Iconic Watches: Timepieces for a Lasting Impression

The word “icon” signifies a stature of sorts that cannot be easily attained. Hence when one – say, a well-known singer or actress – reached this certain status, it may very well be concluded that such an individual must have done something magnanimous to be recognized as such or must have achieved something spectacular to make an impact in the entertainment industry.

In the horological world, timepieces that were declared “iconic” have truly made a statement so unforgettable that it continues to echo from generation to generation. Revolution Magazine, one of world’s top watch-themed publications in circulation, shares how a timepiece can be named iconic, the brands that created such an influence in the industry, and why having these “living legends” could also leave an indelible mark in the way you present your style.  

The Makings of an Icon

Time is the ultimate test when identifying a real icon. In the watchmaking industry, timepieces that have withstood the tests of time and retained their popularity over the years can be considered, more or less, iconic. The popularity gained should be something along the lines of extreme adulation or reverence.

The revered status attained by a watch can also attributed to a history so rich it had somehow achieved a respectable status. It may also be because of introducing a cutting-edge technology or bringing a different kind of fine craftsmanship never before seen in the industry. A perfect example would be the Rolex Submariner, which, according to a special feature published in 2013 on the Revolution Watch website, has the “quality and aesthetics that withstand the tests of time” .

Attaining iconic status may also be due to the unique design or style that the watch exhibited when it was first launched, thus easily becoming a household name among watch connoisseurs. Such style or design should be easily recognizable that anyone will instantly identify the brand or the brand model with just a single look.

In order to be named a “living legend” in the watch industry, the watch should still be able to pull in a lot of admirers and continues to be in demand up to now. This means the watch should still be in mass production to this day.

Taking into account all these factors, it can never be denied that an iconic watch should be a classic in its own right – timeless, and with a kind of cult following that’s massive, allowing it to retain its influence in the industry.

Icons of the Watch Industry

All the above-mentioned qualities are very much present in the following iconic watches. Besides the Rolex Submariner, these timepieces’ achievements were so outstanding that it is hard to imagine a world without their esteemed contributions in making the watch industry to what it is today – innovative and ahead of its time.

The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak was considered an avant garde masterpiece when it was introduced in 1972. Its unique case design was the product of the ingenuity and bold spirit that its designer, Gérald Genta, possessed. Made with stainless steel, which was then not commonly used in the industry, the Royal Oak became iconic for its distinctive octagonal form and exposed screws.

Considered to be the very first pilot’s watch, the Cartier Santos Dumont was developed by Louis Cartier with the intention of helping out a pilot friend who wanted a wristwatch to be used for navigation. Named after Alberto Santos-Dumont who first used the watch to measure time intervals, the Santos sported a contrasting dial big enough to aid in navigation. It’s not only the Santos that attained legendary status, however. Head over to the Revolution Watches website to check out features on another Cartier classic, the Tank.

Touted as the first watch to be worn on the moon, the Omega Speedmaster was first introduced as a time-telling device for the racetrack. After a series of tests conducted by NASA, the Speedmaster – which is also known as the “Moonwatch” – was declared the space agency’s official watch.

The Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso is dubbed the world’s first sports watch. Sporting a square face, the Reverso gained popularity for its reversible case and a special slide-and-flip mechanism that allows the watch to be turned upside down.

Initially introduced as a diver’s watch, the Panerai Luminor became a must-have timepiece for those who wanted big, bulky watches. With a 45mm diameter, the Luminor’s charm even attracted women who found its hugeness very fashion-forward.

A Thing of Iconic Beauty to Behold

There’s more where these timeless classics came from. Each possessing the iconic qualities beloved by watch fanatics all over the world. Should you own one? Definitely! Who doesn’t want a piece of the “living legend” strapped on their wrist? Check out Revolution Magazine Australia for stories on more iconic watches that you should know about.