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Time and time again, Seiko has come out with some of the best watches that the industry has to offer. Now, in 2022, one of its many endeavors include the revival of an incredibly popular Seiko watch series from the 1960s: the King Seiko. The Japanese brand has released a variety of King Seiko 2022 models that serve as modern-day interpretations of the 1960s King Seiko.  Without further ado, let us explore the King Seiko 2022 and see if it is worth the hype. King Seiko: A Look Into The Past Dating back to the 1960s, the original King Seiko was a Seiko sub-brand under the Daini Seikosha name. It was originally made to go head-to-head with Suwa Seikosha’s Grand Seiko catalog, which focused more on luxury Japanese timepieces.  While King Seiko certainly tried to give Grand Seiko a good run for its money, many Seiko patrons believed that it existed largely in the shadows of its Suwa counterpart. As a result, although both sub-brands were eventually discontinued, it was the Grand Seiko that Seiko first chose to revive, in the 1980s.  Fortunately, that was not the end of King Seiko. Decades later, the Japanese brand has finally decided to re-release the regal King Seiko series. This has resulted in the most recent King Seiko 2022 models. Seiko has released a total of six different versions of the King Seiko 2022: the SPB729, SPB281, SPB283, SPB285, SPB287, and SPB291. We will be discussing all six in this article.  An In-Depth Look at the 2022 King Seiko SPB279  Before we delve into the other King Seiko 2022 watches, let us first focus on the SPB279, which serves as the base model of the collection.   Case and Bezel  The King Seiko SPB279 is housed in a high-grade stainless steel case that exudes classy sophistication in each slim, well-beveled angle. It has a 37mm diameter, a thickness of around 12mm, and a lug-to-lug width of 43.6mm. These are all standard measurements of a typical men’s watch, allowing the King Seiko SPB279 to fit quite nicely on all wrist sizes.  As for the bezel, the King Seiko SPB279 shows off a smooth fixed ring which sits atop the watch case. While the rest of the watch case has a sleek brushed finish, the bezel has been thoroughly polished, giving it a lustrous glamor. The bezel is enclosed around a box-shaped sapphire crystal, which gives wearers a clear view of the watch face.  Crown and Caseback On the right side of the King Seiko SPB279 lies a medium-sized screw-down crown. This crown bears a delicately embossed image of King Seiko’s new shield logo, which is inspired by the 1965 King Seiko watch. It also has sharp edged sides, which gives wearers a better grip, so they can hold or turn the crown more easily.  Flipping the King Seiko SPB279 over, you will find a solid screw-down caseback that is also made from stainless steel. It is also engraved with an image of the King Seiko shield emblem. Aside from that, you can also find inscriptions on the watch’s specifications on this caseback. These include details about the watch’s depth rating, materials used, and country of manufacture.  Bracelet The King Seiko SPB279 is paired with a five-piece link bracelet. This bracelet is treated with a lovely brushed finish, so that it goes wonderfully with the watch’s case.  As a tribute to the 1965 King Seiko’s original design, Seiko also made sure to incorporate angular, beveled surfaces into this bracelet. When light hits the beveled sides of the bracelet, it creates dynamic illusions through its reflection, giving this watch a radiant sheen. This bracelet offers a very elegant and refined design, further cementing the King Seiko SPB279’s reputation as a handsome dress watch.  One of the coolest things about the King Seiko 2022 catalogue is that it also comes with a variety of exclusive straps that you can choose from. Aside from the default stainless steel bracelet, you can also opt for a textured calf leather strap in either gray, brown, black, dark gray, or dark brown.  Dial The King Seiko SPB279 features showcases a very classy dial with a clean and straightforward layout. This dial boasts a brushed silver sunray finish that perfectly complements both the case and bracelet. It is also well-organized, with all of its components neatly spaced out, allowing for better legibility.  This dial is adorned with rectangular applique hour indices and sharp dauphine hands, all of which are made from stainless steel. Like the case and bracelet, the indices and hands of the watch are all beveled. On the whole, this gives the King Seiko SPB279 a very slender, sharp look that is like no other in the industry.  Movement The King Seiko 2022 is powered by a Caliber 6R31. This is a self-winding caliber developed by Seiko. Typically found in the brand’s Seiko Presage watches, the Caliber 6R31 is known for its simple reliability. Made up of 24 jewels, this movement comes with manual-winding capabilities. It also offers a precision rate of +25/-15 seconds per day and an impressive power supply of 70 hours. Price  Since the King Seiko was originally made to counter Grand Seiko, you can infer that its price falls in a similar range as the luxury Grand Seiko watches. Indeed, this is also true of the King Seiko 2022 catalog.  The King Seiko SPB279, for example, retails at around $1,800 USD. This is quite a decent price for such a well-known watch model.  Other Iterations of the King Seiko 2022  Now, let us take a brief look at the other models in the King Seiko 2022 series.  1. King Seiko SPB281  To start things off, we have the King Seiko SPB281 which looks almost identical to the SPB279. Although it has the same air of sophistication around it, this version of the King Seiko 2022 is a little more laidback. It has a very versatile appeal, so you can use it as a dress watch or as the perfect everyday beater watch.  The King Seiko SPB281 comes in a 37mm stainless steel case, along with an aged-looking calf leather strap in dark grey. The dial of this watch is also protected by a domed sapphire crystal.  Compared to the King Seiko SPB279, the silver sunray finish of this dial is darker and slightly rougher in texture. This gives the King Seiko SPB281 a more rugged and cool look. This dial is also ornamented with well-bevelled applique hour indices and razor-sharp dauphine hands.  Ticking inside this watch is the Seiko Caliber 6R31. While this is an automatic movement, it comes with manual-winding capabilities as well. It offers an outstanding 70-hour power reserve and a depth rating of 100 meters.  The King Seiko SPB281 has a price tag of around $1,800 USD. 2. King Seiko SPB283  Next, we have the King Seiko SPB283, which has a completely different vibe compared to the aforementioned watches. This watch exudes a simple and quintessential style, which makes it a great partner for your everyday routines. It is probably the safest option amongst all the King Seiko 2022 pieces, and can be paired well with just about any ensemble.   The King Seiko SPB283 is presented in a 37mm stainless steel case and an artificial suede strap in grey. The dial of this watch has an alluring and classic black sunray finish. It is decorated with applied hour indices and beveled dauphine hands made of steel, which stand out clearly against the dark watch face.  On the underside of the King Seiko SPB283, you can find a sturdy screw-down caseback made of stainless steel. Sealed behind this caseback is the watch’s self-winding Seiko Caliber 6R31. It boasts reliable precision and can last for up to 70 hours when fully wound.  The King Seiko SPB283 costs about $1,800 USD.  3. King Seiko SPB287 The King Seiko SPB287 is probably the most distinct and striking piece out of all the models in the King Seiko 2022 series. The highlight of this watch is its rich and charming watch face, which effortlessly turns heads even in a crowd.  This King Seiko 2022 watch utilizes a 37mm stainless steel case, which shows off angular beveled lugs that emphasize the slim profile of this watch. This is coupled with a simple, traditional calf leather strap in black, which helps direct the focus towards the watch’s rich red dial.  The dial of this watch comes in a royal burgundy, with a lovely, shimmering sunray finish. It is adorned with rectangular applique hour indices and dauphine hands. Crafted from stainless steel, these hands and indices set up a vivid contrast against the deep red of the watch face.   Underneath this extraordinary watch face lies a Seiko Caliber 6R31. This well-crafted automatic movement possesses a 100-meter depth rating and a power supply of 70 hours.  The King Seiko SPB287 sells at around $1,800 USD.  4. King Seiko SPB291 Next, we have the King Seiko SPB291. This is actually a special-edition model with a rather unique, nature-inspired dial that you would be hard-pressed to find anywhere else in the market. This serves as a breath of fresh air for King Seiko 2022 collectors who are looking for something different than the usual. The King Seiko SPB291 sports a 37mm stainless steel case and an artificial suede strap in light gray. Its dial boasts a beautiful purple gradient finish, which takes inspiration from a flower called wisteria that is very popular in Japan. This dial follows the same spacious layout as the other King Seiko 2022 models. It consists of rectangular applique hour indices and dauphine hands made of beveled stainless steel.  This watch also runs on an automatic Seiko 6R31 Caliber. It delivers a decent precision rate of +25/-15 seconds per day and a 70-hour power supply.  As a special edition piece, the King Seiko SPB291 has a slightly higher price tag of about $2,000 USD.  5. King Seiko SJE087  Finally, we have the King Seiko SJE087, which is actually the latest addition to the King Seiko 2022 range. It is a present-day recreation of the 1965 King Seiko KSK, which explains why it has both modern and vintage-inspired style elements. The King Seiko SJE087 uses a 38mm stainless steel that is reinforced with a layer of hard-coating, boosting its resistance to scratches and impacts. This is paired with an elegant crocodile leather strap in dark brown. The dial of this watch showcases a lovely champagne sunray finish. Unlike the previous King Seiko 2022 watches, this model is filled with gold-plated applique hour indices and dauphine hands. It also has an additional date window at 3 o’clock, which is lined with gold-plated stainless steel. The back of this watch is sealed shut by a solid caseback. It is made up of stainless steel and a gold plate, which bears an engraved image of the King Seiko shield emblem. Behind this case back lies a Seiko 6L35 Caliber. This is another automatic movement with manual-winding capabilities. Held together by 26 jewels, it offers a precision rate of +15/-10 seconds and a standard 45-hour power supply. Lastly, this watch comes with a 50-meter depth rating, allowing it to survive any splashes or showers.  The King Seiko SJE087 is a limited-edition watch, with only 1,700 pieces available for sale. It is priced at $3,000 USD.  Why should you get the King Seiko 2022?  If you are still unsure whether you should get a King Seiko 2022 watch, below are some reasons why you should at least consider it!  Rich Heritage. One of the best things about the King Seiko 2022 is that it has a colorful history to back it up. While this may not be appealing to some, a watch with a rich heritage is typically viewed as more valuable than others. For the King Seiko, it was once known as a competitor of Suwa’s Grand Seiko, which is regarded as one of the best Japanese luxury manufacturers today. Sophisticated Exterior. Another reason why the King Seiko 2022 is worth considering is its elegant and refined exterior. Each model in the catalog boasts a deceptively sophisticated design, making them great additions to any watch collection. With these timeless designs, you can rest assured that the King Seiko 2022 watches will still look stylish and relevant even decades from today. Excellent Japanese Craftsmanship. Lastly, the King Seiko 2022 serves as the perfect representation of excellent Japanese craftsmanship. Each element it has, from its design to its movement, is either based on Japanese elements or made with Japanese watchmaking technique. Seiko’s unwavering commitment to its craft ensures that you can definitely trust the King Seiko 2022 to deliver utmost quality. Final Thoughts The King Seiko 2022 offers a beautiful selection of dress watches that show off regal elegance and excellent Japanese craftsmanship. While these watches do not have the most elaborate movements ever, the beauty of the King Seiko 2022 lies in its simplicity, both inside and out. The King Seiko 2022 showcases the ideal fusion of vintage elements and modern-day watchmaking techniques, making them great additions to any collection.  Photo Credits: Seiko and WatchShopping Sites Featured image courtesy of Atelierdegriff.com. Want to read more about Seiko? Check out this piece on the Seiko Black Series! 

