This past weekend, the frozen expanse of Lake St. Moritz transformed into an open-air gallery of automotive excellence, as The International Concours of Elegance (I.C.E.) welcomed car enthusiasts, collectors, and connoisseurs from around the world. The event, a perfect fusion of elegance and adrenaline, showcased over 50 of the most iconic classic and sports cars, each a testament to the rich history of motoring.

An Unparalleled Showcase of Automotive Art

Friday morning saw the unveiling of The I.C.E. Village, a mesmerizing scene where the parc fermé became an immersive museum under the open sky. Enthusiasts and industry insiders marveled at the rare and exquisite automobiles on display, exchanging stories and admiration for these mechanical works of art. Against the breathtaking backdrop of the Swiss Alps, this event was more than just a concours—it was a celebration of craftsmanship, design, and passion.

The jury had the challenging task of selecting the Best in Class winners, given the extraordinary caliber of vehicles. The winners in each category were:

• Barchettas on the Lake: 1956 Ferrari 500 TR
• Open Wheels: 1934 Bugatti 59
• Concept Cars & One-Offs: 1931 Alfa Romeo 6C 1750 GS Aprile
• Icons on Wheels: 1966 Ferrari 275 GTB/4
• Racing Legends: 1971 Porsche 908/03

Each of these machines represents a pivotal chapter in automotive history, embodying both technological advancement and aesthetic brilliance.

A Thrilling Display of Power and Precision

Saturday delivered the much-anticipated free laps on the lake, a spectacle that delighted spectators. Seeing these legendary vehicles navigate the icy terrain was a rare and exhilarating experience, a perfect balance of control and raw power. The frozen lake, with its natural reflective sheen, created a surreal stage for the dynamic display.

As the activities drew to a close, the prestigious Best in Show award, designed by the esteemed architect Lord Norman Foster, was presented alongside the Spirit of St. Moritz trophy, crafted by renowned artist Rolf Sachs. The event culminated with the crowd’s participation in selecting the Hero Below Zero, an honor bestowed upon the fan-favorite automobile.

The ICE St. Moritz: A Unique Legacy

Founded by Marco Makaus in 2019, The I.C.E. St. Moritz has redefined the concept of a concours d’elegance. More than just an exhibition, it is an immersive experience where art meets motion, tradition meets innovation, and luxury meets nature. The event remains deeply committed to preserving the Engadin’s environmental and cultural heritage, ensuring that each edition of The I.C.E. pays homage to the past while embracing the future.

For those who appreciate the finer things in life—whether in the form of timeless automobiles, breathtaking landscapes, or an atmosphere of refined sophistication—The I.C.E. St. Moritz remains an unmissable annual rendezvous. Until next year, when the ice once again becomes the most elegant stage on Earth.

If you are a fan of classic cars or simply looking for an unforgettable winter adventure, be sure to add THE ICE St. Moritz to your bucket list. Watching rare classic cars race on a frozen lake is a truly unique experience. After participating two times already we know that wearing the right watch to this world-class gathering truly elevates the experience. Hence we teamed up with Bucherer Certified Pre-Owned to offer you some inspiration for next year's edition. Let's have a closer look!

Event Preparations

The night before the event check-in at the IN LAIN Hotel Cadonau. It is the smallest 5-star superior hotel in Switzerland and is only a 30 minute drive away St. Moritz, which can get pretty crowded when events take place in town. Here we spend a wonderful evening enjoying some incredible food prepared by Michelin-star Chef Dario Cadonau. During the dinner we get the chance to talk watches.

One definitely wants to wear a chronograph during a classic car event. And one of the first chronographs coming to mind is of course the iconic Zenith El Primero. The movement is so precise and proven that it was used by many other brands back in the days. One of them was, you guessed it, Rolex! Their beloved Daytona was outfitted with the reliable El Primero movement during the years 1988 to 2000.

Another brand known for its chronograph watches is IWC. Although their Pilot's Watch was developed for aviation, it is often associated with racing as well. The brand certainly embraces that and is proud of its involvement in Formula One.

Attending THE ICE St. Moritz

The next morning, we finally step on the frozen Lake St. Moritz. An unbelievable amount of extremely rare cars can be admired during THE ICE. The fact that the owners of these gems drive the cars on snow and ice is just mind blowing!

Since it can get freezing cold on the lake, many of the spectators wear a thick coat or winter jacket. But no outfit is complete without an appropriate timepiece. One model we can certainly recommend is the Omega Speedmaster. The Racing edition is particularly suitable of course. Did you know that while the Speedy was the watch first worn on the moon, it was originally designed for racing?

Two more models underline the Speedy's racing heritage. One of them is the Omega Speedmaster Racing with a beautiful red dial and yellow second hand. Dubbed "Michael Schumacher" it pays tribute to the Ferrari which the German icon famously drove during his successful Form One career.

Another fun model is the Omega Speedmaster Tintin. Although the red and white checkered minute track reminds one of a race course, it was originally meant to be a nod to the Tintin's adventure in the "Explorers on the Moon" comics.

A more unconventional yet perhaps classier choice is the TAG Heuer Monaco. Its history is closely linked to racing. Hollywood actor Steve McQueen famously wore it in the movie "Le Mans". It is certainly a timepiece that belongs in every car enthusiast's watch collection.

