Amassing a large collection is great, but there’s something to be said about simplifying things and having one timepiece that can work for all occasions. For that, seek out a simple, time-and-date only stainless steel watch designed with utility in mind. This makes for a watch great for both formal and casual situations. There are many new watches out there that fit this description, but even on the vintage market you can find some fitting timepieces.
Longines Admiral
What we like: The Longines Admiral “Five Star” is about as simple as they come, boasting just the time and date and a sleek stainless steel case which is exactly what makes it so versatile. This example is, according to the seller, in all original condition, including the bracelet. One small styling flourish we love, though: the satin-brushed dial, which gives the timepiece just enough texture.
From the seller: Stainless steel case with original Longines crown and original gray satin dial. The Longines bracelet (by Champion) is also original, fitting up to a 6.5-inch wrist. Excellent overall condition and are without any major flaws whatsoever.
Omega Seamaster 2000
What we like: There are really two kinds of Seamaster: the chunky, 300-meter divers and the sleek, water-resistant dress watches. The Cosmic 2000 is somewhere in the middle. It doesn’t have a bezel and has an overall simple case design, but the watch was designed with larger gaskets allowing for a 60-meter water-resistance. We wouldn’t test that today, but that fact alone lends itself to the Cosmic’s casual/dressy duality.
From the seller: Dial in good condition with slight traces of use. Case is in very good condition. Fully operational and checked for performance, authenticity and functionality.
Rolex Air-King
What we like: It’s not that the Air-King is an unloved watch, it just happens to be overshadowed by the rest of the brand’s very stong lineup. Still, it’s a delightfully simple piece, with no functions other than date, and a clean dial design. Still, it boasts (well, boasted) lume, and Rolex’s lauded Oyster case design, so it still has some of the tool watch bonafides you’d expect even from the simplest Rolex.
From the seller: The watch is in excellent condition throughout, with no obvious flaws or marks; case shows signs of light wear. Matte black Rolex dial is in excellent condition with crisp printing and a lovely even patina to the luminous material. Rolex pencil hands are in excellent condition with matching patina. Rolex Crown; Rolex screw case back.