Whether you are looking for a mechanical watch or an automatic timepiece, you have probably noticed that their movements have a set, particular number of jewels. This, of course, leads us to a very important question: just what are watch jewels and what do they do? Watch jewels are very significant components of a watch movement. They are responsible for ensuring that a watch movement operates smoothly and efficiently. Indeed, the number of jewels a movement has can even affect its performance.  If you are not familiar with what watch jewels are, and are wondering what they are for, let our article guide you on all of their functions and purposes. In addition, we will also give you an insight into what watch jewels are made of and how the number of jewels in a movement can have a direct effect on a watch’s performance. So if you ever wanted to have the question “what are watch jewels” answered for you, read on to find out more! What Are Watch Jewels and What Are They For? Image by: User 2427999 on Pixabay Watch jewels are essentially the building blocks that hold a watch movement together. Also referred to as jewel bearings, watch jewels are incorporated within different parts of the watch movement. Watch jewels ensure that the numerous components of the watch’s engine move smoothly and freely, without the metal parts damaging one another.  For example, watch jewels are set on the wheel train of the movement in order to prevent friction, so it can run more smoothly. In particular, they are positioned on the axle of the wheel, which allows this component to move swiftly without the worry of creating friction, which would lead to wear and tear. Without watch jewels, the wheels of the movement would be more prone to metal wear. This would cause damage to the engine, which would consequentially result in an inaccurate display of time. Most of the time, watch jewels cannot be seen as they are hidden alongside the watch movement, behind the caseback of timepieces. However, many high-end watches, such as the Grand Seiko Taisetsu SBGA415, offer exhibition-style casebacks. Made from metal and sapphire crystal, these transparent casebacks give you a glimpse of the watch jewels on the timepiece’s movement.  Types of Watch Jewels Watch jewels come in many different sizes. They are also set on various components of the watch movement for specific, corresponding purposes. Originally crafted from precious stones like diamonds, sapphires, rubies, and garnets, watch jewels in the modern era are now made from synthetic sapphires and rubies. This helps to reduce the cost of production, offering a more affordable way of crafting watch movements.  Hole Jewels Hole jewels are circular in shape and bear a hole in the center of them. Also referred to as pierced jewels, these are attached to the axles of the wheels and pivots of watch movements. They are also customized so that they can fit perfectly into the tiny, circular sections of the movement.  Cap Jewels Cap jewels come in a flat, circular shape. They are used to minimize the movement of the caliber’s balance staff. They serve almost the same purpose as hole jewels, but cap jewels differ in that they do not have holes in the middle. When used alongside hole jewels, these two types of watch jewels act as pivot bearings.  Cap jewels usually have two springs at both ends too. This provides shock-resistant properties to the movement, which protects it in case you accidentally drop or hit your watch.  Pallet Jewels  Pallet jewels are rectangular jewels that are situated at both ends of the pallet fork. The pallet fork locks the escape wheel, allowing the balance wheel to swing in a fluid motion. Since the pallet fork moves in a continuous back-and-forth course, the pallet jewels help reduce the friction that is caused by this constant movement. Roller Jewels Roller jewels are constructed in a rectangular shape, but with a rounded and curved top. They are located inside the pallet fork. Roller jewels are utilized to link the escape wheel together with the pallets. Watch Jewels: Are More Jewels Better? Image by: Radoslaw Pietrzykowski on Pixabay Some folks believe that the number of watch jewels bears a direct effect on the performance of a timepiece. However, this is not exactly true. Instead, the number of watch jewels in a watch caliber actually only affects how many functions and complications it has.  In short, the fewer watch jewels a movement has, the fewer functions it is equipped with. Conversely, more watch jewels mean that a watch caliber comes with more complications. To illustrate this, let us compare two famous watch movements which each come with a different number of watch jewels. ETA 2824-2 movement Image by: Hamilton First, we have one of the most ubiquitous Swiss calibers, the ETA 2824-2 movement. This caliber is used by many remarkable Swiss watch brands, such as Tissot, Longines, TAG Heuer, and Tudor.  It is also known for being used by the German watch brand Junghans and the American watchmaker Hamilton.  The ETA 2824-2 movement is fitted with 25 jewels. These jewels drive the movement’s relatively straightforward functions, which include the central hours, minutes, sweeping seconds hand, and a date feature at 3 o’clock. Indeed, since the ETA 2824-2 movement only has a limited number of watch jewels, it also comes with a commensurate number of complications.  Rolex Caliber 4130 Image by: Rolex Compared to the ETA 2824-2 movement, the Rolex Caliber 4130 is equipped with an abundant number of jewels. The Rolex Caliber 4130 is designed exclusively for the brand’s chronograph timepieces, with one popular example being the Rolex Platinum Daytona.  The Rolex Caliber 4130 is also much more complex, being held together by 44 jewels. Thanks to its greater number of jewels, this Rolex automatic movement offers a wider range of complications. These include hours, minutes, sweeping small seconds, central chronograph seconds, along with 30-minute and 12-hour chronograph counters.  Final Thoughts Having an insight into what are watch jewels is helpful in attaining a better understanding of our precious timepieces. Although it is quite technical, the watch jewel is one of the most important components of a watch, and one you should certainly know about.  Having said that, it is also necessary to note that having fewer watch jewels does not necessarily mean that a watch movement performs more poorly compared to a caliber with more jewels. Instead, a movement with more watch jewels simply comprises a more complicated caliber with extra features. Photo credits: webcasamiento, User 2427999, and Radoslaw Pietrzykowsk on Pixabay, Hamilton, and Rolex. Love vintage watches? Read our piece on Seiko’s iconic roster of Vintage Seiko Watches!

For many first-time watch owners, learning how to set a watch can be quite tricky and confusing. Since analog watches are one of the most commonly-used types of watches, they also rank as the most popular choice amongst first-time watch owners and collectors.  Whether you own an analog timepiece that is driven by a quartz movement, a self-winding watch, or a hand-wound piece, the process of how to set a watch is more or less the same for all. The vast majority of analog watches are also equipped with screw-down crowns. Not only is this watch part vital for keeping the watch’s inner mechanisms safe from moisture and dust, but it is also used to operate many functions of the timepiece, including setting the time.  So, if you are in need of a guide on how to set a watch, this article has got you covered. Scroll down as we walk you through the entire process on how to set a watch with our helpful, step-by-step guide.  How To Set A Watch: A Detailed Guide Let us look at this dive piece from TAG Heuer. Like most analog watches, the TAG Heuer Aquaracer Ref. WBP2111.BA0627 comes with a steel screw-down crown and a compact date feature at 6 o’clock. 1. Hold the crown tightly and unscrew it by rotating it in a counterclockwise direction  Since a screw-down crown is tightly sealed, unscrew it slightly by holding the crown with a firm grip and rotating it in a counterclockwise direction or towards you. This is the part where the grooved edges of a crown are important, because it provides you with a better grip when operating the crown.  2. Continue rotating the crown until it gets to the first position Continue rotating the crown towards you until it reaches the first position. This is also called the winding position. For automatic and hand-wound watches, when in this position, the crown can be used to wind and start up the timepiece’s mechanisms. 3. When the crown is set in the first position, pull the crown out so it gets to the second position From the first or winding position, pull the crown out once more to get to the second position. This position allows you to control the watch’s date function.  4. Pull the crown out once more to get to the third position For the last time, pull the crown out again until it gets into the third and final position. Once the crown is in the third position it can be pulled to, you can now use it to set the time.  5. To set the time, rotate the crown in a clockwise direction To begin setting the time, rotate the crown in a clockwise direction or away from you. This will cause the minutes hand to move in a clockwise manner, which will then be followed by the hours hand. 6. Align the hours and minutes hands with the current and accurate time Continue to turn the crown clockwise as you align both the hours and minutes hands with the current, accurate time. Make sure you turn the crown clockwise – many watch experts do not recommend turning the watch’s hands in a counter-clockwise direction as doing so may damage the gears of the watch’s movement in the long run. Indeed, it is better to be safe than sorry.  7. Once you have set the time on your watch, push the crown until it reaches its very first position If you have already set your watch so that the hours and minutes hands are aligned with the correct time, you can now return the crown to its first position. All you have to do is push the crown in until it reaches the first winding position.  8. Screw the crown tightly in a clockwise direction to ensure that it is sealed  Once the crown is back to the first position, screw it forward or in a clockwise direction. This will ensure that it is tightly sealed again, so that no moisture or dust can get in.  Final Thoughts As you can see, the entire process of how to set a watch is straightforward and not difficult to follow. If it is your first time learning how to set a watch, or you need to adjust your watch’s time to a new timezone, you will find this guide very convenient and easy to remember. We hope that through our brief guide, you now remember just how to set a watch.  Featured image courtesy of Sean Paul Kinnear on Unsplash. Need a guide on opening pocket watches? Our piece on How to Open Pocket Watches might help you!

Timex has consistently produced classic watches at reasonable prices. The brand is best known for its reliable mechanical watches like the Timex Marlin, along with its stylish Timex Q Reissue quartz watches. On top of that, Timex has also created one of the best, understated casual watches that is perfect for everyday use: the Timex Weekender.  For those who enjoy straightforward and simple timepieces, the Timex Weekender is an absolute staple. It has a very timeless and versatile design that can go well with just about any style. Paired with its accessible price, the Timex Weekender is a great entry-level beater watch for anyone just getting started on their watch journey.  Without further ado, let us delve into the incredible features of the Timex Weekender and some of its best models. Up Close with the Timex Weekender Collection Image by: Carodnepr/hqwatchgallery on YouTube Case and Bezel The Timex Weekender has a very straightforward and minimalist aesthetic, catering to those who enjoy subtler and more understated styles. It is offered in two different case sizes: 38mm and 40mm, which fit well on those with slimmer or average-sized wrists.  The sturdy case of the Weekender is made out of silver-plated lead brass, which is treated with a lustrous polished finish. Most importantly, this is a relatively lightweight material, so most Weekender models are just one to two ounces heavy. As a result, you will not have too much trouble toting them around all day. Attached to each case is a fixed lead brass bezel. This enhances the watch’s durability, guarding the watch face from any impacts or knocks. Like the case, the Timex Weekender’s bezel is well polished, so that it shows off a lovely, gleaming sheen.  Dial The dial of the Timex Weekender also has a very simple and unadorned appeal. It shows off a 24-hour format that is also frequently seen on military and field watches. It is also offered in a number of different colorways, including beige, black, white, blue, and more. As such, you have a wide variety of dial colors to choose from with the Timex Weekender.  This dial is ringed with two sets of Arabic numeral markers: larger numerals from 1 to twelve on the outside, and slightly smaller Arabic numerals from 13 to 24 on the inside. It is also adorned with simple blunt black hands and a thin, sweeping seconds hand. The seconds hand of the Weekender is available in different diverse colors, depending on the specific model you are looking at.  Timex has also equipped the Weekender with a luminescent Indiglo night-light display. This comes in especially handy in low-light conditions, as it helps to illuminate the watch face for easier legibility. Finally, a mineral crystal is fitted on top of the dial to protect it from any scratches and dents.  Movement Ticking inside the Timex Weekender is a robust and powerful Japanese quartz movement known for its unmatched accuracy in timekeeping. According to Timex, this caliber, which was created through an automated process, is capable of providing an impressive ten-year battery life.  Strap Image by: Tom Strong Reviews on YouTube The Timex Weekender is accompanied by a comfortable nylon strap. The brand offers a variety of different designs and colors for the strap, depending on whichever Weekender model you are looking at. This nylon strap also comes with a lead brass pin buckle, which ensures that the watch stays securely fastened on your wrist.  If you prefer a more elegant styling, you can also opt to pair the Weekender with a leather bracelet. This is a more classic option and gives the Weekender a dress watch feel that is great for dinner parties.  Water Resistance  The Timex Weekender has a depth rating of 30 meters. This is a relatively modest water resistance capacity. While it is enough to survive any splashes and showers, you should take care not to wear the Weekender while swimming, as it might cause damage to the watch.  Price  One of the main selling points of the Timex Weekender is its affordable price tag. In general, the price of the Weekender ranges from between $30 USD up to $80 USD. If you are looking for a sturdy and reliable timekeeper that will not break the bank, then the Timex Weekender is definitely one of the best answers to your problem.  Best Timex Weekender Models  1. Timex Weekender Ref. T2P1429J  First off, we have the Timex Weekender Ref. T2P1429J. This is a very cool and handsome watch that is great for everyday use. It is presented in a 38.5mm lead brass case, along with a blue and yellow NATO strap made of nylon.  The dial of this watch shows off a clean, stark-white finish. It is furnished with Arabic numeral hour markers, a 24-hour display, blunt black hands, and a slender blue seconds hand. On the slanting rim of the dial, you can also find a subtle minute track in black.  