It’s no secret that cars and watches are a match made in heaven, with the right examples of each offering engineering excellence, delightful aesthetics and even investment potential.
The connection between cars and watches has always been defined by the driver, and in the same way a driver forms an emotional bond with a car, the same occurs with a quality watch. Just as a car may be the perfect companion for a memorable journey, track day or Sunday drive, the watch on your wrist becomes a part of these memories, too.
Throughout history, cars and watches have been a natural pairing, from the timing of laps in the pits in the 1960s to the latest and greatest sports watches on the wrists of Formula 1 champions.
What’s more, with the two passions coming together in popular culture to icons such as Paul Newman and Steve McQueen, the appreciation of cars and watches has long been a respected and appreciated pastime. Select manufacturers celebrate this with automotive-inspired pieces, infusing the spirit of certain manufacturers, drivers or eras of motorsport in special watches.
Watchfinder has the biggest stock of pre-owned watches in Europe, meaning there’s something for everyone – including motoring enthusiasts. Being the pre-owned watch superpower, it’s dealt with the most iconic automotive-inspired watches around and has some fantastic examples in stock.
Here we dive deeper into five curated watches available at Watchfinder with automotive pedigree.
Omega Speedmaster Racing
Arguably one of the most recognisable models from Omega, the Speedmaster may be primarily known for its ties to space, but the special-edition Racing editions pay homage to motorsport. A subtle twist on the iconic Speedmaster, the Racing models are a true connoisseur’s choice. Watchfinder currently has eight Omega Speedmaster Racing watches in stock.
TAG Heuer Monaco
Ever since Steve McQueen strapped a Monaco to his wrist in the 1971 cult racing movie ‘Le Mans’, the Monaco has forever been associated with the golden age of motorsport. Although different editions and model variations may have been produced, the trademark square case and seventies aesthetic of the Monaco remains to this day. Watchfinder currently has 18 TAG Heuer Monaco in stock.
Breitling for Bentley B04 GMT
A partnership of two British icons both renowned for superlative craftsmanship and unparalleled elegance, Breitling’s Bentley edition models carry design cues from both marques. From the latest special-edition GMT to the GT models, Breitling for Bentley watches are a lesson in automotive-inspired horology.
Richard Mille RM010 Le Mans Classic
One of just 30 ever produced, the Richard Mille RM010 Le Mans Classic edition is a truly incredible timepiece. The Le Mans Classic is one of the finest historic racing events in the world, and as one would expect from Richard Mille, this special-edition watch is technically and visually captivating. Watchfinder also currently has a rare Felipe Massa edition RM011 in stock.
Porsche Design Flat Six
A brand that needs no introduction in the car world or the watch world, the Porsche Design Flat Six is a piece of Porsche’s illustrious automotive history for your wrist. With subtle nods to the most famous sports car in the world, and aptly named after the engine of the beast, the Flat Six is a perfect watch for a petrol head. Watchfinder currently has four Porsche Design timepieces in stock.
Alex Stonely, Watchfinder Director of Retail, said: “Watches and cars go hand-in-hand; over the years we’ve seen manufacturers celebrate the excitement of the automotive world in their own unique way, with some fantastic watches born out of such a connection. At Watchfinder, we’ve bought and sold truly iconic automotive-inspired watches, and such is our position as the industry leader that we always have some stunning watches in stock ready for car fans to enjoy.”
