At a plush hotel in Mumbai, Titan announced Titan of the Year 2026, an honour that started two years ago with wing commander Rakesh Sharma in December 2024, Titan honoured Sharma, the first Indian in space, with a limited-edition Unity Watch inspired by his historic 1984 space mission. This year, the man of the hour was Gukesh Dommaraju, who became the youngest world chess champion on 12 December 2024 at the age of 18 years old by defeating the defending champion, China's Ding Liren, in the final game of their 14-round match in Singapore.
The honour was marked with a launch of a limited edition timepiece dedicated to Dommaraju — Titan Grandmaster X Gukesh Dommaraju Special Edition. The watch is a limited edition of 500 numbered pieces. Fitting for the occasion, the dial of the watch features a chessboard pattern that looks like a wooden dial; upon closer inspection one can notice that it is actually stone marquetry with black agate and tiger eye. Surrounding the dial, the hour markers follow the pattern of chess moves with custom motifs of Queen at 12 o’clock, rook at 9 o’clock, bishop at 3 o’clock and King at 6 o’clock, while the remaining indices appear in the shape of pawns. Lume-filled hands mark time with a distinct red seconds hand with a knight counterpoise, Gukesh’s favourite piece. It is housed within a rose-gold finished 316 stainless steel case and bezel. The watch is powered by Titan’s in-house automatic 7A20 movement, offering a power reserve of 40 hours. The caseback reveals a rotor embossed with the Grandmaster Knight motif, signed by Gukesh along with the date of his historic feat. It also marks his achievement as the youngest world chess champion at the age of 18. The watch is paired with a calf leather strap and a butterfly clasp.
Before the launch, we sat down with Titan’s CSMO Rahul Shukla, to have a chat about behind the scenes of the timepiece. Here are edited excerpts from the interview.
WatchTime India: How did the idea of creating a watch for Gukesh come about?
Rahul Shukla: This project stems from Titan’s “Titan of the Year” philosophy—honouring individuals who have taken India to the global stage through domain excellence. We look for people who demonstrate: Global impact, Intellectual curiosity, Audacity of ambition, Values aligned with Titan: integrity, humility, and pioneering spirit. Gukesh exemplifies all of these qualities.
WTI: How involved was Gukesh in the development process?
RS: Yes, he was involved in a consultative capacity. While horology isn’t his domain, we discussed the concept, intent, and tribute aspect extensively. He resonated deeply with what we were creating.
WTI: Why was the Grandmaster line chosen for this collaboration?
RS: The Grandmaster line is inspired by chess, making it the most natural platform for this tribute. In the future, if we honour achievers from other domains—music, sports, or culture—we may introduce entirely new platforms.
WTI: The Grandmaster line is generally more accessible. How do you balance accessibility with exclusivity?
RS: Accessibility creates reach; exclusivity creates aspiration. The Grandmaster line has existed for years, but this watch elevates it. Through deep design storytelling, high horology, and cultural relevance, we’re building long-term aspiration for the platform.
WTI: Can you share insights into future Titan projects?
RS: We’re continuously innovating at the intersection of deep design, high horology, and experience. In the near future—within this or the next financial year—you’ll see more high-horology launches, stronger narratives aimed at younger audiences, and premium retail experiences across Titan World and Helios Lux.
Images: Courtesy Brand
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