Driving this watch is a Japanese quartz movement that has a shelf life of up to ten years. This watch also possesses a depth rating of 30 meters.  The Timex Weekender Ref. T2P1429J sells at around $40 USD. 2. Timex Weekender Chrono Ref. TWC0635009J Another excellent model is the Timex Weekender Chrono Ref. TWC0635009J. As part o the Weekender Chronograph sub-series, this watch combines a laidback and casual aesthetic with great utility as a tool piece.  The Ref. TWC0635009J utilizes a 40mm lead brass case that is polished all over and a leather strap in warm, light brown. The dial of this watch shows off a cream finish, which adds to the soft look of this timepiece. It is decorated with Arabic numeral markers, a 24-hour display, luminous silver hands, and a compact date display at 4 o’clock.  As a chronograph watch, this dial is also filled with three sub-dials for its chronograph counters. These include the 30-second, 60-minute, and 10-hour chronograph counters. Finally, this watch is equipped with Timex’s Indiglo Night-light feature for optimal readability at all times.  Like the other Timex Weekender offerings, this watch runs on a Japanese quartz movement. When fully charged, it can last for up to an outstanding ten years. You can purchase the Timex Weekender Chrono Ref. TWC0635009J for around $70 USD. 3. Timex Weekender X Peanuts Ref. TW2R41400 If you want something fun and quirky, you should check out the Timex Weekender X Peanuts Ref. TW2R41400. This unique timepiece is part of the Timex X Peanuts, collection, the result of the collaboration between Timex and the Peanuts franchise.  The Timex Weekender X Peanuts Ref.TW2R41400 sports a 38mm low lead brass case with a gleaming, lustrous finish. This is paired with a rich red strap that easily catches the eye of anyone who comes across it.  The dial of this watch boasts a gray-white finish and is embellished with the adorable image of Snoopy in a bright red hat, playing baseball. Snoopy’s arms also cleverly serve as the watch’s hands. This is a rare Timex Weekender piece with a 12-hour display, as it is filled with Arabic numeral hour markers, double-digit minute markers, and stick indices.  Powering this watch is a dynamic Japanese quartz movement. It promises the same ten-year life battery and a 30-meter water resistance capacity.  The Timex Weekender x Peanuts Ref. TW2R41400 retails at about $54 USD. Alternative to the Timex Weekender Seiko 5 Sports Ref. SRPG35K1  Image by: WS An outstanding alternative to the Timex Weekender is the Seiko 5 Sports Ref. SRPG35K1. This watch hails from the popular Seiko 5 Sports collection, which consists of a series of hardy and reliable sports watches. Like the Timex Weekender, the Seiko 5 Sports range is known for its accessible prices and value-for-money quality.  The Ref. SRPG35K1 uses a polished 39.4mm stainless steel case and a khaki nylon strap. The dial of this watch shows off a smart, grained gray finish. It comprises Arabic numeral hour markers, thick luminous sword hands, a long day-date complication at 3 o’clock, and a handy 24-hour display. Seiko’s own LumiBrite material is also coated on the watch’s hands and indices, which ensures that the dial can be read at all times.  Unlike the Timex Weekender, the Seiko 5 Sports Ref. SRPG35K1 is a powerful self-winding caliber. Ticking inside this watch is the Seiko Caliber 4R36. It offers a 41-hour power reserve and a solid accuracy rate of +45/-35 seconds per day. Finally, this Seiko watch is also water-resistant up to depths of 100 meters.  The Seiko 5 Sports Ref. SRPG35K1 costs approximately $329 USD.  FAQs Is Timex Weekender a luxury watch? With its affordable price, the Timex Weekender is not a luxury watch. That said, it does offer top-notch reliability that puts it on par with more expensive mid-range watches.  What battery does Timex Weekender use?  Timex uses the CR1216 3V lithium battery for almost all Timex Weekender models. This battery offers a superb ten-year battery life.  Is Timex Weekender waterproof? Definitely, yes! The Timex Weekender is equipped with a depth rating of 30 meters. This is sufficient to protect it from any splashes or rain.  Final Thoughts  On the whole, the Timex Weekender is a great choice for a daily beater watch. With its robust components, versatile aesthetics and budget-friendly price tag, this is a timeless watch that goes wonderfully with all your everyday outfits. All images are courtesy of Amazon unless otherwise stated. Featured image courtesy of (Richard Wezensky) on Flickr. If you’re searching for classic, robust, and affordable dive watches, you should check out Seiko and its highly-coveted Seiko Marinemaster collection.

Bulgari has been in the forefront of high fashion and luxury watchmaking for many years now. The brand offers a sweeping catalog of sophisticated and avant-garde watches, with one of its most coveted lineups being the Bulgari Octo Finissimo.  The Bulgari Octo Finissimo is a sub-series of high-end sports watches that is housed under the brand’s flagship Bulgari Octo collection. Famous for its razor-thin builds and masterful craftsmanship, the Bulgari Octo Finissimo is a truly exquisite and versatile watch that is sure to elevate your style.  Without further ado, let us take a closer look at the incredible features of the Bulgari Octo Finissimo and what it has to offer. We will also go through some of the best models you can find in this watch range.  All About the Bulgari Octo Finissimo  The Bulgari Octo Finissimo is one of the more freshly-minted collections that Bulgari has launched in the market. Officially released in 2014, this stunning collection is made up of beautiful automatic and tourbillon timekeepers. The Bulgari Octo Finissimo’s greatest claim to fame is its world records of being some of the thinnest timepieces ever produced.  Best Bulgari Octo Finissimo Models Next, let us explore some of the best Bulgari Octo Finissimo watches that you can get in the market today. 1. Bulgari Octo Finissimo Automatic Ref. 103464 The Bulgari Octo Finissimo Automatic Ref. 103464 is one of the most classic, timeless models in this collection. Recognised as the slimmest self-winding watch in the market, this timepiece comes in a compact 40mm case, coupled with a uni-link bracelet of the same material.  One of the best things about the Bulgari Octo Finissimo Automatic is the sheer variety it offers. This watch is available in many different materials, include titanium, stainless steel, platinum, ceramic, and even more. You can pick which model best suits your tastes, depending on whether you prioritize having a more lightweight watch, or if you want something that is rarer and more luxurious, or any other considerations.  The dial of the Bulgari Octo Finissimo Automatic is also available in a variety of diverse colorways and finishes, which again gives you plenty of choice. For example, if you enjoy blue-dial watches, you can select the Bulgari Octo Finissimo Automatic Ref. 103431, with its sunray blue finish. There are also variants with traditional black dials, cool gray dials, and more.  The Bulgari Octo Finissimo Automatic’s dial also has a very straightforward and simple layout. It is filled with applique stick indices, large Arabic numeral markers, and long sword hands. A small seconds counter can also be found between the 6 and 9 o’clock markers. Driving the Bulgari Octo Finissimo Automatic is a robust in-house Caliber BVL 138. This is a self-winding movement that measures just 2.23mm in thickness. This is due in large part to its ultra-thin, state-of-the-art platinum micro-motor. This movement also beats at 21,600 vibrations per hour (3Hz) and has an impressive 60-hour power reserve.  Depending on the specific model you get, the price of the Bulgari Octo Finissimo Automatic ranges from between $10,500 USD to $33,500 USD.  2. Bulgari Octo Finissimo Skeleton Ref. 103126 If you are an avid fan of skeleton watches, then you should not miss out on the Bulgari Octo Finissimo Skeleton Ref. 103126. This is an ultra-flat luxury watch that boasts a gorgeous open-heart design, so you can fully admire its open-base plate and chamfered bridges.  This watch is presented in a 40mm case made out of black ceramic, coupled with a matching black ceramic strap. Both the case and bracelet are embellished with a smooth satin finish. This cool all-black style gives the watch a very rugged and masculine appeal, which balances well against the sophistication of its skeleton dial. Ticking inside this watch is the cutting-edge Bulgari Caliber BVL 128SK. This is a manual-winding movement that measures just 2.35mm in thickness and delivers an outstanding 65-hour power supply. This watch also comes with a modest 30-meter depth rating, which allows it to survive any accidental splashes and showers.  The Bulgari Octo Finissimo Skeleton Ref. 103126 sells at $19,656 USD.  3. Bulgari Octo Finissimo Minute Repeater Ref. 103015 Image by: Bulgari The Bulgari Octo Finissimo Minute Repeater Ref. 103015 is equipped with one of the most detailed and fancy complications that Bulgari has ever produced. With an extraordinary height of just 6.85mm, this watch is famous for being the thinnest wristwatch with a minute repeater on the market today.  The Octo Finissimo Minute Repeater utilizes a 40mm case made of titanium, along with a uni-link bracelet made of the same material. On top of its ultra-slim build, this watch’s lightweight titanium construction also allow it to rest very lightly on the wrist. As such, you will not have any trouble wearing this watch around all day.  On the left side of the case, you can find the watch’s minute repeater button. Pressing on this will cause the watch to announce the hours, quarters, and minutes at any time of the day.  The dial of this watch showcases a smooth gray finish, complementing the rest of the watch’s exterior. It has a simple layout, with subtle design elements that exude refined elegance. One distinctive feature of this dial is its unusual hour markers. Instead of using traditional applique markers, the brand has instead cloaked the indices out of the dial. This gives you a glimpse of the movement that runs underneath. This dial also consists of beveled sword hands and a small seconds sub-dial at 6 o’clock.  On the underside of this Bulgaro Octo Finissimo Minute Repeater watch, you can find an exhibition-style caseback. Through it, you can admire the watch’s minute repeater movement in all its glory. This watch runs on an in-house Bulgari Caliber BVL 362, which has broken records with its slim 3.12mm height. Today, the Caliber BVL 362 remains the thinnest minute repeater movement ever crafted.  The Bulgari Octo Finissimo Minute Repeater Ref.103015 is priced at $160,000 USD.  4. Bulgari Octo Finissimo Tourbillon Ref. 103510 Image by: Bulgari.watchonista.com Bulgari has also launched a limited-edition model of the Octo Finissimo with the Bulgari Octo Finissimo Tourbillon Ref.103510. Aside from being an exclusive timepiece, this timepiece also holds the world title for the thinnest automatic tourbillon watch in the industry.  This watch sports a lavish 40mm platinum case and a handsome alligator leather strap in blue. The case’s full, satinized finish gives the watch a bright sheen that catches the light wonderfully. Seated on top of its watch case is a flat fixed bezel made out of platinum. Showing off a sleek brushed finish, this bezel helps guard the watch face from any impacts. 144-327251-221. The dial of this watch shows off a beautiful and complex tourbillon display. Aside from that, it is also decorated with two chronograph sub-dials in white for the 60-second and 30-minute counters, along with blued steel skeletal hands that add a very cool look to this watch face.  Inside this watch, you can find a superior Caliber BVL 388. This high-quality automatic movement is held together by 52 jewels and measures just 3.5mm thin. It also delivers a solid 52-hour power supply and a depth rating of 30 meters.  This Bulgari Octo Finissimo Tourbillon Ref.103510 costs approximately $227,472 USD. It is one of the most exorbitant models in the Bulgari Octo Finissimo series. 5. Bulgari Octo Finissimo Chrono GMT If you are looking for an ultra-thin GMT piece or sports watch, then the Bulgari Octo Finissimo Chrono GMT Ref. 103371 is the perfect choice. Recognized as the thinnest flattest wristwatch with GMT and stopwatch functions, this Bulgari Octo Finissimo piece offers incredible utility. It is a great tool watch for both athletes and frequent travelers.  This watch uses a 42mm titanium case and a rugged black rubber strap that simply radiates sportiness. Although it is slightly bulkier than the previous Bulgari Octo Finissimo watches mentioned, it is still quite easy to tote around, thanks to its lightweight titanium build.  The dial of this watch showcases a refined, black sand-blasted finish that emphasizes the serious and robust feel of this watch. It is ornamented with silver applique hour indices, Arabic numeral markers, and thick skeletal sword hands. As a chronograph watch, this dial also contains two sub-dials for the 60-second and 30-minute chronograph counters.  The sub-dial at 3 o’clock, on the other hand, serves as the watch’s 24-hour display.  This watch runs on an in-house Caliber BVL 318. Measuring 3.3mm thin, this is a self-winding movement that beats at 21,600 vibrations per hour (4Hz). It is equipped with a platinum micro-rotor, which provides the movement with more energy every time you move. In addition, it can also last for up to 55 hours when fully wound.  The Bulgari Octo Finissimo Chrono GMT Ref. 103371 retails at $16,642 USD.  Frequently Asked Questions  Is Bulgari a luxury watch brand?  Bulgari is one of the most prestigious and oldest luxury watch brands in the market today. Founded in 1884, this Italian watchmaker is coveted for its sublime craftsmanship and exquisite designs. That so many of its watches hold titles for being the thinnest luxury timepieces in the world is a testament to Bulgari’s mastery over the watchmaking craft.  How can you tell if a Bvlgari watch is real? First of all, note that Bulgari always makes sure to print its logo, BVLGARI, in all Roman uppercase letters under the watch’s 12 o’clock marker. If you notice that the timepiece you hold is engraved with lowercase letters or with the word “Bulgari”, then it is definitely a counterfeit.  In general, each Bulgari timepiece is also meticulously crafted, with great attention to detail. As such, if you notice any misaligned text on the watch, or any lopsided components, then these are strong indicators that your watch is a fake.  Is the Bulgari Octo waterproof?  Each Bulgari Octo watch is equipped with some degree of water resistance. This ranges from 30 meters, which allows the watch to survive any splashes and showers, to around 100 meters, so you can bring the watch on any swimming or scuba-diving adventures. Are Bvlgari watches Swiss made?  Definitely, yes! While Bulgari’s headquarters is in Italy, the brand’s ever-growing watch collections are all made in Switzerland.  Final Thoughts  Over the years, Bulgari has delivered some of the most sophisticated, avant-garde watches in the market. One of the brand’s greatest contributions is the Bulgari Octo Finissimo series. Famous for their ultra-thin builds, the diverse Bulgari Octo Finissimo models are true watchmaking masterpieces. If you love slim watches that rest subtly on your wrist, then the Bulgari Octo Finissimo should definitely be on your radar.  All images are credited to WS unless otherwise stated. Featured image courtesy of (Time+Tide Watches) on YouTube. On the hunt for sophisticated white dial watches on the market? Spare some time to read our guide on White Watches For Men: 15 Best Models For That Clean Look.

