For the modern man, a watch is more than just a timekeeping device; it symbolizes luxury and sophistication. In the same way that a man views his collection of watches as an extension of himself, men have a deep appreciation for cars. Horology has found a thrilling muse in the automotive industry, combining precision engineering, sleekness, a sense of freedom, and a dash of adrenaline, watches inspired by cars have become one of the highest accessory any man who loves power and freedom can own.
TAG Heuer Carrera Calibre 16
Inspired by the legendary Carrera Panamericana road race, the TAG Heuer Carrera Calibre 16 is a tribute to the brand’s deep-rooted connection with sports cars. This chronograph features a bold 41mm case, with a tachymeter scale on the bezel for measuring speed. The watch’s design looks like the dashboard of a classic car; elegant, with rugged durability. With its automatic movement and striking black dial, the Carrera Calibre 16 is perfect for those who crave both style and performance from watches inspired by cars.
Rolex Cosmograph Daytona
Rolex has long been synonymous with luxury and precision for over a century, but the Cosmograph Daytona series, specifically the 24 Hours of Le Mans edition, is one of the best car-inspired watches any man could cop.
Launched originally in 1963 for racing drivers, the Cosmograph Daytona features a 40mm Oyster case, a high-precision chronograph movement, and a tachymetric scale that allows drivers to measure average speeds up to 400 kilometers or miles per hour. The Daytona’s latest models in white-gold and yellow-gold pay homage to the legendary 24 Hours of Le Mans race with Paul Newman-style sub-dials.
Breitling Premier B01 Bentley Chronograph 42
Breitling’s partnership with Bentley Motors has resulted in some truly exquisite timepieces, and the Premier B01 Bentley Chronograph 42 is a prime example. This watch features a 42mm stainless steel case, a refined black dial, and an exhibition case back showcasing the self-winding mechanical movement. For more exclusivity, a Bentley name is etched around the transparent sapphire case back.
Watches and cars share a common thread; precision, performance, and style. The Breitling Premier B01 Bentley Chronograph 42 is more than just an accessory, it is an ode to the art of engineering.
Omega Speedmaster Racing Master Chronometer
Omega’s Speedmaster series has a long history with motorsports, and the Racing Master Chronometer continues this legacy, but with a modern twist. This 44.25mm watch has a stainless steel case, a black ceramic bezel with a tachymeter scale, and a remarkable racing-style minute track. Its Master Chronometer certification ensures top-notch accuracy, even in the most demanding conditions.
Chopard Mille Miglia
Since 1988, Chopard has been the official timekeeper of the Mille Miglia, and its watches reflect this deep connection. The Mille Miglia timepieces are renowned for their unique design elements, such as tyre-rubber straps and car dashboard-inspired dials, but the GTS Automatic Chrono features a 44mm steel case. These watches are not just stylish; they are built for endurance, much like the cars that participate in the race.
For the gentleman who appreciates classic sports cars and precision engineering, this watch is as practical as it is stylish.
Richard Mille RM 11-03 Automatic Flyback Chronograph McLaren
The Richard Mille RM 11-03 McLaren is a masterpiece born from the collaboration with McLaren Automotive. It features a highly durable and lightweight carbon TPT case and a flyback chronograph function powered by the RMAC3 automatic caliber. The design elements of this watch, including the McLaren logo on the dial and the orange accents, make it as exclusive as the cars it draws inspiration from.
TAG Heuer Monaco
Introduced in 1969, the Monaco broke new ground as one of the first automatic chronographs. Its square case, a bold departure from conventional watch designs, instantly set it apart. Monaco’s aesthetic, characterized by its blue dial and striking red accents, captures the spirit of the late 60s and 70s car racing. But it’s not just about looks—Monaco’s technological advancements, like its Calibre 11 movement, were revolutionary at the time.