The Roundup: the “Race Cars and Thoroughbreds and Hot Air Balloons, Oh My!” Edition

Each week, EWC will be gathering horological industry news, cultural conversations and moments surrounding our favorite topic: timepieces. Happy Friday; here’s what’s on our watch.

Race to the Finish Line

This weekend, if you’re not in the southern U.S. you’re missing all the action. Formula One fans will flock to Florida for the Miami Grand Prix, and horse, fascinator and mint julep fans will make their way to Churchill Downs for the time-honored tradition of the Kentucky Derby. While watches will likely play second fiddle to the competitions, there’s sure to be loads of wrist candy on display in the Magic City and the Bluegrass State.

In conjunction with the F1 race, Bonhams has created The Miami Auction. The sale fittingly features a selection of exceptional racing chronographs, including a Rolex Cosmograph Daytona Reference 6239 from 1964, an Omega Speedmaster Professional Reference 2915-3 from 1959, a Universal Genève Tri-Compax ‘Clapton’ Reference 881101/01 from the 1940s, and a Heuer Dato 12 Reference 2547 from 1967. The auction is open for bidding now and will run through May 6.

In Kentucky, Longines will serve as the official timekeeper of the Derby for the 14^th year. The brand’s history with equestrians runs deep, dating back to the late 1800s with chronograph pocket watches used at the racetracks. Last year marked the monumental 150^th anniversary of the Derby, and for the occasion, Longines introduced a special limited edition version of its iconic Mini Dolce Vita.

A Clock Takes Flight

This week, L’Epee released the latest addition to its line of hot air balloon clocks with the Imperial Hot Air Balloon. This piece uniquely puts Metiers d’Art on full display with a combination of yellow gold metalwork and bold blue enameling to recreate the world’s first hot air balloon from 1783. The enamelwork alone took over 1,600 hours to complete, making this a true work of art. Like past versions of the Maison’s hot air balloon clocks, the Imperial can be displayed traditionally or suspended in air as if taking flight.

All Titanium, All Day

Alpina also unveiled an exciting new addition to its catalog this week with its first ever all titanium watch. The Alpiner Extreme Automatic Titanium is the ultimate lightweight summer companion whether you’re a true adventure seeker or simply want an effortless model for the season. The material extends from the bold case to the sporty integrated bracelet and is coupled with a silver dial for a sleek, monochromatic look. Top it all off with sweet spot 39mm sizing and the accessible pricing you expect from Alpina. This watch is a no brainer.

What’s Old is New Again

Last but not least, a new launch from Tiffany & Co. landed this week with the Rope Watch drawing inspiration from the work of the legendary Jean Schlumberger. The twisted gold motif has long been the defining feature of the Maison’s Rope jewelry collection, and now, Tiffany & Co. has reimagined the design in the form of a timepiece. For this model, the bezel takes center stage thanks to the distinct rope pattern in concentric circles around the dial, offered in two sizes and colorways. In addition, the Rope watch features Tiffany & Co.’s first solar-powered movement.