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From James Bond’s Omega to Marty McFly’s Casio, watches have become an integral part of many movie characters’ identities. Watches can reflect a character's personality, provide a sense of sophistication, and even be used as a tool to help them out of a sticky situation. In this article, we will explore some of the most iconic watches in film, from classic timepieces to more modern gadgets. Along the way, we’ll explain the history behind each watch, and explore why they have become so iconic.
The images used in this article are from our own collection of watches on sale and aim to illustrate the same models used in the movies described.
Rolex Datejust - American Psycho
The Rolex Datejust is one of the most iconic watches in the world and its appearance in the 2000 movie American Psycho was no exception. The watch was worn by the movie's protagonist, Patrick Bateman, played by Christian Bale. The watch, with its classic gold and silver design and its diamond-studded bezel, was the perfect accessory for Bateman's slick and stylish look.
The watch was also the perfect accessory for the movie, as it symbolises the status and wealth of Bateman and his peers. Not only does it represent power and prestige, but it also serves as a reminder that his actions have consequences - something that the character learns all too well by the end of the film.
The Datejust has a timeless design that has been around since 1945, making it one of the longest-running watch models in the world. Its design features a classic round case, an iconic fluted bezel, and a traditional dial with the signature Rolex crown logo. The Datejust is also known for its innovative features, such as its Cyclops magnifying lens, which enables you to easily read the date, as well as its Oyster Perpetual movement, which ensures accuracy and durability. Its classic design, innovative features, and superb craftsmanship make it one of the most sought-after watches by collectors and enthusiasts.
The Rolex Submariner is a world renowned luxury watch, thanks in part to its appearance on the wrist of James Bond. The Submariner first appeared as the watch of choice for Sean Connery's Bond in the 1962 film "Dr. No", and the ref 6538 is the model that was featured in that movie.
This model of Submariner was revolutionary for its time, as it was the first watch from the brand to feature a waterproof case that could reach depths of up to 200 metres. It was also the first Submariner to have a rotating bezel, which allowed Bond to time his underwater explosives with precision.
The Rolex Submariner was first released in 1955 and is renowned for its iconic design and reliable performance. The watch features a black dial with luminous markers and hands, a stainless steel case, and a rotatable bezel for tracking elapsed time. It is powered by Rolex’s Calibre 1030 self-winding mechanical movement and is waterproof up to 200 metres. Its robust construction and functionality makes it the ideal watch for divers and adventurers. It is highly collectible, with rare examples fetching prices in the tens of thousands of pounds.
Jaeger-Lecoultre Master Ultra Thin Perpetual - Doctor Strange
The Jaeger LeCoultre Master Ultra Thin Perpetual makes a grand appearance in the Marvel movie, Doctor Strange. This fine watch is sported by the movie's main character, Dr. Stephen Strange, who wears it throughout the entire movie and is seen to be wearing it in the 2022 release, ‘Multiverse Of Madness’. As an esteemed and powerful sorcerer, the Jaeger LeCoultre watch perfectly fits the character's sophisticated style.
The watch itself is a marvel of craftsmanship. It features a stainless steel case, an alligator leather strap, and a hand-stitched calfskin leather dial. It also features a perpetual calendar and a moon phase indicator, adding to its intricate design. Its sapphire crystal glass provides excellent protection from scratches and other damage. The watch has a power reserve of 40 hours and its water-resistant up to 50 metres, making it ideal for the most active and adventurous lifestyles.
The design of the watch is classic, with its simple, clean lines and its elegant details.
In the 1995 film Apollo 13, directed by Ron Howard, the Omega Speedmaster takes centre stage, symbolising both its physical presence and historical significance. The movie features a talented cast including Tom Hanks as astronaut Jim Lovell, Kevin Bacon as Jack Swigert, Bill Paxton as Fred Haise, and Gary Sinise as Ken Mattingly, portraying real-life NASA astronauts facing a life-threatening crisis in space.
Tom Hanks, playing Jim Lovell, wears the Omega Speedmaster throughout the film. This iconic watch earned its reputation as the official timepiece certified by NASA for space flight. The Speedmaster's precision, durability, and reliability in harsh conditions led to its selection for astronauts. It earned the title of "Moonwatch" as the first and only watch worn on the moon.
