LIST: Six equestrian watches for the Melbourne Cup

Felix Scholz

Today’s Melbourne Cup is a star-studded field of international and local thoroughbreds, with all eyes on the favourite Fame Game. But the trackside action is just as important. We’ve got you covered with our special edition of the Melbourne Cup (wrist) Form Guide.

Reverso

Trainer: Jaeger-LeCoultre

Form: JLC’s a proven performer in the equestrian arts, staking an early claim to the game with the polo-inspired Reverso. Its clever design and timeless charms mean the Reverso is a crowd favourite wherever it races.

Time+Tide’s race-day tip: Even though it was raised on the hard dirt of Indian polo fields, the Reverso has the experience to be a strong contender on any track.

Polo

Trainer: Piaget

Form: While Piaget’s muscular Polo is more used to mallets and chukkas there’s no reason the speed and skills of this bold design won’t transfer well to the 3200m race.

Time+Tide’s race-day tip: Don’t discount the Piaget Polo because you’re used to their slimmer offerings. This one’s a definite stayer.

Dressage

Trainer: Hermès

Form: Emerging onto the track in 2003, the Dressage was instantly at home on the turf, thanks to its brand’s long involvement in all aspects of racing.

Time+Tide’s race-day tip: Don’t be fooled by the name – Dressage is capable of a whole lot more than jumping around and walking prettily.

Conquest Horse Racing

Trainer: Longines

Form: The Conquest Horse Racing has racing in its blood (and name). Trainer Longines is one of the most respected names in the sport, and with solid performers like this, it’s easy to see why.

Time+Tide’s race-day tip: A sure thing – the trainer is also the official timekeeper of the meet, so the odds are well and truly in the Conquest’s favour.

Calatrava 5077P-091

Trainer: Patek Philippe

Form: With immaculate bloodlines, anything trained by Patek Philippe is a proven performer, and one to watch. Having said that, this limited edition enamel number is more commonly found on the Arabian Peninsula, so how it will perform on the track at Flemington is anyone’s guess.

Time+Tide’s race-day tip: Your best bet is to keep the falcons in the birdcage.

The Original

Trainer: The Horse

Form: A popular choice, with strong healthy lines, the Horse has recently been edging in front of Daniel Wellington, especially with the ladies. Still, its Japanese quartz heart and fashionable finish isn’t up to the quality of today’s field.

Time+Tide’s race-day tip: Scratched.