Watch Drop Roundup 2021
Last week was big for watch enthusiasts as a number of luxury watch brands have unveiled their offerings for the 2021 calendar year. While there have been several pleasant surprises, there have been some pretty big disappointments as well. Here is an overview of some of the most buzzed-about pieces revealed last week.
Rolex Explorer
I am going to get this one out of the way quickly. This two-toned Explorer is perhaps the second worst thing I have seen this week. Not sure why they decided to massacre this classic when Rolex already has a catalogue full of tacky gold Datejusts and Day-Dates to catch the eyes of trust fund children and Patagonia vest bankers. The only saving grace of this reveal is that the 36mm case has returned, also in a full stainless-steel version, thankfully. Act quick because those five-year waitlists are going to fill up fast!
Tudor Black Bay Chrono
Perhaps my favorite of all the watches unveiled last week. Very reminiscent of the Paul Newman Daytona with the panda style dial. Similar to the Black Bay 58 the bracelet is adorned with fake rivets. Not a fan of them, but in all honesty, it isn’t a dealbreaker. A definite purchase for those still on the fence, because let’s be frank, you’re never going to be able to obtain a Daytona at retail.
Rolex Datejust
First time I saw this, I thought of a restroom you’d see at a Pacific Island themed BBQ restaurant, complete with bamboo detailing. Chicken Teriyaki rice bowls are good, this is not. I usually shit on Rolex for being boring and uninventive, but if this is their way of spicing things up, they should go back to being boring and uninventive.
IWC Big Pilot
John Mayer’s favorite watch. Now in a smaller 43mm case size, and finally offered with IWC’s industry-best bracelet. Having owned a 36mm Pilot, IWC will always hold a special place in my heart. Although the closest I’ve been to an airplane cockpit was the main cabin extra section of American Airlines flight 1918 to Charlotte (free beer baby), that watch made me feel like a true aviator. That blue dial is something else.
Patek Philippe Nautilus
It’s green? And it’s still $60,000? Pass.
Oris Divers Sixty-Five
I actually kind of like these. Nothing cooler than strapping a macaron to your wrist. Not bad.