WOW Singapore’s Spring issue champions the “Hidden Gems” of horology — moving away from market hype toward the joy of discovery, anchored by the timeless Blancpain Villeret Quantième Complet.
The Spring 2026 issue of WOW (World of Watches) Singapore arrives at a pivotal moment for the industry. As the dust finally starts to settle on the novelties of 2025, the magazine turns its focus toward the concept of “Hidden Gems.” In an era where “hype” often dictates desirability, WOW #83 invites collectors and enthusiasts to rediscover the intrinsic value of watches that may have been overlooked by the mainstream spotlight.
Date With Destiny: Blancpain Leads the Charge
Gracing the cover of this issue is the Blancpain Villeret Quantième Complet Phases de Lune. A masterpiece of classical horology, the Villeret collection represents the very soul of Blancpain. In an industry recently obsessed with sports-chic steel, the Quantième Complet serves as a reminder of the elegance and technical sophistication of the complete calendar and moonphase complications. It is a watch that embodies the issue’s theme: timekeeping gems that do not need to shout to be heard.
Second Thoughts and Overlooked Greats
Central to the issue are the editorial features “Known Unknowns” and “Second Thoughts.” In the latter candid roundtable, the editors of WOW’s various editions discuss the watches they initially missed or unfairly dismissed. Alongside the retrospective look at horological “dark horses” of 2025 in “Known Unknowns,” WOW provides a refreshing perspective on collecting, suggesting that sometimes the most rewarding watches are the ones that take time to grow on us.
Exclusive Interviews and Deep Dives
Rexhep Rexhepi: One of the most respected names in independent watchmaking today, Rexhep Rexhepi, shares insights into his “lifetime in watchmaking.” From his early days at Patek Philippe to the meteoric rise of Akrivia, Rexhepi discusses the philosophy of finishing and the future of the artisan.
The New Precious Materials: Beyond gold and platinum, what materials are on the verge of becoming the next “precious” commodity in watchmaking? WOW explores the rise of advanced ceramics, tantalum, and unique alloys that are redefining luxury in the 21st century.
Opening Act: With the watch world preparing for the major fairs in Geneva, Editor-in-Chief Ashok Soman reflects on the “Opening Act” of 2026. The issue explores the shifting dynamics between the giants at Watches and Wonders and the plucky challengers at alternative shows like Time to Watches and Chronopolis.
“This issue is about the thrill of the find,” says Ashok Soman. “We wanted to move past the noise of the secondary market and get back to what makes us love watches in the first place — the craftsmanship, the history, and the surprise of discovering something truly special that isn’t on everyone else’s wrist.”
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