Our Predictions for Watches & Wonders 2024

IWC, renowned for its annual collections, has consistently astounded watch enthusiasts with updates to iconic lines. However, one collection that has long awaited a comprehensive overhaul is the Aquatimer. While 2023 saw intriguing variants, the core Aquatimer remains untouched. Our prediction? A resurgence of the GST Aquatimer, originally released in the late 90s and early 2000s. Boasting an astonishing 2000m water resistance, titanium construction, and meticulous engineering, this watch epitomizes IWC’s commitment to excellence. Capitalizing on its cameo in Aquaman, IWC has the perfect opportunity to reaffirm its prowess in crafting exceptional dive watches.

Patek Philippe enthusiasts worldwide eagerly await the evolution of the Nautilus series in 2024. With the discontinuation of the 5711 in 2022, replaced by the 5811, speculation surrounds the introduction of new 5811-based models. Our forecast? A strategic move towards phasing out more 5711-based models in favor of their successors. The introduction of a new annual calendar, possibly the 5826, in white gold would be the natural progression for the Patek Philippe Nautilus collection. With Patek Philippe’s CEO, Thierry Stern, well aware of the high demand for a steel Nautilus - a complication in white gold could allow Patek Philippe to expand the 58xx Nautilus range while buying some time before they introduce a 5811/1A. The more vivid blue dial on the 5811/1G could also carry over, and bring new life to the Annual Calendar Nautilus which was originally released in 2010.

In the realm of affordability, Tudor made waves last year by discontinuing the Heritage Chrono and unveiling an in-house movement with a gold-plated, vintage-inspired chronograph. Our prediction for 2024? The discontinuation of the Black Bay Chrono and the introduction of a new heritage chrono line.

Tudor, with its own in-house caliber, seeks to boost chronograph sales by offering a unique alternative to the ubiquitous Daytona. Embracing their heritage design, Tudor can shape its narrative independently of its sister brand, Rolex, and can take inspiration from its own back catalog of vintage chronographs to reinvigorate the Tudor Heritage Chrono.

While not an official participant in Watches & Wonders, Breitling consistently surprises enthusiasts with pre-event releases. Our prediction for Breitling in 2024 involves expanding the Premier line to include a worldtimer. Much like the Premier Datora released in 2021, Breitling can draw on historic designs and welcome comparisons to vintage Patek Philippe, while making use of its in-house worldtimer movement - the B35. The addition of a Breitling Premier with a worldtimer aligns with the brand’s commitment to timeless elegance, mirroring their success with hand-wound and split-second chronographs released in 2021.

In conclusion, the watch industry in 2024 holds exciting prospects for enthusiasts and collectors alike. IWC, Patek Philippe, Tudor, and Breitling are poised to captivate audiences with their innovative releases, breathing new life into timeless classics and introducing groundbreaking designs. We cannot wait to find out what this year’s Watches & Wonders will bring!

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