3 Vintage Driving Watches You Can Buy Right Now
As many will know, although the Speedmaster may be best known as the watch worn to the moon, its origins lie in motorsport. In the past, Omega has even produced Speedmasters featuring what collectors call a ‘grey racing dial’, complete with red and orange accents.
While these examples of the iconic chronograph are nothing short of stunning, they’re also quite pricey, but there’s sort of a way around…
Omega Speedmaster Mark II
If the racing dial does it for you, try starting out with a Mark II Speedy. Omega produced a nearly identical dial for this later version of the watch, and luckily, they go for far less than what their asymmetrical-cased cousins command.
Gallet Multi-Chron
Next up, we’ve got an earlier black dial Multi-Chron from Gallet, which happens to be one of favorite chronographs. The example in question looks to be extremely clean, with a flawless dial, thick case, and a matching luminous compound. As a good friend and fellow watch collector would say, this watch pops.
If this watch looks slightly familiar to you, that’s because you’ve probably seen it on the wrist of British Formula One racing driver Jim Clark’s wrist. After discovering countless photographs of Clark wearing a multitude of desirable vintage chronographs behind the wheel, he’s now known by collectors for having impeccable taste.
Universal Geneve Compur
Ending on an especially good note, we have a Compur from Universal Geneve, being offered for sale by an individual based out of Montreal, home of the Canadian Grand Prix. The seller has stated that the watch dates back to the late 1930s, or possibly the early 1940s, and it’s in remarkably good condition for its age.
As the photos show, the dial is untouched with minimal spotting, but more importantly, the case is substantial, and the crown and pushers are original. The seller will also be including a period correct, racing style perforated leather strap, which is always a nice touch.
