From classic and historic to seriously edgy, car-guy watches we like
There are just so many car guy watches for the car guy Dad available in the market with their own heritage and unique design that makes them something for keeps. Here are a few choices you can use.
The TAG Heuer Monaco
This is a truly iconic wristwatch, arguably the most unique and recognizable in the watchmaking world because it is square where others are round. While many people think of the Carrera line as the true motorsports watch, many of us classicists think Monaco or nothing. The most important of these watches is the blue face piece as made popular by Steve McQueen in the movie Le Mans, but TAG Heuer has used the platform for many different interesting interpretations over the years.
The Rolex Cosmograph Daytona
Also a classic car guy watch, and was one before all the hype. You usually see old ones beaten up and crutches up because they truly were daily drivers. This particular model is a special edition celebrating 100 years of the 24 Hours of Le Mans endurance race, for which Rolex is Official Timepiece partner.
Hamilton Pan Europ
This has a seriously vintage kind of look from their “American Classic” family even though it bears the name Pan European Day Date Auto. A relaxed, fun piece that would work well with many older cars, and also as just a nice weekend watch. We would choose the fabric strap.
The Chopard Mille Miglia
A fine watchmaking type of watch created by a company what was into classic motorsports before it was a marketing thing. It is named after the classic motor race held in Brescia, Italy every year. Karl-Friedrich Scheufele, co-President of Chopard with his sister Caroline, joins the storied event regularly. As you read this, there are two Philippine teams in Italy to compete in this historic race.
The Omega Speedmaster is a classic tool watch with a space travel heritage. And they have made many special editions with racers like Michael Schumacher. This is Speedmaster Racing has little details like the special minute track and the perforated strap as a nod to their motorsports heritage.
Vacheron Constantin Historique American
Quite elegant and quite interesting. The watch was originally designed in 1921 for the American market. It has been said that it was canted sideways so that a driver could more easily read it without having to twist his wrist. Remember though this was the roaring twenties. There is also a story that the watch was meant for a preacher who could watch the time without being too obvious. I prefer the car version of the story.
Roger Dubuis Excalibur Spider Huracan
A bit on the wilder side, this heralds the connection between Italian super sports car maker Lamborghini and Swiss watchmaker Roger Dubuis. The two companies actually go to great lengths to share not just inspiration but also technology. A 45mm black DLC titanium case with a self-winding movement you can see working through the glass. Just like the Lamborghini Huracan.
