From Manila to Chongqing: Testing the Corvette, BMW for the World Car Awards; VC and Omega Launches
Heading into the last month of the year, we got a clear look at how things are changing in the watch and car worlds, and how brands are addressing these shifts.
Vacheron Constantin brought to Manila their excellent “The Quest” exhibition, which honors their 270 years of continuous watchmaking. Vacheron has long been an enthusiast and collector favorite, breaking watchmaking barriers across the board. After all the hype of the last 10 years, many newer buyers who were drawn in by the bubble market are now looking for a mix of history, technical ability, aesthetic vision, craftsmanship, and stability; Vacheron Constantin is well-positioned to answer those demands. In speaking with representatives from headquarters, we found that many buyers who were previously focused on independent watchmakers are now shifting their attention to this storied maison. Interest is coming from many different directions, not merely the usual upward-growth trajectory.
That evening, we flew to Bangkok for the regional launch of the new Ferrari 849 Testarossa. This was a clear example of how car brands are responding to both the opportunities and demands of new powertrain technologies. The 849 is one of the few Ferraris to carry the Testarossa name, which originally came from their older—and much smaller—racing engines rather than the larger road cars people tend to recall. It builds on their multiple “International Engine of the Year” award-winning turbocharged V8s, now adding hybrid electric power and the biggest turbos they have ever installed in a roadgoing car. Even experienced Ferrari drivers found themselves shifting earlier than expected because of the new power delivery.
From there we made a quick trip to Pasadena, California, for the World Car Awards LA testing sessions. What we saw was a continued and diverse use of different propulsion technologies. This included full internal combustion cars such as the wonderfully track-oriented BMW M2 CS which, on almost-slick track tires, offered a lively drive on the curvy and rain-soaked Angeles Crest Highway.
Audi provided their throaty SQ5 as well as the quietly quick A6 e-tron. A Hyundai Nexo—a fuel cell vehicle that uses hydrogen gas to generate electric power—was also available and is a nominee for the World LuxuryLuxuryA lifestyle defined by exceptional quality, craftsmanship, exclusivity, and sophistication, encompassing the finest products, services, and experiences that represent the highest standards of refinement and excellence.Go to Luxury Glossary Car Award.
One of the surprises of the session was the Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray. The Corvette has always been a bit separate from most American cars, but not typically seen as a performance equal to European sports cars. This new V8 hybrid, however, has captured the attention of many testers. It blends the history and feel of Detroit muscle with striking styling and a surprising level of comfort and accessibility. It’s a strong example of what Lamborghini designer Mitja Borkert describes as a renaissance in the automotive industry, where multiple technologies can coexist to produce vehicles that surpass old boundaries.
We then made a short two-day trip to Chongqing, China, which was eye-opening in many ways. The city itself is built on dramatic mountainous terrain, resulting in multiple layers of urban life.
From skyscrapers to traditional houses, from sweeping bridges to winding valleys and rivers, the experience blends old and new—an appropriate setting for the launch of the new Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean.
The Seamaster and Planet Ocean lines began as deep-diving tool watches, complete with features such as helium escape valves and a rugged aesthetic. The new models have shifted toward a sleeker look with an integrated bracelet, multiple finishes, a more linear case, and an overall thinner profile. Omega is clearly repositioning the Planet Ocean from a pure tool watch to something more streamlined and versatile, while still maintaining its dive-watch standards. They also displayed a selection of vintage pieces to illustrate this evolution, including their first Marine watch—rectangular, surprisingly elegant, and a reminder that design often moves in cycles.
And yes—Chongqing is a must-see destination in China.