If you have been immersed in the world of horology before, then you have probably come across several creations and terms that hail solely from Rolex. For instance, the Swiss luxury watch brand is the only watchmaker to patent its own brand of stainless steel, which is catchily known as Oystersteel. Another notable illustration would be the clever nicknames that are frequently given to Rolex watches, with famous examples such as the Rolex Coke, Rolex Smurf, and Rolex Starbucks.  In this article, we will be delving into an iconic Rolex design, this time associated with the oldest tennis tournament worldwide: the Rolex Wimbledon Dial. The Rolex Wimbledon Dial refers to a specific type of dial design, which gained its nickname as a byproduct of the close ties and partnership between Rolex and Wimbledon. Since the prestigious Wimbledon tournament perfectly matches the reputable status of Rolex, the Rolex Wimbledon Dial is undoubtedly an interesting subject to explore.  In this article, let us get to know more about the rich history of the Rolex Wimbledon Dial and some of the premium timepieces that have come to bear this unique, exclusive dial design.  History of the Rolex Wimbledon Dial Image by: Rolex Rolex and tennis have long been tied to each other, ever since the brand embarked on its official partnership with the Wimbledon Championships in 1978. Since then, as the Wimbledon Championships’ official timekeeper, Rolex has borne witness to the iconic triumphs of remarkable tennis players worldwide in the most reputable tennis tournament ever.  Many of the world’s most famous tennis players have made their name on the Wimbledon courts, under Rolex’s watchful eye. To name a few, there is Martina Navratilova, the player to have won the most Wimbledon titles in women’s singles, Serena Williams, and of course, the notable athlete with the most Wimbledon titles in men’s singles, Roger Federer. Rolex Wimbledon Dial: Rolex Datejust II The first Rolex Wimbledon Dial was introduced in 2009, through the Rolex Datejust II Ref. 116333. Much as how a huge number of Rolex timepieces got their catchy nicknames, it was actually Rolex connoisseurs and tennis fans themselves that came up with this memorable moniker. The dial of the Rolex Datejust II Ref. 116333 came to be known as the Rolex Wimbledon Dial because it came in a colorway that was deeply reminiscent of the Wimbledon tennis court itself.  Priced at $14,000 USD, the Rolex Datejust II Ref. 116333 was an impeccable dress watch. It was suited not just to Rolex and tennis fans, but also to folks who were on the hunt for the perfect beginner Rolex watch. The fact that this 41mm Rolex Wimbledon Dial watch did not have an overly exorbitant price, unlike many other luxury pieces from Rolex, was crucial. Its relative affordability made it extremely popular with many watch buyers, particularly tennis fans, globally.  Rolex Wimbledon Dial: Rolex Datejust 41 Image by: Rolex 2016 marked the beginning of the transition from the Rolex Datejust II series to the Rolex Datejust 41 collection. This newer roster of Rolex Datejust watches came in a slimmer, sportier build and was powered by a brand-new, high-tech caliber.  In the same year, the brand also released a new version of the Rolex Wimbledon Dial: the Rolex Datejust 41 Ref. 126303. Today, this is one of the many references which house a Rolex Wimbledon Dial. This includes other models such as the Rolex Datejust 41. Ref. 126331, Rolex Datejust 41 Ref. 126333, and more, which we will go through in greater detail later in the article.  At present, Rolex Wimbledon Dials do not only come in 41mm case sizes. They are also offered in smaller 36mm case diameters, which is a case size patterned after the original Rolex Datejust. These smaller watches with Rolex Wimbledon Dials include the Rolex Datejust 36 Ref. 126234 and the Rolex Datejust 36 Ref. 126200. The current lineup of Rolex Wimbledon Dial timepieces also offers you a choice between a Jubilee bracelet or an Oyster bracelet.  Over the years, the Rolex Wimbledon Dial has garnered immense popularity. It even tripled its already considerable acclaim in 2017, when Roger Federer wore a Rolex Wimbledon Dial watch at the awarding ceremony for his eighth Wimbledon title. Indeed, the Rolex Wimbledon Dial is a treasure to keep and worthy of being included in anyone’s growing watch collection.  Distinctive Features of the Rolex Wimbledon Dial Image by: Rolex One look at the Rolex Wimbledon Dial, and you will immediately recognize it, thanks to two of its distinctive features. These are its slate gray dial and its green Roman numeral markers.  Slate Gray Dial The Rolex Wimbledon Dial is a slate gray dial with a beautiful sunburst finish. Almost all Rolex Wimbledon Dials share the same gray colorway and brushed sunburst finish. This is also the version of the Rolex Wimbledon Dial that is most popular with watch enthusiasts.  However, there are other, rare Rolex Wimbledon Dial variants that show off a darker gray hue. One example is the Rolex Datejust II Ref. 116334.  Green Roman Numerals The lustrous, slate gray Rolex Wimbledon Dial is also ornamented with vivid green Roman numeral markers, which stand out in stark contrast. These rich green applique hour indices bear a striking similarity to the green grass of Wimbledon’s tennis courts. It also matches the shade of one of the tournament’s official colors, the “Wimbledon Green”. In fact, these green Roman numerals are the primary reason why this dial design is referred to as the Rolex Wimbledon Dial.  Rolex Wimbledon Dial Watches Here are some of the best Rolex Wimbledon Dial watches available in the market right now. Check them out and see if any of them are worthy of being included in your collection! 1. Rolex Datejust 41 Ref. 126303-0019 For the first Rolex Wimbledon Dial watch, take a look at the Rolex Datejust 41 Ref. 126303-0019. This Rolesor piece is most famous for being worn by Roger Federer at his Wimbledon awarding ceremony in 2017. As such, the Rolex Datejust 41 Ref. 126303-0019 not only shows off the gorgeous aesthetics of the Rolex Wimbledon Dial, but also has a renowned association with the prominent athlete.  This emblematic watch is presented in a 41mm case crafted from a mix of Oystersteel and yellow gold. This is paired with a two-tone Oyster bracelet, giving the watch a very consistent, luxurious style. Affixed to the top of the watch case is a smooth, thick yellow gold bezel, which guards the watch face from any impacts. This watch also houses the iconic Rolex Wimbledon Dial, with its beautiful slate gray finish. It is furnished with bold green Roman numeral markers, blunt yellow gold hands and a rectangular marker at 9 o’clock that is also outlined in yellow gold. A magnified date window also sits at 3 o’clock.  This Rolex Datejust 41 watch runs on the Rolex Caliber 3235. Made up of 31 jewels, this self-winding movement beats at 28,800 vibrations per hour (4Hz) and offers a stellar power supply of 70 hours.  The Rolex Datejust 41 Ref. 126303-0019 has a price tag of $15,400 USD.  2. Rolex Datejust 36 Ref. 126234-0045 If you want a more professional and less showy Rolex Wimbledon Dial watch, then the Rolex Datejust 36 Ref. 126234-0045 is the perfect answer. This watch is encased in a slimmer 36mm White Rolesor case, made from a combination of white gold and the brand’s patented Oystersteel material. Seated on top of the watch face is a lovely fluted bezel made of 18K white gold, which adds to this watch’s refined profile. The Rolex Datejust 36 Ref. 126234-0045 is also paired with a five-link Jubilee bracelet, which enhances its classy stature.  This watch’s slate gray dial is decorated with thick green Roman numeral markers, luminous blunt hands, and a rectangular hour index lined with white gold at 9 o’clock. At 3 o’clock, you can also find a date display with a Cyclops lens.  Underneath this watch face lies an in-house Rolex Caliber 3235. As one of Rolex’s most recent, powerful calibers, this is an automatic movement fitted with 31 jewels. It offers an excellent power reserve of 70 hours.  The ​​Rolex Datejust 36 Ref. 126234-0045 is worth around $14,000 USD. 3. Rolex Datejust 41 Ref. 126333-Grey-R-O For another magnificent Rolesor piece, check out the Rolex Datejust 41 Ref. 126333-Grey-R-O. This two-tone watch utilizes a 41mm case and an Oyster bracelet, both of which are made from Oystersteel and 18K yellow gold. Placed on top of the case is an elegant, fluted bezel which is crafted from the same yellow gold material as the watch’s crown. This bezel is enclosed around a layer of sapphire crystal, which protects the dial from any scratches or impacts.  This watch’s Wimbledon Dial shows off the classic combination of rich green Roman numerals against a brushed, sunburst gray backdrop. It is also filled with blunt hands made of yellow gold, a luminous hour index at 9 o’clock, and a magnified date aperture at 3 o’clock.  Driving this timepiece is the in-house Rolex Caliber 3235. It boasts an outstanding power rating of 70 hours and has an excellent precision rate of +/-2 seconds per day. In addition, this watch is also water-resistant up to depths of 100 meters, which is quite impressive for a dress watch.  You can buy the Rolex Datejust 41 126333-Grey-R-O for approximately $19,100 USD. 4. Rolex Datejust 41 Ref. 126303-0020 We previously mentioned how there are some Rolex Wimbledon Dial variants which show off a slightly darker gray finish, and here, we have our first example. The Rolex Datejust 41 Ref. 126303-0020 sports a 41mm Oystersteel and 18K yellow gold case. It is coupled with a Jubilee bracelet which has luxurious 18K yellow gold inner links and Oystersteel outer links. On top of the case, you can also find a yellow gold bezel which is embellished with a smooth, polished finish. The watch’s Wimbledon Dial comes in a dark gray sunray finish. It is adorned with rich green Roman numerals in a thick font and blunt yellow gold hands. You can also find a magnified date complication at 3 o’clock, along with the iconic Rolex crown logo in yellow gold at 12 o’clock.  Like the previous Rolex Wimbledon Dial offerings, this watch is powered by an in-house Rolex Caliber 3235. This self-winding movement beats at 28,800 vibrations per hour (4Hz) and possesses a whopping 70-hour power rating. It also has an exceptional accuracy rate of -2/+2 seconds per day. The Rolex Datejust 41 Ref. 126303-0020 retails at $19,200 USD. 5. Rolex Datejust 36 Ref. 126200-0017 On the hunt for an entry-level Rolex Wimbledon Dial piece? You might like the Rolex Datejust 36 Ref. 126200-0017. This timepiece uses a 36mm Oystersteel case with a matching Oystersteel Jubilee bracelet. With its slim profile, this watch fits very nicely on those who have smaller and more slender wrists.  Arranged on the watch’s slate gray dial are luminous silver-tone hands, green Roman numerals, and a magnified date display at 3 o’clock. This dial is encompassed by a smooth Oystersteel bezel, which also holds a layer of scratch-resistant sapphire crystal in place. This sapphire crystal helps to guard the watch face from any external damage.  Ticking inside this watch is the in-house Rolex Caliber 3235 movement. Held together by 31 jewels, it delivers a 70-hour power supply and is accurate to +/-2 seconds per day.  The Rolex Datejust 36 Ref. 126200-0017 is available at just $10,800 USD. It is the most affordable Rolex Wimbledon Dial offering on the list.  6. Rolex Datejust 41 Ref. 126331-0016 Last on this list of Rolex Wimbledon Dial watches is the Rolex Datejust 41 Ref. 126331-0016. This beautiful timepiece shows off an alluring blend of tones that makes it a great watch option for the ladies. This Rolex Datejust watch is packed in a 41mm Rolesor case made of Oystersteel and 18K Everose gold. It is accompanied by a Jubilee bracelet, which is also crafted from the same high-quality materials. Sitting atop the watch case is a fluted bezel that is made entirely from Everose gold, adding to the refined elegance of this timepiece.  The soft, rose gold hues of this watch’s exterior are sharply contrasted by its slate gray dial. This dial consists of the signature green Roman numerals, rose gold blunt hands, and a magnified date aperture at 3 o’clock. Rolex’s classic crown emblem can also be found at 12 o’clock, in rose gold.  This watch is operated by an in-house Rolex Caliber 3235, which boasts a near-unparalleled precision rate of +/-2 seconds per day. When fully wound, this movement can also last for up to 70 hours.  The Rolex Datejust 41 Ref. 126331-0016 sells at $18,500 USD.  Final Thoughts The Rolex Wimbledon Dial is a testament to how far Rolex’s influence and prestige spreads, not just in the world of horology but also in the general public’s sphere of consciousness. Through its partnership with Wimbledon, the most distinguished of the Grand Slam tournaments, Rolex has created an iconic dial design that continues to be incredibly influential today. If you love tennis and watches, then the Rolex Wimbledon Dial is definitely something you should consider adding to your collection.  Photo credits: Rolex. Need help deciding which Rolex timepiece to buy first? Here is our handy Guide To Choosing Your First Rolex Watch!

