So by now most of the predictions that were made have either come to fruition, or for most, we have mud on our faces. We don’t have crystal balls, it’s either guesswork, hopes from brands or inside information, (definitely not the latter).
“So were my predictions correct? “
I did make a few predictions regarding hoping to see more colour from brands, perhaps fewer round watches from some and smaller sizes from others. 2024 Watches and Wonders is almost done for the press and I guess I have had some success, as it’s almost time for the public to hit the halls. Sadly this year Watchbrothers are not at the show, but we do hope to be there next year.
What have been my highlights of Watches & Wonders 2024? I do have some firm favourites and have detailed them below, albeit briefly. As we get some in for hands-on reviews, keep an eye out on our website and socials.
Let me lay this on the line for you, 2024 has been the first time I have paid proper attention to what’s happening from the brands. As information was hitting the socials, I was eagerly taking notes and transcribing press releases, (as I am also writing for the Watchgecko magazine) and making snap judgements on some releases. No doubt, as time goes on, some of those initial thoughts will wain and I can give a more balanced view, so keep a look out for some more in-depth views.
It’s almost public day, so now the dust has settled, what do we think?
H Moser & Cie – Concept Citrus Green
This was one of the first images I came across on social media and when this dropped I honestly got very excited. Moser is a brand that I have admired from afar, partly because it’s way out of my price bracket and I may never own one, but I certainly appreciate what goes into these sublime watches. Earlier this year I was lucky enough to try on the Streamliner and fell for it in a big way.
I know, this will never be in my collection, however, it shall remain a huge favourite and one, I could be tempted to sell all my others for. (Sorry, but that won’t happen) Yes it’s reminiscent of the Kermit from Oris, but boy is this a thing of beauty.
Priced CHF 14,500
Mido – Multifort TV Big Date S01E01 Limited Edition
Yes, the Multifort TV has been out since last year, but this new iteration with the multi-faceted TV-inspired dial is a real hit. Sadly limited to only 999 pieces, this won’t last long at all, and honestly, I am tempted to get one. I love the playfulness and honesty that Mido bring with this watch.
Did I forget to mention the amazing value too, you get a bracelet and 2 rubber straps, all quick release and, I can promise, whenever you wear it, you will get comments.
Priced at £1250.00
Bremont – Terra Nova 40.5 Date
Ok, so let’s get this out of the way, yes Bremont have changed their logo. I know some of the purists are not happy with them, but that aside, this new Terra Nova is a huge hit for them. My preference is the 40.5 Date model, a clear solid field watch, built for anything nature can throw at it. The solid chunks of Super Luminova they use for the indices show the stunning dial up for what it is, super legible, clear and a welcome addition to the Land element of Bremont’s new line up.
Priced £2700.00
Grand Seiko – ‘Genbi Valley’
I have admired Grand Seiko from afar for years. I’m not sure I could get away wearing one, as I’m not really a dress watch guy, but one day I’ll give one a try. I’ve always been drawn to coloured dial and texture and Grand Seiko has always delivered in this area and the quality has always been exceptional. This Genbi Valley is a lustrous pistachio colour mixed with an exceptionally beautiful textured dial.
I do need to be kind to myself and get to a Grand Seiko dealer just to see if I could make this rock.
Priced £9750.00
Zenith – Defy Extreme Diver
This is one of Marks’s picks, and I can see why. The Defy has been around since the 60’s and this new version is damn awesome. This watch was inspired by one of the first Defy models back in 1969. You can spot a defy from across the room with its angular case and dodecahedron bezel. The 42.5mm titanium case is divine and with 600m of water resistance, this will be more than enough for most of us.
You can never go wrong with an orange haute especially when paired with this new star-patterned dial and angular case. Powered by the El Primero, this will just keep going and look amazing.
Priced £10,200.00
Nomos – Tangente 38 Datum
Nomos have always delivered exceptional quality and value for money. With 31 colour options and limited to 175 pieces of each colour, there will surely be one for you. With a hand-wound movement, 38mm diameter, this will be a better fit on the wrist for most.
Celebrating 175 years of watchmaking at Glashütte, this will be the perfect choice for many and with the Nomos brand so successful, these won’t hang about.
Priced at £1925.00
IWC – Portugieser Hand-Wound Tourbillon Day & Night
This Portugieser Day & Night Tourbillon in Obsidian is an absolute cracker. With its 18ct Armor Gold case and new double glassbox crystal, it’s so dreamy. The Obsidian lacquered dial has so much depth to it, it just draws you in.
The black and gold combination won’t be for everyone, but this will certainly stand out for the right reasons. It’s almost as beautiful from the rear as the movement is stunning and shown off to its full. It’s not cheap, but for those with pockets deep enough, well worth a look.
Priced at £66,500.00
Highend Highlights
Some brands have done extremely well in presenting some of the most beautiful watches to us at this year’s show. Roger Dubuis Excalibur Sunrise Double Tourbillon (here) was another highlight for me, such a beautiful timepiece, I just wish I was at the show to appreciate it in its glory. Only 8 of these are available, so get in quick.
A. Lange & Söhne produced the stunning Datograph Perpetual Tourbillon Honeygold “Lumen”, and this did not disappoint at all. This is another watch I just have to admire from a technical view, so much work, so much development and wow, what a watch(here). Limited to 50 pieces.
Finally, Jaeger-Lecoultre gave us the Duometre Heliotourbillon Perpetual (here), the craftsmanship that goes into these top-flight brands is just off the chart. How do they even come up with how to plan and manufacture these high-end horological masterpieces, my mind boggles at the thought and I’m envious of them all. Limited to 20 pcs annually.
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