Car-inspired timepieces have featured chronographs (to measure elapsed time) and tachymeters (to measure speed over a defined distance) since car enthusiasts have been racing (or simply driving). Inevitably, those watches made famous by their wearer (Stand Up, Steve McQueen) or the game they represent (hello, Daytona) have developed a cult of their own. But whether you’re interested in Rolex’s “Paul-Newman” or Tag Heuer’s “Monaco” (a one-of-a-kind square-case chronograph), consider the requirements of your individual wrist: some chronographs will soon become Big and bulky (on a more formal night, it’ll just be left in your drawer), while others contain more complications (a gadget on board, if you will) than you can reasonably expect needs. Your best bet is to immerse yourself in the design (well-executed driving watches are always great) and consider a perforated leather strap for the finishing touch…
TAG HEUER MONACO CALIBRE HEUER 02
No car watch is more iconic than TAG Heuer’s Monaco. This watch is arguably the ultimate creation of its maker, not only for its striking square dial design, but also for its cinematic heritage worn by Steven McQueen in 1971’s Le Mans. In the half-century since its introduction, the Monaco watch has endured just as much as its luxury-inspired Grand Prix. Now powered by TAG Heuer’s in-house TAG Heuer 02 movement, it’s a chronograph with technical prowess that rivals any possible competitor listed here. If that’s not enough to convince you of its pedigree, then you know that this Monaco watch was worn by Walter White in Knight Rider to name and knock on doors. Legendary for the right reason, £5,600.Attagheuer.com&goldsmiths.co.uk
SEIKO WATCH PROSPEX SPEEDTIMER CHRONOGRAPH SOLAR 1969 RECREATION
Kudos to Seiko for taking the “rapid chronograph” label, because the name says it all. One of the most evocative chronographs from Japan, this Seiko collection is a veritable triple threat. Don’t you believe the price and precise solar powered movement of this tiny brand? It’s impossible not to be captivated by the tan dial of this 39mm sports watch – it’s definitely a heart-pounding dial. With its 70s dash and rich champagne tones, this watch would really fit. £590.Atjurawatches.co.uk
ROLEX COSMOGRAPH DAYTONA IN OYSTERSTEEL
Buying a new watch is nearly impossible without joining the ever-increasing waiting list, and Rolex’s highly prized chronograph, named after the Daytona International Speedway, has been on the wrists of many celebrities, including actor-turned-driver Paul – Newman. In 2016, the watch received its latest redesign, featuring a ceramic bezel with a tachymeter scale engraved on it. The 40mm stainless steel case houses a black or white dial with central hour, minute and seconds hands and chronograph sub-dials including small seconds at 6 o’clock, 30-minute counter at 3 o’clock and 12-hour counter at 9 o’clock. £11,600. Atrolex.com
