Michael Satterfield
by TGR Staff – Photos by Lucas Kepner – 09/20/2023
It was an evening like no other, where horsepower met horology and the finest spirits danced in crystal glasses. The inaugural Wheels | Watches | Whiskey event, hosted by none other than Texan automotive journalist Michael Satterfield and the iconic British supercar manufacturer McLaren, unfolded in splendid fashion at the Stella Hotel Autograph Collection, nestled in the heart of Aggieland. As the event’s name suggested, there was an amazing selection of cars, watches, and of course whiskey.
Custom motorcycles and vintage cars graced the venue, each a testament to the artistry and engineering that define the world of internal combustion. Among these automotive masterpieces, one stole the spotlight—a factory-fresh 2024 McLaren Artura. This hybrid supercar, with its striking orange and shadow-black configuration, was the centerpiece of the automotive display on the lawn. Guests were irresistibly drawn to it, their eyes fixed on its sleek lines and innovative design, and eyecatching color.
But the McLaren Artura was more than just a supercar; it marked a significant milestone for McLaren. It was their first high-performance hybrid production vehicle, boasting groundbreaking technologies. Constructed on the McLaren Carbon Lightweight Architecture (MCLA) with super-formed aluminum panels, Artura’s lean weight of just 3,303 pounds solidified its status as a bona fide supercar.
Yet, beyond the glamour and performance, this event had a heart—a charitable cause called OnRamp. Their mission was clear: to provide reliable transportation to those in Central Texas facing urgent mobility needs. Through a network of donors, partners, and volunteers, OnRamp finds, purchases, and refurbishes second-hand vehicles, offering them as gifts to deserving candidates. But their support didn’t end there; OnRamp also provided one year of free vehicle maintenance, guidance on registration, and follow-up visits to make sure they and their vehicle were still doing well, ensuring recipients not only received the gift of mobility but also possessed the skills to care for their newfound transportation.
This facet of the event struck a chord with many of the guests. It underscored the importance of not just owning a vehicle but also having the knowledge to maintain it and navigate vehicle ownership, especially when that vehicle was the lifeline connecting one to work, medical appointments, and educational opportunities.
In the world of cars, watches, fine spirits, and noble causes, a common thread ran deep—patience. The meticulous craftsmanship behind a high-performance hybrid supercar, the intricate precision of a hand-crafted Tudor timepiece, the gradual aging of spirits in oak barrels, and the persistent efforts of a nonprofit organization all underscored the value of dedication and perseverance.
The Wheels | Watches | Whiskey event left an indelible mark on all in attendance. It was a profound reminder that true excellence, whether in machinery, craftsmanship, or compassion, is born from an unwavering commitment to perfection itself. It was an evening where the refined tastes of a gentleman converged, and where the pursuit of excellence was celebrated in every aspect of life—where wheels, watches, and whiskey met, creating a memory that would linger in the hearts of those fortunate enough to be a part of it.
