As WOW’s December edition hits the newsstands, you will have discovered that the issue is defined by a serious reflection of watchmaking milestones in 2017, a year that may be remembered as the start of big things. As such, we cover many different inflection points which have shaped strategies, marketing efforts and even guided how novelties are birthed within the industry.

WOW Festive 2017 Celebrates the Past Year in Watchmaking

On our cover, the Montblanc Rally Timer is a symbol of the initial resistance and subsequent acquiescence of watchmakers in adopting 21st century manufacturing techniques while preserving ancient traditions. The finishing and decorative metiers are definitely old school while other measures such as quality control and even materials exemplify the modern age we live in.

As with all end-of-the-year traditions, there is some reticence and reflection on the year that was, and perhaps a hint of what is to come. Our feature story on official and unofficial brand ambassadors in the watch trade shows just how influential these relationships can be, with both Rolex and Cartier demonstrating how history shapes public perception. As a counter-point, one of our columnists presents his views on the dangers of the contemporary brand ambassador, the social media influencer.

On a more whimsical note, we take this opportunity to cast our editorial gaze over more than just wristwatches, with a selection of some of the most quirky and notable table clocks. Finally, we bid farewell to 2017 with a spread that imagines what happens the morning after a good party…

Editor of WOW, Ashok Soman, says, “We have put together a sweeping record of 2017. Frankly, we did this because we really do think that this year will recognized in the years to come as a watershed moment, hopefully for the better. .”

Jonathan Ho, Associate Editor added, “During the advent of silicon escapements, naysayers outnumbered supporters. Today, there is increasing adoption from the highest of horology and even the mainstream like Tissot’s Ballade. Now, we are once again at another point – whether watch retailers will begin to accept cryptocurrencies. Many have dismissed the idea but Chronoswiss has gone ahead to become the first brand to accept Bitcoin payments. 2017 is going to be a watershed year on the technical front as well as economics.”