[2021 Edition] Mechanical Watches "Top 10 Iconic Models"

This may be a bit sudden, but have you ever heard of the terms "The World's Top Three Watches" or "The World's Top Five Watches"? These brands, which are referred to as "The World's Top Three Watches" or "The World's Top Five Watches," have been introduced in many media outlets, as well as in secondary markets like ours. Therefore, I think most of the brands mentioned there are familiar to you.

*The world's top five watches are also explained on YouTube. If you haven't watched it yet, please take a look. ⇒ Introducing the world's top five brands all at once! We will explain the history, popular models, and more!

However, there are many other brands around the world that make wonderful watches. This time, I would like to introduce about 10 major models from each brand that I have not covered in my columns so far.

I have selected and will introduce my favorite models (please forgive me if most of them are sold out) from brands that have a category in the men's brand list on the Commit Ginza website and models that have been handled in the past.

In the middle of the article, we also introduce some new works that may not be talked about much yet, so please don't go back in the middle of the article (lol).

Let's get started right away.

Top 10 Iconic Models

Popular Icon Model ① Jaeger-LeCoultre "Reverso"

I've covered this in a number of columns, but when you think of Jaeger-LeCoultre, the first thing that comes to mind is this Reverso. When you see this rectangular case, you can tell it's a Reverso at a glance, which is probably why it can be called a flagship model. I was going to write about my top 8 recommendations for Jaeger-LeCoultre, but I could easily imagine it being all about Reversos (I might write about it someday), so I decided not to (lol).

Now, the Reverso, developed for polo games in 1931, was produced with the revolutionary idea of ​​turning the case upside down to protect the crystal windshield. There are a variety of specifications, including tourbillon models that represent the pinnacle of luxury watchmaking technology, and there are a variety of models with different sizes, dial designs, and functions.

This time, we will introduce the "Ref. 270.2.54," a must-have for lovers of moon phases and 18KRG (rose gold). The "Duo" is characterized by a single movement that displays two time zones on the front and back of the dial, allowing you to enjoy different impressions with one watch, but why not try looking for a "Reverso" with the functions and design you like?

Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Duo Night & Day "Ref.270.2.54"

https://www.commit-watch.co.jp/buyer/watches/mens/jaeger_lecoultre/reverso/

Popular Icon Model ② Roger Dubuis "Excalibur"

When one thinks of Roger Dubuis, the first thing that comes to mind is Excalibur.

It features dynamic Roman indexes and case design, and the bezel, which is inspired by the word "Excalibur" (cutting steel), has a high-class, edgy design. It is also the company's flagship model, and the impressive case exudes masculinity and ruggedness, giving it a charm that other brands do not have. Personally, I prefer the skeleton version to the Roman index, so I will provide a link to that version.

Roger Dubuis Excalibur 42 Automatic Skeleton "DBEX0422"

https://www.commit-watch.co.jp/buyer/watches/mens/roger_dubuis/excalibur-4/

Popular Icon Model 3: Hublot "Classic Fusion"

Next, we will introduce Hublot, which is especially popular among athletes. When you think of Hublot, you probably already know many of their models, such as the "Unico" with its in-house movement, and the "Big Bang" and "King Power" with their impressive case diameters. Another attraction is their innovative endeavors, such as collaborations with top athletes in various industries. Recently, their collaboration model with artist Takashi Murakami has been a hot topic.

Among them, the one I picked up this time is the "Classic Fusion," which has a relatively modest design among Hublot models. Hublot has many models that have a strong presence, but this one has a simple design, is easy to use every day, and is not too assertive, which is what I personally recommend.

Hublot Classic Fusion Titanium Black "542.NX.1171.LR"

https://www.commit-watch.co.jp/buyer/watches/mens/hublot/classic-20/

Popular Icon Model 4: IWC "Pilot's Watch"

When you think of IWC, you think of "Pilot's Watches." I think there is a unanimous opinion on this point.

This simplicity and the minimalist design are nothing short of outstanding. I know I shouldn't compare it to the Rolex Explorer, but I think it's in the same league.

The "Mark XV" introduced in the link below is a model that was only manufactured for six years, from 1999 to 2005. With a simple yet well-balanced design, including a square-cut hour hand and Arabic indexes that are not found in current models, it is one of IWC's most popular models that continues to attract fans even now that it has been discontinued.

The watch is highly resistant to magnetic fields and has a stainless steel bracelet, making it easy to use and popular. Some models have different bracelet specifications and white dials.

IWC Pilot's Watch Mark XV S/S "IW32530"

https://www.commit-watch.co.jp/buyer/watches/mens/iwc/pilot-7/

Popular Icon Model ⑤ Zenith “Chronomaster” El Primero

Many people get excited when they hear the word El Primero. Yes, it is the name of the caliber that is used in the Daytona "Ref. 16520".

The "Chronomaster" introduced in the link below is the "Chronomaster 1969," which features a dial color reminiscent of the first El Primero released in 1969, and a window carved into the dial, which is also the current symbol of Zenith.