Seiko is home to a wide variety of celebrated vintage watches that have made a long-lasting mark on the sphere of horology. Indeed, considering how rich in heritage and innovation Seiko is,  it is little surprise that the Japanese watch brand has such an excellent catalog of iconic, legendary classics.  In this article, we will get to know some of the vintage Seiko watches. Let us delve into the best vintage Seiko watches available as we discover how the popular watchmaker has crafted them into such marvelous timepieces.  Best Vintage Seiko Watches 1. Seiko 62MAS  Image by: Seiko Watches Let us start off with the most iconic dive watch to grace the world of horology: the Seiko 62MAS. Although widely known by this name, it actually comes with the reference number 6217-8000. Launched in 1965, this Seiko Prospex piece paved the way for the watch brand’s roster of dive watches in the years to come. This timepiece is easily one of the most famous vintage Seiko watches ever, so much so that Seiko continues to release modern re-issues of it, with one example being the Seiko SPB149.  The Seiko 62MAS comes in a 37mm stainless steel case and a black rubber strap with a fashionable pyramid stud pattern. Affixed to the top of the watch case is a unidirectional rotating bezel, with a black elapsed time scale insert made of aluminum.  This watch’s dial shows off a handsome gray-green sunray finish. It houses thick rectangular hour indices and broad blunt hands, all of which are coated with soft green lume. As a dive piece, this is an extremely helpful feature. It allows wearers to read the dial clearly at all times, even in dark underwater depths. A date aperture also rests at 3 o’clock.  This legendary timepiece is powered by the in-house Seiko Caliber 6217. This self-winding automatic movement beats at 18,000 vibrations per hour (2.5Hz) and has a solid 31-hour power reserve. It is also water-resistant up to depths of 150 meters, making it a great companion for all sorts of water activities like swimming and recreational diving. As one of the most famous vintage Seiko watches, the price for the Seiko 62MAS starts at around $5,000 USD. 2. Seiko 6159-7000 Image by: Seiko Watches Three years after the Japanese watchmaker released the Seiko 62MAS, it followed up with another robust dive piece: the Seiko 6159-7001. This watch is presented in a 43mm stainless steel case with a heft of 14mm, coupled with a comfortable black rugged strap. With these dimensions, it is best suited for medium-to-large-sized wrists. Sitting on top of the case is a black ceramic bezel, which bears an elapsed time scale in gold indicators.  This watch’s jet-black dial is adorned with geometric hour indices and broad sword hands, along with a date window at 3 o’clock. All of these components are outlined in gold, giving the watch a very classy look. A screw-down crown is placed at 4 o’clock, which ensures that it does not dig into the wearer’s skin when worn. Built for professional diving, this timepiece has a water resistance rating of 300 meters. It is also the first Seiko piece ever to run on a Hi-Beat movement: the in-house Seiko Caliber 6159. It beats at a breathtaking rate of 36,000 vibrations per hour (5Hz) and has a solid 45-hour power supply.  The Seiko 6159-7000 can be bought at around $3,000 USD to $6,000 USD. 3. Seiko 6139-6010  Image by: Seiko Watches Next up, we have the Seiko 6139-6010. This vintage Seiko watch is famous for being the first-ever automatic chronograph piece ever released in the industry. It sports a 39mm stainless steel case with a matching three-link stainless steel bracelet. This Seiko 5 Sports fits perfectly on small-to-average-sized wrists. Introduced in 1969, this blue dial watch is filled with square hour indices, blunt silver hands, and a day-date display at 3 o’clock which is outlined with steel. On the rim of the dial, you can find an internal tachymeter bezel, also in deep blue. When used alongside the watch’s 30-minute chronograph counter, wearers are able to calculate the speed of a moving object.  This Seiko timepiece is driven by an in-house Seiko Caliber 6139. Fitted by 21 jewels, this automatic movement beats at 21,600 vibrations per hour (3Hz). It also has a substantial power rating of 45 hours. Moreover, this watch has a water resistance capacity of 70 meters. This makes it a great choice if you are looking for a casual beater watch to use on a daily basis.  The Seiko 6139-6010 retails at approximately $800 USD. 4. Seiko Quartz Astron  Image by: Seiko Watches Seiko revolutionized the watch industry once more through the introduction of a quartz wristwatch in 1969. The Seiko Quartz Astron is the very first watch to have a battery-operated quartz movement. As such, this vintage Seiko timepiece was very easy to maintain and did not need to be wound on a regular basis to keep ticking. Thanks to its innovative quartz movement, this watch also promised an excellent precision rate of +/-5 seconds per month. This Seiko Astron piece is encased in a well-brushed, cushion-shaped case that curves downwards. This allows it to conform quite nicely to the shape of your wrist. The case is made from luxurious 18K yellow gold and is coupled with a handsome black leather strap that simply exudes old-school charm. The watch’s matching gold dial showcases a minimalist look that reflects the German Bauhaus watch principles. It is decorated with just slim applique hour indices and gold stick hands.  Back in 1969, the Seiko Quartz Astron had a price tag of $1,250 USD. Today, it is near impossible to find this watch, whether it is in the market or online. Nonetheless, it is still one of the most notable vintage Seiko watches, having changed the trajectory of the entire horological industry.  5. Seiko Captain Willard 6105  Image by: Cristeen Quezon on Flickr Popularly known as the Seiko Captain Willard, the Seiko 6105 is another noteworthy dive watch from the Seiko Prospex series. This timepiece is packed in a 44mm cushion-shaped stainless steel case. Thanks to its downward-sloping build, this watch molds perfectly onto the wrist, providing a very comfortable wearing experience.  Protected by a layer of Hardlex crystal, the jet-black dial is furnished with thick rectangular hour indices and blunt silver hands. These components are coated with luminous pigments, so that they glow brightly in low-light environments. A date complication also sits at 3 o’clock. The entire dial is surrounded by a chunky unidirectional rotating bezel. It is fitted with a black elapsed time scale insert made of ceramic, which bears a luminous pip at 12 o’clock.  Ticking inside this watch is the in-house Seiko Caliber 6105B. It beats at 21,600 vibrations per hour (3Hz) and has a modest 32-hour power reserve. This timepiece is also water-resistant up to depths of 150 meters.  The Seiko 6105 is priced at around $1,000 USD to $2,000 USD.  6. Seiko Baby Panda 6138-8000  Image by: eBay The Seiko 6138-8000 is a 1971 chronograph watch that is popularly referred to as the “Seiko Baby Panda”. This watch utilizes a 40mm stainless steel case with a height of 14mm, which fits wrists that measure small to medium in size. Two stout pushers on the right side of the case are utilized to operate its chronograph functions.  The Seiko Baby Panda’s silver-white dial is ornamented with silver applique hour indices, slender, sweeping sword hands, and a day-date display at 3 o’clock. Since this watch was originally meant to be sold in the Japanese market, its day indicator can be changed to display two different texts, in Japanese katakana or English.  On the rim of the dial lies an internal tachymeter bezel in black. This dial also contains 30-minute and 12-hour chronograph counters in black. Thanks to the placement of the sub-dials, the layout of the Seiko Baby Panda’s dial resembles the face of a panda, hence its catchy nickname.  Underneath this classic watch face is the automatic in-house Seiko Caliber 6138. Held together by 23 jewels, it has a beat frequency of 21,600 vibrations per hour (3Hz). It also has a 45-hour power supply and a water resistant capacity of 30 meters. The Seiko 6138-8000 Baby Panda is a rare find that can be purchased for between $1,400 USD to $2,000 USD. 7. Seiko 0634 Image by: Seiko Watches Introduced in 1975, the Seiko 0634 was the first multi-function digital watch in the world. Offering superb functionality and convenience, the Seiko 0634 is one of the most ground-breaking vintage Seiko watches ever. It uses a 35mm stainless steel case and a lovely multilink bracelet made from the same material. As a digital watch, the Seiko 0634 comes with a light gray LCD display. Shown on this LCD screen are some of the watch’s timekeeping functions. These include a digital display of the time and a calendar feature.  Another iconic hallmark of this timepiece is that it is the world’s first digital chronograph watch. As such, it also provides start/stop and lap time functions in a digital format.  You can control these using the two pushers located at the base of the watch. The Seiko 0634 is also equipped with a built-in backlight, which illuminates the watch face in the dark. This digital watch is operated by an in-house Seiko Caliber 0634. This is a battery-operated quartz movement which has an outstanding accuracy rate of +/-10 seconds per month. It also offers a battery life of around one year.  Due to its rarity, the Seiko 0634 is one of the hardest vintage Seiko watches to get your hands on. If you do manage to find one online, it is usually set at a varying price ranging from $100 USD up to $400 USD.  8. Seiko Tuna 6159-7010  Image by: Seiko Watches The next vintage Seiko watch on this list is the Seiko Tuna 6159-7010. Also known as the “Grandfather Tuna”, this watch is highly respected as the first-ever Seiko Tuna model developed by the brand.  The Seiko Tuna 6159-7010 is built in a chunky 50mm titanium case with a thickness of 16mm. As a result, it fits best on those with medium-to-large-sized wrists. Folks who love oversized watches are sure to enjoy the Grandfather Tuna too. That said, despite its large size, this watch actually weighs quite lightly. This is due to its titanium construction, which is 45% lighter than steel. This allows the Grandfather Tuna to sit comfortably on the wrist, even when worn for long periods of time.  The case of this watch is surrounded by a black rubber shroud, which protects it from any shocks and impacts. This is complemented by a matching, robust black rubber strap. Completing the watch’s all-black style is a simple, matte black dial. It comprises luminous geometric hour indices, thick arrow hands, and a date window at 3 o’clock. A thick screw-down crown can also be seen peeking out from under the shroud at 4 o’clock.  Inside this bulky watch, you can find the Hi-Beat Seiko Caliber 6159 movement. It beats 36,000 vibrations per hour (5Hz) and has a 48-hour power rating. As a professional dive piece, the Seiko Grandfather Tuna also boasts an incredible water resistance capacity of 600 meters.  The legendary Seiko Tuna 6159-7010 costs approximately $6,000 USD. 9. Seiko Ripley 7A28-7000  Image by: Seiko Watches The Seiko 7A28-7000 is a futuristic-looking chronograph piece that is famously associated with the American actress Sigourney Weaver. The actress wore this watch in the sci-fi film Aliens (1968) while playing the iconic character of Ellen Ripley. As a tribute to Weaver’s role as Ellen Ripley, this timepiece has also garnered the nickname “Seiko Ripley”. Made in collaboration with Italian car designer Giorgetto Giugiaro, the Seiko Ripley shows off a very distinctive, avant-garde build. It has a 43mm round stainless steel case, along with a rectangular steel panel attached on its right side. This unique feature is equipped with two black pushers, which are placed at the top and the bottom of the steel panel. These pushers are used to operate the watch’s chronograph functions.  This watch also showcases a jet-black dial, which stands out sharply against its all-steel exterior. It is filled with a painted orange minute track and orange blunt hands, which add a touch of bright vibrancy to this watch face. This dial also consists of three sub-dials for the 60-second, 30-minute, and 10-hour chronograph counters.  