Cover From vintage revivals to the power of K-celebrities, these are the top watch stories of 2025
From vintage revivals to the power of K-celebrities, these are the top watch stories of 2025
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From vintage revivals to celebrities’ favourites, these are the watch stories that mattered most to Tatler GMT’s readers in 2025
This year, market challenges and growing uncertainties saw a dramatic change of guard at brands under Richemont and LVMH. Mechanical watchmaking has never felt more relevant, as today’s collectors increasingly value authenticity and the stories behind each timepiece. This also explains the rising significance of collector-focused events like Dubai Watch Week and, on a smaller scale, Bangkok Watch Week, which directly engage enthusiasts rather than exclude them. There were several exciting releases, not the least of which was the revival of vintage shapes. And the horological calendar wouldn’t be complete without groundbreaking mechanics, of which there were quite a few. With that, let’s take a look at 10 of the top watch stories of 2025.
Read more: Audemars Piguet reacquires the most complicated pocket watch it created in the 20th century
Ji Chang-wook designs a Rado watch
After visiting the Swiss facility where Rado makes high-tech ceramic cases, South Korean actor and brand ambassador Ji Chang-wook was inspired to design his own Rado watch. Read more here.
Above Ji Chang-wook with Rado CEO Adrian Bosshard at the opening of the brand’s first corporate boutique in Bangkok
Ji Chang-wook with Rado CEO Adrian Bosshard at the opening of the brand’s first corporate boutique in Bangkok
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The evolution of the Omega Seamaster
From its beginnings as a dress watch to a James Bond staple, the Omega Seamaster is both a rugged and suave wrist companion. Discover its fascinating story here.
Read more: Nicole Kidman’s daughter Sunday Rose stars in the Omega Aqua Terra campaign
Above Glen Powell poses with the new Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean
Glen Powell poses with the new Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean
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Opinion: Rolex vs Tudor at Watches and Wonders 2025
This opinion piece brought the long-standing sibling rivalry (or is it “revelry”?) into sharp focus. Read more here.
Above Rolex Land-Dweller in Everose gold
Rolex Land-Dweller in Everose gold
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Above Tudor Pelagos Ultra
Tudor Pelagos Ultra
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IWC enthrals guests of Tatler GMT
IWC and Tatler GMT hosted an exclusive boutique event in Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, spotlighting the latest Pilot’s Watches inspired by Formula 1, and a rare close look at the groundbreaking Eternal Calendar watch. Guests included fashion designer Rizman Nordin as well as young professional racers Alister Yoong and Adam Khalid. Read more here.
Above Rizman Nordin and Nurida Suraya at IWC x Tatler GMT event in Pavilion Kuala Lumpur
Rizman Nordin and Nurida Suraya at IWC x Tatler GMT event in Pavilion Kuala Lumpur
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Roger Federer and his Rolex watches
A compilation of the timepieces worn by the Rolex Testimonee after his most significant victories. Discover them here.
Above Roger Federer won his record eighth Wimbledon title in 2017, wearing the Rolex Datejust 41 at the trophy ceremony on Centre Court. (Image: Rolex Newsroom)
Roger Federer won his record eighth Wimbledon title in 2017, wearing the Rolex Datejust 41 at the trophy ceremony on Centre Court. (Image: Rolex Newsroom)
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Richard Mille RM 75-01 Flying Tourbillon Sapphire
We unpacked why this resplendent sapphire timepiece, inspired by water and architecture, was both a design and technical marvel to behold. Read more here.
Above Richard Mille RM 75-01 Flying Tourbillon Sapphire in blue
Richard Mille RM 75-01 Flying Tourbillon Sapphire in blue
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Year of the Snake watches
This Chinese New Year piece highlights some of the best luxury watches that celebrated the new zodiac calendar. Relive them here.
Above Corum Golden Bridge “Serpent”
Corum Golden Bridge “Serpent”
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Launch of The Exchange TRX x Tatler GMT watch festival
In June and July, The Exchange TRX buzzed with excitement as it honoured some of the finest names in horology with a series of activities, including a watchmaking masterclass, in the mall. Read more here.
Above Fireside chat at the launch of The Exchange TRX x Tatler GMT watch festival
Fireside chat at the launch of The Exchange TRX x Tatler GMT watch festival
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Cartier revives Tank à Guichets
The singular design of the Tank à Guichets, with its rectangular case and jumping hour, got the recognition it deserved from a new generation of enthusiasts. Read more here.
Above Cartier Privè Tank à Guichets in rose gold
Cartier Privè Tank à Guichets in rose gold
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The best watches at Oscars 2025
Awards season is always a highlight at Tatler. From Cartier to Vacheron Constantin, movie stars showed impeccable taste in watches on Hollywood’s biggest night. See more here.
Above Michelle Yeoh attends the 97th Annual Oscars at Dolby Theatre on March 2, 2025 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Mike Coppola/Getty Images)
Michelle Yeoh attends the 97th Annual Oscars at Dolby Theatre on March 2, 2025 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Mike Coppola/Getty Images)
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Brian Cheong leads the watch (Tatler GMT) and jewellery content at Tatler Malaysia, combining sharp editorial insight with years of luxury lifestyle experience. A seasoned journalist in luxury watches based in Kuala Lumpur, Brian had previously helmed World of Watches, Men's Folio and Prestige Malaysia.
