Is there such a thing as the perfect vintage luxury watch? If so, you’ll find it here. At BQ Watches, we make sure to stock a wide variety of options so our customers always have an array of timepieces to choose from.
If you’re looking for a classic vintage timepiece, we have plenty in stock. Today, we’re highlighting ten watches that we think define luxury with their precision, historical significance to watchmaking, and timeless style. Check out our picks for the top ten vintage watch models and styles below.
Click here to read our article on why you should invest in a vintage watch.
If you’re not familiar with the Omega Speedmaster, you may recognize it as being the first watch on the moon. This chronograph series is a beautiful line from the esteemed Omega watchmaking company and has plenty of styles and models to choose from.
This particular Speedmaster comes with a lovely leather strap and a striking black dial. The 42mm steel case makes a statement, but the subtle tones make this a watch that looks good for any occasion.
The Rolex Daytona is one of the most famous watch models made by one of the most famous watchmakers in the world. Released in 1956, the Daytona gets its name from the Daytona International Speedway in Florida. It was created in the wake of the “24 hours of Daytona” race and has been awarded to winners of that race ever since. Naturally, this watch is designed with professional race drivers in mind, including a tachymeter scale in the bezel. For those who love Rolex watches, a Daytona is a must-add to any collection.
This particular Rolex Daytona is a beautiful two-tone mix of steel and yellow gold. The champagne dial reminds one of the celebrations Daytona races might have when they come out on top. The case is a good size, at 40mm. While it is a recent model, the classic Daytona style is true to the vintage roots of the original design.
Breitling is known for their incredibly well-crafted pilot watches, and the Navitimer may just be the best of the bunch. The Navitimer comes with a number of unique features specifically made to help pilots in flight. These additions allow pilots to calculate flight time, speed, fuel consumption, and much more. Even if you’re not a pilot, this is a beautiful watch, and it would make a fine purchase for anyone who admires a well-made timepiece.
This particular Navitimer has a steel case and a white dial, a clean design that makes a subtle statement. The steel bracelet and standard 40mm case mean this watch can go with just about anything. If you’re needing a watch that is perfect for daily wear, this could be the perfect choice for you.
Next we have the Jaeger LeCoultre Reverso, likely the most popular model in the Jaeger LeCoultre lineup. This sporty watch is made for polo players, but also fits well in casual, formal, and office settings. The instantly recognizable rectangular shape sets it apart from many other timepieces, and the unique feature of a reversible case gives it its moniker of Reverso.
The Jaeger LeCoultre Reverso we’ve selected to highlight today is an always classic combination of a yellow gold case with a rich brown leather bracelet. The silver dial subtly complements with the luxurious components of the timepiece.
If you’re familiar with Audemars Piguet’s luxury watch offerings, then you’re likely familiar with their most popular model – the Royal Oak. First introduced in 1972, the octagonal bezel and screws give these watches an iconic porthole appearance that can’t be mistaken when seen on the wrist.
This particular Royal Oak has a stainless steel case and bracelet, another hallmark of Royal Oak watches. The intricately patterned white dial lends an understated style, with layers of carefully crafted detail that emerge as you look closer. This watch is perfect for those who want a truly exceptional timepiece that is subtle enough for everyday wear.
The Cartier Santos is a desirable watch not only for its impeccable craftsmanship, but also for the remarkable history behind its design. The first Cartier Santos was created in 1904 for Cartier’s pilot friend Alberto Santos-Dumont. Santos-Dumont wanted it to be easier to check his pocket watch while flying airplanes, and so the first wristwatch was born.
This Cartier Santos has the always iconic square case and bezel in a two-tone of steel and yellow gold. If you’re looking to add a Santos to your collection, this beautiful piece would be a great choice.
Click here to read our article on our top picks of vintage Cartier watches.
In 1955 Rolex and Pan American Airways collaborated to create the Rolex GMT-Master. As a collaboration with an airline, this was naturally a pilot’s watch with all the trappings. It features two time zones so pilots can easily see the time of their original location and the destination. The watch was also designed with PanAm’s signature colors, but you may be more familiar with this model by its Pepsi nickname. Though the soda has nothing to do with the making of this watch, the GMT-Master Pepsi name has stuck.
A Pepsi GMT Master is what we’re highlighting for you today. The recognizable blue and red bezel can’t be missed, and the black dial and Oystersteel bracelet tie everything together. If you’ve ever wanted to claim a Pepsi GMT for yourself, now is your chance.
There aren’t too many sports watches that are as desirable as the Patek Philippe Nautilus. With dual time zones, perpetual calendars, and other exceptional features, the Nautilus is a finely crafted timepiece of the highest quality. This watch has a truly timeless style that harkens to its historic design.
The Nautilius we have for you today is stainless steel with a blue dial, the traditional design for these timepieces. It also features a unique moon phase complication, which adds to the appeal and functionality of this classic wristwatch.
If there is one thing that Louis Cartier knew how to do, it was make a timeless watch design that you can recognize over a century later. In 1917, he introduced the Cartier Tank Americaine, which was inspired by WWI Renault tanks. They come in the classic Cartier rectangular shape.
This Cartier Tank is in a beautiful yellow gold with an elegant leather strap. The white dial perfectly complements the piece. If you’re looking for the perfect Cartier Tank timepiece, it’s hard to do much better than this option.
The Tudor Black Bay is one of the newer models on this list, but the design is inspired by classic Role watch styles, particularly the GMT-Master. This diving watch was introduced by Tudor in 2012 and has quickly taken off in the watch collecting community.
This particular Black Bay model features a bezel and dial cloaked in black. The hints of stainless steel visible on the bracelet help to make this timepiece stand out. Best of all is its remarkably affordable price. If you’re looking for a luxury vintage watch that doesn’t break the bank, the Tudor Black Bay may be perfect for you.
At BQ Watches, you can always count on a wide selection of classic luxury watch options for both men and women. If one of our above picks is something you’d love to add to your collection, please let us know. We can help you with the sale and answer any questions you may have.
With our constantly rotating inventory, our customers are always able to find a new timepiece that they’ll cherish. However, on the chance that you don’t see something that suits you, you can always count on BQ Watches to source your preferred watch. Just let us know what you’re looking for and we’d be happy to seek it out.
BQ Watches is your go-to pre-owned luxury watch provider in London. You can come to us for all of your luxury watch needs. If you’re looking to buy or sell, we can help. If you’re looking for appraisals or repairs, we can help with that too. Fill out our contact form below and let us know what you’re needing, and we’ll be happy to help you out as soon as possible.
