Well-known watch brands produce spectacular models – or is it the other way around? However you answer this question, today we will introduce you to famous watches that watch enthusiasts should know, chronologically according to their market launch. Have fun!
Cartier Santos
The history of the Cartier Santos goes back to 1904, when the inventor Alberto Santos Dumont noticed that it was difficult to read the pocket watches that were common at the time during his airship trips. Together with his friend Louis-François Cartier, he developed a wristwatch that was suitable for aviation and that accompanied him on all his flying adventures from then on. The Cartier Santos is considered the world’s first pilot’s watch and its iconic design has changed little since its introduction in 1911.
Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso
The Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso is undoubtedly the manufacturer’s most famous watch, thanks to its Art Deco design. Originally developed for polo players, the characteristic reversible case is a unique selling point that cannot be found on any other watch. Today, the back of the case is more than just a protective shield. With this unique feature, the look of the watch can be completely changed. This creates a true icon among watches.
Rolex Datejust
Rolex is probably the most famous watch brand in the world and the Rolex Datejust is undoubtedly one of the most stylish watch icons of all time. Every detail of this watch contributes to making it a globally recognized masterpiece of fashion history. The fluted bezel, the iconic Cyclops magnifier and the Jubilee bracelet, designed specifically for this Rolex, are unmistakable trademarks.
Breitling Navitimer
Another legendary pilot’s watch is presented to us: The Breitling Navitimer from one of the most famous Swiss watch brands. In a time when watches were real instruments, this iconic chronograph could do much more than just tell or stop time. The rotating bezel made it possible to carry out sophisticated calculations that were essential for pilots.
Rolex Submariner
The Rolex Submariner is undoubtedly one of the most copied and replicated watches in the world. Even if you have no interest in watches, there’s a good chance you’ve seen this style icon before. Since its debut in 1953, it has been continuously improved and perfected, but remains the distinctive watch today, made famous by its role in the James Bond films and its status as a status symbol.
Omega Speedmaster
No watch can compete with the Omega Speedmaster Professional when it comes to absolute icon status. With successful moon landings, a rescue mission in space and countless space adventures with NASA, the “Moonwatch” has secured its place as a watch legend. The timeless design has hardly changed since the days of the great pioneering achievements of space travel. When you look at your wrist, you can literally feel the adventures that this legendary chronograph has been part of. No other watch can look back on such a proud history as the Omega Speedmaster Professional.
Rolex Daytona
Hardly any list of the most iconic watches of all time is complete without the Rolex Daytona. Today, this sports icon is one of the most sought-after Rolex models, with market prices that are often well above the official list price. Interestingly, this wasn’t always the case: when the legendary watch came onto the market in 1963, it was considered a slow seller for a long time.
TAG Heuer Monaco
The TAG Heuer Monaco has a striking, angular design and a touch of Seventies flair. Although its design may not be quite as timeless as some other watches, it remains a true icon even today. It was worn by famous racing drivers such as Jo Siffert and Jochen Rindt and has made a name for itself as a chronograph with racing history.
Audemars Piguet Royal Oak
In the 1970s, when luxury watches were usually made of precious metals, but sports watches were made of steel and the quartz crisis had already begun, Audemars Piguet managed to create something extraordinary. They commissioned the designer Gérald Genta to design a luxury watch made of steel – an idea that was considered unthinkable at the time. But Genta delivered a masterpiece that remains unforgettable to this day. The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak, released in 1972, was the first luxury steel watch and has one of the most iconic designs of all time.
Patek Philippe Replica Nautilus
The Patek Philippe Nautilus has made a significant contribution to the current luxury watch fashion. With its elegant design, also by Gerald Genta, it was one of the first steel watches in the luxury segment back in 1976.
Are these really the most famous watches in the world?
Our list does not claim to be complete, as there are numerous other watches that were influential in watch history in terms of design, technology or popularity, for example the Max Bill from Junghans, which introduced the idea of the “Bauhaus style”. the world of wristwatches or the Omega Seamaster, which was introduced in 1948 as Omega’s first waterproof watch and has been further developed ever since.