In Apollo 13, the Speedmaster proves invaluable as Lovell and his crew encounter an explosion that endangers their mission. The watch becomes a critical tool for timing engine burns and managing resources. Its accuracy allows for precise course corrections and fuel conservation, ensuring their safe reentry to Earth.
The Omega Speedmaster is a classic sports watch, often referred to as the "Moonwatch" due to its part in the Apollo 13 mission. This classic timepiece is characterised by its stainless steel case and manual-winding chronograph movement. The watch is famous for its timeless design, precise quartz movement, and durability. It is also water-resistant and has a tachymeter scale for measuring speed. The Speedmaster has become a symbol of reliability and precision, and is a popular choice for anyone seeking a classic and sophisticated timepiece.
The Tag Heuer Link Chronograph has made an appearance in the Bourne Trilogy, a series of action/thriller films starring Matt Damon as the titular character, Jason Bourne.
In the first film of the trilogy, The Bourne Identity, Jason Bourne is seen wearing a Tag Heuer Link Chronograph. This watch is featured throughout the movie, and it helps solidify the character as a modern-day action hero. It is a symbol of his strength and determination, and it goes along with his no-nonsense attitude. In the second and third films, The Bourne Supremacy and The Bourne Ultimatum, Jason Bourne continues to wear the Tag Heuer Link Chronograph. This watch is seen during some of the most intense scenes in the movies, and it helps to emphasise the action-packed nature of the trilogy.
This Swiss-made watch is renowned for its sophisticated design, precision craftsmanship, and high quality materials. The stainless steel case and bracelet are complemented by a sapphire crystal face and bezel, making the Link Chronograph an attractive and durable timepiece. The watch features a chronograph system, allowing users to measure elapsed time up to 12 hours, and includes a date display as well. The battery-operated quartz movement ensures accuracy and reliability.
Daniel Craig brings a unique flair to his portrayal of Benoit Blanc in the movie Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery. This flamboyant detective is a modern day Sherlock Holmes, with a thick Southern accent that has been described as a “Kentucky Fried Foghorn Leghorn Drawl”. Along with his incredible acting chops, Craig has also made Benoit Blanc an iconic character by adding some daring wardrobe choices, including an Omega Seamaster 1948 Small Seconds on his wrist. This watch was released in 1948 and limited to 1,948 pieces. It is made of stainless steel and sells for a surprisingly affordable $6,900.
This watch is an important part of Benoit Blanc’s look, as it adds to the character’s mystique and sophistication. Not only does it look great in the movie, but it is also a special choice for Daniel Craig, who is an ambassador for the Omega brand. This watch has become iconic, like the character it was designed for. By pairing Benoit Blanc’s unique style with the Omega Seamaster 1948 Small Seconds, Daniel Craig has created an unforgettable character and a timeless look.
The Rolex Day-Date President watch takes on a significant role in the 1992 film Glengarry Glen Ross, showcasing its luxurious appeal and the allure of success. Directed by James Foley, the movie features a remarkable ensemble cast including Al Pacino, Jack Lemmon, Kevin Spacey, and Alec Baldwin.
Alec Baldwin's character, Blake, plays a pivotal role in the film, delivering a memorable and high-impact monologue. As a ruthless corporate motivator, Blake exudes confidence and authority, epitomising the cutthroat world of sales. To accentuate his character's image of power and success, he proudly wears a Rolex Day-Date President.
The Rolex Day-Date President is a legendary timepiece known for its opulent design and prestigious status. It features a distinctive day and date display, along with the renowned President bracelet. Since its introduction in 1956, the Day-Date has been synonymous with wealth, influence, and accomplishment. In Glengarry Glen Ross, Blake's choice to wear the Rolex Day-Date President underscores his dominance and success within the sales industry.
As we've explored the top iconic watches in movies, it's clear that timepieces play a significant role in enhancing characters, capturing emotions, and symbolising important themes. From the adventurous spirit embodied by the Omega Speedmaster in Apollo 13 to the prestige and power represented by the Rolex Day-Date President in Glengarry Glen Ross, these watches become more than mere accessories—they become storytellers.
If you've been captivated by the sophistication of these iconic watches, explore our collection of luxury watches from brands such as Rolex, Chopard, Omega and Patek Philippe, to name a few.
