Unveiling My Top 3 Favorites from Watches and Wonders 2026
This year at Watches and Wonders, I wasn’t in the market for anything ordinary. I came to be awed, surprised, and utterly dazzled by the most intricate designs and innovative features. Forget the retro-chic dress watches or the polished classics; I craved complications! And let me tell you, the exhibitors truly outdid themselves, presenting a stunning array of choices. So, without further ado, here are my top three favorite releases from Watches and Wonders 2026!
1. Armin Strom Minute Repeater Resonance 12:59 First Edition
You might have seen the Armin Strom Minute Repeater Resonance 12:59 First Edition featured on Mike’s list, and I couldn’t resist including it here. This timepiece is remarkable for several reasons. First, its lightweight titanium frame measures 42 × 48mm and boasts a mere 11.7mm thickness—making it incredibly wearable. Next, it showcases jaw-dropping mechanical artistry, and lastly, it strikes the perfect blend of cleverness and fun.
This watch features an innovative movement design inspired by Armin Strom’s Masterpiece 2, presenting a sleek profile and fascinating mechanical architecture. With a price tag of CHF 390,000, it’s definitely a significant investment, but the craftsmanship and artistry that went into this watch justify the price. Plus, what’s more captivating than a minute repeater, especially one as engaging as this?
Aside from its visually stunning vibrating resonance movement, this limited edition piece comes with a show-stopping feature: it can chime the time on demand. Imagine the admiration you’ll receive when you show off the sound of 12:59, showcasing the epitome of a repeater watch. Limited to just 25 pieces, this timepiece is bound to impress.
2. Ulysse Nardin Super Freak
Next, let’s talk about the Ulysse Nardin Super Freak. I guess great minds think alike, as Mike also featured this extraordinary piece. My excitement to see the latest version of the Freak was palpable—and it certainly did not disappoint. This 44mm white gold marvel honors the tradition of experimental, extravagant designs while presenting a beautifully complex yet transparent aesthetic.
At its heart lies the new in-house automatic caliber UN-252, containing 511 components. This innovative movement features a double-tourbillon configuration paired with a flying carousel system. Each inclined tourbillon—positioned at a 10-degree angle and moving in opposite directions—completes a full revolution every 60 seconds, offering a captivating viewing experience.
To read the time, simply follow the tourbillons as they rotate on a lightweight titanium bridge that also indicates minutes. According to the brand, more than 97% of the movement’s components are always in motion, eliminating the need for a crown to wind and set the watch. Instead, twisting the case back does the trick. The Super Freak is a limited edition of 50 pieces, and while its price of €348,100 / US$393,600 / CHF 320,000 may seem steep, it would be worth it to take this beauty home.
3. Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Grande Tradition Tourbillon Jumping Date
Lastly, let’s shine a spotlight on the Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Grande Tradition Tourbillon Jumping Date. Imagine refining the ultra-complicated caliber 978, enhancing its finishing, and openworking the dial to put the tourbillon, jumping date mechanism, and 24-hour display on full display. That’s exactly what this wonderful creation achieves, making it an easy pick for my favorites list.
Yes, you might assume that a conventional Pointer Date would suffice, but that would be an understatement. With the exquisite tourbillon positioned at 6 o’clock, Jaeger-LeCoultre was clever in designing a jumping date mechanism that allows the date hand to glide effortlessly at midnight, preventing any obstruction of the magnificent tourbillon.
This timepiece encapsulates a level of finishing that is simply breathtaking. You’ll notice various techniques including straight graining, perlage, beveling, sandblasting, and the iconic black polishing—all of which showcase unparalleled refinement. Plus, the rotor adorned with Côtes de Genève and 22K pink gold adds a luxurious touch. If there’s a motto for this piece, it could very well be “creating unobstructed views,” as its clever cutouts allow light to beautifully illuminate its intricate components.
While this masterpiece may not be on my shopping list today, I couldn’t help but indulge in the admiration it inspires. This is what top-tier watchmaking looks like, and I look forward to following the journey of the Master Control Chronometre Date Power Reserve in the future.