AUSTIN, Texas — Formula 1 roared into Austin this weekend, and luxury watchmaker IWC Schaffhausen celebrated its partnership with the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team by hosting a high-octane party to debut its latest timepieces.
Amidst the flashing lights and pounding music of the event, the focus was on the pursuit of precision, a theme that connects both high-end watchmaking and top-tier motorsports.
Mercedes drivers George Russell and rookie Kimi Antonelli were the main attraction, showcasing the new IWC Mojave watch collection. The desert-inspired color palette of the watches will complement their driver suits during Sunday’s MSC Cruises US Grand Prix at the Circuit of The Americas (COTA).
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The 18-year-old Antonelli, who is still preparing for his first-ever race around COTA, spoke about the challenge ahead: “It’s going to be exciting. New tracks are always a big challenge but this one is going to be a special one.”
Antonelli emphasized that, much like watchmaking, success in F1 is all about precision. He’s been diligently preparing in the simulator to fine-tune his performance for the demanding track. “Of course, I’ve done a lot of preparation for the simulator, working with the team and trying to prepare race weekend the best way as possible,” he said.
While his focus is on the checkered flag, Antonelli is also embracing the local culture. He admitted he’s still working on perfecting his Texas look.
“So, I’ve got the hat. I need the boots,” Antonelli joked. “So definitely looking forward to get those before leaving Austin.”
Ultimately, however, the young driver’s true goal remains on the track, focused on taking home the win on Sunday.