The Most Iconic Watches in Film History
Apr 10,2025 | MPT WATCHES
Watches and cinema have shared a long history, with timepieces often playing an important role in defining a character's personality or enhancing the storyline. Some watches have transcended their function to become cultural icons, forever linked to the films in which they appeared. Here’s a look at some of the most iconic watches in film history that have left an indelible mark on the world of horology and popular culture.
1. Rolex Submariner – James Bond (Various Films)
Ref. 6536
Perhaps the most iconic watch in film history, the Rolex Submariner has become synonymous with James Bond. Introduced in 1954, the Submariner made its first appearance on Bond's wrist in the 1962 film Dr. No, where Sean Connery's Bond wore it with sophistication and flair. Over the years, Bond has worn various Rolex models, but the Submariner remains the most famous.
The Submariner’s rugged design, combined with its durability and style, made it the perfect choice for 007. The watch also gained fame when it was equipped with special features in Bond films, such as a rotating bezel and even a hidden detonator in Live and Let Die.
Link to purchase: https://www.chrono24.my/rolex/submariner-james-bond--imod2839.htm
Why It’s Iconic: The Rolex Submariner’s association with James Bond has cemented it as a symbol of elegance, adventure, and action.
2. Omega Speedmaster – Apollo 11 Mission
Ref. 310.20.42.50.01.001
The Omega Speedmaster is another legendary watch that has earned its place in film history. While not directly featured in a specific movie, the Speedmaster is famously known as the "Moonwatch". It was the official watch worn by astronauts during the Apollo 11 mission in 1969, and it has been part of space exploration ever since.
The Speedmaster's role in the 1995 film Apollo 13 further solidified its connection to the moon landing. In the movie, Tom Hanks' character, astronaut Jim Lovell, wears a Speedmaster, paying tribute to its role in one of humanity’s greatest achievements.
Link to purchase: https://www.chrono24.my/omega/apollo-11--imod2736.htm
Why It’s Iconic: The Omega Speedmaster is an emblem of adventure, exploration, and precision, making it one of the most revered watches in history.
3. Seiko 6105 – Apocalypse Now (1979)
References: SPB151 and SPB153 (2020), SLA033 (2019), SLA017 (2017)
The Seiko 6105 became an iconic watch when it was worn by Martin Sheen’s character, Captain Willard, in the classic war film Apocalypse Now. The rugged, utilitarian design of the Seiko 6105 was ideal for the harsh environment of the Vietnam War, making it a perfect fit for the character's rough-and-tumble persona.
The watch’s most memorable moment comes during a scene where Sheen's character is seen wearing it while floating down a river, symbolizing the character’s endurance and survival.
Link to buy:
https://mptonlinestore.com/products/seiko-spb153j1
https://mptonlinestore.com/products/seiko-spb317j1
Why It’s Iconic: The Seiko 6105’s role in Apocalypse Now represents strength and resilience, making it one of the most recognizable military watches in film history.
4. Tag Heuer Monaco – Le Mans (1971)
Ref. 1133B Monaco
The Tag Heuer Monaco made its cinematic debut in the 1971 film Le Mans, starring Steve McQueen. The square-cased Monaco was worn by McQueen’s character, a race car driver, and perfectly matched the film's high-speed, adrenaline-fueled storyline. The Monaco’s distinctive design made it stand out, even amidst the fast-paced race scenes.
McQueen’s personal affinity for the Monaco only added to its iconic status, making it a symbol of motorsport and McQueen's own passion for racing.
Link to buy: https://www.chrono24.my/heuer/ref-1133b.htm
Why It’s Iconic: The Tag Heuer Monaco’s association with Steve McQueen and the racing world made it a timeless symbol of speed, style, and precision.
5. Jordan Belfort’s Tag Heuer 1000 Professional – The Wolf of Wall Street (2013)
Ref. 1000 Professional Wolf of Wall Street
In Martin Scorsese’s The Wolf of Wall Street, Leonardo DiCaprio’s character Jordan Belfort wears an Jordan Belfort’s Tag Heuer 1000 Professional. The Tag Heuer 1000 reflects Belfort’s early success—flashy, bold, and functional—before he moved on to flashier luxury pieces like the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak. The watch is now seen as a vintage icon from the golden age of Wall Street excess.
Link to buy: https://www.chrono24.com/tagheuer/1000-professional--id37258338.htm
Why It’s Iconic: The Royal Oak’s presence in The Wolf of Wall Street has made it a symbol of excessive wealth, luxury, and the high-flying world of finance.
6. Hamilton Khaki Field – Interstellar (2014)
Ref. H70605731
In Christopher Nolan’s Interstellar, the Hamilton Khaki Field takes on an important role, worn by Matthew McConaughey's character, Cooper. The watch is used as a key plot device in the film, where the ticking of the watch becomes crucial to the time-bending storyline. The Hamilton Khaki Field's rugged design and reliable mechanics are a perfect fit for the character’s role as a space explorer.
Link to buy: https://mptonlinestore.com/products/khaki-field---h70605731
Why It’s Iconic: The Hamilton Khaki Field’s unique role in Interstellar has made it a beloved timepiece for fans of the film and collectors alike.
7. Breitling Top Time – James Bond: Thunderball (1965)
Ref. 2002
Another iconic timepiece from the world of James Bond is the Breitling Top Time, which made its appearance in Thunderball. The Top Time was equipped with a special Geiger counter, aiding Bond in his quest to stop a nuclear threat. The watch became a symbol of Bond's ability to blend technology with style.
Link to buy: https://www.christies.com/lot/lot-thunderball-1965-5697283/
Why It’s Iconic: The Breitling Top Time’s role in Thunderball showcased its unique functionality and added to the gadget-filled appeal of the Bond films.
Conclusion
Watches in films do more than just tell time; they can define a character, reflect a lifestyle, and become symbols of luxury, adventure, and power. From James Bond's Rolex Submariner to the humble Casio F91W in The Social Network, these iconic timepieces have left an enduring legacy on the silver screen. Whether you’re a fan of high-tech space missions or classic spy thrillers, these watches have proven that, sometimes, a great timepiece can be just as legendary as the characters who wear them.
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