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EACH WEEK, we’ll be taking a look at the hottest news, developments and rare sightings in the watch world—what’s ticking, what’s trending and what’s causing jaws in various corners of the watch internet to drop. We’ll highlight new brand releases, celebrity watch spots and general news for all you horologically-minded enthusiasts.
This week in the wide, wild world of watches, it’s hard to go past legendary guitarist and musician—and avid watch collector—John Mayer rocking the all-new Rolex Daytona ‘Le Mans‘ edition. Arguably the biggest watch release of this year—and likely to become one of Rolex’s most coveted timepieces— Mayer was spotted with the new “Big Red” whilst performing in Utah earlier this week. The 18K White Gold Rolex Daytona ‘Le Mans’ edition was released earlier this year to mark 100 years of the great 24 Hours of Le Mans motor race.
Elsewhere, Breitling present the newly redesigned Avenger collection, a watch at the forefront of aviation adventure. And closer to home, a rare Patek Philippe watch is set to break the Australian auction record next week via First State Auctions, one of Australia’s leading jewellery auction houses.
Keep scrolling for all that dropped in the watch world this week.
1
John Mayer lands new Rolex Daytona ‘Le Mans’
John Mayer is no stranger to the watch world. The American artist is renowned for his coveted collection of timepieces, which span Rolex and Patek Phillipe, Audemars Piguet and IWC—he even has a green Daytona named after him. It would then come as no surprise that Mayer is one of the first individuals in the world to end up with the exclusive Rolex Daytona ‘Le Mans’ limited edition on wrist. Spotted whilst performing at a show in Utah earlier this week, it looks like the Le Mans ‘Big Red’ is now a part of his repertoire when it comes to live performances and watches (only a select few make it on stage, Mayer once said).
2
Rare Patek Philippe timepiece set to break Australian auction record
It’s always mind boggling to see vintage timepieces fetching exorbitant amounts of money at auction well after their production date. Case in point, next week, a 1946 manufactured Patek Philippe #1436 will be auctioned in Sydney via First State Auctions. The special timepiece, which is one of only 160 ever made over a period of 30 years, is set to fetch anywhere between $400,000 to $800,000, becoming the most expensive wristwatch ever auctioned in Australia.
3
Breitling unveil a revamped Avenger collection
Breitling’s formidable Avenger collection has celebrated 20 years of aviation and adventure. Now, a newly designed collection of Avenger models has been unveiled with next-level functionality and style in mind. Backed by the powerhouse Breitling Manufacture Caliber 01, the chronograph Avenger models now come in three new formats: 44mm chronograph, 44mm GMT, and a new 42mm automatic. The new Avenger line is sleek, stylish and surprisingly doesn’t take up as much wrist space as anticipated. It tapers along the wrist nicely and the new chronograph models are the perfect mix of stealth and style. Form and function is also an evident consideration with the new redesign.
4
A new Grand Seiko limited-edition timepiece has arrived
And this time, it’s inspired by the Naruto Whirlpools; a captivating natural phenomenon found off the coast of Naruto, Japan. True to Grand Seiko’s expert craftsmanship, this limited edition timepiece is made from stainless steel adorned with a textured dial featuring a geometrical pattern that reflects the entrancing swirls of the Naruto Whirlpools. The sleek new timepiece is powered by Grand Seiko’s reliable and renowned Calibre 9S85 Hi-Beat movement and is exclusive to just 150 pieces.
