CAR Chrono 2014 by CAR magazine

GREAT TIMEPIECES & ICONIC ENGINES

HRON

2014

M ESURE ET DÉMESURE *

TONDA HEMISPHERES Rose gold Automatic movement Dual time zone indication Hermès alligator strap

* EXACT AND EXULTANT

Made in Switzerland

FOR YOUR NEAREST STOCKIST CONTACT PICOT AND MOSS 011 669 0500

CONTENTS 2

History of the chronograph

Audemars Piguet, Schumacher and the Ferrari Tipo F140B

Frédérique Constant and the Austin-Healey SPL 261 BN

Chopard, the Porsche 919 Hybrid and the boxer turbo

10 Parmigiani Fleurier and the Bugatti 8,0 W16 12 TAG Heuer and the Formula E eMotor 14 TAG Heuer, McLaren Motorsport and the BMW S70/2 16 Scuderia Ferrari and the Lancia DS50 20 Tissot and the Chevrolet V8 24 IWC and the Mercedes-Benz PU106A Hybrid 28 Ball and the BMW N54B30 31 Jaeger-LeCoultre and the Aston Martin 5,9 V12 32 Tudor and the Ducati 125 Desmo editorial Brett Hamilton copy editor Terence Steenkamp art director Chris Agenbag production manager Judy Romon group publisher Neil Piper group marketing manager Dean Dicks advertising Jenny Kaplan, Debbie van der Merwe, André Stadler, Ingrid Versfeld

Retailers Audemars Piguet 011 669 0500 www.picotandmoss.co.za www.audemarspiguet.com Frédérique Constant 011 669 0500 www.picotandmoss.co.za www.frederique-constant.com IWC 011 317 2650 www.iwc.com Parmigiani Fleurier 011 669 0500 www.picotandmoss.co.za www.parmigiani.ch TAG Heuer 011 669 0500 www.picotandmoss.co.za www.frederique-constant.com Tissot 011 911 1200 www.tissot.ch Chopard 011 669 0500 www.picotandmoss.co.za www.frederique-constant.com Jaeger-LeCoultre +1877 552 1833 www.jaeger-lecoultre.com Tudor www.tudorwatch.com

published by RamsayMedia (Pty) Ltd Company registration number 1934/005460/07 directors Paul Jenkins (Chairman), Terry Moolman, Tim Holden, Cornelios Vamvadelis, Werner Schmidt, Neil Piper printed by CTP Web Printers, 12 Boompies Street, Parow East, 7501 distributed by RNA, 12 Nobel St, Industria West, Johannesburg

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HISTORY OF THE CHRONOGRAPH The chronograph is one of the most popular watch compilations thanks to its relatively affordability and its status as a fashion item

THE first chronographs were developed because there was an increasing need for accurate time measurement, especially by sports enthusiasts, medical practitioners and those professionals requiring accurate timing. A famous example is the use of an Omega Speedmaster on Apollo 13 to time rocket burns when the onboard timing system failed. Jean-Moyes Pouzait conceived the first chronograph to record the flight time of projectiles. These devices

used a pen to mark timing intervals. However, Nicolas Mathieu Rieussec developed the first marketed chronograph in 1821. Closer to the mid-1800s, this device made it into pocket watches and was used during the first modern Olympic Games in 1896 (picture). The first chronograph wristwatch is thought to have been developed by Longines in 1913 and, in 1936, the company produced the first “flyback” chronograph, which allows

the immediate start of a new event without first stopping the previous timer. In 1936, Universe Genève unveiled the first version with an hour counter. It was Breitling who first developed a separate start button for the chronograph (in 1923) and later another button that allowed for resetting separate from the stop and start buttons. Breitling also developed the Chronomat, the world’s first slide-rule chronograph and, later, the Navitimer, which

was officially classified as a computer. It allowed a pilot to calculate data such as fuel consumption, speed and distance. The creation of an automatic chronograph was technically extremely challenging but was finally nailed in 1969. Only a few manufacturers were involved with this (including Heuer, Breitling and Hamilton) and they developed the Calibre 11, or Chronomatic movement, which was used in the Heuer Monaco, the first square-cased chronograph.

PRECISION REACHES NEW HEIGHTS Bulova Corporation introduced the Bulova Precisionist Chronograph, the world’s most advanced chronograph, in 2012. This landmark timepiece features 1/1 000th-second precision over a 12-hour time frame and is accurate to within 10 seconds a year.

