As Formula 1 ventured into commercialization in the 1970s, watch brands emerged as early sponsors, forming enduring connections with teams and drivers. Beyond financial partnerships, a genuine chemistry exists between racing cars and watches. Both are intricate creations with thousands of components, embodying innovation and sophisticated design.
In the wake of Drive to Survive Season 6 and the imminent F1 season, let’s explore some of the most remarkable F1 watches throughout the sport’s history, some of which remain available for enthusiasts.
Heuer Ref. 1158 CHN Lauda: An exceedingly rare collector’s piece, the 18-carat gold Heuer Carrera was gifted to Niki Lauda by the Scuderia Ferrari F1 team in the mid-70s. Its opulent design, featuring a gold face and piano black sub-dials, epitomizes ’70s luxury on the wrist.
Rotary 1977 BRM P207: Honoring the BRM P207’s vibrant blue and gold livery during the 1977 season, Rotary’s watch replicates the team’s colors with a retro aesthetic and an accessible price point.
IWC Portugieser Tourbillon Retrograde Chronograph Lewis Hamilton: Crafted in collaboration with Lewis Hamilton, this IWC masterpiece boasts a bright teal colorway, an exposed hacking tourbillon, a retrograde date, and flyback chronograph. Limited to 44 pieces, it pays homage to the British legend’s race number.
Breitling Navitimer ‘Jim Clark’: Known as the ‘Jim Clark,’ this Breitling Navitimer, featuring a black dial and white sub-registers, was favored by British legend Jim Clark, making it a timeless piece in F1 watch history.
Richard Mille RM UP-01 Ferrari: Despite their partnership beginning in 2021, Richard Mille and Ferrari have already made history with the RM UP-01. One of the world’s thinnest mechanical watches, it showcases the technical prowess of both brands.
TAG Heuer Monaco Verstappen: A historically significant racing watch famously worn by Steve McQueen, the TAG Heuer Monaco now has a unique version for current champion Max Verstappen. With Red Bull colors and a sandblasted titanium case, it stands as a stylish tribute.
Bremont WR45 Williams: Taking a subtle approach, Bremont’s WR45 Williams features a classic racing chronograph with a black DLC-coated case, Williams white, and blue sub-registers, and a black alcantara strap.
Omega Speedmaster Racing 1996 Schumacher: While more commonly associated with the Moon, this Speedmaster features a distinctive Rosso Corsa dial. Launched by Michael Schumacher in 1996, it symbolizes his collaboration with Omega and Ferrari.
Tudor x Visa Cash App RB: As Tudor becomes the official partner of the Visa Cash App RB team, enthusiasts await the unveiling of its first F1 collaboration. The prospect of spotting a Black Bay or Pelagos on drivers Danny Ricciardo and Yuki Tsunoda adds to the anticipation.
TAG Heuer S/el Chrono worn by Ayrton Senna: Ayrton Senna’s association with TAG Heuer commenced in 1988, and his chosen S/el ref S25706C, with a cream dial, bi-metal case, and brown leather strap, remains an iconic representation of the legendary racer’s style.
In essence, these watches transcend mere timekeeping, encapsulating the spirit, history, and elegance of Formula 1, making them cherished artifacts for enthusiasts and collectors.
