Fratello Talks: Watches And Wonders 2025 Predictions And Wishes

Great listen, as usual. I would like to defend the Explorer II’s size. After 6 months of looking, I ended up picking the 226570 for my milestone birthday. I absolutely love it. I do understand why people like the 16570’s 40mm size after trying one on (AD rep’s still ran great after 23 years), but I still prefer mine. I love the “Ultra Maxi” markers/hands, and the size. It feels more like the tool watch it is, and not a dressy tool like a GMT Master II. It makes sense that the GMT Master II is 40mm, and if that’s your preferred size, go for that. Rolex shouldn’t have everything around 40mm. Does my watch make sense in a suit? No, and I like it that way.

Anyway, I think it would be cool to see an Explorer II in titanium, but part of me doesn’t want my watch to suddenly feel obsolete. The Sea Dweller 43 definitely makes the most sense to release in titanium next. I found that watch a bit big/hefty for me to pull off on the daily, but my opinion might have changed if it was lighter. I feel like Deep Sea owners, such as the IT guy in my former job, prefer the size/heft of that watch. He said as much, and I don’t think he is an outlier. I don’t think that line would benefit as much from titanium.

I think we’ll see a white gold Coke bezel GMT Master II. Would there be a revision in case/movement? I don’t expect it but it would be a pleasant surprise.

I can’t think of a single person I know who wants a 1908, so I’d be interested to see who is actually buying them. Are they in their twilight years? I don’t know.

I’ve heard rumors of a new F1 watch inspired by the original, but in 38mm with a solar movement. That sounds great to me, but the real question will be price. If it’s US$1,500 or more that will be a no go for me. That sounds more like a high 3 figures watch to me.

I would love to see Tudor finally release a blue Pelagos 39, but part of me doesn’t want the temptation to drop another $5K. I’ll probably have to have it. A production version of the big block for Only Watch seems likely. They wouldn’t make a whole new movement just for that auction. We probably won’t see it, but I would love to see the return of the non-diver Black Bay with blue or black lacquered dial on an Oyster-style bracelet (plus T-fit). I think they’ve gone away from the more sporty side for that line though. Other than that, we’ll maybe see some new material versions or colourways of existing models. A wild card would be a Ranger 2 with a date, block lume, and maybe even in titanium.