Watches and Wonders 2023, the annual trade show for luxury watch brands, has come and gone, leaving watch enthusiasts and collectors alike buzzing with excitement over the latest timepieces to hit the market. This year’s event was particularly noteworthy, with several big-time surprises that shook up the watch industry and set the bar even higher for innovation and design. From unexpected collaborations to groundbreaking technology, here are five of the biggest surprises from Watches and Wonders 2023. First up, Swiss watchmaker Patek Philippe unveiled a stunning new watch – the 6007G Calatrava – that combines a graphic-style design, outfitted with an ebony black dial that spotlights a “carbon” pattern embossed center display. The embossing is also reiterated in the accompanying leather straps’ exteriors. Its slim 40mm case is made of white gold, while its see-through case back showcases the in-built self-winding 26 330 S C movement with a date and sweep-seconds function.
Next, luxury brand Cartier surprised attendees with the release of the Santos-Dumont XL. This watch features a bold, oversized design that pays homage to the brand’s aviation roots. It also boasts a new in-house movement that makes it one of the most accurate watches on the market. Perhaps the biggest surprise of the event was that Rolex introduced an emoji watch. Yes, really. Rolex seems to have abandoned their steadfastly sensible approach and decided to have some fun: Instead the limited edition Day-Date 36 Puzzle Motif whimsically replaces the days of the week with “Happy,” “Eternity,” “Gratitude,” “Peace,” “Faith,” “Love” and “Hope,” while the “date” window at 3 o’clock now reveals not numerals, but 31 emojis in sequence.
Other notable surprises included 2.0 versions from Watches and Wonders 2023 — including the release of a reboot of the IWC Ingenieur 40MM, which is stunning, and the Vacheron Constantin Les Cabinotiers Les Cabinotiers “Dual Moon” a perpetual calendar, double moon phase (for the northern and southern hemispheres) a minute repeater, and, on the back, a planispheric star chart (plus, also on the back so as not to clutter up the dial, a one-minute tourbillon). It’s as beautiful an example of a Grande Complication. Overall, Watches and Wonders 2023 proved to be an exciting event for watch enthusiasts and collectors alike. With so many groundbreaking new timepieces on display, it’s clear that the watch industry is continuing to push the boundaries of design and technology. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or simply appreciate beautiful craftsmanship, there’s something for everyone at this year’s event.