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W W W . Z E N I T H - W A T C H E S . C O M

E L PRIM E RO C H RONOMA S TE R 19 6 9

Acknowledged as the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best chronograph, it is a descendant of the legendary El Primero fi rst unveiled in 1969 and proudly bears the iconic colours of the fi rst high-frequency automatic column-wheel chronograph calibre. Beating at a rate of 36,000 vibrations per hour, this daring feat embodies the exceptional expertise of the Manufacture.

Available at selected fi ne jewellers nationwide. For further information please call 011.669.0500 or visit www.picotandmoss.co.za

TAG Heuer Boutiques; Sandton City & V&A Waterfront. Also at selected fine jewellers nationwide. For further information please call 011.669.0500. www.picotandmoss.co.za

TAG HEUER CARRERA CALIBRE 1887 By pushing you to the limit and breaking all boundaries, Formula 1 is more than just a physical challenge; it is a test of mental strength. Like TAG Heuer, you have to strive to be the best and never crack under pressure.

For further information contact Picot & Moss 011.669.0500. www.picotandmoss.co.za MAKERS OF THE ORIGINAL SWISS ARMY KNIFE I W W W.VICTORINOX.COM

FRÉDÉRIQUE CONSTANT AND THE AUSTINHEALEY SPL 261 BN

Celebrating a quintessential British marque NOJ 393 after the ill-fated crash at the 1955 Le Mans

NOT many cars can boast the (in)famous history of the 1953 Austin Healey 100 Special Test Car, also known as the NOJ 393. It is one of only a handful of pre-production Austin Healey 100s used for the launch, development and competition programme of the 100. NOJ 393 was soon converted into a works racer and upgraded to 100S specification. Race entries include the 1953 24 Hours of Le Mans, 1954 12 Hours of Sebring, Carre-

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ra PanAmericana and the ill-fated 1955 24 Hours of Le Mans. Motorsport has seen many dark days, but few compare with the events at Le Mans in 1955. The car, piloted by Lance Macklin, was running strong when it got shunted by a Mercedes-Benz 300SLR. The Benz flipped into a retaining bank, killing 83 spectators along with driver Pierre Levegh. NOJ 393 was recently restored to its former glory. Although seized up,

the engine, stamped SPL 261 BN, was found to be in good condition. An original dynometer test sheet of this inline four-cylinder engine indicated that it developed 140 hp at 5 000 r/min and utilised a long-period camshaft and dual carbs. It also featured a rare alloy “angled face” cylinder head. It remains the only surviving motor that reflects the development across the entire 100 range and cemented the 100S specification.

A tribute to classic cars Frédérique Constant pays homage to Austin-Healey with the all-new Healey GMT 24H Collection. The range is comprised of three watches and all are powered by the FC-350 Automatic GMT movement. Featuring a 42 mm case, each watch also boasts a refined engraving of the NOJ 393 on the case back. The date counter is at the three o’clock position and a Healey logo stands at six o’clock. Two models are presented with a rose-gold-plated case and a third model comes in polished stainless steel with a silver dial.

Frédérique Constant Healey GMT 24H Collection

C H O PA R D P R O U D LY S U P P O R T S P O R S C H E M O T O R S P O R T ‘‘ M I S S I O N 2 0 1 4 . O U R R E T U R N ’’

SUPERFAST CHRONO PORSCHE 919 EDITION

BOUTIQUE HAUTE HORLOGERIE. HYDE PARK | 011.325.4119

CHOPARD BOUTIQUE. V & A WATERFRONT | 021.421.4296 For further information contact Architects of Time (011) 669 0790

The Porsche Turbo While most cars rely on sheer engine size to ensure performance, Porsche knew that eight or 12 cylinders had no place in its perfectly balanced sportscar. As such, it introduced the turbo engine to its 911 line-up in 1974 (exactly 40 years ago). The result was, and remains, one of the most capable and accomplished sportscars. Most significantly, the 911’s flat-six’s displacement has increased from 3,0 litres in ‘74 to 3,8 litres today. However, don’t make the mistake of thinking that performance suffered because of the small cylinder count. In fact, output has more than doubled from 191 kW to 412 kW in the current 911 Turbo S. Other changes include the addition of charged-air cooling in ‘77 (930), metallic catalytic converter in ‘90 (964), bi-turbo technology in ‘95 (993), water cooling and variable valve timing in 2000 (996), variable turbine technology in ‘06 (997), direct fuel injection in ‘09 (997) and start/stop technology in ‘13 (991).

