Now that the last of the luxury releases have come to light in Geneva, it’s time to break down the timepieces that captivated audiences on the scene. As someone who has covered Watches & Wonders for The Manual extensively, I have narrowed down a curated list of my personal favorites.
This is the first in my traditional series of categorized ‘Best of Show’ stories, and I kick things off with the chronograph. It is fair to say the chronograph reigned supreme at this year’s event.
TAG Heuer Monaco Evergraph: Reinventing the Chronograph
TAG Heuer has roared over the past year, first by introducing the Carbonspring technology at Geneva Watch Days and then reinventing the start-stop and reset triggers with the Monaco Evergraph. The Calibre TH80-00 is fitted with two compliant mechanisms, guaranteeing instant, precise, and reliable activation of the chronograph function. It is available in a 40mm grade 5 titanium case with an openworked dial and that distinct Monaco square silhouette. As in previous years, expect to see these timepieces worn on red carpets by more celebrities in the coming seasons
Key details:
- Case: 40mm grade 5 titanium
- Movement: Calibre TH80-00 with compliant mechanisms
- Availability: Limited but not off-catalogue
This is not only a new arrival, but an undeniable technical breakthrough. For this alone, it makes my short list of exceptional timepieces at this year’s event.
Rolex Daytona Rolesium 126502: The Collector’s Dream
Rolex always finds its way on nearly every curator’s list through advanced innovation. Still, the Daytona Rolesium 126502 makes it this year by raising eyebrows with its steep price point. True watch collectors will not be deterred, however, as this is an attractive edition worthy of all the accolades it has received over the past week.
The case comes in steel, with a platinum bezel ring and caseback, and the anthracite Cerachrom bezel insert pays homage to the watch’s deep history in design and font. But the real star of the show is the dial – in a milky white Grand Feu enamel. Not only does it look stunning, but when you add a see-through caseback, the 126502 might be positioned as the ultimate collector’s Daytona.
Key details:
- Price: EUR 56,160
- Case: Steel with platinum bezel ring and caseback
- Dial: Grand Feu enamel in milky white
- Availability: Off-catalogue / extremely limited
The bottom line? This is a price point for diehard aficionados and gives them everything they yearn for.
Honorable Mentions
While the Monaco Evergraph and Daytona Rolesium are at the top of the list, several other chronographs deserve some praise. IWC’s new Portugieser chronograph offerings impressed with updated movements and dial layouts. Patek Philippe’s annual calendar chronograph refinement continues to set the gold standard for complicated elegance. And Grand Seiko’s introduction of a mechanical chronograph with a textured dial proved that Japan may not be as revered as brands in Switzerland, but is very much in the conversation at the highest level.
More Luxury Coverage Awaits
Watches & Wonders 2026 has come to a close, but the conversation in horology is just beginning. From Geneva to New York, Lisbon, London, and beyond, the world of luxury moves fast – and I am committed to keeping you informed every step of the way.
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Until next year in Geneva!
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