Bryan Campbell Contributor FORBES
Cars and watches have a long, intertwined history that few other industries enjoy. As the old adage goes, “auto racing was born the day the second automobile was built,” and you can bet timekeepers got involved the instant the victorious driver wanted his winning margin to be official.
Since then, countless watch brands have naturally integrated themselves into the world of cars, motorcycles and motorsport. Whether the association comes through in design inspiration or the straightforward utility of timekeeping with a chronograph, there are plenty of options on the market today. And for this year’s Father’s Day we picked out the best new and vintage watches meant for all of the automotive inclined dads out there.
Zodiac Grandrally
If your dad isn’t one to turn his nose up at a non-mechanical watch, the Zodiac Grandrally offers tons of 1970s style at a reasonable price point. Zodiac also introduced a few new styles earlier this year, but it’s hard to beat the Rose gold case-black dial combination.
Autodromo Intereuropa Copperstate 1000 Edition
If there’s an independent watch brand that absolutely nails the automotive-inspired design game, it’s Autodromo. Only 95 examples of the Copperstate 1000 edition were made to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the vintage rally race. The Intereuropa was already a beautiful manual-wind watch, but the extreme uniqueness makes it an even better present for dad.
Tag Heuer Carrera
The Tag Heuer Carrera (circa 2010s) is the perfect example of blending old and new. If having a true vintage Carrera isn’t at the top of your dad’s priority list, but he still appreciates the classic design, this particular Tag may be the answer.
2000 Tag Heuer Monaco Re-Edition
The Tag Heuer Monaco instantly garnered icon status after one Steve McQueen wore it while filming the movie Le Mans. This Re-Edition (circa 2000) maintains all the style of the original and thankfully eschews the gaudy designs emblazoned on some of the more modern examples, like the Gulf liveried special edition.
1967 Omega Chronostop Driver
The Omega Speedmaster might have stolen the show, what with going to the moon and all, but the Chronostop Driver deserves praise in its own right. Along with being a chronometer, the Driver was also designed to be worn on the inside of the wrist, so it’s easier to read when both hands are white-knuckling it on the steering wheel. Hence the sideways-oriented dial. It’s incredibly unique, yet maintains real-world functionality.
Oris Chronoris Limited Edition
If it looks like a lot of watch brands thumb through the 1960-1970 section of their archives in search of inspiration, there’s a good reason. It was the golden age of motorsport and, by association, the golden age of chronographs. The modern Oris Chronoris is no exception. For $3,550, your dad can have the internals of a modern chronograph and still enjoy all of the golden age designs from the original.
Nomos Autobahn Neomatik 41 Date
Like other watches on this list, the Nomos Autobahn draws on mid-century design, car tachometers in particular. However, no other watch on this list tackles the feat with such elegance. The Bauhaus vibes are strong with this one, but what you get in return is a clear and legible minimalist design fit for any occasion, driving or otherwise.
Breitling Top Time Deus Limited Edition
It’s tough to try and mimic the energy and ethos of the world of motorcycles without coming off as patronizing and uninformed. Luckily Brietling enlisted the help of motorcycle culture icons Deus to help breathe new life into an old classic.
Roland Sands Design Icon RS
You might not be able to get your dad one of Roland Sands Design’s custom-built motorcycles for Father’s Day, but the Icon RS is a more affordable way to own RSD style. Simple, straightforward, with a hint of classic.