1977

1990

1995

2000

2006

2013

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CHOPARD,

THE PORSCHE 919 HYBRID AND THE BOXER TURBO A Superfast for the super fast

Chopard Superfast Chrono Porsche 919 Edition

FEW carmakers are as synonymous with motorsport as Porsche. Its latest focus has been on the World Endurance Championship and a return to the famed 24 Hours of Le Mans, an event that Porsche has won 16 times. For this effort, Porsche has decided to partner with Chopard as its official timekeeper. The company’s LMP1 race car, known as the 919 Hybrid, unfortunately did not have the dream

return in 2014 as hoped for, but proved highly competitive for 22 hours of this famed race. Car number 20, with Mark Webber behind the wheel, suffered technical difficulties a mere two hours from the chequered flag, while car number 14 was pushed into the garage 30 minutes later. The 919 Hybrid is a pioneer of technology. Its 2,0-litre engine has a V-configuration and performs a load-bearing

Racing is all about timing To celebrate Porsche’s return to Le Mans, Chopard has made available a special 919 limited-edition based on its Superfast Chrono. Its dial echoes various details of the Porsche 919 Hybrid, which competes in the LMP1 Endurance World Championship. Stamped with the 919 logo at nine o’clock, the silver colour is reminiscent of the Porsche colour. The black and red touches perfectly match the hybrid race car. On the back, the Porsche Motorsport Official Timing Partner logo is proudly placed on the glass. Thanks to the arena caseback, the Chopard movement and its exclusive open-worked bridges can still be easily admired. This exceptional model is a limited and numbered series of 919.

function with the chassis. Energy is recovered in two ways: one is thermodynamic, when the exhaust gases do not only drive the turbocharger, but also a dynamo; and kinetic, when braking energy is converted into electrical energy. In fact, during a 24-hour race like Le Mans, the 919 Hybrid generates around 580 kWh, which is about twice as much as the average European household.

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PARMIGIANI FLEURIER AND THE BUGATTI 8,0 W16

A development challenge surpassed

Parmigiani Fluerier Toric RĂŠsonance 3

THE development of the Bugatti Veyron EB 16.4 is one of the key automotive engineering milestones in the 21st century. Its designers did not only have the task to revive the heritage of Ettore Bugatti, but equally challenging were the impressive technical requirements. The car had to have a top speed of more than 400 km/h and produce 736 kW. A formidable challenge. Yet the Veyron unites the dichotomy of elegant form

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and high-tech function, of grace and power, aesthetics and safety in perfect harmony. It was and possibly will remain the most sophisticated production car of all time. The engine is a 7 993 cm3, 90-degree W16, in essence combining two large-displacement V8s and features quad turbochargers. Each cylinder has four valves for a total of 64, but the VR8 configuration of each bank allows two overhead camshafts

to drive two banks of cylinders, so only four camshafts are needed. It produces its maximum power at 6 000 r/min and develops 1 250 N.m of torque between 2 200 and 5 500 r/min. Acceleration times are astounding, requiring just 2,5 seconds to reach 100 km/h, 7,3 seconds to reach 200 km/h and 16,7 seconds to reach 300 km/h. On 19 April 2005, inspection officials recorded a top speed of 408,47 km/h.

A technological marvel for your wrist It’s not the first time Parmigiani Fleurier has combined a large date with a minute repeater. However, no watchmaker has ever before offered instantaneous rotation of such a colossal date. The Toric Résonance 3 is therefore a world first. If the watch had featured a date change occurring over a few hours in a smooth and uniform motion, the mechanical challenge would have been moderate. But, in this timepiece, the date jump occurs within 1/100th of a second. So fast, in fact, that it is invisible to the eye. The date disc has immense inertia, which means that it requires huge amounts of energy to launch in rotation and even more to make it come to a dead stop. Much like launching a Veyron at 100 km/h and making it come to a stop on a penny. So, the Toric Résonance 3 makes use of a double-cam system. The first cam accumulates energy through continuous friction over the course of the day. This “arms” the large lever continuously, releasing it at midnight precisely onto a 31-tooth wheel. The second cam plays the crucial role of a brake, keeping the device immobile and releasing it for a fraction of a second only every 24 hours. The name Résonance refers to another great feature: the time-change chime. The snake-shaped gongs that circle twice around the borders of the movement ensure a rich sound chime. The 45 mm case is of white gold. The dial is silver and is hand-engraved. It is certainly a watch that combines aesthetics, complex engineering and style in an equally accomplished manner as the Bugatti Veyron.

