Titan Company Limited has announced Grandmaster Gukesh Dommaraju as the ‘Titan of the Year 2026’, honouring the youngest world chess champion with a limited-edition timepiece inspired by his journey.
The announcement marks the second edition of the ‘Titan of the Year’ platform, which recognises distinguished individuals whose achievements elevate India’s global stature. The inaugural edition had honoured Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma.
The limited-edition watch, restricted to 500 numbered pieces, features a marquetry dial crafted in tiger eye and black agate, drawing inspiration from the geometry of a chessboard. It houses Titan’s in-house automatic movement, is encased in rose-gold finished 316 stainless steel with sapphire crystal protection, and is paired with a black Italian leather strap. The rotor carries a Grandmaster Knight motif and the inscription ‘Youngest World Chess Champion at 18’.
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.”
Grandmaster Gukesh Dommaraju added, “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.”
Priced at ₹69,995, the timepiece is available at select Titan World stores and online.
