{"id":15944,"date":"2023-04-25T10:56:57","date_gmt":"2023-04-25T10:56:57","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.swisswatchexpo.com\/TheWatchClub\/?p=15944"},"modified":"2025-08-04T00:06:27","modified_gmt":"2025-08-04T00:06:27","slug":"most-famous-watches-in-movies","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.swisswatchexpo.com\/thewatchclub\/2023\/04\/25\/most-famous-watches-in-movies\/","title":{"rendered":"Most Famous Watches in Movies"},"content":{"rendered":"

The watch on a man’s wrist can speak volumes about his personality, style, and taste. That\u2019s why watches have always been an essential accessory for men.<\/p>\n

On the big screen, they play a pivotal role in shaping the character\u2019s persona. From Steve McQueen\u2019s robust Monaco to James Bond\u2019s sleek Omega, watches have become storytelling devices in movies. Sometimes they\u2019re subtle, and sometimes they steal the scene.<\/p>\n

Here\u2019s our list of the most iconic watches in movies that have left a lasting impression on the audiences.
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1. Rolex Submariner ref 6538 in Dr. No<\/em> (1962)<\/span><\/strong><\/h2>\n

When it comes to James Bond, most people think of Omega watches, given that Agent 007 has been wearing the brand for the past 28 years. However, Ian Fleming, the author of the James Bond novels, always put 007 in a \u201cheavy Rolex Oyster\u201d.<\/p>\n

For the first James Bond movie, 1962\u2019s Dr. No, <\/em>they decided to honor this detail. As the first ever James Bond, Sean Connery wore the Rolex Submariner. This particular reference, 6538, eventually became known as the James Bond Submariner among watch circles.<\/p>\n

As the secret agent needs to bounce from one environment to another seamlessly, a Rolex is the perfect tool at his wrist from the beach to a luxury dinner. While unlike other James Bond watches, this watch held no special powers or capabilities, this holds a special place as the original Bond watch. Sean Connery went on to wear this in his first four Bond movies. (photo: 007 on Instagram)<\/em><\/p>\n

https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/p\/BYJZXtslwDZ\/<\/p>\n

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\n2. Porsche Design Orfina Chronograph in Top Gun<\/em> (1986)<\/span><\/strong><\/h2>\n

The Porsche Design Orfina Chronograph was introduced in 1972 and was the first PVD watch on the market. Fourteen years later, the pioneering blacked-out watch would feature prominently in Top Gun<\/em>, which hit theaters in 1986.<\/p>\n

Featured in the movie is the Valjoux 7750-powered piece, where it is seen in many close-up images. The PVD coating in black gave the watch a stealthy look and the chronograph was favored by pilots at the time for its durability and reliability.<\/p>\n

Main character Pete \u2018Maverick\u2019 Mitchell, played by Tom Cruise, was featured using the watch to time his takeoffs, landings, and other maneuvers as true pilots would have done. When the movie was remade in 2022 with Top Gun: Maverick,<\/em> Tom Cruise has the same watch on his wrist. (photo: 007 on Instagram)<\/em><\/p>\n

https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/p\/Cg7Pb8WrimN\/<\/p>\n

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\n3. TAG Heuer Monaco in Le Mans<\/em> (1971)<\/span><\/strong><\/h2>\n

Sometimes, it\u2019s not the prop department that decides all the accessories for a character, but the actor himself. Racer and actor Steve McQueen chose the watch for pro racer Michael Delaney in the 1971 movie Le Mans<\/em> and he chose TAG Heuer Monaco from the lineup of watches provided by the brand.<\/p>\n

\"Tag<\/a>
Tag Heuer Monaco Chronograph Blue Dial Steel Mens Watch CAW211P<\/a><\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Shop Tag Heuer Monaco Chronograph Blue Dial Steel Mens Watch <\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n

The reference 1133B\u00a0featured in the film in 1971, when the company was still known as Jeuer. McQueen\u2019s decision to wear it launched the model into popularity among watch enthusiasts. The square case, blue dial, and two-chronograph dial watch not only came from one of the racer\u2019s sponsors but gave the character a sense of authenticity.<\/p>\n

The Monaco also played a role in one of the film\u2019s most famous scenes. In the scene, McQueen\u2019s character is driving his Porsche 917K during the 24 hours of Le Mans race. The watch is prominently displayed on his wrist as he drives, and it helps add to the tension of the scene.<\/p>\n

The watch worn by actor Steve McQueen in this movie is now considered one of the most iconic watches ever featured on film because of its sleek design and simple elegance \u00ad\u00ad\u00ad\u2014 not to mention how well it fits into his character’s persona. Today, modern iterations of the famous timepiece remain in the TAG Heuer catalog.<\/p>\n