yron Bugatti Ve .4 EB 16

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The F1 range by TAG Heuer The Calibre 16 offers the ultimate racing look for this renowned chronograph. The resculpted case is 44 mm and houses TAG Heuer’s Calibre 16 movement. This movement features 25 rubies, a balance frequency of 28 800 vibrations an hour and a 42-hour power reserve. The all-black version has a titanium-carbide-coated case and unique strap. Its dial has three chronograph counters with silver azurage and red-tip hands, and F1 lettering at three o’clock. In addition to the Calibre 16 variants, the exclusive Calibre 5 movement powers the first TAG Heuer Formula 1 automatic timepiece. It features all the established TAG Heuer Formula 1 features such as the case back with its chequered design. The unidirectional turning bezel crowns the exclusive new case shape, with its elegant, sculpted horns and a choice of black or white dials. The Calibre 5 movement offers 25 to 26 rubies (depending on model), a balance frequency of 28 800 vibrations per hour and a 38-hour power reserve. Also included in the Calibre 5 line-up is a Full Black edition offering a black case, bezel and a black perforated rubber strap.

TAG Heuer Calibre 5

TAG Heuer Calibre 5 12 / CHRONO 2014

TAG HEUER AND THE FORMULA E eMOTOR

A watch for both Formula One and Formula E

TAG Heuer is the official timekeeper and technical founding partner of the new FIA Formula E Championship, which had its first event in September this year. Formula E is the world’s first fully electric racing series and aims to showcase the predicted evolution of battery technology over the next few years. TAG Heuer will provide all live timings for the championship’s 2014 season, which will take place on 10 street circuits worldwide including in London, Rome, Los Angeles, Miami, Rio, Buenos Aires and Beijing. The eMotor powering each of the cars had to meet stringent FIA regu-

lations, including a 200 kg cell weight limit, a 1 000 V maximum allowed bus voltage, a 200 kW peak power limit and maximum usable energy of 28 kWh. The challenge included packaging and installation, especially the cooling, which required the development of an innovative liquid-cooling system. The motor develops roughly 5 kW/kg, which is more than double that of most electric motors. These cars are thus incredibly light and very powerful. The eMotor is not unlike those used in production electric vehicles and is, in fact, the electric motor that is used in the McLaren P1 supercar.

However, instead of applying an electric current to the magnets turning the motor, which in turn drives the gearbox and the wheels, the rolling wheels and gearbox of the car now drive the motor and the system harvests electricity rather than using it. This is known as “regen” and, just like the alternator on your road car, it generates energy to put back into the battery. As such, an electric racing car is quite different from a hybrid (such as used by the current crop of Formula One racers) because the electric motor has to do everything and it reacts instantly to driver demands.

Formula E is the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first fully electric racing series

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McLaren won its ﬁrst F1 title in 1974 with Emerson Fittipaldi and James Hunt behind the wheel

Homage to winning

TAG Heuer McLaren 1974 Edition

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TAG Heuer has an intense passion for motorsport and is involved in numerous series (including Formula One and endurance racing), patented the first dashboard chronograph in 1911, pioneered driver ambassadorship with Jo Siffert in ‘69, was the first “non-technical” partner of an F1 team with Ferrari in the ‘70s and continued that tradition with McLaren and its drivers from ‘85 to the present day. Paying homage to the most successful partnership in motorsport (TAG Heuer and McLaren Mercedes), the company has introduced the McLaren 1974 Edition as a tribute to the team’s first constructors’ and drivers’ titles in ‘74, with Emerson Fittipaldi and, more memorably, James Hunt. The in-house Calibre 1887 powers the chronograph, which has a 43 mm case in polished steel, a rubber strap with a special race-tyre tread design and a black ceramic bezel marked with “McLAREN 1974 EDITION”. The caseback sports the 1974 McLaren logo.

