3 of the Most Authentic Watches
15th Feb 2022
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Counterfeit watches and poor-quality brands are flooding the watch market. Truly authentic watches are painstakingly crafted pieces of art, and their high cost reflects this. Because of the rarity of authenticity, a classic watch from a luxury watch brand symbolizes high society and is an investment opportunity. These three watches from Rolex, Cartier, and Patek Philippe are some of the most authentic models available today. They combine designs steeped in history, precious materials, complicated movements, and exclusive releases to create sought-after authentic watches.
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1. The Rolex Submariner
An undisputed classic and fantastic timepiece, the Rolex Submariner is classified as the most authentic watch by many collectors. This is partially because of the history the watch carries with it. It was created in 1954 and immediately garnered attention for its functionality as a purpose-driven dive watch. Current Submariner models stay true to their original purpose and are rated for use up to 300 meters underwater. Plus, just being a Rolex watch is an immediate asset to a model’s popularity.
Another factor that adds to the Rolex Submariner’s authenticity is its stable design throughout its existence. The Submariner has experienced some changes over the last 70 years, but they are minor. It now has a wider and thicker case, and various models introduced new colorways. Overall, however, the design is the same as it has always been. Compare the Rolex Submariner Black 126618LN to the original Submariner Reference 6205. The newer model has flashier elements like the 18K yellow gold case and Cerachrom bezel, but the dial and indices are immediately recognizable. Rolex Submariners have distinct hour indices that contrast beautifully with the dial. The hands do the same with their gold outlining and pearl interior.
Combine the transcendent design with the pop culture appearances in many James Bond movies, and the Submariner earns its spot on any list of the most authentic watches. The classic model often demands a long stint on a waitlist after a new release. Their high demand leads many to collect Submariner models as an investment.
2. The Cartier Tank
Cartier, a mainstay in the luxury watch market, has many popular models of watches, with the Tank model topping the list. The Cartier Tank was designed based on the look of WWI tanks. Roman numeral hour indices accompany the rectangular design. The watch gained popularity early on, and its demand grew exponentially because of its exclusivity. Up until the 1970s, the Tank was made to order.
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The Cartier Tank further cemented itself in authentic watch company when Jackie Kennedy wore it frequently in the 1960s. Cartier and First Ladies are a pairing that continues today. What makes the Cartier Tank unique beyond its history, design, and pop culture sightings is its accessible price. Take the Cartier Tank Francaise Medium W2TA0003, which Michelle Obama sported during her time as FLOTUS. Its low price point relative to other luxury watches makes it an ideal first watch in a women’s watch collection. The Tank Francaise continues the style of the original Tank models while upgrading to a modern stainless steel bezel and bracelet.
The stainless steel components are in style currently because stainless steel watches are in high demand among collectors. This watch proves that authenticity and modern updates to a historic design can create an elegant timepiece.
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3. The Patek Philippe Nautilus
The Nautilus line of Patek Philippe watches is relatively new compared to the Cartier Tank and Rolex Submariner. The first Patek Philippe Nautilus (Ref. 3700/001) was made in 1976 to fill the market demand for luxurious sports watches. The Nautilus collection immediately capitalized on Patek Philippe’s name recognition and is now one of the most sought-after models on the market.
The design of the Nautilus was first inspired by the shape of a porthole, which explains the octagonal bezel that is synonymous with Patek Philippe today. The Patek Philippe Nautilus 5740 /1G-001 is one of the most popular Patek Philippe models available. It breaks free from the current obsession with stainless steel and consists of a white gold bracelet and case.
Like all the iterations of the Nautilus, the 5740 has the characteristic horizontally lined dial, the thick and readable indices, and an automatic movement. What sets this model apart is the complications and its light blue dial. In the past, the black dial hinted at blue in the right light. The features of this watch, including a day/night dial, month indicator, and week indicator, among others, create a busy yet balanced dial.
The Nautilus and its contemporary renditions show that complicated watches with unique designs also earn a spot with the most authentic watch models. While the simple and recognizable designs from Cartier and Rolex will never go out of style, you can’t ignore the relatively new Patek Philippe Nautilus.
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Add an Authentic Watch to Your Collection
The rise of counterfeit watches and off-brand offerings has made finding authentic watches more important than ever. The Rolex Submariner, Cartier Tank, and Patek Philippe Nautilus collections are some of the most counterfeit watches currently on the market.
If you are in the market for any of these brands and models, ensure authenticity by buying from a trusted dealer that supplies certificates of authenticity. Luxury of Watches has been in business for over 25 years and has sold watches to over 15,000 customers. We sell top-of-the-line new and pre-owned watches from the luxury brands you know and love. Contact us to learn more about our new and pre-owned luxury timepieces.