In this article, we'll explore five classic men's watches that have left an indelible mark on the history of horology: Patek Philippe Nautilus, Rolex Submariner, Audemars Piguet Royal Oak, Omega Speedmaster Professional, and Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso.
Introduced in 1976, the Patek Philippe Nautilus is a masterpiece that blends sportiness with elegance. Designed by the legendary Gérald Genta, the Nautilus was inspired by the portholes of maritime vessels, giving it a distinctive and instantly recognizable appearance.
At the time of its release, the idea of a luxury sports watch made of stainless steel was revolutionary. The Nautilus features a unique octagonal bezel with soft edges, a horizontally embossed dial, and an integrated bracelet. Its design broke away from the traditional dress watches that dominated the luxury market, positioning the Nautilus as a versatile piece that could transition from casual to formal settings. Today, it remains one of the most sought-after models among collectors.
The Rolex Submariner is arguably the most iconic dive watch ever made. Introduced in 1953, it was the first watch to be water-resistant to a depth of 100 meters (330 feet), setting the standard for all future dive watches.
The Submariner’s robust construction, rotating bezel, and luminescent markers were designed for underwater exploration, but its clean, timeless design has made it a favorite far beyond the diving community. Over the years, the Submariner has been refined but has retained its classic look, becoming a symbol of durability and luxury. Whether worn with a wetsuit or a tuxedo, the Submariner is universally recognized and respected.
Also designed by Gérald Genta, the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak was unveiled in 1972 and is credited with establishing the luxury sports watch category. Its introduction was a bold move, as it was released during a time when the Swiss watch industry was facing stiff competition from more affordable quartz watches.
The Royal Oak’s design is unmistakable, featuring an octagonal bezel secured by eight hexagonal screws, a "tapisserie" patterned dial, and an integrated steel bracelet. Unlike the ornate and delicate watches of the time, the Royal Oak was rugged, masculine, and yet sophisticated. Its avant-garde design and high-quality craftsmanship helped it become a success, and today, it remains one of Audemars Piguet’s flagship models.
Known as the "Moonwatch", the Omega Speedmaster Professional is one of the most famous chronographs in the world. Introduced in 1957, it was initially intended for motorsport enthusiasts but gained iconic status after being worn by NASA astronauts during the Apollo missions, including the first moon landing in 1969.
The Speedmaster's design is characterized by its black dial with contrasting white hands and markers, tachymeter scale on the bezel, and robust, reliable movement. The Speedmaster Professional has remained largely unchanged over the decades, and its association with space exploration has cemented its place in horological history. It's a watch that embodies precision, durability, and a spirit of adventure.
The Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso is a unique and elegant timepiece with a history that dates back to 1931. It was originally designed for British army officers in India who wanted a watch that could withstand the rigors of polo matches. The Reverso’s defining feature is its reversible case, which allows the wearer to flip the watch face to protect it from damage.
The rectangular Art Deco design of the Reverso has remained largely unchanged, making it one of the most recognizable watches in the world. While originally intended as a sports watch, its sleek lines and refined aesthetics have made it a favorite among those who appreciate classic style and craftsmanship. The Reverso is available in various iterations, from simple time-only models to highly complicated versions with multiple functions.
These five models - Patek Philippe Nautilus, Rolex Submariner, Audemars Piguet Royal Oak, Omega Speedmaster Professional, and Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso — represent the pinnacle of watchmaking. Each has its own unique story and place in history, making them not just timepieces, but symbols of heritage, innovation, and timeless design. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a newcomer to the world of luxury watches, these models are considered essential in any serious watch collection.