The Most Iconic Vintage Watches from the 1960s

Ah, the 1960s—what a decade! The ‘60s wasn’t just a time of social revolution, rock ‘n’ roll, and moon landings; it was also an era that defined watchmaking in ways we still appreciate today. The rise of tool watches, the shift toward more casual designs, and the birth of some of the most iconic models in horological history all happened in this unforgettable decade.

But with so many watches vying for attention, how do you know which ones truly stand the test of time? If you’re diving into the world of vintage watches, especially those from the 1960s, there are a few must-have pieces that any serious collector should know about. Let’s take a nostalgic trip back and explore the most iconic vintage watches from the 1960s and why they’re still revered today.

1. Rolex Submariner 5513

When people think of a classic dive watch, the Rolex Submariner is almost always the first to come to mind. Introduced in the 1950s, it reached its peak in the 1960s with the Submariner 5513. This was the Sub that James Bond himself wore in Dr. No and Goldfinger. Yeah, it’s kind of a big deal.

What makes the 5513 so iconic? For starters, it was built to last. A stainless steel case, rotating bezel, and water resistance up to 200 meters made it the ultimate tool watch. But beyond its ruggedness, it also had a timeless design. The clean, no-date dial and simple hour markers give it a classic look that has aged beautifully. Whether you're a diver or just love classic design, the Submariner 5513 is one of the most collectible watches from the ‘60s.

2. Omega Speedmaster Professional “Moonwatch”

Of course, no discussion of iconic watches from the 1960s would be complete without mentioning the Omega Speedmaster. Specifically, the Speedmaster Professional “Moonwatch”. This isn’t just any watch—it was the first watch worn on the moon.

The Speedmaster’s journey began in the late 1950s as a racing chronograph, but it wasn’t until NASA selected it for the Apollo missions that it gained legendary status. Its reliable manual-winding movement, coupled with its rugged design, made it the ideal companion for astronauts. But let’s not forget its aesthetic appeal: the tri-compax layout, tachymeter bezel, and chunky case give it an unmistakable look.

Today, owning a vintage Speedmaster from the ‘60s means you’re wearing a piece of space history. It’s the kind of watch that transcends its function—it’s a symbol of mankind’s reach for the stars.

3. Heuer Autavia

The 1960s was also a golden era for racing, and no watch embodied the spirit of motorsports quite like the Heuer Autavia. Originally designed as a dashboard timer for race cars and planes, Heuer introduced the Autavia as a wristwatch in 1962. It quickly became the go-to chronograph for drivers and racing enthusiasts.

What set the Autavia apart was its versatility. Available in both three-register chronographs and simpler time-only versions, it appealed to a wide audience. Plus, its bold design—large subdials, rotating bezel, and sharp case—gave it a rugged yet stylish look. If you’re a fan of vintage motorsports or chronographs in general, the Heuer Autavia is a must-have from the ‘60s.

4. Cartier Tank Cintrée

Not all watches from the 1960s were about adventure and sport. The Cartier Tank Cintrée represents the other side of vintage watch collecting—elegance and sophistication. First introduced in the 1920s, the Tank Cintrée was one of the most beautiful dress watches of its time, and its influence carried well into the ‘60s.

The long, curved case and minimal dial design make the Tank Cintrée stand out as a piece of art. It’s the kind of watch you’d wear to a black-tie event, but it’s so timeless in its design that it feels just as relevant today. For collectors who appreciate vintage elegance, a 1960s Cartier Tank Cintrée is the perfect choice.

5. Seiko 62MAS

Now, let’s talk about the Seiko 62MAS, Japan’s first true dive watch. Introduced in 1965, this watch marked the beginning of Seiko’s long-standing tradition of creating robust, reliable dive watches. The 62MAS was known for its impressive 150 meters of water resistance, automatic movement, and legibility in low-light conditions.

What makes the 62MAS so iconic? It’s Seiko’s dedication to functionality without sacrificing style. The simple dial, the large, easy-to-read markers, and the rotating bezel all contributed to its enduring appeal. It’s also one of the more affordable vintage dive watches out there, making it accessible to both new collectors and seasoned veterans.

6. Longines Ultra-Chron

Longines made a name for itself in the 1960s with the Ultra-Chron, which boasted a high-frequency movement. While most watches of the era operated at 18,000 or 21,600 vibrations per hour, the Ultra-Chron ticked away at a speedy 36,000, making it one of the most accurate watches of its time.

The design of the Ultra-Chron was also noteworthy. It had a sporty yet sophisticated look, making it versatile for both casual wear and more formal settings. For collectors who appreciate horological innovation, the Longines Ultra-Chron represents a fascinating chapter in watchmaking history.

Why the 1960s?

So, what made the 1960s such a golden age for watches? For one, it was a period of incredible innovation. Watchmakers were pushing the boundaries of technology, whether that meant developing the first waterproof cases, improving mechanical movements, or creating new designs that catered to changing tastes.

But more than that, the ‘60s was an era where watches weren’t just tools—they were fashion statements, symbols of status, and sometimes even political or cultural markers. Whether you were wearing a Rolex Submariner while exploring the ocean depths or a Cartier Tank to a high-society event, your watch said something about who you were.

How to Find Your Own Iconic Vintage Watch from the 1960s

If this deep dive into the iconic vintage watches from the 1960s has piqued your interest, you might be wondering: how do I get my hands on one? Vintage watch collecting can be a rewarding experience, but it’s important to do your homework.

First, decide what you’re looking for. Are you after a tool watch, something elegant, or perhaps a piece of horological history like the Speedmaster? Next, make sure you’re buying from a reputable seller. Vintage watches can be tricky—there are plenty of fakes and heavily modified pieces out there, so you want to ensure you’re getting the real deal.

Check out trusted sources like Garasiopung, where you can find authentic vintage watches that have been carefully curated and verified. Not only will you be buying a beautiful timepiece, but you’ll also have the peace of mind knowing it’s a genuine piece of history.

Conclusion: A Legacy on Your Wrist

The watches of the 1960s represent more than just timekeeping—they encapsulate the spirit of an era marked by adventure, elegance, and groundbreaking innovation. Whether you’re drawn to the rugged appeal of the Rolex Submariner, the elegance of a Cartier Tank, or the technological marvel that is the Omega Speedmaster, adding a 1960s vintage watch to your collection means owning a piece of history.

And let’s be real—there’s something undeniably cool about wearing a watch that’s seen more of the world than we have.