Last month, we published 4 watch predictions for Baselworld 2018 (read the article here.) Now that the show is over for another year, we’re revisiting our list to see how we did. As you will discover, we were right on the money with some of our guesses, but there definitely a number of pleasant surprises along the way too. Read on to discover some of our highlights of this year’s show.

Prediction. 1 – A Rolex GMT-Master II With Pepsi Bezel In Steel – Correct!!

This had to be one of the most hotly anticipated new models this year, not just from Rolex but from any brand exhibiting at Baselworld. Speculation was rife online that the company’s beloved GMT-Master II with blue and red bezel (affectionately known as a ‘Pepsi’ bezel) would be making its highly anticipated debut in steel with a cerachrom bezel and Rolex did not disappoint. The Rolex GMT Master II 126710 BLRO is presented in a subtly redesigned 40mm steel case and paired with a 5-link Jubilee bracelet complete with Oysterclasp and Easylink rapid extension system. Inside is a new generation in-house movement, the calibre 3285, a superlative chronometer which offers 70 hours of power reserve.

Prediction. 2 – Omega Speedmaster Celebrating The 50th Anniversary Of Apollo 8 – Correct!!

Ok, even we surprised ourselves with getting this one right. What we couldn’t have predicted though, is just how cool the new Omega Speedmaster Dark Side of the Moon “Apollo 8 50th Anniversary” would be. Offered in a 44.25mm case made from black ceramic, it is the first model in the ‘Dark Side of the Moon’ series to feature a manually-wound movement, calibre 1869. Partially skeletonised, the movement is engraved on both sides using a laser ablation process to create a realistic rendering of the lunar surface. The dial side represents our view of the moon from earth, while the rear of the movement displays the dark side of the moon only astronauts get to see. Truly a timepiece for collectors.

Prediction. 3 – A new version of the Tudor Pelagos – Incorrect

So, we were way off with our prediction for a new Pelagos model from Tudor, but we couldn’t be happier, because the brand surprised us with something even better instead (several somethings, in fact). The main highlight is of course the new Tudor Black Bay GMT, with blue and burgundy bezel. The perfect complement to elder sibling Rolex, the watch is offered in a 41mm steel case with matching bracelet and is powered by a COSC-certified chronometer – the automatic Manufacture Calibre MT5652. Also joining the collection is the Black Bay Fifty-Eight, a vintage-inspired model that offers a smaller and slimmer case – 39mm x 11.9mm – without compromising on its 200m water resistance.

Prediction. 4 – A Patek Philippe dress watch in steel – Incorrect

As everyone knows, Patek Philippe rarely makes watches in steel, with the exception of its luxury sports watches, such as those found in the Nautilus and Aquanaut collections, and so we knew this would be a long shot. That being said, we’ve never seen a model in either of those collections feature one of the brand’s signature “Grande Complication” movements…until now. Introducing the new Patek Philippe Nautilus Perpetual Calendar 5740G, available exclusively in an 18k white gold case measuring a super 40mm x 8.42mm. Equipped with one of the most impressive complications in watchmaking – the perpetual calendar – this is guaranteed to be one of the most sought-after models of 2018 (and for many, many years to come.)

There are loads more new models from Baselworld 2018 that we would love to tell you all about, so please check back to our blog regularly for further, in-depth coverage in the coming weeks and months. If you would like more information about any of the models listed above, please do not hesitate to contact us online or visit us at our Norwich boutique.