Genuine heritage watches

Heritage. A word that has quietly crept into the fashion industry. Paradoxically, this new trend has spread its sharp elbows and established itself in the offerings of most major clothing, footwear, and watch brands. We have become accustomed to referring to certain types of watches as heritage watches, but what does that actually mean? Heritage from whom? For whom?

In reality, the secret of this word is not so complicated. I think it is the proud legacy of companies and brands that have stood the test of time, overcome the fleeting tastes of entire generations, captured the imagination, taken root, and endured. They don't tell their story with words and empty slogans alone. They weave it into their products, into watches that look back in time and proudly point to their ancestors, their founders. They shine with the artistry of masters from the past, created by the hands of masters of the present. Heritage is a journey into the past. A return to the roots. "Look, this is how we used to do it, and we are rightly proud of it," echoes between the lines.

Panerai Radiomir Base Logo

Perhaps the clearest example of such heritage watches is the Radiomir Base Logo (PAM00753) model from Panerai. When you place it right next to its predecessor from 1936, you will see that there is minimal difference between them. The typical Panerai case, simple dial, logo, hour and minute hands, crown, and original strap lugs. The purity, simplicity, and beauty are as appealing today as they were nearly ninety years ago. Inside is a mechanical movement with a three-day power reserve. Of course, the quality of the materials is in keeping with the present day, so the glass is sapphire and the case is stainless steel. The watch reflects the past, when it was proudly worn by Italian sailors, while also carrying the pure DNA of Panerai, which has been uncompromisingly pursuing its own style for years. And it must be said, very successfully.

I want it!

Omega Seamaster Railmaster

When you say Omega, everyone immediately thinks of Moonwatch. The moon. Bond. But did you know that Omega also had scientists in mind? It's true. In 1957, the brand introduced the first Railmaster watches, which were designed for scientists. Specifically, for physicists working with magnetic fields. The Omega Railmaster was the first watch resistant to magnetic fields with an induction of 1,000 gauss. Wouldn't you brag about that? Of course you would. And Omega commemorates this success with the Seamaster Railmaster (O220.10.40.20.01.001) model.

It is an almost identical copy of the 1957 watch. The main difference is that today's model has a resistance of more than 15,000 gauss. It is a work watch, rugged, without embellishments or shiny reflections, but it carries the charm and appeal of past generations. The matte steel case and strap give it a tough, masculine look, which is reinforced by the black dial with distinctive indices. The watch seems to frown and call out to its owner: "Hey, stop staring at me so much and let's get to work!"

I want it!

TAG Heuer Carrera 160 Years Silver Limited Edition

The name alone makes it clear what historical milestone this model is dedicated to. Indeed, 160 years is a truly remarkable anniversary, and TAG Heuer is celebrating it with a model from its most successful series ever. As befits a true heritage watch, the model is inspired by its famous predecessor from the past. Carrera is named after the dangerous car race Carrera Panamericana, which took place between 1950 and 1954. It was organized by the Mexican government to celebrate the completion of the Mexican section of the Pan-American Highway. Since its inception, the Carrera model has been a success, as evidenced by the simple fact that even after so many years, it is still on the market and continues to be extremely popular.

The current model carries the spirit of the past, as evidenced by its slim 39 mm diameter. The TAG Heuer logo has been replaced by the Heuer logo. Of course, a chronograph is a must. The movement that powers the watch is the Heuer 02 in-house caliber with an 80-hour power reserve. The uniqueness of the watch is underlined by the limited number of 1,860 pieces, which, as you may have guessed, is the year Heuer was founded. So don't hesitate, because once they're sold out, there won't be any more.

I want it!

Longines Heritage Legend Diver

Another giant in the world of watchmaking that likes to boast about its successful past is Longines. It offers several heritage models, the most successful of which is the Longines Heritage Legend Diver (L3.774.4.90.2). The origins of this watch date back to the distant past, to a model with the reference number 7042. In the 1950s, demand for diving watches grew, and Longines was one of the companies that sought to meet this demand. And it did so very successfully. The Legend Diver model reminds us of these pioneering beginnings of diving watch production.

The dial has an old-fashioned feel to it; it is relatively simple, functional, and, above all, clear, as befits a proper diving watch. Changes from the original model include a date window at the three o'clock position and a movement that provides the watch with a comfortable 72-hour power reserve. The back of the watch features an image of a diver, which also refers to the original purpose of the watch. 

I want it!

Tissot Heritage Petite Seconde

Our final trip back in time is with the Heritage Petite Seconde (T119.405.16.037.01) from Tissot. It is a wonderful example of what a true heritage watch should look like.

Looking at its dial takes you back several decades. In an instant, you become a gentleman preparing for an important meeting in a nearby café. You check the time on your watch, calmly gaze at the Tissot logo, watch the small second hand at the six o'clock position oscillate smoothly as the minute hand moves towards twelve. Time to call a cab. Bells ring in the distance. Noon? No, those aren't bells, but the horn of a taxi that is already waiting impatiently for you. You return to the present and realize that you are late... again. Well, keeping track of time on a beautiful heritage watch is not as easy as it might seem at first glance.

I want it!