Watches in movies and television have always been more than just accessories—they’ve become iconic symbols of style and storytelling. Some watches, like James Bond’s trusty Rolex Submariner and the Omega Speedmaster the astronauts wore in Apollo 13, have become inextricably linked with iconic movie and TV moments.
In this post, we’ll be counting down the top 15 most iconic watches in film and television history. Get ready to relive some of your favorite movie and TV moments with these memorable timepieces.
Related reading: From Gatsby to Bond: The Role of the Watch in Pop Culture
The Rolex Submariner in James Bond Films
The Rolex Submariner is a dive watch that was introduced in 1953. Over the years, it has become one of the most famous and well-known watches in the world.
In the James Bond films, the Submariner has been worn by several actors who have played the legendary spy, including Sean Connery, Roger Moore, and Daniel Craig.
The Submariner’s rugged good looks and impressive water resistance make it the perfect watch for a man of action like James Bond. In the films, the submarine has been used to time explosive charges, track down villains, and escape from a sinking helicopter. Its use in Bond movies has helped make the Submariner a sign of masculinity and sophistication.
The Omega Speedmaster in Apollo 13
The Omega Speedmaster is a chronograph watch that was first introduced in 1957. It was chosen by NASA as the official watch for the American space program and has been worn by astronauts on all lunar missions.
In the movie Apollo 13, the Speedmaster was a very important part of the astronauts’ safe return to Earth. In the movie, the astronauts have to leave their spaceship and use the lunar module as a lifeboat. As they hurtle back towards Earth, they must time the critical engine burn using the Speedmaster.
The Speedmaster’s performance under extreme conditions has helped to establish it as one of the world’s most reliable and durable watches. Its appearance in Apollo 13 has made it a symbol of human ingenuity and the never-ending quest for exploration.
The Cartier Tank in Breakfast at Tiffany’s
The Cartier Tank is a rectangular wristwatch that was first introduced in 1917. It was inspired by the tanks used by the Allied forces during World War I, and its clean lines and geometric design have made it a timeless classic.
In the film Breakfast at Tiffany’s, the Cartier Tank is worn by the glamorous and enigmatic Holly Golightly, played by Audrey Hepburn. The watch perfectly matches Holly’s chic and sophisticated style, and it helps solidify her status as a fashion icon.
Many other notable figures throughout history have worn the Cartier Tank, including Princess Diana and Yves Saint Laurent. Because of its prominent role in Breakfast at Tiffany’s, it has become an emblem of class and sophistication.
The Jaeger LeCoultre Reverso Grande Taille in The Great Gatsby
In the 2013 film adaptation of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s classic novel, The Great Gatsby, the Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Grande Taille made a memorable appearance on the wrist of Tobey Maguire’s character, Nick Carraway.
As the story’s narrator, Carraway was a wealthy and educated young man, and his choice of timepiece reflected his status and refinement. The Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Grande Taille was the perfect accessory for Carraway. Its sleek and elegant design befitted his sophisticated persona.
The Reverso Grande Taille is a larger version of the iconic Reverso timepiece, with a slightly bigger case and a more prominent presence on the wrist. It was created in the 1930s for polo players who needed a watch that could withstand the rigors of the sport. The unique reversible case allowed players to flip the watch over to protect the crystal from being damaged by the mallet during gameplay.
Over the years, the Reverso has become a symbol of refinement and luxury. Its appearance in The Great Gatsby only served to solidify its place in popular culture. Collectors and watch enthusiasts alike continue to prize the Reverso for its classic good looks and reliable performance.
The TAG Heuer Monaco worn by Steve McQueen in the film Le Mans.
The TAG Heuer Monaco is a square-shaped automatic chronograph watch that was first introduced in 1969. It is known for its bold design and association with the legendary actor and racing enthusiast Steve McQueen.
