's wrist in 1971 in the film "Le Mans" directed by Lee H. Katzin. The brand was also the official timekeeper of Ferrari and then of Formula 1 from 1992 to 2003. This year, it returns to this role, and this should help boost sales of watch products such as the Formula 1 and the parts from the Carrera line.
Another major player in the automotive world: Rolex.
The manufacture began its involvement in the world of motorsport in the 1930s. While the brand recently relinquished its Formula 1 timekeeping duties, it remains the preferred partner of the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC), the International Motor Sport Association (IMSA), and the Triple Crown of endurance racing, comprised of the Rolex 24 At Daytona, the 12 Hours of Sebring, and the 24 Hours of Le Mans. In addition, it participates in events showcasing classic cars, such as Monterey Car Week and the Goodwood Revival. The flagship product of these popular and globally followed events is theOyster Perpetual Cosmograph DaytonaThis sought-after instrument is making headlines with its three counters and bezel engraved with a prominent tachymeter scale. Launched in 1963, it was designed to meet the needs of racers and team owners.
IWC, known to be the "Official Engineering Partner" of the Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One™ team for over a decade, has recognized the impact that the film Le Mans may have had on sales of the Monaco. TAG HeuerThis explains why she chose to share her passion for motorsport on the big screen in the F1 feature film, becoming one of the official sponsors of the fictional APXGP team, the 11the to take their place on the starting grid. To celebrate the film – which was shot with actors driving real single-seaters, behind the scenes of real Grand Prix – and to please enthusiasts, the Maison launched during the Watches and Wonders show a 40 mm Ingenieur Automatic watch with a green dial, inspired by the one worn by Sonny Hayes, the protagonist of the film F1®.
Vintage in every respect
Other entities – such as Chopard, Eberhard & Co, Richard Mille or even Seiko – prefer to celebrate classic cars through the creation of timepieces bearing their signature. The Scheufele family, owners of Chopard, have long been associated with the Italian Mille Miglia race. This year, the brand celebrates the tenth anniversary of the introduction of the GTS (Grand Turismo Sport) range. This Power Control version, crafted in Lucent Steel, features a 43mm diameter case, a salmon-colored dial, and is powered by a chronometer-certified Chopard 01.02-M caliber. Limited to 250 pieces, this timepiece, designed for rally drivers, is presented on a perforated black calfskin strap lined with rubber and featuring a Dunlop racing tire pattern from the 1960s.
In its own way, the Eberhard & Co. House Lancia also demonstrated its passion for classic cars by sponsoring and officially timing the Rallylegend. Held in the Republic of Saint Martin from October 2nd to 5th, it served as the backdrop for the launch of the new Lancia HF collector's watch, born from the collaboration between Eberhard & Co and Lancia. The Richard Mille brand, one of the sponsors of this year's Le Mans Classic, also celebrates the magic of precision mechanics destined to age gracefully. Its highly distinctive models, reminiscent of vintage racing cars, are all an ode to this world that thrills enthusiasts.
Finally, and this should not be forgotten, the Japanese manufacturer Seiko Seiko is also among the brands that have chosen to get involved in this sector. It offers three watches, each a limited edition of 2500 pieces, that benefit from Seiko's latest technologies. Joining the Speedtimer collection, they pay tribute to this shared heritage between the Datsun 240 Z and the Japanese manufacturer founded in 1881 in Tokyo. All three pieces feature cases and dials whose structure or color is inspired by bodywork or trim elements of the famous Datsun 240Z. The dials, in particular, display different interpretations of the car manufacturer's logo to be closely linked to the world of racing.
Breitling and Triumph Motorcycles
Breitling Breitling, known for its distinctive style, has partnered with Triumph, the British motorcycle manufacturer. The Swiss brand is launching the Chronomat B01 42 Triumph on a brown leather strap to capture the essence of freedom on the open road. Triumph, meanwhile, recently unveiled its iconic Speed Triple 1200 RR in a Breitling Limited Edition. Buyers of one of the 270 co-designed motorcycles will have the privilege of acquiring the Chronomat B01 Triumph Owners Exclusive, whose striking design is inspired by the limited-edition motorcycle, and whose case back will be engraved with the motorcycle's serial number.
Vincent Daveau
