If you’re thinking of gifting a timepiece this Christmas, choosing the perfect model to impress a luxury watch enthusiast can feel like a challenge. Yet, one thing is certain: every watch collector dreams of owning a classic. A classic watch is more than just a thoughtful gift; its timeless and versatile style makes it a treasured addition to any collection.
At Banks Lyon, we offer a fantastic range of timepieces, from the latest trending designs to iconic classics. In this blog, we’ll explore our top five classic watches to gift for Christmas so that you can present your loved one with a gift they can cherish for years to come.
Tag Heuer Monaco
The Tag Heuer Monaco gets its name from the iconic Monaco Grand Prix race and was introduced to the Tag Heuer family in 1969. It was worn by Steve McQueen in the 1970 Le Mans film and has since remained a classic watch. The watch’s bold and recognisable design makes it a beloved piece within the watch collector community, and it comes in a vast array of design choices to suit various tastes. This watch is remarked by its signature leather strap, square case and the counters at 3 and 9 o’clock. Suppose you’re buying for someone who prefers a monochromatic look. In that case, this Monaco Automatic Chronograph comes with both a black alligator leather strap and black dial, giving it that sleek, minimal appearance. Alternatively, for those who desire a different interpretation of the classic appearance, the Monaco x Gulf Automatic Chronograph features thin Gulf stripes and the Gulf logo at the 6 o’clock position.
Tag Heuer Monaco x Gulf Automatic Chronograph 39mm
Tag Heuer Monaco Automatic Chronograph 39mm
IWC Portugieser
The IWC Portugieser range originated in the 1930s when a pair of Portuguese businessmen requested a precise marine chronometer from IWC. This watch was unusually large for its time and played a crucial role in popularising the larger wristwatch. It is distinguished by its open dial, simplistic layout, tourbillon movement, and calendar features. The IWC Portugieser comes in a selection of sophisticated styles, such as this Automatic 40mm watch that features a black leather strap and blue dial. Alternatively, there are some bold aesthetic options like the Perpetual Calendar 44, a standout model that incorporates the IWC-typical Double Moon™ Display – showing the moon as it is seen from the Northern and Southern hemispheres.
IWC Portugieser Automatic 40
IWC Portugieser Perpetual Calendar 44
Breitling Navitimer
Another classic watch model that we are proud stockists of is the Breitling Navitimer. Released in 1952, the Navitimer comes in chronograph, automatic, and other variations and is favoured by ambassadors like John Travolta and pilots alike. These watches are designed to perform under even the most extreme conditions and are capable of measuring flight times, fuel requirements and rates of descent or climb. In addition to its functionality, the Navitimer offers aesthetic options for every taste. It comes in a range of sizes from 32mm up to 46mm, with each one offering a timeless and elegant appearance, making it easy to find a watch suited to the man or woman in your life.
Breitling Navitimer 32
Breitling Navitimer B01 Chronograph 46 – Leather & Folding Clasp
OMEGA Seamaster
Our list of classic watches was only complete with the inclusion of the OMEGA Seamaster. This watch has not only been worn by James Bond but is designed for underwater use, even to the darkest depths of the ocean. These watches have a 300m water resistance and Super-LumiNova technology, which offers increased brightness so that legibility can be maintained even in the harshest conditions. Whether you’re exploring the seas or want an iconic timepiece to compliment your style, the OMEGA Seamaster range has a wide variety of offerings. Choose from Co-Axial models such as the Seamaster Diver 42mm, or pay tribute to James Bond’s association with the watch with the “007 Edition” Seamaster.
OMEGA Seamaster Diver 300M Co-Axial 42mm Watch
OMEGA Seamaster Diver 300M “007 Edition” Watch
Cartier Santos
The Cartier Santos has claimed its place as a classic watch and has the longest-standing history out of all the watches on our list. It was designed in 1904 by Louis Cartier for his aviator friend Albert Santos Dumont. It was one of the first gentlemen’s wristwatches, as prior to this, women almost exclusively wore wristwatches. Today, the Cartier Santos is adorned by both men and women, with its remarkable curved edges and large Roman numerals. Over the years, Cartier has developed this watch to suit a range of watch styles whilst retaining the crucial features of its original design. The Cartier Santos comes in a selection of sizes, offering models ranging from small to extra-large sizes, each with their own defining qualities and colour combinations.
Cartier Santos-Dumont Small Model Watch
Cartier Santos-Dumont Extra Large Watch
Classic Watches at Banks Lyon Jewellers
Here at Banks Lyon, we are proud stockists of some iconic watch brands, giving you the opportunity to secure a classic watch for that special someone at Christmas. We also offer 0 deposit watch finance on many of our watches, involving payment plans ranging from 6 to 60 months, making it more straightforward than ever to give the gift of a lifetime. To try on any of the watches mentioned above, visit our showrooms in Lancaster and Kendal or browse our website to view our extensive range of luxury timepieces.