Mumbai: Titan Watches today announced Grandmaster Gukesh Dommaraju as the ‘Titan of the Year 2026’, recognising his extraordinary journey and historic achievement as the youngest World Chess Champion. The announcement also marks the launch of a limited-edition automatic timepiece inspired by Gukesh’s mastery, precision and composure, translating the spirit of chess into thoughtful design and fine craftsmanship.
An extension of Titan’s philosophy of shaping India’s relationship with time through design, innovation and trust, Titan of the Year is a platform that honours individuals whose achievements redefine excellence and elevate India’s global stature. Following the inaugural edition that paid tribute to Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma, the second edition celebrates Gukesh’s fearless strategy, calm precision and sustained excellence at the highest level of international chess.
The limited-edition timepiece interprets the idea of a ‘Master Move’ through balance and restraint, drawing from the measured structure of the game itself. At its centre is an intricate marquetry dial crafted in tiger eye and black agate, with geometry that echoes the chessboard and the quiet intelligence behind Gukesh’s play. Custom indices mirror the hierarchy and movement of chess pieces, while the rotor features the Grandmaster Knight motif along with the inscription ‘Youngest World Chess Champion at 18’. A Grandmaster Knight counterpoise and lume-filled hands further highlight strategic excellence and composure.
Protected by a sapphire crystal, the watch is housed in a rose-gold finished 316 stainless steel case and bezel, and powered by Titan’s in-house automatic movement. Limited to 500 individually numbered pieces, the timepiece is paired with a deep black Italian leather strap, balancing contemporary elegance with enduring appeal.
Commenting on the announcement, Rahul Shukla, Vice President and Chief Sales and Marketing Officer, Watches Division at Titan Company Limited, said, “Since its very inception, Titan has been a part of India’s zeitgeist reflecting our nation’s evolving identity, shared aspirations and steadfast resolve. ‘Titan of the Year’ is a tangible extension of this legacy, celebrating individual excellence and collective national pride. With this platform, our vision is to create a permanent horological gallery, that chronicles Indian brilliance through time. We recognise individuals whose contributions extend beyond the horizon, strengthening the country’s presence on the world stage. Each creation aims to enable consumers to wear a living chapter from this archive expressed through premium watchmaking of global calibre. With extraordinary achievements and an inspiring journey in the world of chess, Gukesh was the natural choice for this honour. His exemplary accomplishments at such a young age capture the spirit, perseverance, ambition and confidence of a new India.”
Sharing his thoughts, Grandmaster Gukesh Dommaraju said, “Being recognised as the ‘Titan of the Year’ is a meaningful moment for me, echoing India’s growing presence on the global chess stage. My path has been shaped by constant preparation, discipline and the role of time, patience and precision, values embodied thoughtfully in this timepiece. I hope this recognition inspires youngsters across the country, showing them what is possible with commitment and belief. To be associated with Titan, a brand known for trust, craftsmanship and quiet excellence at this stage of my journey is something I value deeply and will always look back on with gratitude.”
The Gukesh x Grandmaster limited-edition timepiece is presented in specially designed packaging featuring a personalised note from Gukesh himself. Priced at ₹69,995, the collector’s piece is available at select Titan World stores, large-format retail destinations, premium watch retailers, and online at www.titan.co.in.