TAG HEUER,

McLAREN MOTORSPORT AND THE BMW S70/2

It remains the fastest naturally aspirated engine on the road

McLAREN is the most successful marque in Formula One history, which speaks to its competitive bloodline. Its story is one of inspirational people, vision and commitment pioneered by Bruce McLaren. Not content with just winning on the racetrack, the company introduced the McLaren F1 road car in 1993. In short, the McLaren F1 changed supercar history. Under its bodywork lurked the BMW S70/2, a naturally aspirated mid-mounted 6,1-litre, 60-degree V12 which was custom designed for McLaren by BMW M. Simplicity lay at the heart of this engine to increase reliability. BMW stuck

with tried-and-tested technology, thus foregoing turbocharging and variable-intake geometry. It featured an aluminium block and head, and quad overhead camshafts. This engine broke the coveted 100 hp/litre barrier. It was good for 468 kW and 651 N.m of torque at 5 600 r/min. Its redline was at 7 500 r/min and the F1 could achieve a top speed of 372 km/h (390 with the limiter removed). The cam carriers, covers, oil sump, dry sump and housings for the camshaft control were of magnesium castings. The camshafts were continuously variable for increased performance. To allow the fuel to atomise fully, the

engine used two Lucas injectors per cylinder. Each cylinder had its own miniature ignition coil. The closed-loop fuel injection was sequential, while the pistons were forged in aluminium. Every cylinder bore had a nikasil coating affording it wear resistance. The carbon-fibre body panels and monocoque chassis required significant heat insulation in the engine compartment and the solution was the use of 25 g of gold foil as a heat-reflector in each car. A masterpiece, the F1 was the first carbon-fibre road car, the fastest production car and remains the fastest naturally aspirated road car ever built.

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SCUDERIA FERRARI

AND THE LANCIA DS50

A watch commemorating the “Lancia Ferrari” D50

Scuderia Ferrari D50

A watch to be inherited THE FIA World Championship of Drivers was contested for the first time in 1950 over seven races held in Europe and at Indianapolis. Scuderia Ferrari made its debut at the second round of

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the championship, at the famed Monaco GP, with the Modena-based single-seaters piloted by Luigi Villoresi and Alberto Ascari. A year later, Scuderia Ferrari attained its first

victory when José Froilan Gonzalez’s 375 F1 crossed the finish line at Silverstone. The following year, Ferrari took home its first F1 championship, with Ascari winning seven of seven races for the season.

The Scuderia Ferrari D50 pays tribute to the single-seater that brought the drivers’ world championship to Maranello in 1956. There are numerous versions, but the one pictured features a duo of crisp chronograph sub-dials that detail the parchment-hued dial and which are finished with a rich-brown leather strap. The 42 mm stainless-steel case features a three-hand quartz movement. A red “rev counter” track segment contributes to the classic racing feel of the design, while a silver-toned Racing Shield logo adds a touch of sophistication. The thin case features fluidly elongated lugs and a glare-reducing domed crystal, popular in wristwatches from that era. Chronograph models feature red pusher accents and twin sub-dials positioned side by side at three and nine o’clock. Strap variations include vintage-look and black leather. Most importantly, all boast the Ferrari logo neatly located on the watch face.

It didn’t stop there, and in 1953 Ascari again took the championship, that time in the 500 F2. Rule changes in ‘54 allowed a choice between a 2,5-litre naturally aspirated engine, called the DS50, or 750 cm3 for those with compressors. Ferrari

went for natural aspiration and had a hard-fought season against MercedesBenz, with Juan Manuel Fangio emerging as the eventual champion. The battle continued in 1955 and Fangio again reigned supreme. However, 1956 saw the

introduction of new drivers and, more importantly, new cars to Scuderia. Fangio was joined by teammates Musso, Castellotti and Collins. The Argentinian conquered the world championship in what is often referred to as the “Lancia Ferrari” D50.

