The 7 Most Iconic Wrist Watches

The 7 Most Iconic Wrist Watches

(Because real men tell time with style, not screens.)

Once upon a time, men checked their pockets for the time. Then World War I happened. Soldiers realized pulling out a pocket watch mid-battle was a great way to get shot, so they strapped them to their wrists instead. The wristwatch was born — out of necessity, grit, and a dash of “let’s not die while checking the time.”

Fast forward a century and the wristwatch is more than a timepiece — it’s a statement. It says something about who you are before you even say a word. Whether you’re a boardroom shark, a weekend adventurer, or just a guy who appreciates fine craftsmanship, there’s a legendary watch for you. Here are seven of the most iconic wristwatches ever made — the ones that define style, precision, and a little bit of swagger.

1. Rolex Submariner

If James Bond wears it, it’s iconic. The Submariner debuted in 1953 and basically invented the modern dive watch. Built like a tank but sleek enough for a tux, it’s the horological equivalent of Sean Connery — rugged, classy, and timeless. Water-resistant to 300 meters, the Submariner isn’t just for show; it’s a professional tool that somehow became a status symbol. You’ll see it on the wrists of everyone from deep-sea divers to CEOs who’ve never seen the inside of a wetsuit.

2. Omega Speedmaster Professional (“The Moonwatch”)

If you’re looking for bragging rights, how about the first watch on the Moon? The Speedmaster earned its nickname in 1969 when Buzz Aldrin wore it during Apollo 11. NASA tested it under extreme heat, vibration, and vacuum — and it passed when other watches literally exploded. It’s a beautiful mix of function and history: a chronograph that reminds you humanity once looked at the moon and said, “Let’s go there.”

3. Patek Philippe Nautilus

For when you’ve made it — and want everyone to know. Designed by Gérald Genta in 1976, the Nautilus broke every rule of luxury watchmaking by being a sport watch. With its porthole-shaped case and steel construction, it was the anti-dress watch — yet it became the dress watch. A favorite of the ultra-rich and well-connected, it’s the watch equivalent of quietly saying, “I don’t chase trends. I set them.”

4. Audemars Piguet Royal Oak

Speaking of Gérald Genta (the man was on fire in the ’70s), the Royal Oak came first — a bold, industrial design that looked like it was forged on a battleship. Introduced in 1972, it redefined luxury watches with exposed screws and a daring price tag. Critics scoffed. Then everyone else copied it. Today, it’s the power watch — the one worn by athletes, moguls, and anyone who likes their style with an edge of rebellion.

5. TAG Heuer Monaco

The square watch that made Steve McQueen look even cooler — which is saying something. The Monaco, named after the famous Grand Prix, was introduced in 1969 and featured the world’s first automatic chronograph movement. It screamed motorsport masculinity, and when McQueen strapped it on in Le Mans, it became a legend. A bold, retro statement that says, “Yes, I drive stick.”

6. Casio G-Shock

Let’s take a moment to salute the indestructible one. Born in 1983, the G-Shock was designed to survive anything — drops, water, gravity, even your worst camping trip. It’s the go-to for soldiers, climbers, and guys who believe “rugged” should actually mean something. It’s also unapologetically affordable, which makes it one of the few icons every man can actually own without a second mortgage.

7. Cartier Tank

Elegant. Understated. French. The Tank has been around since 1917 and was inspired by — you guessed it — WWI military tanks. It’s the gentleman’s watch of choice, worn by the likes of Cary Grant, JFK, and modern tastemakers who appreciate clean lines over flashy dials. If the Submariner is a tuxedo with a dive knife, the Tank is a well-tailored suit with a glass of champagne.

Final Tick

In a world where your phone tells the time down to the millisecond, wearing a watch is about something deeper — history, identity, and taste. The right wristwatch doesn’t just mark the hours; it marks you. Whether you’re drawn to the ruggedness of a G-Shock or the suave heritage of a Cartier, remember: anyone can check the time, but not everyone can wear it well.