In the film Le Mans, McQueen wears Monaco while playing the role of Michael Delaney, a world-class race car driver who competes in the grueling 24 Hours of Le Man’s endurance race. The watch’s square case and bright blue dial perfectly match McQueen’s cool and casual style, and its appearance in the film has helped to establish it as a symbol of speed and style.
Fun fact: The TAG Heuer Monaco is considered one of the world’s first automatic chronograph watches, and its square case was considered a daring and unconventional design at the time of its release.
The Porsche Design Orfina Chronograph worn by Tom Cruise in the film Top Gun
In the 1986 film Top Gun, Tom Cruise’s character, Pete “Maverick” Mitchell, was known for his cool and confident demeanor. His choice of timepiece only enhanced that image. The Porsche Design Orfina Chronograph was the perfect accessory for the high-flying naval aviator. Its sleek and sporty design befitting Maverick’s daredevil personality.
The Orfina Chronograph was created by Ferdinand Alexander Porsche, the designer behind the iconic Porsche 911. Like the car, the watch was designed with function and performance in mind, featuring a chronograph movement and a tachymeter scale on the bezel for measuring speed.
But the Orfina Chronograph is more than just a tool for timing laps. Its stylish design and luxurious materials make it a statement piece that exudes confidence and success. And when paired with Maverick’s aviator-inspired outfits, the watch only further cemented his cool and collected image.
Collectors and watch aficionados alike continue to covet the Porsche Design Orfina Chronograph for its distinctive blend of form and function. The watch’s iconic status was cemented even further by its appearance in Top Gun.
The Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso wore by Jon Hamm in the movie Mad Men.
The Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso is a classic timepiece that has graced the wrists of many notable individuals throughout its long and storied history. But perhaps its most memorable appearance was when it was worn by Jon Hamm’s character, Don Draper, in the hit television series Mad Men.
As the suave and sophisticated creative director at an advertising agency in the 1960s, Draper was known for his impeccable style, and attention to detail. The Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso was the perfect finishing touch to his dapper wardrobe. With its timeless design and unparalleled craftsmanship, the watch exuded elegance and refinement, befitting Draper’s status as a successful executive.
But the Reverso is more than just a fashionable accessory. It was originally designed in the 1930s for polo players who needed a watch that could withstand the rigors of the sport. The unique reversible case allowed players to flip the watch over to protect the crystal from being damaged by the mallet during gameplay.
Over the years, the Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso has become a symbol of refinement and luxury. Its appearance on Mad Men only served to solidify its place in popular culture. Even now, the Reverso is a prized possession for watch collectors and enthusiasts thanks to its classic good looks and reliable performance.
The Cartier Santos worn by Michael Douglas in the movie Wall Street
The Cartier Santos is a famous watch that has been in many movies and TV shows, but perhaps the most famous time it was seen was when Michael Douglas wore it in the 1987 movie Wall Street.
As Gordon Gekko, Michael Douglas showed off his power and wealth, and the Cartier Santos was the perfect way to finish off his look. With its sleek and sophisticated design, the watch perfectly embodied Gekko’s opulent lifestyle.
But the Cartier Santos is more than just a fashionable accessory. It has a rich history dating back to 1904 when it was created by Louis Cartier for his friend, Brazilian aviator Alberto Santos-Dumont. The watch was designed to be functional and practical, with a unique square face and easily readable numbers, making it perfect for pilots who needed to keep track of time while flying.
The Cartier Santos is a timepiece that has come to represent wealth and prestige over the years. The fact that it was featured on Wall Street only increased the phenomenon’s cultural significance. Collectors and watch enthusiasts continue to covet the Cartier Santos for its classic design and impeccable quality.
The Panerai PVD Luminor Marina Militare 5218-202/A worn by Sylvester Stallone in the film Rambo
In the 2008 film Rambo, Sylvester Stallone’s character, John Rambo, wears a Panerai PVD Luminor Marina Militare 5218-202/A as he embarks on a dangerous mission to rescue a group of missionaries in war-torn Burma. The tough and rugged watch is the perfect accessory for Rambo, reflecting his tough and no-nonsense personality.