The back of this watch is sealed shut by a caseback made of solid stainless steel. This caseback bears an engraving of the classic Seiko wave on it. Behind this caseback lies a battery-operated quartz movement. It is notable for being the first-ever analog quartz chronograph movement in the world.  The Seiko Ripley is worth around $800 USD to $1,000 USD. 10. 1960 Grand Seiko  Image by: Seiko Watches As you can see from all the vintage Seiko watches listed above, the brand has achieved a great many innovative and high-tech feats over the years. For the last watch in this article, we will be looking at yet another of the brand’s iconic milestones. The 1960 Grand Seiko is a legendary timepiece which marks the humble beginnings of Grand Seiko, which is Seiko’s subsidiary brand of luxury dress watches.  The 1960 Grand Seiko uses a 35mm case made of luxurious 14K yellow gold, along with an elegant brown leather strap. Its quintessential combination of exquisite yellow gold and brown leather gives this watch a very classy vibe that is perfect for formal occasions.  The dial of this watch comes in a soft white, which goes well with the warm tones of its exterior. It is adorned with gold baton indices and sharp, well-beveled dauphine hands. Although this dial has a very minimalist design, the 1960 Grand Seiko still exudes an impeccable, suave demeanor.   The 1960 Grand Seiko is powered by an in-house Grand Seiko 3180 movement. Composed of 25 jewels, it beats at 18,000 vibrations per hour (2.5Hz). It also has a standard 45-hour power capacity. Nowadays, obtaining a 1960 Grand Seiko is incredibly difficult. If you do manage to find one, however, it is likely to cost you around $3,500 USD.  Final Thoughts After going through this list of vintage Seiko watches, we can say with confidence that the brand never fails to show its best. Be it more than fifty years ago or in the present day, Seiko continues to deliver some of the best, most ground-breaking watch creations imaginable.  Vintage Seiko watches are timeless pieces that have undergone the test of time to showcase the brand’s mastery over the watchmaking craft. Many of these vintage Seiko watches can be difficult to find today. Nevertheless, they are definitely still worth the effort and money, given their robust builds, their rich heritage, and the impact they have had in shaping the watch industry.  Photo credits: Unsplash, Seiko Watches, eBay, and Cristeen Quezon on Flickr.  Now that we’ve mentioned a few impressive dive watches from Seiko, check out our review of one of their affordable and durable dive pieces: the Seiko SRP777!

Across the globe, Japanese watch brands have long been respected as some of the top picks for many watch connoisseurs and collectors. Take, for example, the Grand Seiko. It is a popular Japanese watchmaker that offers iconic luxury dress watches with phenomenal prestige. In this article, we will be looking at one of Grand Seiko’s most notable timepieces, the Grand Seiko Taisetsu SBGA415. Famously inspired by deep, wintery Japan, the SBGA415 showcases a beautiful stylishness and Grand Seiko’s trademark expertise in craftsmanship. Read on to find out more about this gorgeous nature-inspired timepiece and everything it has to offer.  Grand Seiko Taisetsu SBGA415: An Overview Image by: Grand Seiko Introduced in 2019, the Grand Seiko Taisetsu SBGA415 hails from the brand’s Grand Seiko Heritage collection. This is a luxurious catalog of timepieces that boast an exceptional degree of Japanese craftsmanship. Many of the timepieces in the Grand Seiko Heritage series are created as homages to classic Grand Seiko watches, and the SBGA415 is one such example.  The SBGA415 was released alongside three other timepieces as part of the Four Seasons collection. As its name suggests, this line of watches was made to commemorate the four seasons of Japan. The Four Seasons collection includes the Grand Seiko Shunbun (The Vernal Equinox), Grand Seiko Rikka (Early Summer), and Grand Seiko Shubun (The Autumnal Equinox). All four of these watches are modern re-interpretations of the brand’s first automatic watch, the 1967 Grand Seiko 62GS. As such, they are designed with very similar builds as the Grand Seiko 62GS. This includes being bezel-less and possessing the same sleek, sophisticated luster that only Grand Seiko’s Zaratsu polishing technique can bring forth.  Taisetsu: The Deep Snow of Winter Image by: Grand Seiko Although it may be a foreign concept to many of us, Japan actually has a deep-rooted and cultural notion of the four seasons. Each of Japan’s four seasons is divided into six phases, and every phase is a slow transition into a different season based on the movement of the Sun. Thus, this is equivalent to a total of twenty-four seasons, or what they call “sekki”.  The SBGA415, in particular, represents the concept of “taisetsu”, or the Deep Snow of Winter. This is a period in which the mountains in Japan are heavily covered under the winter snow. Taisetsu is also the twenty-first season amongst Japan’s long list of twenty-four “sekki”.  If you are familiar with Grand Seiko, you might remember that it also offers other snow-inspired dials like the Grand Seiko White Birch and the Grand Seiko Snowflake. These timepieces are all equipped with Grand Seiko’s hallmark of alluring textured dials. The same is also true of the SBGA415. Grand Seiko takes the SBGA415 as another opportunity to show off its interpretation of the beauty of the winter snow, creating a delightful treat for the eyes.  Without further ado, let us learn more about the Grand Seiko SBGA415 and its specifications in the following section of the article.  Anatomy of the Grand Seiko Taisetsu SBGA415 Case An elegant timepiece that weighs quite lightly yet exudes steady robustness, the Grand Seiko Taisetsu SBGA415 is made entirely from titanium. Since titanium is a metal that weighs 45% lighter than stainless steel, the Grand Seiko SBGA415 has an overall weight of just 102 grams, which provides wearers with a very comfortable and easy wearing experience. In addition, since this watch is based on the 1967 Grand Seiko 62GS, it does not have any bezel either. This further reduces the Grand Seiko SGA415’s weight, while also emphasizing its slender profile.  The case of the Grand Seiko SBGA415 measures 40mm in diameter and a slim 12.8mm in thickness. It also has a lug-to-lug width of 47mm. Given these measurements, this watch fits quite nicely on smaller-to-average-sized wrists. In addition, the case lugs of the Grand Seiko SBGA415 also show off an ergonomic downward curve, so that it slips smoothly under the cuffs of your shirt. This makes it the perfect dress watch to wear at formal events.  Moreover, this case is also beautifully embellished with a combination of a brushed finish and the brand’s in-house Zaratsu polishing techniques. The incorporation of Grand Seiko’s signature Zaratsu polish gives the watch case a mirror-like, distortion-free surface, so that it boasts an extraordinary luster. This is greatly contrasted against the case’s flanks, which are treated with a smooth, brushed finish.  Caseback On the underside of the Grand Seiko Taisetsu SBGA415, you can find an exhibition-style caseback that is firmly screwed-in. This caseback is also made from titanium and showcases a shiny, polished Zaratsu finish. Printed on the caseback are details about the watch such as its depth rating, country of manufacture, and more.  At the centre of the Grand Seiko SBGA415’s caseback lies a sapphire crystal insert. Through it, you can see the state-of-the-art movement that drives this timepiece. The sapphire crystal insert holds a delicate gold print of the Grand Seiko’s famous lion emblem.  Crown On the right side of the Grand Seiko Taisetsu SBGA415, you can find a titanium screw-down crown. It has a hefty size and comes with deeply grooved sides, providing wearers with a better grip with which to hold and turn it. Like the case, this crown is also treated with the brand’s Zaratsu polishing technique, giving it a remarkable sheen. The top of the crown is also embossed with the brand’s iconic “GS” logo, which is an exquisite trademark of most Grand Seiko watches.  Although the Grand Seiko SBGA415 is a dress watch, it is easily mistaken for a dive watch due to its impressive water resistance capacity. Its secure screw- down crown ensures a reliable depth rating of up to 100 meters. This allows you to wear the Grand Seiko SBGA415 not only on formal occasions, but also for water adventures like swimming and recreational diving. Since a typical dress watch is equipped with only 30 to 50 meters of water resistance, this is definitely one of the most outstanding features of the Grand Seiko SBGA415. Bracelet The Grand Seiko SBGA415 is paired with a three-link titanium bracelet. Like the SBGA415’s case, it is also embellished with a mix of brushed and Zaratsu-polished finishes. While the top links show off a predominantly matte surface, the remarkable gloss courtesy of Grand Seiko’s Zaratsu polishing is noticeable on the slim edges of the watch’s center links. The side links are also treated with the Zaratsu-polished finish, showcasing a sharp contrast against the bracelet’s matte surfaces.  This titanium bracelet also comes with a folding clasp. It is equipped with a pair of push-button releases, so you can easily remove the bracelet as and when you need to. The top of the clasp bears an elegant, engraved emblem of the Grand Seiko logo, adding to this watch’s refined look. Dial Image by: Grand Seiko Like many of Grand Seiko’s watches, the Grand Seiko SBGA415 possesses an enchanting, textured dial. It has an intricate, light grey finish that mimics the texture of freshly-fallen snow, perfectly capturing the spirit of the Taisetsu season. This dial exudes a gentle softness that is sure to appeal to any eye that sees it.  Aside from that, this Taisetsu dial is also decorated with silver-tone applique hour indices and sharp dauphine hands, all of which are treated with the brand’s signature Zaratsu polishing technique. This dial is also accented by a sweeping blued steel seconds hand, which adds a touch of vibrancy to this otherwise cool dial.  A date aperture can be found at 3 o’clock, outlined with steel. Meanwhile, at 8 o’clock rests a power reserve indicator. This power reserve display comes in the shape of a lovely Japanese fan, paying homage to the brand’s Japanese roots.  A box-shaped sapphire crystal is used to protect this dial. It is scratch-resistant and shatterproof, guaranteeing that the watch’s face is guarded from hard bumps and impacts. The inner surface of the sapphire crystal has also been treated with an anti-reflective coating. This ensures that wearers have a clear and distortion-free view of the dial no matter what angle it is seen from.  Movement Image by: Grand Seiko The Grand Seiko SBGA415 runs on an in-house Grand Seiko 9R65 Caliber. This is a Spring Drive movement held together by 30 jewels. It boasts a stellar power reserve that lasts for up to 72 hours when fully wound. This top-notch self-winding movement also has an excellent precision rate of +/-1 seconds per day, providing an absolutely reliable and accurate display of time.  Price The Grand Seiko SBGA415 has a price tag of $6,600 USD. Given this price point, this entry-level luxury piece is the perfect starter watch for folks who are just starting their luxury watch collections. The Grand Seiko SBGA415 also caters to folks who want to invest in an impeccable, well-crafted luxury timepiece that does not break the bank. Final Thoughts Folks who are on the hunt for a suave timepiece should certainly consider the Grand Seiko SBGA415, as it offers unquestionable Japanese master craftsmanship. With its beautiful Taisetsu dial and its powerful Spring Drive movement, the Grand Seiko SBGA415 is an outstanding timepiece that is worthy of a place in any collection.  All images courtesy of WatchShopping website, unless otherwise stated.  Photo credits: Grand Seiko.  Learn more about the latest watch offerings from Grand Seiko’s parent company, Seiko with the newly released All-Black Seiko Prospex Watches!

