Watches & Wonders 2023: Post-Show Discussion

JoshTheCanadian · 2022-04-07T02:17:46Z

Explore WatchProSite's community review of Watches & Wonders 2022. JoshTheCanadian and other collectors discuss the Patek Philippe 5230P, VC 222, and more.

JoshTheCanadian

WPS member · Horological Meandering forum

32 replies5327 views3 photos

JoshTheCanadian's post offers a compelling look at the standout timepieces from Watches & Wonders 2022, providing a collector's perspective on the releases that truly resonated. His initial impressions and personal preferences, including placing an order for the Patek Philippe 5230P, set the stage for a vibrant community discussion. This article delves into the collective insights and diverse opinions shared by WatchProSite members regarding the year's most anticipated horological debuts.

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What are your favorites from the show? And have you made any moves to add one or more to your collection?

I'll get this started with my big 3:

Patek 5230P: For me, the star of the show. Put my name down for this one today. Was always a big fan of the now-retired 5231J, but this one really ticks all the boxes for me. I cannot wait to see it in-person.

VC222: This is one I do not really have any intention of owning - it's a bit too niche for my collection - but gosh is it ever gorgeous, and I am so glad it exists. I think that VC knocked it out of the park, and this may be my overall star of the show!

Day Date Platinum 36: Good golly, if there was ever a watch that could convince me to be a one-watch person - this is it. I can only imagine the heft of this bad boy! I do not have a snowball's chance in hell of getting this one, but the fluted bezel really pushes this one over the ledge. Plus, the 36mm is the perfect size for me!

Key Points from the Discussion

The Patek Philippe 5230P World Time was widely considered a highlight, with its platinum case and blue suede calf strap offering a sporty yet classic appeal. However, some collectors expressed a preference for the previous Hong Kong dial configuration over Beijing.
The Vacheron Constantin 222 garnered significant attention for its design, though some debated its appeal, suggesting it was driven by Genta-esque trends and potential profiteering rather than pure horological appreciation. It was clarified that the 222 was designed by Jorg Hysek, not Gérald Genta.
The Montblanc LE18 'Secret Unveiled' chronograph, featuring a flipped movement visible through a skeletonized dial, generated strong demand with numerous blind orders placed early in the show.
Disappointment was voiced regarding the new 'salmon' dials on the Patek Philippe 5320G and other chronographs, with collectors perceiving the color as more copper-toned than a desirable rose salmon.
Several other brands and models received praise, including the Moser tourbillon in stainless steel, Laurent Ferrier's exquisite offerings, JLC's Atmos, Czapek, UN Freak X aventurine, Cartier Tank Louis black, and the Grand Seiko Kodo for its creative genius.
A sentiment of frustration with the 'waiting list' game for luxury watches was expressed, leading some collectors to prefer the vintage market for its more genuine chase for rare examples.
The Rolex Day-Date Platinum 36 with a fluted bezel was highlighted for its perfect size and imagined heft, despite its extreme exclusivity.

The Discussion

destrodan

Apr 7, 2022

Oh how I wish the VC222 release this year would become the backbone...

...of a new Vacheron 222 line with the historical tie-in.

patrick_y

Apr 7, 2022

Atmos clock and MOONSWATCH

Honestly... This show was a little quiet for me. Not much caught my eye. Vacheron Constantin's Overseas was impressive. Montblanc Villeret was impressive. But all paled in comparison to the MoonSwatch which really dampened a lot of the event! The 222 is nice. But people only like it because they think it's Genta-esque and because they want to make money on it. Sadly, all of those Genta-esque chasers are mistaken. This watch was designed by Jorg Hysek. The watch game has been entered by too many

jp884

Apr 7, 2022

For me it was the Parmigiani GMT rattrapante..

I thought it was a really cool way of implementing a function only seen in chronographs and making it useful in a GMT watch. Saw it and ordered it same day. Love the cleanliness of the dial as well not cluttered.

Echi

Apr 7, 2022

Cartier Chinois, VC 222, Lange MR, Doxa white pearl, Bulgari Sketch :-)

amanico

Apr 7, 2022

We share two of them, my friend. ;)

Echi

Apr 7, 2022

Lemme guess.. the Cartier and the Lange :-)

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