The Panerai PVD Luminor Marina Militare 5218-202/A is a military-inspired timepiece originally created for the Italian Navy in the 1930s. Its unique design features a protective bridge over the crown to prevent the watch from being damaged while at sea. The watch also features a luminous dial, making it easy to read in low light conditions and ideal for combat situations.
The Panerai Luminor has gained popularity among watch enthusiasts over time. It is a prized collectible because of its distinctive design and military heritage. Its appearance in the movie Rambo only helped to cement its place in pop culture, and the Luminor is still a very sought-after watch.
The G-Shock Watch 5600E worn by Tom Hanks in the film Cast Away
In the 2000 film Cast Away, Tom Hanks’s character, Chuck Noland, wears a G-Shock Watch 5600E as he struggles to survive on a deserted island. The rugged and reliable timepiece becomes a constant companion for Noland, helping him keep track of time and serving as a reminder of his former life.
The G-Shock Watch 5600E is known for its tough and durable design, featuring a shock-resistant construction and water-resistant features that make it ideal for outdoor adventures and extreme environments. Its simple and functional design is a far cry from the luxurious and sophisticated watches that are often seen in film and television, but that only adds to its appeal.
Watch fans have elevated the G-Shock Watch 5600E to cult status, and the movie Cast Away only helped to solidify the watch’s iconic status. The 5600E is still a preferred option today for those who favor dependability and functionality over flashy looks. It demonstrates the enduring appeal of a dependable and practical timepiece that can withstand life’s trials.
The Urwerk 105 CT Iron worn by Tony Stark in the film Iron Man
One of the most iconic watches to appear on the big screen is the Urwerk 105 CT Iron, worn by Tony Stark (played by Robert Downey Jr.) in the film “Iron Man.” This futuristic and highly complex timepiece is a perfect match for the high-tech world of Tony Stark and serves as a testament to the character’s wealth and ingenuity.
The Urwerk 105 CT Iron is a limited edition watch that was specifically created for the film and is not available for purchase by the general public. It features a unique and highly complex movement that utilizes satellite hour and minute displays, as well as a retrograde seconds hand. The watch also features a power reserve indicator, a day/night indicator, and a digital seconds display.
In addition to its advanced technical features, the Urwerk 105 CT Iron also has a distinctive and eye-catching design. The watch case is made of iron, giving it a rugged and industrial look that is in keeping with Tony Stark’s character. The watch also has a number of exposed gears and mechanisms, which gives it a sense of mechanical complexity and depth.
Overall, the Urwerk 105 CT Iron is a highly iconic and memorable watch that has left a lasting impression on audiences and collectors alike. Its combination of advanced technical features and distinctive design make it a true standout in the world of film and television watches.
The Tag Heuer Link Chronograph is worn by Jason Bourne in the film The Bourne Identity
Another iconic watch that has made an appearance on the big screen is the Tag Heuer Link Chronograph, worn by Jason Bourne (played by Matt Damon) in the film “The Bourne Identity.” This classic and stylish timepiece serves as a perfect match for the suave and sophisticated character of Jason Bourne and helps to enhance his image as a formidable and capable agent.
The Tag Heuer Link Chronograph is a classic and highly sought-after timepiece that is known for its precision, reliability, and stylish design. It features a chronograph function, which allows the wearer to measure elapsed time using the watch’s stopwatch function. The watch also has a date window and a tachymeter scale, which can be used to measure speed or distance based on time.
In addition to its technical features, the Tag Heuer Link Chronograph has a stylish and sophisticated design that is well-suited to the character of Jason Bourne. The watch has a stainless steel case and bracelet, which gives it a sense of durability and quality. It also has a clean and classic dial design, with easy-to-read hour markers and hands, as well as a date window at the 3 o’clock position.