The back cover is a see-through case back, so you can appreciate the movement, and the movement that can be seen through the dial is simply outstanding. The new chronograph with a ceramic bezel (also with a dial color inspired by the first El Primero released in 1969) is also attractive, but personally I like the small window of the "Chronomaster" (lol).

I was looking at YOSHIDA's website and found that he has four special models. These are the first retailer-limited models in the Chronomaster Sports Collection, and are scheduled to be released in September 2021. They will definitely be popular and there will be only a few left, so you won't be able to buy them (lol).

Source: YOSHIDA

Zenith Chronomaster 1969 El Primero Open "Ref.03.2040.4061/69.C496"

https://www.commit-watch.co.jp/buyer/watches/mens/zenith/chronomaster-4/

Popular Icon Model ⑥ Cartier "Santos de Cartier"

The Santos de Cartier was created for the adventurer Alberto Santos-Dumont in 1904. Featuring the Santos' distinctive screwed bezel and case design, this watch is a masterpiece of Cartier's men's line, combining sportiness and masculinity.

Other major models include "Ballon Bleu," "Calibre de Cartier," "Drive de Cartier," "Tank," "Pasha," "Roadster," and "Touche." Just looking at the model names, it's clear that Cartier puts a lot of effort into watches.

Cartier Santos de Cartier SS "Ref.WSSA0030"

https://www.commit-watch.co.jp/buyer/watches/mens/cartier/santos-5/

Popular Icon Model ⑦ Franck Muller “Tonneau Curvex”

Among the watches from Franck Muller, whose ideas and technical capabilities are astonishing, I would like to introduce the barrel-shaped watch. With just one glance, you can tell this is a Franck Muller watch because of its beautiful curves.

Although its popularity has calmed down compared to a while ago, the brand still has many fun watches, such as the "Vegas" inspired by the Las Vegas roulette, and the "Crazy Hours" where the hour hand jumps five hours every time an hour passes. In the second-hand market, there are many watches that are in a somewhat mature price range, but I think that it would be nice for women to wear them in a slightly offbeat style.

Franck Muller Tonneau Curvex Casablanca "Ref.6850CASA"

https://www.commit-watch.co.jp/buyer/watches/mens/franck_muller/casablanca-6/

Popular Icon Model 8: Blancpain “Fifty Fathoms”

When it comes to Planpan, the iconic product is the Fifty Fathoms, which is simple yet functional.

The model we are introducing here is the Bathyscaphe (meaning deep sea submersible), which was revived in 2013 to celebrate its 60th anniversary. It is water resistant to 30 atmospheres, has a simple dial, and is easy to use. It has a design that is highly visible even while diving, a unidirectional rotating bezel, and is anti-magnetic.

Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe "Ref.5000-0130-B52A"

https://www.commit-watch.co.jp/buyer/watches/mens/blancpain/fifty-fathoms-6/

Popular Icon Model 9: TAG Heuer “Monaco”

Next up is the Monaco Chronograph worn by Steve McQueen in the movie Le Mans. This has already been featured in movie columns and on YouTube, but it's a model that can't be left out when it comes to TAG Heuer.

Many people will have a vivid memory of the blue dial, but this is a reissue model that was announced at Baselworld in 2015. The square shape, symmetrical dial design, and the combination of Monaco blue and racing red hands and indexes make this a simply cool watch. Now that it is under the umbrella of LVMH, we also recommend collaboration models with Bamford and Fragment, as well as a reasonably priced tourbillon model equipped with the COSC-certified in-house automatic movement "Cal.HEUER 02T"!

Tag Heuer Monaco Chronograph "CAW211P.FC6356"

https://www.commit-watch.co.jp/buyer/watches/mens/tag_heuer/monaco-7/

Popular Icon Model 10: Chanel "J12"

The last brand I would like to introduce is Chanel. When you think of Chanel, you think of the J12.

This design is also instantly recognizable, which is why it is an icon.

"CHANEL" is a fashion brand founded by Gabrielle Chanel in 1910. It is still highly regarded around the world as a brand that is not bound by traditional values ​​and advocates social independence for women. Chanel's way of life, which was consistent with her policies, has been the subject of a movie, so her support and sympathy will never fade. The "J12" is characterized by Chanel's trademark black and white and ceramic materials, but the model we are introducing is made of titanium and ceramic. It is also recommended as a pair watch for couples.

Chanel J12 Chromatic 38 Titanium Ceramic "H2979"

https://www.commit-watch.co.jp/buyer/watches/mens/others/chanel-2/

summary

That's all, what do you think?

Commit Ginza deals with many brands such as Rolex, Patek Philippe, and Audemars Piguet, so we inevitably talked a lot about those brands, but I think the models that are the faces of each brand introduced this time were just as charming.

Popularity and value are important factors, but in the end it all comes down to which watch you like.

We will continue to work hard every day to provide information about luxury watches from various perspectives.

see you!