More Road to Drive

Case in point, for the first time, the concours is relocating its central grounds to the historic, 130-acre coastal naval fortress of Fort Adams State Park for 2026.

The location’s 227-year history dovetails nicely with the heritage message of showcasing over 180 of the world’s finest classic cars competing in over a dozen categories, including the popular “Thirty Under 30” class and the coveted “Best in Show” award. But the move also hints at the Audrain show’s continued growth; the extra real estate will be put to good use.

In fact, that space may be behind the 2026 show’s most disruptive new addition – a first-for-the-show modern car showcase: the inaugural Audrain Supercar and Hypercar Concours d’Elegance scheduled for Saturday, October 3rd, the day before the main-stage traditional Concours d’Elegance event.

A. Lange & Söhne in the Mix

Over its years of partnership with the Newport show, the watchmaker has used the concours to create some inventive and important interactions and moments for the crowd.

For instance, in 2023, it created a floral “Secret Garden” area at the Newport show’s popular “The Gathering” lifestyle event and offered an exclusive “Watchmaking Experience” class at the nearby The Chanler at Cliff Walk hotel.

The following year, A. Lange & Söhne brought an engraver from its German headquarters to display his exacting skills.

Additionally, the watchmaker’s charming Director of Product Development, Anthony De Haas, joined entertainment legend Jay Leno (arguably the world’s most famous car collector and a bona fide Lange fan) for a presentation as a sophomore follow-up to its “The Gathering” activities.

Last year, in addition to debuting special versions of its Saxonia Thin timepieces, the house hosted a VIP access lounge on the grounds of the main concours at The Breakers mansion, and the attending watch media got a chance to speak with Jay Leno privately, where he told us:

…what I like about Lange watches is that combination of classic design and edgy, hand-made technology. Also, when you own a Lange watch, you don’t have to go anywhere else…you’re there.

For 2026, Lange is playing its cards particularly close to the vest on its plans for Newport; however, there is some scuttlebutt about a unique focus on the house’s expertise in chronography. Of course, a fine chronograph (or two?) instantly creates a strong connection to motoring, so many are keenly anticipating the watchmaker’s plans.

The Wrap-Up

Watchonista is planning to be on-the-scene in Newport to report important developments from the show, both horological and automotive, from this season-culminating concours.

Of course, you can learn more about A. Lange and Söhne’s ongoing passion for and dedication to classic car concours by clicking HERE.