5 Iconic Watches that Changed the History of Design

There are watches that tell time. And there are watches that mark an era. These five pieces not only revolutionized watchmaking — they redefined what a watch could mean: status, adventure, precision, luxury, and art on the wrist. At PANTER Watch, we draw inspiration from their legacy to create handcrafted pieces that pay homage to these icons.

1. Rolex Submariner (1953)

The diver's watch par excellence. When Rolex introduced the Submariner in 1953, no one imagined it would become the most imitated watch in history. Water-resistant up to 100 meters (now 300m), a unidirectional rotating bezel, and a black dial with luminous markers — a design so functional it hasn't needed to change in 70 years.

Its appearance on Sean Connery's wrist as James Bond in 1962 cemented its status as a permanent cultural symbol. Today, a new Submariner costs over €10,000. The waiting list is years long.

Its legacy at PANTER: Our Submariner collection pays homage to this iconic design.

2. Rolex Daytona (1963)

Born for speed. The Cosmograph Daytona was designed for race car drivers at Daytona Beach, featuring an integrated chronograph and a tachymeter on the bezel to measure average speeds. For years it was a commercial failure — until Paul Newman wore it on his wrist and turned it into a legend.

The so-called “Paul Newman Daytona” was auctioned in 2017 for $17.8 million, becoming the most expensive watch ever sold at auction. A watch that went from ignored to untouchable.

Its legacy at PANTER: Our Daytona collection captures the essence of the sports chronograph with a VK63A meca-quartz movement.

3. Omega Speedmaster (1957)

The only watch certified by NASA for space missions. The Speedmaster accompanied the Apollo 11 astronauts in 1969 — including Neil Armstrong on his first step on the Moon. It wasn't chosen for its price or prestige, but for its extreme reliability under impossible conditions.

Since then, the “Moonwatch” has been the watch of explorers, engineers, and those who understand that precision can be a matter of life and death. A legacy that no brand can buy.

Its legacy at PANTER: Our Speedmaster collection pays tribute to the exploratory spirit of this iconic chronograph.

4. Audemars Piguet Royal Oak (1972)

The watch that invented luxury sports. In 1972, designer Gérard Genta sketched the Royal Oak on a napkin one night. The result: a stainless steel watch — then considered a “cheap” material — sold at the price of a gold watch. A scandal in the industry. An absolute success in the market.

Its octagonal bezel with visible screws, integrated bracelet, and “tapisserie” dial defined an aesthetic that remains a benchmark today. The Royal Oak proved that bold design can create entire categories.

5. Patek Philippe Nautilus (1976)

Also a work by Gérard Genta, the Nautilus was born the same year as the Royal Oak as Patek Philippe's response to luxury sports. Inspired by the portholes of ocean liners, its oval shape and integrated bracelet made it the most desired watch in the world.

Today, a Nautilus 5711 — discontinued in 2021 — sells on the secondary market for over €100,000. Patek discontinued it precisely because speculative demand had exceeded all control. A watch so desired that its manufacturer had to withdraw it.

Its legacy at PANTER: Our Nautilus collection captures the sporty elegance of this iconic design.

The legacy that inspires us

These five watches share more than fame: each was revolutionary in its time, misunderstood by some and adored by those who could see beyond. At PANTER Watch, we take that spirit — the obsession with detail, respect for tradition, and boldness of design — and translate it into accessible, unique, handcrafted pieces assembled by hand in Spain.

“We don't mass-produce watches. We build unique pieces for those who understand that time deserves something extraordinary.”

— PANTER WATCH LIMITED