The Greatest Watches of All Time

Robb Report recently released their take on “The 39 Greatest Watches of All Time.” It’s a bold list—packed with icons, innovators, and the kinds of watches that shaped the industry we all obsess over. At One More Time Watches, we live and breathe this world daily, so we couldn’t help but weigh in. Some picks are no-brainers. Others are fun debates. All of them? Worth talking about. Here's our take on the legends—and what makes them essential for any serious collector or enthusiast.

Rolex Submariner (Ref. 6538)
Why it’s on the list: This is the Bond Sub. The real-deal, big-crown, no-guard diver that helped define the modern sports watch.
Our take: This is the blueprint. If you’ve ever worn a dive watch—any dive watch—you owe something to the 6538. These don’t come around often, but the Submariner lineage is alive and thriving. If you’re after the essence of this legend, a clean 14060 or 5513 still gives you that tool-watch soul without needing a six-figure wallet.

Audemars Piguet Royal Oak (Ref. 5402ST)
Why it’s on the list: Gérald Genta’s masterpiece. A luxury sports watch that flipped the script on what a high-end timepiece could look like.
Our take: The original 5402 is a grail among grails. But the Royal Oak story is deeper than one reference. We’re seeing strong interest in neo-vintage 14790s—slightly smaller, still super sharp, and way more accessible. When a watch starts as a controversy and becomes an icon, you know it’s special.

Rolex Daytona “Paul Newman” (Ref. 6239)
Why it’s on the list: Style, rarity, and Paul Newman’s wrist. It’s the holy trinity of vintage hype.
Our take: The Paul Newman Daytona has become more symbol than watch—auction darling, cultural icon, investment piece. But let’s not forget the modern Daytonas. Ceramic bezels, bulletproof movements, killer wrist presence. Whether you're chasing the OG or wearing a ref 116500LN, the Daytona earns its crown.

Patek Philippe Nautilus (Ref. 3700)
Why it’s on the list: Another Genta legend. Thin, integrated, and effortlessly cool.
Our take: The 3700 was luxury rebellion in steel. Now? It’s a waiting list fantasy. But you don’t have to chase ghosts. We’ve helped clients find everything from the 5711 to lesser-known references like the 5800 and 3800, each with its own story to tell. You want subtle flex? This is it.

Cartier Tank (Louis Cartier)
Why it’s on the list: It’s been on the wrists of legends—JFK, Warhol, Princess Diana. Pure elegance.
Our take: You can’t talk icons without the Tank. Cartier is finally getting the respect it’s always deserved. At One More Time, we’re always on the lookout for Tanks—especially manual wind Louis models and early Must de Cartier variants. A Tank in the collection is a power move that whispers, not shouts.

Omega Speedmaster Professional
Why it’s on the list: It went to the moon. Literally.
Our take: The Speedy is a rite of passage. It’s also one of the most fun watches to chase vintage. Do you want a step dial? DON bezel? Pre-Moon? There’s a Speedmaster for every kind of nerd. And if you want modern reliability with the same feel? The Hesalite Moonwatch still delivers.

The Takeaway
The “greatest watches of all time” aren’t just about hype—they’re about influence, design, staying power. They’ve stood the test of time, shaped the industry, and become touchpoints for collectors around the world.

At One More Time Watches, we believe in chasing icons—but doing it smart. Whether it’s a Sub that channels Bond, a Speedy with moon dust in its DNA, or a Cartier Tank that never goes out of style, we help our clients build collections with purpose. Timeless, wearable, and always authentic.

Looking to add a legend to your wrist? Let’s find the one that fits your story. One More Time.