I have always had a love for watches with history; watches created not because of a certain hype but rather to serve a particular purpose. Yes, the Rolex GMT, Daytona and Submariner are all “fashionable” to own today, as a matter of fact they have always been. However that was not the intention with which these tool watches were created. So without further ado, here are my choices:
Panerai Luminor PAM00196
The Rolex Datejust 1603 on a Jubilee bracelet was my first special watch. However, my passion for Panerai started with a Base model back in 2003. Having owned a number of Panerai watches, last year I stumbled upon a piece that I have craved for a very long time. The Luminor Marina PAM00196.
This particular “Daylight” model is from 2005 and is powered by the sturdy OPXII movement with a power reserve of 46 hours. The simplicity of this watch’s design has always fascinated me — it makes me happy just to look at it, especially when paired with a vintage leather strap. The “Daylight” model was made famous when Jason Statham wore it in the second installment of the Transporter series, and it serves as a nice talking point whilst chatting with fellow watch enthusiasts.
Rolex GMT-Master II “Pepsi”
It was love at first sight with the GMT-Master II Ref. 126710BLRO. Being a vintage watch aficionado, I could never really warm up to the ‘Batman’ – certainly a great Rolex, but it didn’t have that same kind of historical knock that this one has.
The presence of a “Pepsi” bezel and Jubilee bracelet on the same watch makes for a timeless combo and is a throwback to the iconic Ref. 1675. As a big aviation fan, the whole story of the Rolex GMT-Master appeals to me. It was after all, the instrument of choice for PanAm pilots in the 1950s and it has appeared in so many movies, from Goldfinger to Apocalypse Now. The watch feels solid and the Jubilee bracelet is so comfortable on the wrist and a refreshing change from the Oyster.
-Roesner is a Dubai-based watch collector
