A closer look at the icons that continue to shape haute horlogerie
A watch does not have to be rare or expensive to stand the test of time. Icons like the Submariner, Monaco, Speedmaster and Santos have earned their place in collector history not through exclusivity, but by shaping history, pushing boundaries and redefining style. Timeless design and stories from the real world make them true classics.
Rolex Submariner
Price: $9,500
The Rolex Submariner debuted in 1953 as one of the first diving watches built for serious underwater exploration. It features a rotating bezel and water resistance of up to 100 meters – now improved to 300 meters on modern models. Originally conceived as a tool watch, its clean design, sturdy construction and strong connection to James Bond helped it enter pop culture. Over the years it has 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 immediately broke new ground with its striking square case and left-hand crown. It was one of the first automatic chronographs ever to be powered by TAG Heuer’s groundbreaking Caliber 11 movement. But what really cemented its legendary status was that Steve McQueen wore it in the 1971 film Le Mans, forever linking the Monaco to the motorsport world. Its blue dial, chronograph layout and unique shape still attract attention today. A design risk and a horological milestone, the Monaco remains an essential watch for history-conscious collectors.
Omega Speedmaster Professional
Price: $7,300
Nicknamed the “Moonwatch,” the OMEGA Speedmaster Professional gained its legendary status when it was 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 in the harshest conditions imaginable. Equipped with a hand-wound caliber 1861 movement, Hesalite glass and a striking black dial with tachymeter bezel, the design has remained largely unchanged for decades. Collectors love them for their NASA-certified heritage, tool watch durability, and timeless style.
Cartier Santos
Price: $7,500
The Cartier Santos is one of the first wristwatches in the world and was created in 1904 when the aviator Alberto Santos-Dumont wanted a watch that he could wear while flying. Louis Cartier responded with an elegant square design, breaking away from the traditional pocket watch. The eye-catching 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-fashioned luxury and modern functionality, the Santos remains a go-to for collectors who appreciate classic design and a story rooted in history.
