Cars & motorsport
A Shared Attention to (Auto) Details, Part 3
Once again, Watchonista is pulling out the magnifier to unearth the small automotive design details that only a watch enthusiast could appreciate.
By Nate Chapnick
Contributor
Watch enthusiasts revel in the intricacies, and so does Watchonista. The devil is in the details, and that’s precisely why Watchonista wants to highlight some of the brilliant design elements usually overlooked by mainstream automotive publications (as we have done in Part 1 and Part 2 of this series).
These hidden gems, obsessed over by automotive designers and engineers globally, deserve recognition. We hope you enjoy the latest crop of our favorite design and engineering details – elements that we think capture and celebrate the artistry of automotive innovation.
The Acura MDX Type S: Iconic Drive Ambient LED Speaker Lighting
Many vehicles have outstanding audio systems, and the 25-speaker ELS Studio 3D Signature Edition sound system on the 2024 MDX Type S from Acura is incredible because Acura’s designers went a step further than most by creating intricate aluminum speaker grilles with built-in LED ambient lights.
As a result, these lights can be adjusted to nearly any color to truly set the mood in the cabin, both visually and audibly.
The 2024 Acura MDX Type S starts at $68,450.
The Volvo S60 Recharge: Orrefors-made Crystal Gearshift Selector
The S60 Recharge from Volvo is a fantastic plug-in hybrid, offering up to 41 miles of electric range before it turns on the gasoline engine.
Inside, the S60 features a gorgeous interior with thoughtful details like this stunning hand-made crystal gearshift knob by the Swedish luxury glassmaker Orrefors. Putting it into Drive never felt so good.
The Volvo S60 Recharge starts at $51,950.
The Jeep Grand Wagoneer: Fireplace Mode
The 2024 Grand Wagoneer from Jeep is an ultra-luxe family hauler that features no fewer than 75 inches of screen space spread out across the first and second rows of seats.
So, when you really want to escape and take a minute to relax, put your car in park and turn on “Fireplace Mode,” and the Wagoneer’s screens display dancing flames. Meanwhile, the sounds of a crackling fire are piped through the 23-speaker McIntosh audio system. S’mores not included.
The 2024 Jeep Grand Wagoneer starts at $91,945.
The Chevrolet Silverado HD: Transparent Trailer
Whether towing horses to a show, a boat to the lake, or your Airstream across the country, Chevrolet’s luxurious 2024 Silverado HD is ready for the task, equipped with high-tech features that make towing a breeze.
Among its towing tricks is Transparent Trailer, which entails a suite of 8 cameras that can seamlessly stitch together up to 14 camera views, providing you with a clear view through to the rear of any trailer you’re towing.
The 2024 Chevrolet Silverado HD starts at $43,000.
The Mercedes-Benz GLS: Heated and Cooled Cupholders
From the company that gave you the first automobile comes the heated and cooled cupholder you didn’t know you needed and now must have.
Elevating your beverage experience, Mercedes sets the standard with heated and cooled cupholders in the new seven-passenger GLS SUV, ensuring coffee stays hot and water remains cold for the entirety of your journey.
The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS SUV starts at $87,000.
A Shared Attention to (Auto) Details, Part 2
By Nate Chapnick
, Contributor
Once again, Watchonista uncovers the small automotive design details that are guaranteed to surprise and delight watch lovers with a keen eye for design.
Watchonista: Volume 05 Exclusive Preview – A Shared Attention to (Auto) Detail
By Nate Chapnick
, Contributor
Now that Watchonista: Volume 05 is officially available at Panerai boutiques all over North America and Bucherer stores across Europe, we wanted to give you...