This week we’re bringing you a selection of grail level watches from the likes of Audemars Piguet, alongside more accessible watches from Tudor and even Cartier. If those are too mainstream for you, we’re also including some independent brands and even a limited edition watch from Zenith. We’re not here to tell you how to spend your money, but a watch from this curated selection would certainly make you a whole lot cooler. Let’s take a look.
This is the watch that started it all for Tudor’s re-emergence in US markets. Way back in 2013, Rolex made the decision to bring Tudor back to the US, and the success of that move rests largely on the shoulders of this watch, the Heritage Chronograph with grey dial. This, along with the Black Bay, quickly piqued the interest of American watch buyers thanks to their handsome designs and their accessible price points. Four years later, Tudor is still killing it with watch like this and this, but this Heritage Chronograph is where it began. Rock the OG Tudor right here, now with Ask at $3,200.
The Cartier Tank has a compelling history that dates back to the first world war, which, ironically, is where this watch, a symbol of class and taste, drew inspiration for its design. The long lugs that extend beyond the case were designed after British MK IV tanks taking part in the war at the time. The unconventional design has endured to this day thanks to subtle details and a diverse range of case sizes, materials, and movements. The Tank has been worn by the likes of Jackie Kennedy and Claire Underwood. The watch works just as well on a man’s wrist, as proven by some of its famous wearers such as Cary Grant, Duke Ellington, and even Steve McQueen. Join their ranks for an Ask of just $3,200 right here. Browse all Tanks here.
You never forget the experience of turning over a watch built by A. Lange & Sohne, and seeing the movement for the first time. The hand-finished bridges made of German silver, the engraved balance-cock, the blued screws; it’s a sight to behold, and that feeling of seeing one for the first time never really goes away. It’s true for their complicated watches, as it is for their time-only affairs. This 1815 is the latter, and presents a (somewhat) accessible opportunity to begin your Lange collection. Bid now on the 1815, with Ask at $16,500 right here.
Audemars Piguet Royal Oak 15202
When Audemars Piguet introduced the first Royal Oak in 1972, the first examples to leave the factory, dubbed A-series, feature the “AP” insignia on the dial placed at 6 o’clock. As the watch evolved over the following decades, it took on new complications, different dial designs, and a variety of sizes. That “AP” insignia migrated north and landed in the 12 o’clock position on the dial. This, and other details, made those A-series watches quite desirable to collectors, and in 2012, Audemars Piguet gave a nod to the original with the release of the 15202 with a period accurate “Petite Tapisserie” pattern, and the “AP” located at 6 o’clock. At 39mm in diameter, and just 8mm thick, you’d be hard pressed to find a more comfortable watch. Find yours right here, with current Ask of $26,500.
Vacheron Constantin Historiques Cornes de Vache 1955 for HODINKEE
Historic watch manufacture Vacheron Constantin isn’t exactly known for their collaborations. When they teamed up with HODINKEE earlier this year to produce a limited edition Historiques de Vache 1955, collectors took notice. Just 36 examples were offered for sale, and they didn’t last long. Outside of its limited nature, and unusual collaboration, it is, simply put, a beautiful watch. Featuring a grey symmetrical dial, unique horned lugs, and impeccably finished hand wound chronograph movement visible through the back, this watch high watchmaking at its finest. Learn more about the watch right here. These are difficult to come by in the second hand market, but we’ve got one with an Ask of $85,000. Don’t sleep on it.
