A rare Richard Mille RM 59-01 Yohan Blake Tourbillon is set to make waves at a unique Government Auction by Wilsons Auctions, marking the first time this coveted watch is available without a reserve price. With only 50 pieces created, this highly collectible timepiece reflects its namesake’s athletic legacy and is renowned for its intricate design and advanced tourbillon movement. The auction, which also features other luxury items like a limited Audemars Piguet, aims to benefit the public through funds generated from seized criminal assets. Currently, bids have reached £12,010, with expectations of a substantial increase as the event progresses.
Month: January 2026
Hermès unveils Slim d’Hermès Squelette Lune with lunar phase display
Hermès has introduced the Slim d’Hermès Squelette Lune, a sophisticated addition to its acclaimed watch collection. This timepiece features a striking skeletonized dial and an innovative double moon phase display, meticulously designed to represent lunar phases for both hemispheres. Available in a 39.5mm case of either titanium or platinum, the watch houses the ultra-thin Manufacture Hermès H1953 movement, offering a power reserve of 48 hours. With its elegant aesthetics and luxurious leather straps, the Slim d’Hermès Squelette Lune exemplifies the brand’s commitment to artistry and craftsmanship in horology.
Rolex joins LIV Golf in high-profile partnership
Rolex has announced a strategic partnership with LIV Golf, enhancing its footprint in the sport as the league gears up for a dynamic 2026 season featuring 14 events across ten nations. This collaboration aims to elevate hospitality experiences for clients, reinforcing Rolex’s longstanding commitment to golf. Following a successful 2025 where LIV Golf reported $500 million in partnership revenue, the inclusion of the luxury watchmaker signals a significant endorsement of the league’s ambitions despite ongoing scrutiny regarding its funding. With major players like Bryson DeChambeau and Dustin Johnson joining, LIV Golf is poised for a transformative era, while Rolex continues to underscore its legacy within the golfing community.
Dior reveals new high jewellery collection inspired by gardens and couture
Dior has unveiled its stunning Belle Dior High Jewellery collection, comprising 57 exquisite pieces that celebrate femininity and movement. Guided by artistic lead Victoire de Castellane, the collection draws inspiration from lush gardens and haute couture, featuring innovative gold braids and vibrant gemstone palettes. A highlight is the Soleil Céleste set, showcasing a striking combination of yellow diamonds and black opal. With transformable designs like a versatile necklace and the eye-catching Jardins Multicolores range, this collection embodies the elegance and fluidity of nature and fashion.
LVMH limits revenue decline amid mixed performance in luxury sector
Luxury giant LVMH has reported a modest 1% decline in organic revenue for 2025, with total turnover falling to €80.8 billion amid currency challenges. The company’s shares dropped 8%, stirring concerns regarding the luxury market’s recovery. Despite a dip in operational profits from €22.8 billion to €17.5 billion, experts remain optimistic about LVMH’s resilience, especially as growth prospects in the Watches and Jewellery segment show promise. Notably, adjusted figures reveal a 3% revenue increase in this sector, bolstered by strategic brand initiatives and renewed consumer interest, particularly from China.
Frederique Constant backs padel as fastest-growing sport gains momentum
Frederique Constant has unveiled its partnership with the rapidly expanding sport of padel, projected to soar to an $8 billion valuation by 2033. With 30 million players worldwide, including 20 million in the U.S., the sport is gaining traction and may soon vie for Olympic inclusion. As the Official Timekeeper and Watch of the newly established Pro Padel League, Frederique Constant is set to elevate its profile through branded events and broadcasts. A limited-edition watch commemorating the league is on the horizon, reflecting the brand’s alignment with the vibrant ethos of padel.
Piaget unveils Polo 79 Two-Tone to celebrate luxury watchmaking heritage
Piaget has launched the Polo 79 Two-Tone, an exquisite addition to its luxury sports watch collection, blending yellow and white gold in a tribute to its iconic 1979 precursor. Priced at €96,000, this 38mm timepiece features the innovative ultra-thin calibre 1200P1 movement, reinforcing Piaget’s dedication to craftsmanship in precious metals. With its elegantly integrated bracelet and solid gold dial, the Polo 79 Two-Tone not only reflects timeless style but also underscores the brand’s heritage as it celebrates 150 years of excellence in horology.
Héron launches updated Marinor Gen II dive watch
Héron has launched the Marinor Gen II dive watch, showcasing a refined design with a slimmer profile and an improved dial layout. Retaining its name as a nod to the brand’s Canadian heritage, the updated model features enhanced scratch and water resistance, thanks to the use of 316L stainless steel. Powered by an automatic Miyota 9039 movement, the watch offers a robust performance with a stylish edge, now available in two new colourways. Priced at £480, the Marinor Gen II continues to build on Héron’s reputation as an emerging boutique watchmaker.
De Beers unveils Vibrations collection inspired by the beauty of water
De Beers has unveiled its stunning new high jewellery collection, Vibrations, inspired by the transformative essence of inland water, with the first chapter, Echo, showcased at Paris Haute Couture Week. The highlight is a versatile necklace featuring a rare 1.12-carat Fancy Intense Blue diamond, which can be adapted into six distinct styles. This collection emphasizes sustainability, incorporating artisanally mined diamonds from the GemFair initiative, showcasing De Beers’ commitment to traceability and responsible sourcing. Chief Executive Emmanuelle Nodale remarked that Echo embodies the emotion of water, while also connecting consumers to the origins of these exceptional gems.
British Watchmakers’ Day to showcase exclusive timepieces in 2026
British Watchmakers’ Day 2026 is set to unveil a captivating array of Special Edition timepieces from 26 distinguished brands, as it gears up for its anticipated showcase in London on 7 March 2026. With a unique limit of up to 50 pieces per design, this year’s event promises exclusivity and a closer look at the innovation driving British watchmaking. Celebrating the 25th anniversary of Roger W. Smith Ltd as headline sponsor, the event will also feature hands-on watchmaking experiences courtesy of Studio Underd0g. Limited tickets are already available for members, with general admission expected to sell out swiftly when released on 2 February.