As a whole, the Tag Heuer Link Chronograph is an extremely iconic and memorable timepiece that has made an indelible impression on watch enthusiasts and casual observers alike. This watch is unlike any other in the world of film and television timepieces thanks to its cutting-edge technological features and sleek design.
The Panerai Luminor wore by Sylvester Stallone in the film Daylight
The Panerai Luminor is a diving watch that was first introduced in 1950. It is known for its cushion-shaped case and its association with the action-packed disaster movie Daylight.
In the film, Sylvester Stallone wears the Luminor while playing the role of Kit Latura, a former firefighter who must use his courage and his expertise to rescue survivors from a collapsed tunnel. The watch’s rugged good looks and water-resistant design are a perfect match for Kit’s brave and resourceful personality, and its appearance in the film has helped to establish it as a symbol of courage and determination.
Fun fact: The Panerai Luminor is considered to be one of the most iconic diving watches in the world. Its cushion-shaped case and water-resistant design have made it a favorite among divers and adventurers who need a reliable and durable timepiece.
The Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean 600M 42mm worn by Daniel Craig in the film Skyfall
Another iconic watch that has made an appearance on the big screen is the Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean 600M 42mm, worn by James Bond (played by Daniel Craig) in the film “Skyfall.” This rugged and highly functional timepiece serves as a perfect match for the daring and adventurous character of James Bond and helps to enhance his image as a formidable and capable agent.
The Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean 600M 42mm is a highly functional and reliable dive watch that is capable of withstanding the toughest conditions. It is water resistant to 600 meters (2000 feet) and features a unidirectional rotating bezel, which allows the wearer to keep track of elapsed time while diving. The watch also has a helium escape valve, which allows it to be used for saturation diving.
In addition to its technical features, the Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean 600M 42mm has a rugged and stylish design that is well-suited to the character of James Bond. The watch has a stainless steel case and bracelet, which gives it a sense of durability and quality. It also has a black dial with luminous hour markers and hands, as well as a date window at the 3 o’clock position.
All in all, the Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean 600M 42mm is an extremely iconic and memorable timepiece that has left a lasting impression on audiences and collectors alike. The combination of cutting-edge technology and rugged construction gives it a place of prominence amongst cinema and television timepieces.
The TAG Heuer Professional 3000 Quartz worn by Bruce Willis in the film Die Hard.
In the 1988 film Die Hard, Bruce Willis’ character, John McClane, wears a TAG Heuer Professional 3000 Quartz as he battles terrorists who have taken over a high-rise office building. The tough and reliable timepiece is the perfect accessory for McClane, reflecting his tough and resourceful personality.
The TAG Heuer Professional 3000 Quartz is a rugged and durable timepiece that is designed to withstand the rigors of extreme environments. It features a stainless steel case and bracelet, a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, and water-resistant capabilities up to 300 meters, making it ideal for use in a variety of situations.
But the TAG Heuer Professional 3000 Quartz is more than just a practical tool. Its sleek and stylish design makes it a fashionable accessory as well, and its appearance on the wrist of John McClane only served to further enhance his tough and rugged image.
Today, the TAG Heuer Professional 3000 Quartz remains a popular choice among watch enthusiasts, with its unique blend of style and functionality making it a sought-after timepiece. Its appearance in Die Hard only served to solidify its place in popular culture, and it will always be remembered as an iconic watch from a classic film.
Conclusion
Iconic watches have played a prominent role in the world of movies and television. From the Rolex Submariner worn by James Bond to the Omega Speedmaster that helped the astronauts of Apollo 13 return to Earth, these timepieces have become inextricably linked with iconic moments in film and TV history.
The watches discussed in this post are just a few examples of the many iconic watches that have made their mark on big and small screens. Whether you are a watch aficionado or simply someone who appreciates a good story, these watches are sure to inspire and fascinate you.