A more contemporary choice would be the Audemars Piguet Offshore. First released in 1993, it was launched at a time where bigger and bulkier watches really spoke to a younger generation. Even today, it is beloved among people who associate themselves with a more active lifestyle.

No matter which watch you choose, you will be sure to have a great time at THE ICE St. Moritz or any other classic car event!

Bucherer Certified Pre-Owned

Bucherer is at the heart of a new movement: pre-owned luxury! Certified Pre-Owned watches are authenticated by experts and worn by connoisseurs. Bucherer puts the opportunity to own a classic watch within reach and whether you're buying for keeps or looking to trade, they offer a constantly evolving roster of high-demand pieces to explore. As described in this article, every pre-owned watch comes with a story. What comes next is up to you!

Some of the most exclusive classic cars racing on a snowy surface? On a frozen lake even? What sounds impossible, is actually an annual event in Switzerland: The ICE St. Moritz! Let's join the IWC Racing Team and their 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL "Gullwing" for an unforgettable weekend.

The ICE St. Moritz

The ICE St. Moritz has been created to enjoy driving, showing and watching some of the world's most exciting motor cars in the unlikely environment of the frozen lake. The idea first came in mind in the mid-Eighties and it took many years to make it true.

It is a very different event, a refreshing concours. A completely magical environment where drivers, collectors, and just plain car enthusiasts enjoy a late winter day in the sunshine, surrounded by the landscape and atmosphere that only St. Moritz, at the top of the world, is able to offer.

For more than a century, St. Moritz has developed its unique formula that has drawn generations of enthusiastic tourists: a cosmopolitan mix of nature, exclusiveness, sports, and luxury. One of the pillars of this philosophy is the Cresta Run. Here, people from all over the world come together with the goal of speeding down an icy track.

In January 1985, a group of British Cresta Run Members, led by Scotsman Keith Schellenberg, drove to St. Moritz to enjoy the run. To make things more interesting, they decided to drive their vintage open Bentleys. When in St. Moritz, they saw the frozen lake and decided to do some laps on the horse racing track in their glorious sixty-year-old chariots. In that moment, the idea of The ICE was born. It then took some 34 years, until the first edition could take place.

IWC Schaffhausen

One of the key partners of The ICE St. Moritz is its official timekeeper IWC Schaffhausen. The innovative company is deeply rooted in American pioneering spirit and entrepreneurship. Florentine Ariosto Jones, a watchmaker from Boston, founds the International Watch Company in 1868. He draws on the help of eminently qualified Swiss watchmakers, modern technology, and hydro-power sourced from the nearby River Rhine to manufacture pocket watch movements of the highest possible quality.

IWC launches the first "Special Pilot's Watch" in 1936. In 1939, the Portuguese watch is born: two importers from Portugal order a series of large wristwatches with high-precision pocket watch calibers. In response to demand, IWC develops in 1940 the Big Pilot's Watch 52 T.S.C. with a central seconds hand. It features a rotating bezel with an arrowhead index that can be used to register take-off times. It is also fitted with an anti-magnetic escapement.

For racing, the IWC Pilot's Watch Chronograph 41 is the perfect choice. It comes in a robust stainless steel case and is equipped with the reliable self-winding 69385 Calibre. This IWC-manufactured movement offers up to 46 hours of power reserve.

IWC Racing

In 2018, the brand founded a motorsport team, becoming the first watch brand to compete in classic car races with its own team and car. Since then, the IWC Racing Team has contested select historic racing events in its chosen car: The 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL "Gullwing".

One of the most iconic sports cars ever built, the "Gullwing" dates back to the time when IWC's watchmakers designed the first Engineer. With its characteristic doors reminiscent of a seagull's wings, it was manufactured by Daimler-Benz between 1954 and 1957 as a road-ready version of the 300 SL racing car. Motor racing enthusiasts are very passionate about the "Gullwing", and it perfectly embodies IWC's core values of style, quality, originality and outstanding craftsmanship.

Born in Salzburg in 1991, Laura Kraihamer joined the IWC racing family in 2021. She made her debut for the IWC Racing Team on the occasion of the 78th Goodwood Members' Meeting. At the wheel of the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL "Gullwing", Kraihamer raced in the Stirling Moss Trophy. We're excited to see her race at The ICE St Moritz this year!

Kulm Country Club

A special highlight of The ICE St. Moritz is the exclusive dinner hosted for collectors by IWC Schaffhausen. It is held at the Kulm Country Club. At this spot on 11 February 1928, top athletes and celebrities gathered, including film legend Charlie Chaplin and US President Calvin Coolidge. They followed the action on the ice rink in front of the pavilion from the finely carved arched windows. These beautifully carved windows are still as attractive today following the recent renovations to this architectural gem. The original Art Deco and wood was preserved.

One floor down, on the ground floor, is the heart of the Kulm Country Club. During the 1928 Olympic Winter Games, guests, locals, and athletes stomped through the large circular arch in the entrance area. These Games were the first official Olympic Winter Games. Visitors were proud to arrive in St. Moritz driving their new Bugatti Royale or Mercedes-Benz Type S: the superlative hand-built vehicles of the 1920s. The ice rink of the Kulm Country Club soon became a landmark meeting point both for guests and locals in St. Moritz. Those who did not dare to put on ice skates watched the figure skaters - the social highlight at the winter sports resort in 1928.

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