Lancia 2,5 V8

Juan Manuel Fangio

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When Lancia withdrew from F1 in 1955, Ferrari inherited its materials and, in 1956, put the D50 on the track for the first time. Combined with Fangio’s ability, the D50 won the championship. The D50 was initially designed by Vittorio Jano for Lancia but never made a serious assault on the championship prior to the addition of Ferrari to the formula. The car was unlike anything else on the grid. The design focused on a low centre of gravity, with weight centred between the wheels. The “DS50” 2,5-litre, DOHC, front-mounted, longitudinal 90-degree V8 engine was shorter than the straight-six and -eight engines used by Maserati and Mercedes-Benz, and was a load-bearing member of the space frame. The engine was angled at 12 degrees, which allowed the propshaft to pass to the left of the driver’s seat. It produced between 194 kW at 8 000 r/min and 213 N.m. The addition of the fuel tanks ahead of the rear axle gave the D50 impeccable weight distribution and balance. It weighed about 70 kg less than a competing Mercedes-Benz. Ferrari won five of the eight races that year.

Tissot PRC 200 Danica Patrick Limited Edition 2013

Less rumble, more regal

TISSOT

AND THE CHEVROLET V8

As quintessentially American as pie

THE first-ever V8 engine to be used in a Chevrolet was a 4,7-litre unit used in the Series D between 1917 and 1918. Since then, the Chevrolet V8 has formed part of American folklore and has been utilised in every conceivable type of vehicle produced by the company, including trucks, buses, sedans and sporty coupés (in both small- and big-block guises).

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The American V8 finds its home in NASCAR (pictured above), the National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing – a family owned and operated business venture that sanctions and governs multiple auto-racing events, including the Sprint Cup Series and Nationwide Series. The specification of the Chevrolet runners

in NASCAR include a 5 860 cm3 pushrod V8 coupled with a four-speed manual transmission. This version of the V8 produces 645 kW (or 332 kW if running restricted), as well as 720 N.m of torque. It represents the epitome of the American V8 and will continue to power the likes of the Chevrolet Camaro and Corvette in the future.

Tissot presented Danica Patrick, the famous American race-car driver best known for her participation in the NASCAR series, with a purpose-designed watch, the Tissot PRC 200 Danica Patrick Limited Edition 2013. This sporty chronograph boasts a tachymeter and counters, as well as a white-leather strap and elegantly worked dial. Only 4 999 of these pieces will be produced and they will feature Danica Patrick’s engraved logo on the caseback, along with her race number 7 that shines in the dark thanks to its Super-LumiNova properties. This is a lady’s watch and features a 34 mm stainless-steel case with a silver dial boasting three meters. It has the G15.211 Calibre with quartz movement.

Danica Patrick

TAC T IL E TECHNOLOGY

T ISS O T QUI C K STE R. C H RON OG R A PH MOVEM EN T, 316L STA IN LESS STEE L C AS E, S C R ATC H -R E SISTA N T SA PP H I R E C RYSTA L A N D WATER R ESISTA N CE U P TO A PR ESSU R E OF 10 BA R (10 0 M / 33 0 FT ). I NN OVA TO RS BY TRAD I TION.

TISSO T.C H Tel:011 911 1200

No one ever aspires to drive a mini-van. Introducing the new Mercedes-Benz SL 400 in the Dream Cars range. With the addition of the exceptionally desirable new SL 400 cabriolet, Mercedes-Benz Dream Cars offer a range of cabriolets designed to be both aesthetically pleasing and exhilarating on the road. Theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re the cars youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve always aspired to drive and now you can.

A Daimler Brand

Vehicle specifications may vary for the South African market.

IWC

AND THE MERCEDESBENZ PU106A HYBRID

In response to rule changes, Mercedes charges to the front Complex engineering IWCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s relationship with Mercedes-Benz continues with its Ingenieur Automatic AMG Black Series Ceramic. The timepiece boasts the same outstanding features as an AMG vehicle: exclusivity and performance, combined with practicality, reliability and quality. As a tribute to its namesake, the piece uses black to its best and most elegant advantage. Some of the surfaces are gloss and some matte. This intriguing interplay makes the timepiece, which is also available with a brown dial, a conspicuous eye-catcher. The 46 mm case, bezel, caseback ring, crown and its solid protective shoulders are finished in black zirconium oxide inspired by the high-performance ceramic disc brakes found in premium AMGs. The watch is equipped with the in-house 80110 Calibre. A glance through the transparent sapphire-glass back reveals a precision, high-performance mechanism with a blackened rotor.

