James Bond has worn some of the most iconic – and alas, rare – watches in history. And while you might not be able to get your hands on a vintage Submariner, our watches are as every bit as stylish. And far more powerful.
Goldfinger, the 1964 James Bond film starring Sean Connery, is the ultimate watch-lovers movie. It’s got the lot: Connery at his brooding best; an Aston Martin DB5 that not only looks the business but also has an ejector seat; and of course, 007’s Rolex Submariner (Ref: 6538), attached to a canvas NATO strap.
Not only does this watch look great with Bond’s white tuxedo, but it also signifies something else: the impact of technological advancements on watch design.
Today, vintage Bond timepieces go for silly amounts of money. So what do you do if you want a watch with all the style of a classic but without the price?
Happily, our Swiss-made automatic watches are every bit as stylish as the originals that inspired them. They also happen to be somewhat less expensive and considerably more reliable. Here’s four to check out.
Like: Rolex Submariner
from Goldfinger
Discover: C60 Trident Pro 600
We make no bones about it: the C60 Trident Pro 600 traces its DNA to the first Sub. But the Trident is so much more. Water-resistance to 600m (unheard of in the ’60s). Swiss-made automatic movement. Non-scratch ceramic bezel. Fancy it? “Shertainly, Miss Moneypenny.”
Like: Gruen Precision
from Diamonds
Are Forever?
Discover: C1 Moonglow
The Gruen Precision is a classic dress watch. But what if you took its sleek design and added it to an ingenious moonphase movement (and some clever dial architecture)? We think you’d end up with the mesmerising C1 Moonglow. Just the thing for all you ‘moonrakers’ out there.
Like: Breitling Top Time from Thunderball?
Discover: C65 Chronograph
In Thunderball, Bond’s Top Time has a ‘geiger counter’ complication. While our Swiss engineers couldn’t manage that – seriously, they’re
Like: Rolex GMT
Master from
Casino Royale
Discover: C60 Trident GMT 600
Originally designed for pilots, the Rolex GMT Master became the go-to watch for MI6 agents, too. Today, we’d prefer the C60 Trident GMT 600. At home everywhere from Manchester to Monte Carlo, its mix of dive-watch style makes it perfect for beach, boardroom and bedroom. Nobody does it better.
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