INSIGHT-RADAR: Industry News
A new chronograph from Porsche Design and Hodinkee, collector’s reads from Watchfid, and the GPHG’s world tour: INSIGHT-RADAR brings you the latest news from the watch industry. Also featured are Phillips’ “New York Sessions” online auction and the distribution partnership between TAOS and Ace Jewelers.
Porsche Design × Hodinkee: Central Stop-Second Hand in the Chronograph 1 Utility
Porsche Design and Hodinkee are continuing their collaboration with the Chronograph 1 Utility. This limited edition of 350 pieces introduces the new automatic WERK 01.340 movement. Its most notable feature is the centrally positioned chronograph minute hand, which tracks up to 60 minutes. The display is complemented by a 24-hour counter at 12 o’clock and a quick-set date function.
The COSC-certified movement offers a 60-hour power reserve. The uncoated titanium case comes with a titanium bracelet and an additional agave-green leather strap. The edition has been available since October 1, 2026, for 8,950 euros; in Europe, it is available through Porsche, Porsche Design Stores, select Porsche Centers, and authorized dealers.
Watchfid Collectibles: A New Book Series on Iconic Watches
Watchfid is expanding its “Collectibles” series with the volume “Daytona Paul Newman Only.” Written by Anthony Marquié and Grégoire Rossier, the book explores the Rolex Cosmograph Daytona models whose high-contrast dials are known among collectors as “Paul Newman.”
Already published are “Apollo 11 Only,” about the Omega Speedmaster watches associated with the moon missions, and “007 Only,” about the Omega watches featured in the James Bond films since 1995. Each volume, comprising approximately 100 pages, combines historical context, watch analysis, archival material, and anecdotes. They are available in both digital and print formats; four new titles are planned for release each year going forward.
GPHG Kicks Off World Tour in Mumbai
The Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève kicked off its 2026 world tour in Mumbai. Organized by Ethos, the exhibition showcased all 78 nominated watches from more than 50 brands at the St. Regis Hotel through October 1. Workshops and guided tours introduced the technical and artisanal features of the models to a wider audience.
After Mumbai, the exhibition will travel to Bangkok from October 15 to 18. From October 29 to November 15, the exhibition will be on view at the Musée d’Art et d’Histoire in Geneva, followed by the awards ceremony there on November 12.
Phillips New York Sessions: Online Auction Through October 9
Phillips is offering nearly 90 watches online as part of its New York Sessions. The auction runs through October 9, 2026, and brings together independent watchmaking with established collector’s pieces. Highlighted lots include a Voutilainen 28Sport with an onyx center and a blue guilloché hour ring, a Patek Philippe 5270J, and a platinum Rolex Daytona 116506 with diamond hour markers.
Other lots include pieces by F. P. Journe and A. Lange & Söhne, among others. The selection thus ranges from the distinctive styles of small manufacturers to the elaborate calendar and chronograph complications of major watchmakers.
TAOS × Ace Jewelers: Partnership for the Netherlands and the United Kingdom
Ace Jewelers has taken over exclusive retail distribution of TAOS in the Netherlands and the United Kingdom. The Geneva-based brand creates one-of-a-kind pieces in collaboration with the artisans at Atelier Olivier Vaucher. Engraving, enamel, gemstone inlay, and other Métiers d’Art techniques characterize not only the dials but also the craftsmanship of the exclusive automatic movement.
The watches are showcased at the boutique in Amsterdam, the showroom in London’s Mayfair, and on AceJewelers.com. Interested parties can view available one-of-a-kind pieces or discuss a custom design. The new partnership specifically covers the two markets mentioned.
