Underdogs That Punch Above Their Weight

17 Mar, 2023

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In the world of watchmaking, certain timepieces have become almost synonymous with their brand name, with patrons often using the name of the watch to refer to the brand. The most obvious illustration of this would be the Royal Oak. Many recognise Audemars Piguet because of the Royal Oak, and this is no exaggeration. Big Bang from Hublot is another instance. But these are only two of many examples. But, among these prodigies also stands a plethora of underrated luxury watches that are equally brilliant but get overlooked because of the mammoth presence of a contemporary.

So, today we are discussing watches that embody watchmaking perfection and aesthetical excellence and yet fly under the radar.

Audemars Piguet Millenary

While Audemars Piguet is known for its iconic Royal Oak and Royal Oak Offshore lines, one watch often goes unnoticed from the house’s selection is the Millenary. It arrived on the scene in 1995, and its unique oval shape made it stand out from the other AP watches. Millenary’s design was inspired by the architecture of Rome’s ancient Colosseum, with its oval case resembling the construction of the amphitheatre. It comes with an off-centre dial overlapped by a sub-dial at seven and eight o’clock markers. The exposed automatic movement provides a beautiful view of the intricate mechanics that power the watch. The rugged finish on the movement gives this watch an industrial yet elegant look. Despite not being as popular as other watches in the Audemars Piguet lineup, the Millenary remains a true gem that should not be overlooked.

Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra

The Seamaster is one of Omega‘s most popular collections, including the much sought-after models like the Diver 300M and Planet Ocean. However, another stunning Seamaster series, the Aqua Terra, despite being one of the most elegant creations by the house, often goes unnoticed compared to the glory of its counterparts. First introduced in 2003, the Aqua Terra with 150M water resistance is a versatile watch you can wear anywhere. It features a classic design with a unique Teak Concept dial featuring the signature vertical ribbed pattern and a date function. It also has a few distinctive touches that make it stand out. While the Aqua Terra may not be as iconic as the Speedmaster or the other Seamaster series, it is an excellent choice for those who want a versatile and reliable watch. The Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra is an excellent investment for any watch enthusiast.

Grand Seiko SBGJ237

Grand Seiko watches are known for their exceptional craftsmanship, brilliant innovations, and attention to detail. They strike the right chord among horological enthusiasts looking for unique and powerful timepieces with elegant designs and are quickly gaining popularity among collectors who appreciate their exceptional craftsmanship. Watches from the brand today are talked about alongside watchmaking heroes from mega brands like Rolex. The SBGJ237 is one such timepiece that has quickly created a loyal fanbase for itself. This timepiece boasts a dynamic mix of remarkable accuracy, immaculate finishing, iconic design, and breathtaking dials. Yet, compared to the other GMT watches out there, the SBGJ237 has not been able to shine as much as it should. But, we wouldn’t be wrong in saying that SBGJ237 is the future as it comprises all prospects of becoming one of the most popular travel watches in the industry.

Panerai Radiomir

The Panerai Radiomir is another underdog that deserves recognition. Panerai has a loyal following, but the Luminor and Submersible often overshadow the Radiomir model. Radiomir exudes a unique, understated charm, setting it apart from its more famous counterparts. One of the most magnificent elements of the Radiomir is its dial. The design is simple yet elegant, with large Arabic numerals and a clean layout that is easy to read at a glance. It carries the recognisable cushion shape; however, it’s the only model without the signature integrated crown design. It was originally created for the Italian Navy during World War II, and its rugged design has stood the test of time. Despite its long history, it is a watch that still feels contemporary and stylish. While it may not have the same recognition as the Luminor, the Radiomir is a watch that deserves a place of pride in your collection.

Hublot Classic Fusion Original

Lastly, the Hublot Classic Fusion Original is a watch that should rightfully receive much more attention than it gets. Hublot is known for its bold and unconventional designs, but the Classic Fusion Original model takes a subtle approach. First introduced in 2010, it brings an impressive blend of modern design and traditional watchmaking techniques. It features a sleek and classic design with Hublot’s signature screws on the bezel. Because Hublot is a brand for patrons who like a bold timepiece with dominating elements, the Classic Fusion Original often gets missed. But it’s a versatile watch you can wear anywhere, in any setting. Though an underdog, its sleek design, high-quality materials, and impressive features make it a timepiece that shouldn’t be overlooked.

Wrapping Up

In conclusion, many exceptional watches have yet to receive the recognition and success they deserve. These watches may be sleepers of the horological world, but they thrive with extraordinary aesthetics and craftsmanship. Pieces like the Millenary, Aqua Terra, Grand Seiko SBGJ237, Radiomir, and Classic Fusion Original are all watches that deserve a closer look from watch enthusiasts. One should invest in these timepieces for their unique character and unparalleled performance. In fact, in a crowd where everyone is going mainstream, be different by flaunting one of these underdogs that punch above their weight.