Weekend Reading: Understanding The Incredibly Nuanced And High-Dollar World Of The Paul Newman Daytona
Sometimes the world of vintage Rolex watches can feel a bit opaque. And the world of the extremely collectible Paul Newman Daytona can feel like trying to see through a sheet of lead. Luckily, we’re here to help. After the recent frenzy for special, extra-rare Paul Newmans at the Geneva auctions in November, it seemed like a good idea to give everyone a refresher on what these watches are, how you can tell one from another, and why collectors can’t stop going crazy for them.
The Orbis Terrarum is a classic worldtime complication, with an outer dial dominated by an inner ring of key global cities and an outer ring displaying 24-hour time. While it looks complicated it’s surprisingly intuitive, and all the more bold in the 4810 case, as opposed to the svelte Heritage Spirit model that we explored mid-way through last year. Who should you buy this for? A watch lover who’s ready to graduate to mid-level complications, without necessarily wanting the price tag that usually comes with it. What’s the damage? Under 10k Montblanc 4810 Orbis Terrarium Australian Pricing Montblanc 4810 Orbis Terrarium, $9160
Well, Christian and Evelyn have arrived at their destination and no, it’s not some Bond-villain-esque lair or a high-stakes diamond heist. Instead it’s something far more relatable and no-less stressful – a school reunion. Thankfully Christian’s fear of social inadequacy is unfounded, thanks in no small part to the Portugieser Hand-Wound on his wrist. We’ve had fun with this illustrated three-part microstory (here are parts one and two in case you missed), and we hope you’ve enjoyed reading it.
On the 10th day of Christmas, my true love gave to me… the new Cartier model that caught a lot of people’s attention this year in watches. The Drive manages to be both masculine and refined, deviating from the Cartier single shape theory that usually has you choose between square (Santos), round (Ballon Bleu) and tonneau (Roadster and Tortue), to name a few. It’s very faintly retro, too, but combines a cut-through cushion case with the usual impeccable Cartier finishing on the dial. Who should you buy this for? The extraordinary gentleman in your life, or for yourself if you’re in the market for a dress watch par excellence. What’s the damage? Under 9k Cartier Drive de Cartier Australian pricing Cartier Drive de Cartier, steel $8750