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THIS year introduced what is widely recognised as the biggest technical revolution since the first Formula One season in 1950. The significance of this change cannot be underestimated in terms of the challenges presented to both teams and drivers as they embark upon a voyage into a relative unknown following the V8 era. This revolution can be expressed in one simple phrase: the engine is no more; long live the Power Unit. Out go the 2,4-litre, normally aspirated V8 powerplants used over the past eight years. In comes a 1,6-litre V6 engine with integrated Hybrid Energy Recovery System (ERS) to form the Power Unit.

In regulatory terms, the Power Unit comprises six different systems: the Internal Combustion Engine (ICE), Motor Generator Unit-Kinetic (MGU-K), Motor Generator Unit-Heat (MGU-H), Energy Store (ES), Turbocharger and the Control Electronics. The Mercedes-Benz PU106A Hybrid, which sits at the heart of the Mercedes AMG Petronas Formula 1 W05 Hybrid race car, has been designed from the outset with Hybrid systems integral to its operation. For 2014, this takes the form of a 1,6-litre turbocharged, 90-degree, 24-valve V6 with direct fuel injection up to 500 bar of pressure. Where the V8 could rev to 18 000 r/min,

the ICE is limited to 15 000 r/min. The PU106A Hybrid power unit can weigh no less than 145 kg and develop no more than 120 kW at a maximum r/min of 125 000. This technological marvel is the most advanced racing machine that Mercedes-Benz has ever produced, while the PU106A Hybrid is the most complex powertrain ever made by MercedesAMG High Performance Powertrain. The revolution of 2014, although lamented by many F1 fans, was designed to encourage rather than restrict new technology. As the automotive industry increasingly demands more from less, efficiency and hybrid technologies

become all the more relevant. As the pinnacle of automotive technology and performance, Formula One has a significant role to play in driving these technologies. The Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 team has gained unparalleled success in the championship. Nico Rosberg and Lewis Hamilton have seen little challenge from the rest of the field, while Mercedes is having a runaway year in the constructorsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; championship.

IWC Ingenieur Automatic AMG Black Series Ceramic

Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 W05 Hybrid

CHRONO 2014 / 25

BALL

AND THE BMW N54B30

Top honours prove that less is more

Original sketches for the E92 3 Series Coupé

REACTIONS were muted when BMW first announced it planned to replace the sublime 330i with the 335i. However, opinions were soon swayed when the true magnitude of the introduction of the N54B30 to the 3 Series range became clear. The truth was that BMW itself managed to produce the biggest challenge to its revered M3. At the new engine’s base remained the same 3,0-litre straight-six that powered the 330i, but in an attempt to create an

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engine capable of similar power characteristics to a larger V8 unit (while maintaining the weight advantage of a six-cylinder), BMW made use of turbocharging technology for the first time on a direct-injection straight-six. The addition of two turbochargers, each feeding three cylinders, may have added only 25 kW to the original 200 kW (for a total output of 225 kW). However, a closer glance at test figures tell a different story. The in-gear acceleration, particularly from third gear on, was

actually better than the M3’s. There is 400 N.m of torque available from just 1 300 r/min all the way through to 5 000 r/min, with a limiter at 7 000. Power delivery was smooth and, thankfully, the addition of the turbos did nothing to detract from the engine’s soundtrack. The N54B30 was awarded four trophies at the 2007 World Engine of the Year awards, including International Engine of the Year. It was, quite possibly, the best incarnation yet of an already hugely impressive powertrain.

Engineered to perfection The BALL for BMW Chronograph is a matter of course within the new collection of the company. Lines, colours, textures and design of the watch have been inspired by the automotive industry. With the Chronograph, the company offers a sporty but classy piece that reflects the spirit of BMW. It is equipped with an automatic Caliber BALL RR1402-C movement and includes a chronograph function with an accumulated measurement of up to 12 hours. In addition to the tachymeter, the watch also has hours, minutes, seconds, and day and date displays. The Chronograph incorporates the Amortiser, a revolutionary anti-shock system which, much like the suspension system of a car, absorbs lateral impacts and thus protects the movement. The piece was designed by Magali Métrailler and its 44 mm stainless-steel case features sapphire crystal on the front and back. One version of the Chronograph features a diamond-like carbon (DLC) coating on the case. The black dial features a grille motif and an orange Inka which resembles the speed dial of a car. The hands glow in the dark, resembling a lit-up instrument cluster. The three available versions include the DLC case with a rubberised leather strap and a stainless-steel case with the option of either a stainless-steel or calf-leather strap.