Since 1905, Rolex has consistently come up with well-crafted, prestigious timepieces that continue to leave watch connoisseurs in awe. Take, for example, the highly-coveted Rolex Cosmograph Daytona M116506. Also known as the Rolex Platinum Daytona, this handsome piece is made with top-notch quality and exudes an unparalleled excellence that only this particular Swiss luxury watch brand can offer.  Let us get to know more about the Rolex Platinum Daytona as we dive into its roots, its specifications, and everything it has to offer.  A Brief Overview of the Rolex Platinum Daytona Image by: Rolex The Rolex Platinum Daytona hails from the Rolex Cosmograph Daytona collection. First released in 2013, it was a 50th anniversary piece meant to commemorate the launch of the first Cosmograph Daytona watch back in 1963. The Rolex Platinum Daytona was also a pioneer in its own way, as the first-ever Cosmograph Daytona piece to be crafted entirely from platinum. Built to cater to every racer’s needs, the Cosmograph Daytona series is Rolex’s luxurious lineup of professional racing watches. If you are familiar with this collection, then you might already know some of the famous Rolex timepieces that it houses. This includes some of the most expensive Rolex watches ever made and crowd-favorites such as the Rolex Panda and Rolex Rainbow. Given the prestige of the Cosmograph Daytona range, you can expect the Rolex Platinum Daytona to possess the same amount of quality and sophistication as the aforementioned, esteemed timepieces.  A Closer Look at the Rolex Platinum Daytona Case and Caseback Aside from being an exquisite anniversary timepiece, another huge draw of the Rolex Platinum Daytona is that it is crafted from one of the rarest and most expensive metals on Earth: platinum. This lavish platinum watch weighs in with a case that measures 40mm in diameter and 12.4mm in height. With these proportions, the Rolex Platinum Daytona is well-suited for wrists of all sizes.  The Rolex Platinum Daytona also offers a rather significant heft on your wrist, as it weighs over 280 grams. This is because it is made from platinum, which is 60% heavier than gold. Although this watch does sit on the heavier side, this just means that you get to feel the actual, substantial weight of its platinum build. As a result, the Rolex Platinum Daytona is a great choice for folks who love robust timepieces that are sturdy and well-built.  The Rolex Platinum Daytona’s case is also completely polished, which gives it an extraordinary luster that can be perceived from every angle. If you enjoy watches with a distinct, glorious sheen, then this aesthetically-pleasing timepiece is an excellent pick.   On the underside of the Rolex Platinum Daytona, you can find a solid caseback that is also made out of platinum. Unlike the rest of the watch case, this caseback has a sleek brushed finish. It is also tightly screwed down, ensuring that no moisture or dirt can enter the Rolex Platinum Daytona.  Bezel  The tachymeter bezel is one of the most important parts a racing watch should possess. As such, the Rolex Platinum Daytona is duly equipped with a platinum bezel that bears a chestnut brown Cerachrom insert. This is an in-house creation that is completely scratch-proof and corrosion-resistant. In addition, compared to traditional bezel materials like aluminum or plain ceramic, Cerachrom does not fade over time and is unaffected by the damage from UV rays. This brown Cerachrom insert is marked with a tachymeter scale, with the numerals and graduations carved in. They are filled with platinum, so the tachymeter scale has a silver tone that blends well with the chestnut brown of the Cerachrom insert.  Crown and Pushers Image by: Rolex On the right side of the Rolex Platinum Daytona, you will find a screw-down crown surrounded by two chronograph pushers. Crafted from platinum, these components are embellished with a lovely polished finish, enhancing the charismatic look of this chronograph piece. The screw-down crown is designed with sharp and wide ridges, so wearers have a better grip when turning it. On top of the crown is a beautifully embossed image of Rolex’s iconic crown emblem, which adds to the premium look of this watch. Under the crown logo are three embossed dots, signifying that this timepiece is equipped with the brand’s Triplock waterproof system. Thanks to this system, the Rolex Platinum Daytona is water-resistant up to depths of 100 meters. This allows it to survive when used in water adventures like swimming and recreational diving.   Meanwhile, the two chronograph pushers at 2 o’clock and 4 o’clock are separated by two polished crown guards. These pushers control the watch’s chronograph functions, which can be used together with the tachymeter bezel to measure the speed of a moving object. Like the crown, these pushers are tightly screwed down. This ensures maximum protection of the Rolex Platinum Daytona from the entry of moisture or dust.  Dial Image by: Rolex The most eye-catching part of the Rolex Platinum Daytona is easily its exquisite dial. This dial comes in a stunning ice-blue color. It is treated with a beautiful sunray finish, which creates a metallic, shimmering effect when viewed from different angles.  The dial is ornamented with applique hour indices and slender platinum sword hands. All of these components are generously coated with Chromalight. This in-house luminous pigment glows a vibrant neon blue in the dark. It makes sure that wearers can read the Rolex Platinum Daytona’s face at all times. Rolex claims that its Chromalight can last for up to eight hours, which is double that of other materials used for luminosity. As a chronograph watch, the Rolex Platinum Daytona’s dial is also filled with three sub-dials for the 60-second, 30-minute, and 12-hour chronograph counters. These ice-blue sub-dials are outlined with rings of chestnut brown, which wonderfully complement the watch’s bezel.  A layer of sapphire crystal protects the Rolex Platinum Daytona’s dial. This type of watch crystal is both highly scratch-resistant and shatterproof, offering the dial excellent protection. Bracelet The Rolex Platinum Daytona is accompanied by the brand’s signature three-link Oyster bracelet. Also built from platinum, this bracelet is garnished with two different types of finishes, creating a striking interplay of textures.  You will observe a lovely polished finish applied to the flanks and the center links of the Oyster bracelet. The shoulder links, on the other hand, are done with a satin finish. This combination of matte and glossy looks gives the Oyster bracelet a very sophisticated aesthetic.  The Rolex Platinum Daytona’s bracelet also comes with a platinum folding clasp, which has an additional safety flap called the Oysterlock. This safety deployant clasp provides another level of security to the bracelet, making sure that it is firmly fastened to your wrist. Movement Image by: Rolex The Rolex Platinum Daytona runs on an in-house Rolex Caliber 4130. It is a self-winding chronograph movement that is held together by 44 jewels and beats at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour (4Hz). It also boasts a stellar power reserve of up to 72 hours. As such, you can leave this timepiece on standby for approximately three days without having to constantly wind it.  The Rolex Caliber 4130 is also very durable, as it is equipped with the brand’s advanced Parachrom hairspring innovation. This improves the movement’s resistance to shocks and extreme temperature variations.  Price Given that Rolex generally offers their timepieces at high prices, you can already expect that the Rolex Platinum Daytona is priced at an exorbitant range. In fact, it comes at a whopping price tag of approximately $178,749 USD. As an investment watch, this sought-after piece is surely worth purchasing because its value will appreciate easily in the coming years.  Alternatives to the Rolex Platinum Daytona 1. Breitling Navitimer Ref. AB0138241C1P1 For an ice-blue dial watch that comes at a more affordable price than the Rolex Platinum Daytona, check out the Breitling Navitimer Ref. AB0138241C1P1. This Breitling piece is presented in a 43mm stainless steel case and a black alligator leather strap, which elevates the timepiece’s suave style. The underside of this strap also comes in a bright yellow hue, adding a more playful vibe to this serious timepiece. A thick black tachymeter bezel is also placed on top of the watch face.  The icy-blue dial of this watch is adorned with rectangular applique hour indices and slim sword hands, along with a red seconds hand that adds a touch of vivacity to this watch face. It also contains three sub-dials in black, for the 60-second, 30-minute, and 12-hour chronograph counters.  This Breitling Navitimer watch is powered by an in-house Breitling Caliber 01. It is a self-winding movement fitted by 47 jewels and has a beat frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour (4Hz). When fully wound, the Breitling Caliber 01 can last for an outstanding 70 hours. This watch also has a water resistance capacity of 30 meters, allowing it to survive any splashes or showers.  For a chronograph piece that can also double as a good-looking dress watch, you can get the Breitling Navitimer Ref. AB0138241C1P1 for $9,100 USD. 2. Omega Speedmaster Ref. 324.30.38.50.03.001 If you want a more rugged blue dial watch, then you might like the Omega Speedmaster Ref. 324.30.38.50.03.001. This Omega watch utilizes a professional all-stainless steel build, which includes a 38mm case and a matching three-link bracelet. With its compact case size, this Omega watch fits best on men with more slender wrists.  Protected by a layer of sapphire crystal, the watch’s blue dial is decorated with applique hour indices, thin sword hands, and a circular date aperture at 6 o’clock. Also arranged on the dial are submerged, ellipse-shaped chronograph sub-dials that add a very unique look to this timepiece. This dial goes well with the watch’s tachymeter scale, which is fitted with a sky-blue aluminum insert.  Ticking inside this Omega Speedmaster piece is an in-house Omega Caliber 3330. Held together by 31 jewels, this automatic movement beats at 28,800 vibrations per hour (4Hz) and has a 52-hour power rating. It is protected by a screwed-in caseback, which also gives the watch its 100-meter depth rating.  The Omega Speedmaster Ref. 324.30.38.50.03.001 retails at $5,279 USD.  3. Seiko Prospex Ref. SBDL063 Steering away from Swiss watchmakers, we will now check out an offering from a renowned Japanese watch brand: the Seiko Prospex Ref. SBDL063.  This watch comes from Seiko’s impressive roster of dive watches, the Seiko Prospex collection. As such, it has a superb water resistance capacity of 200 meters. It is packed in a chunky 44.5mm stainless steel case, coupled with a rugged black rubber strap. This is an apt and hardy combination that can take on any of your deep-sea conquests and diving needs. On top of the watch case, you can find a shiny blue ceramic bezel, which bears an elapsed time scale.  The dial of this watch also comes in rich blue, complementing the bezel. It is furnished with hour markers in various geometric shapes and thick sword hands, along with a small date complication between 4 and 5 o’clock. The hands and indices are all coated with the brand’s in-house LumiBrite material, which lights up the watch face in the dark. Three black chronograph sub-dials also fill the dial, for the 60-second, 60-minute, and 24-hour counters.  This watch is operated by an in-house Seiko Caliber V192. This is a solar-powered movement that can be charged with any source of light. As an efficient quartz movement, it also has a top-notch precision rate of +/-15 seconds per month. Seiko is known for its affordable prices, and the Seiko Prospex Ref. SBDL063 is no different. This watch has a very budget-friendly price tag of just $626 USD.  Final Thoughts As an anniversary piece, the Rolex Platinum Daytona is a meticulously crafted and highly-regarded watch in the world of horology. With its rare platinum build, this timepiece radiates a truly charming and unusual appeal. If you are on the hunt for an elegant racing watch that will surely stand out in the crowd, then you should definitely consider the Rolex Platinum Daytona.  All images courtesy of WatchShopping website, unless otherwise stated.  Photo credits: Rolex. Want to learn about the type of watches worn by one of the most powerful people in the world? Check out our article about Joe Biden’s Watch Collection!

