A closer look at the icons that continue to shape haute horology
A watch doesn’t need to be rare or sky-high in price to stand the test of time. Icons like the Submariner, Monaco, Speedmaster, and Santos earned their place in collector lore not by exclusivity but by shaping history, breaking boundaries, and redefining style. Timeless design and real-world stories make them true classics.
Rolex Submariner
Price: $9,500
The Rolex Submariner debuted in 1953 as one of the first dive watches built to handle serious underwater exploration, featuring a rotating bezel and water resistance up to 100 meters—now improved to 300 meters in modern models. Originally crafted as a tool watch, its clean design, rugged build, and strong association with James Bond helped it cross into pop culture. Over the years, it’s been refined but never radically changed, which is exactly why collectors love it. With its iconic Oyster case, luminous markers, and reliable automatic movement, the Submariner remains a symbol of versatility, durability, and timeless style.
TAG Heuer Monaco Chronograph
Price: $8,100
The TAG Heuer Monaco made its debut in 1969 and instantly broke the mold with its bold square case and left-hand crown. It was one of the first automatic chronographs ever made, powered by TAG Heuer’s groundbreaking Calibre 11 movement. But what really cemented its legendary status was Steve McQueen wearing it in the 1971 film Le Mans, forever linking the Monaco to the motorsport world. Its blue dial, chronograph layout, and unique shape still turn heads today. As both a design risk and a horological milestone, the Monaco remains a must-have watch for collectors who appreciate history.
Omega Speedmaster Professional
Price: $7,300
The OMEGA Speedmaster Professional, nicknamed the “Moonwatch,” earned its legendary status when it became the first watch worn on the moon during the Apollo 11 mission in 1969. Originally introduced in 1957 as a racing chronograph, it quickly proved its reliability under the harshest conditions imaginable. Featuring a hand-wound Caliber 1861 movement, Hesalite crystal, and a distinctive black dial with a tachymeter bezel, its design has remained largely unchanged for decades. Collectors love it for its NASA-certified legacy, tool-watch durability, and timeless style.
Cartier Santos
Price: $7,500
The Cartier Santos is one of the world’s first wristwatches, born from a 1904 request by aviator Alberto Santos-Dumont for a watch he could wear while flying. Louis Cartier answered with a sleek square design, breaking away from the traditional pocket watch. Its bold Roman numerals, exposed screws, and seamless integration of case and bracelet became instantly iconic. The modern Santos often features an automatic movement and Cartier’s SmartLink system for easy bracelet adjustment. Combining old-school luxury with contemporary functionality, the Santos remains a go-to for collectors who appreciate classic design and a story rooted in history.
