In a world where modern technology often takes centre stage, there remains a timeless allure to the elegance and craftsmanship of vintage-inspired watches. While blending classic aesthetics with contemporary functionality, they evoke a sense of nostalgia; you truly get the best of both worlds. Over the past couple of years, the demand for vintage-inspired watches has increased. More and more people are wanting to get their hands on an iconic piece of design. As a result, we have curated this list of our top 5 vintage-inspired watches. Whether you’re a seasoned collector, or your wanting to purchase your first watch of this kind, keep reading for our top picks!
Our Top 5 Vintage-Inspired Watches
Casio Vintage Cream Hybrid Dial / Gold-Tone Metal Bracelet AQ-230GA-9DMQYES
Thanks to its retro-inspired case, which houses a reliable quartz movement, this watch oozes vintage flair. Its rectangular cream dial features slim baton indices and gold-tone hands. Hard resin glass protects the dial, so the watch is relatively resistant against breaking. However, the stand-out feature of the dial is its digital display just below the 6 o’clock position. Said digital display showcases the current date and weekday, and one set the automatic calendar always displays the correct date. In addition to this, the watch features a range of other functions; a stopwatch, dual time and daily alarms are but to name a few. Matching the case, and completing the overall vintage feel, a yellow-gold PVD-coated stainless steel bracelet secures the watch to the wrist. Classic, stylish, and somewhat simple, this Casio is an ideal choice for those just beginning their vintage-inspired watch collection. After all, we have to start somewhere.
Sternglas Hamburg Mecha-Quartz Regatta Chronograph (42mm) Silver Dial / Field Signal Orange Nylon Strap S01-HC36-FI02
Inspired by the regatta chronographs of the 1970s, this Sternglas plays with a kaleidoscope of colour; the primary colours in Bauhaus red, yellow and blue to be exact. The dial, with two sub-dials, features black hour and minute hands, and an orange chronograph hand. As well as this, it exhibits a mix of black and white Arabic numerals and baton indices. For extra precise timekeeping, there are also minute and second markers on the outer ring of the dial. However, the stand out feature is the date aperture at 6 o’clock; every two days, instead of numbers, the colourful signal flags of the regatta appear. Measuring 42mm in diameter, a stainless steel case frames the dial. And within this case lies the precise Seiko VK64 Mecha-Quartz movement. On the posterior, the fine-detail engraved case back depicts two sailboats racing on the Outer Alster Lake. Completing the design of this vintage-inspired timepiece is a Field 20 signal orange nylon strap; it fastens with a pin buckle for great security.
Seiko 5 Sports ‘Pepper Black’ 1968 Recreation Limited Edition SRPL05K1
Whilst modernising the original 1968 design, this watch oozes vintage flair. The ‘pepper black’ dial features silver-tone baton indices and silver-tone hour and minute hands with a bold red second hand; they all feature a LumiBrite coating. As well as this, the dial exhibits a day and date aperture at 3 o’clock. Curved hardlex glass encases the dial, so the durability levels of the watch are good. With solid links to the original’s retro appearance, a tonneau-shaped stainless steel case and rotating bezel frame the dial. Measuring 38.5mm in diameter, it makes a statement on the wrist. Furthermore, thanks to its recessed crown, the watch is water-resistant up to 100 metres. Powered by an in-house 4R36 automatic movement, this Seiko has a power reserve of 40 hours; the movement ensures great precision. Maintaining the vintage appeal, a stainless steel bracelet secures the watch. It fastens with a three-fold clasp with push buttons. However, if this isn’t quite to your taste, a calf leather strap also comes with the watch’ so you can change up your look anytime you please.
Timex Q Timex Falcon Eye Chronograph (40mm) Blue Dial / Stainless Steel Bracelet TW2W33700
The beat of the ’70s, this Timex pays homage to its predecessor by mirroring some of its most quintessential details. However, there has been some updates to ensure its suitability in the modern world. Now, with a chronograph movement, it’s more precise and refined as ever! Beautiful and blue, the Côtes de Genève dial adds elements of unique texture to the design. Just like the original Falcon Eye, the dial features dimensional applied indices with matching hands and a date aperture. Providing good levels of both clarity and durability, a domed acrylic crystal protects the dial. Measuring 40mm in diameter, a period-correct stainless steel case frames the dial; it highlights the vintage appeal of the timepiece perfectly. Within this case lies a quartz movement. Reliable and precise it ensures accurate timekeeping. An adjustable stainless steel bracelet concludes the design of this watch. Full of retro character, it makes complete sense that this Timex is one of our top 5 vintage-inspired watches.
Wenger Women’s Vintage Classic (27mm) Silver Dial / Two-Tone Stainless Steel Bracelet 01.1911.105
A timeless classic, with a modern twist, this Wenger has a truly unique look. The silver sunray brushed dial features luminous gold-tone hour and minute hands and simple gold-tone baton indices. Wenger’s classic red and white logo replaces the hour marker at 12 o’clock. Measuring 27mm in diameter, an innovative gold PVD-plated squircle-shaped case frames the dial. Although small in size, it impresses with its trendy yet vintage design. A quartz movement lives inside the case. Swiss-made and high-quality it ensures great precision. Adopting a more modern design, the stainless steel bracelet features gold-tone middle links; they complement the case, hands, indices and crown perfectly. The strap is also equipped with a sliding buckle for easy size adjustment and a quick-spring release system; which enables you to easily change the strap whenever you like. Elegant and sophisticated, this vintage-inspired watch is a great choice for both special occasions and daily wear.
What are your thoughts on our top 5 vintage-inspired watches? Will you be adding any to your collection? Let us know in the comments!
