Rolex GMT-Master II ‘Pepsi’
Named after the red and blue colors on its bezel, the Rolex GMT-Master II 'Pepsi' was first made in 1955. The version available today is a return of the popular classic, nearly exactly as it was. As of 2018, it is available in steel at a lower price point than the significantly more expensive white gold version that was introduced in 2014. Besides the two-color bezel, there is a 3285 movement, 70-hour power reserve, and Paraflex shock absorber. It is also water-resistant up to 100 meters/330 feet.
Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore
Audemars Piguet has been around since 1881, so they know a thing or two about designing excellent watches. First introduced in 1972, the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore has become a sensation almost immediately. Also, it can claim to be one of the first luxury sports timepieces made. The octagonal bezel is a nod to Britain's nautical days, while the original stainless steel design is modeled after vintage dive helmets. There is a blue petit tapisserie motif featured on the original version, which looks striking. This timepiece also features a 2120 movement.
Richard Mille RM 055 Bubba Dark Legend
Named after famed golfer Bubba Watson, the Richard Mille RM 055 Bubba Dark Legend has been a hit with the younger generation of luxury watch lovers. It is crafted out of remarkably lightweight, yet durable, materials. There is a carbon bezel placed on a caseband made out of blasted titanium. The Dark Legend version is jet black, with a red crown protector affixed to it. You still get a hint of contrast between that and the strap. A manual-winging movement can withstand acceleration going beyond 5,000 Gs, which explains why golfers love it.
Rolex Artisans De Genève – Juan Pablo Montoya (Platinum Challenge)
Artisans De Geneve is an independent workshop that specializes in personalizing luxury timepieces. One of its claims to fame has been the customization of a platinum Rolex Daytona, owned by racing legend Juan Pablo Montoya. The bezel is made out of carbon fiber, giving it a sporty look to match Juan Pablo's racing career. The open dial itself is made to look sky blue, providing a view into the movements below. The counters were painted with the colors of the Colombian flag, as a nod to his heritage. The hour and minute hands have been flame-blued and sandblasted at their centers, and then polished on the exterior.
Patek Philippe Nautilus 5712/1A-001
The Patek Philippe Ref 5712/1A is a newcomer compared to many other luxury timepieces. It was first released towards the end of 2006, marking the 30th anniversary of the Nautilus collection itself. This watch features a 'Jumbo' 43mm three-part case and is rounder and thicker than its Ref 5711 cousin. It features a sizable screw-down crown and has an integrated steel bracelet. One of the most appealing features of this watch is the flat central links.
Conclusion
Wearing any one of these five watches will place you in good company among others who are wearing timepieces that have shaped modern design. Wrist Aficionado has your pick of these. Browse our selection today to choose the one that speaks out to you the most.