Ball for BMW Chronograph

nation of The original incar gine had two the 3,0-litre en ys, models turbos. These da have a sufﬁxed with “35i” single blower

CHRONO 2014 / 29

Start your Aston with a watch

JAEGERLeCOULTRE AND THE ASTON MARTIN 5,9 V12

The new AMVOX2 Transponder is a mechanical and electronic hybrid that incorporates a mechanism to activate the chronograph start, stop and reset functions. The traditional push-pieces of the case are replaced by a lever, which allows the watch glass to pivot. The chronograph is activated by pivoting the watch glass towards 12 or six o’clock. The central seconds hand as well as the 30-minute and 12-hour counters are reset by pressing the edge of the crystal at six o’clock. Simple and ingenious. The watch’s “engine” is the Calibre 751E, a column-wheel driven, vertical-clutch movement that features a 65-hour power reserve. In addition, owners of an AMVOX2 Transponder can use it to lock or unlock their Aston Martin from a distance, or to find it easily by turning on the headlamps.

Jaeger-LeCoultre

AMVOX2 Transponder

A purebred British engine Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde is a much-used expression but, when it comes to the Aston Martin DB9, there really is no other way of saying it: the last thing you would expect when judging the DB9 on its lithe looks is a slap through the face when planting the accelerator pedal. But, thanks to its 5,9-litre, naturally aspirated, 48-valve, all-aluminium, 60-degree V12 engine,

that is exactly what you get. The engine is a brute and continues to form the base of Aston Martin’s top-range road cars. After being fitted to the DB9 road car in 2005, it formed the base of Aston Martin’s DBR9 GT1 endurance racer as well as the later DBRS9 customer race car. Most notably, the DBR9 took a surprise GT1 class victory and fourth overall result at its debut

race at the 12 Hours of Sebring in ‘05. The team also achieved LMGT1 class victories at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in ‘07 and ‘08. The engine was originally designed by Ford and Cosworth, which produced the engine until Aston Martin took over. Prior to being introduced in the DB9, the engine was used in the Vanquish in 2001, where it produced 335 kW and 540 N.m.

CHRONO 2014 / 31

TUDOR Ducati 125 Desmo

Tudor and Ducati The Tudor Fastrider Black Shield is not only the company’s first all-ceramic model but, unlike most ceramic pieces, has a monobloc design. The matte-black case measures 42 mm and has a fixed matteblack ceramic bezel with an engraved tachymeter scale. The chronograph pushers are in black PVD-treated steel. Inside is a Calibre Valjour 7753, which runs at 28 800 vibrations an hour. There is a PVD shield motif designed in the shape of the Ducati logo and, to return the favour, Ducati created a one-of-a-kind Diavel Carbon model with a matte-black finish on the whole motorcycle and signature red accents. There are two watches, one with red highlights and one with bronze ones. The former has either a black-leather strap with red stitching or a black-rubber strap. The bronze version boasts either beige alcantara leather with black stitching or a black rubber strap.

Tudor Fastrider Black Shield 32 / CHRONO 2014

AND THE DUCATI 125 DESMO

The rise and rise of the desmo FEW could have predicted the impact that Fabio Taglioni would have on the future of Ducati when the engineer joined the company in 1954. Desmodromic valve actuation was conceived during the earliest days of engine development, but when Taglioni developed the 125 Desmo for Ducati in ‘56, his vision and focus turned out to be a turning point in Ducati’s history.

The 125 triple overhead camshaft Desmo marks the first truly recognisable Ducati. It also managed to rack up motorsport successes from the outset, with a twin-cylinder version managing third place at Monza. The benefits of fully controlled valve movements are increased reliability, and improved tractability. And the rest is history. Ducati motorcycles with

desmodromic valves have won numerous races and championships, including the World Superbike Championship from 1990 to ‘92, ‘94 to ‘96, and ’98, ’99 and 2001, ‘03 to ‘04, and finally ‘06, ‘08 and ‘11. The Ducati V4 990 cm3 “Desmosedici” went on to claim numerous race wins in MotoGP and an 800 cm3 version powered Casey Stoner to his MotoGP World Championship in ‘07.

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