THE HIT LIST

From commemorative complications and sublime red carpet accompaniments, to wild and innovative sports offerings, here are 20 of our favourite releases of 2023.

- Alvin Wong

AUDEMARS PIGUET

Royal Oak Concept Split-Seconds Chronograph GMT Large Date

Although it is tempting to do so, the legacy of Audemars Piguet's Royal Oak collection cannot be simply measured by the watches' red-hot demand or the prices they command on the secondary markets. There is also the vital matter of Royal Oak setting the blueprint for the modern luxury sport watch when it debuted in 1972. This penchant for rule-breaking remains key to Royal Oak's enduring relevance and evolution.

The Royal Oak Concept collection, introduced almost two decades ago as an experimental series to test new technologies and design, is testament to this spirit. This year's Split-Seconds Chronograph GMT Large Date continues the line's tradition of introducing technically advanced features with Royal Oak's signature octagonal silhouette as a canvas. The open-worked dial showcases the combination of impressive features as advertised in its name. The 43mm titanium watch not only allows you to measure two interval timings continuously, it is also a handy travel companion, displaying the home and away times at a single glance. Most importantly, as Royal Oak Concept watches do, it offers an insight into Audemars Piguet's future developments.

PATEK PHILIPPE 

Ref. 5531R-014

With its evocative multi-time zone complication and ability to lend itself to artful expressions, Patek Philippe's world time watch is often chosen as a commemorative timepiece to mark milestones and events. For the brand's Grand Exhibition Tokyo 2023, which took place in June, Ref. 5531R-014 was among six exclusive watches that were launched to commemorate the showcase.