Incorporating premium materials into its watches is a hallmark of Rolex. As one of the most iconic Swiss luxury watch brands in the horological industry, it should come as no surprise that the brand also has its own arsenal of captivating iced out watches. After all, there is no better way to create a truly luxurious timepiece than beautifully embellishing it with diamonds and gemstones. In this article, we will get to know some of the best iced out Rolex watches available in the market today. Although these iced out Rolex watches are set at exorbitant prices, they make for worthy investment watches, with price points that will surely skyrocket in the coming years. In addition, these luxury watches are also excellent fashion pieces that are sure to turn heads, no matter where you go.  Read on to find out all about the best iced out Rolex watches you can get today! Best Iced Out Rolex Watches 1. Rolex GMT-Master II Ref. 126755SARU  For the first iced out Rolex watch on this list, let us take a look at the Rolex GMT-Master II Ref. 126755SARU. This alluring timepiece comes in a 40mm 18K everose gold case, along with a three-link Oystersteel bracelet also made of 18K everose gold.  Everose gold is the brand’s in-house alloy. As its name suggests, it shows off a charming rose gold hue, which gives the watch an air of effortless class. Everose gold is made from a combination of pure gold, copper, and platinum. According to Rolex, thanks to its platinum content, everose gold will never lose its reddish color over time.  The watch shows off a striking, diamond-paved dial that also comes in rose gold. It is decorated with everose gold hour indices, Rolex’s signature Mercedes hands, and an additional arrow-headed hand for its GMT feature. A date window with a Cyclops lens is placed at 3 o’clock, so wearers can read the date more easily. The diamond embellishments also extend to the watch’s crown guards and case lugs, adding to the timepiece’s lavish presentation. Affixed to the top of the watch case is a bi-directional rotating bezel. It is filled to the brim with square-cut diamonds, sapphires, and rubies in a pattern that is reminiscent of the Rolex Pepsi. This colorful bezel helps add even more pizzazz to this flamboyant watch.  Driving this GMT-Master II piece is an in-house Rolex Caliber 3186. This automatic movement beats at 28,800 vibrations per hour (4Hz) and has a standard 48-hour power supply. It also possesses an excellent accuracy rate of +/-2 seconds per day.  If you are on the hunt for an iced out Rolex watch that comes in lovely, vibrant colors, then the Rolex GMT-Master II Ref. 126755SARU has got you covered. It has a price tag of $312,399 USD.  2. Rolex Day Date Ref. 228349RBR-0036 The next watch on this list is one of the latest creations from the Rolex Day-Date collection. Released in 2021, the Rolex Day-Date Ref. 228349RBR-0036 shows off a clean, all-silver style that shines as bright as the stars in the sky.  This Rolex watch is encased in a 40mm case made of 18K white gold, accompanied by a sleek three-link President bracelet. Sitting on top of the case is a pristine, diamond-set bezel. Both the watch’s bezel and bracelet are also crafted from 18K white gold.  The gleaming silver dial of this watch is also paved with diamonds, blending well with the watch’s bezel. It is adorned with baguette-cut diamonds and sapphires as its hour indices, adding a touch of color to this watch face. Aside from that, this dial is also furnished with blunt silver hands, a date display at 3 o’clock, and an arched day-of-the-week aperture at 12 o’clock.   This watch is powered by an in-house Rolex Caliber 3255. Fitted by 31 jewels, this self-winding movement has a beat frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour (4Hz) and an outstanding power reserve of 70 hours. It also offers an incredible accuracy rate of +/-2 seconds per day.  If you love iced out Rolex watches with an extraordinary and clean glimmer, you can get the Rolex Day Date Ref. 228349RBR-0036 for around $109,889 USD.  3. Rolex Submariner Ref. 116659 SABR Who would have thought that a dive watch can also be garnished with glamorous diamonds and gemstones? This next watch is definitely the ultimate testament to that.  The Rolex Submariner Ref. 116659 SABR has a solid water resistance capacity of 300 meters, making it a great companion for all sorts of deep-sea adventures. That said, you might not want to bring this prestigious timepiece with you into the water. The Rolex Submariner Ref. 116659 SABR is housed in a 40mm case made from 18K white gold, coupled with a three-link bracelet made from the same material.  Protected by a layer of sapphire crystal glass, the watch’s silver dial is studded with sparkling diamonds. A combination of round sapphire gemstones and diamond indices serve as the watch’s hour markers. Also arranged on the shimmering dial are luminous Mercedes hands and a magnified date aperture at 3 o’clock. A brilliant, unidirectional bezel surrounds this dial. It is fitted with a variety of baguette-cut diamonds and sapphires in various shades of blue.  This Rolex Submariner is operated by an in-house Rolex Caliber 3135. It is an automatic movement which beats at 28,800 vibrations per hour (4Hz) and has a power rating of 48 hours. It also boasts a superb precision rate of +/-2 seconds per day. For a dazzlingly beautiful iced out dive watch, you can purchase the Rolex Submariner Ref. 116659 SABR for around $214,059 USD. 4. Rolex Datejust Ref. 126281RBR-0013 Hailing from the Rolex Datejust collection, the next watch on this list caters to men and women with more slender wrists. The Rolex Datejust Ref. 126281RBR-0013 is a fashionable and sophisticated Rolesor watch. It utilizes a compact 36mm case made from Oystersteel, along with a two-tone Jubilee bracelet that contains Oystersteel outer links and inner links crafted from 18K everose gold.  Compared to the previous iced out Rolex watches, the dial of the Rolex Datejust Ref. 126281RBR-0013 is very different. This watch showcases a rich, chocolate-brown Rolex Jubilee dial. This is a design made exclusively for the 40th anniversary of the Datejust series. It is composed of a distinctive, repetitive pattern of the word “Rolex”, giving the dial a mesmerizingly alien aesthetic.   Underneath a layer of sapphire crystal, the dial is decorated with blunt everose gold hands and a magnified date complication at 3 o’clock. Square-cut diamonds are used as the watch’s hour indices, elevating the lavish look of this timepiece. A diamond-set bezel made of everose gold is also placed on top of the watch’s case. It blends well with the watch’s voguish, high-class style.  This iced out Rolex watch is powered by an in-house Rolex Caliber 3235. This self-winding movement beats at 28,800 vibrations per hour (4Hz) and has a marvelous accuracy rate of -2/+2 seconds per day. It also has an astonishing 70-hour power supply. Of all the iced out Rolex watches in this article, the Rolex Datejust Ref. 126281RBR-0013 is the most affordable. It costs approximately $28,214 USD.  5. Rolex Yacht-Master Ref. 226679TBR If you are looking for a more sporty iced out watch, check out the Rolex Yacht-Master Ref. 226679TBR. This timepiece is presented in a 42mm 18K white gold case. This is paired with a robust black rubber strap, which offers a striking contrast against the watch’s glittering dial and case. With these dimensions, this watch can fit well on wrists of all sizes.  The watch’s dial shows off a silver finish and is paved with diamonds all over. It consists of geometric hour indices, Mercedes hands, and a magnified date window at 3 o’clock. The hands and indices of this watch are coated in white lume, which blends well with the silver backdrop of the dial. This watch is also equipped with a bi-directional rotating bezel made from 18K white gold. It is completely decorated with square-cut diamonds, enhancing the enthralling appearance of this watch.  The Rolex Yacht-Master Ref. 226679TBR’s face is guarded by a layer of scratch-resistant and shatterproof sapphire crystal. In addition, as a sailing watch, it also has a solid water resistance capacity of 100 meters. As such, you never have to worry about bringing this watch onto your yachts or your sailing trips.  Ticking inside this Rolex Yacht-Master piece is an in-house Rolex Caliber 3235. This automatic movement holds a stellar 70-hour power rating and has an astounding precision rate of +/-2 seconds per day. If you want an iced out Rolex watch that offers the perfect blend of elegance and sportiness, the Rolex Yacht-Master Ref. 226679TBR is the answer. It retails at around $146,541 USD. 6. Rolex Cosmograph Daytona Ref. 116595 If you are interested in an iced out watch with rich, ostentatious colors, the Rolex Cosmograph Daytona Ref. 116595 is a great option. This one-of-a-kind piece from the Rolex Cosmograph Daytona collection is one of the most sought-after timepieces from the brand. It is so popular that it has been seen on the wrists of numerous famous figures worldwide, including American actor Mark Wahlberg and rapper Post Malone.  This watch sports a 40mm case made of 18K everose gold and a three-link Oyster bracelet made of the same material. Sparkling white diamonds are encrusted on the watch’s slim lugs and crown guards, which is a testament to Rolex’s attention to fine detail. This watch’s glamorous style is also boosted by the rose gold bezel that sits on top of its watch case. This beautiful bezel is filled with square-cut diamonds in an exquisite shower of rainbow hues, enhancing this watch’s flamboyant stylishness.  Delightfully contrasting the colorful vibrancy of this watch’s exterior is a jet-black dial. It comprises baguette-cut diamond hour indices in a variety of rainbow colors along with rose gold skeletal hands. You can also find three chronograph sub-dials made from pink gold crystals, which stand out brilliantly against the black dial. These serve as the 60-second, 30-minute, and 12-hour chronograph counters. Underneath this gorgeous watch face, you can find an in-house Rolex Caliber 4130. This self-winding movement has a beat frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour (4Hz) and has a power supply of 72 hours. It also delivers an outstanding accuracy rate of -2/+2 seconds per day. This exquisite Rolex Rainbow Daytona watch is set at a price of $773,299 USD. 7. Rolex Submariner Ref. 116659SABR-0001 For the last piece on this list of iced out Rolex watches, we have another dive watch adorned with diamonds and gemstones. The Rolex Submariner Ref. 116659SABR-0001 uses a 40mm 18K white gold case and an 18K white gold Oyster bracelet. This watch is made even more handsome by its unidirectional rotating bezel, which is garnished with square-cut blue diamonds and sapphires.  The dial of this watch also shows off a vivid blue sunray finish. It has a classic Rolex Submariner dial layout, composed of geometric hour indices, Mercedes hands, and a magnified date aperture at 3 o’clock.  This piece runs on the in-house Rolex Caliber 3135 which beats at 28,800 vibrations per hour (4Hz). When fully wound, it can last for up to an average 48 hours. As a dive watch, it also boasts a 300-meter depth rating, so it is ready to be worn on all sorts of water adventures.  For a blue dial watch with a stunning exterior, the Rolex Submariner Ref. 116659SABR-0001 can be bought for around $179,299 USD. Final Thoughts Iced out Rolex watches are clearly made to stand out in the crowd. These pieces are fascinating accessories that effortlessly turn heads thanks to the bold and enchanting appeal that they possess. As with many Rolex timepieces, these iced out Rolex watches are definitely worth investing in. They are great choices if you are looking for a lovely investment watch with a value that will appreciate in the years to come. All images courtesy of WatchShopping website, unless otherwise stated.  Featured image courtesy of Rolex. Want to read about a timepiece with an eye-catching watch complication? Check out our article about the Orient Sun and Moon!