It's finally a new year, and though we're all about moving forward and looking ahead, there's no better way to reflect on the past than through a vintage watch. Whether it's a pivotal model in the history of watchmaking and our culture or a model with subtle nuances only the keen eye of a collector will appreciate, vintage replica watches tell the best stories, and this week, we have a selection that is well worth recounting. How did the Rolex Precision ref. 9083 get the nickname "UFO?" Why does Enicar give a cheap fake watches with a Super Compressor case designed for dive replica watches the name "Sherpa?" What does the "GT" stand for in the Jaeger-LeCoultre Memovox Polaris II "GT?" You can learn all about these replica watches and more right now in the HODINKEE Shop, or continue reading to dive deeper into our weekly selection of staff picks.
1960s Enicar Sherpa Jet Ref. 146/002 'Mark 1'
1956 Rolex Precision Ref. 9083 'UFO'
1970s Omega De Ville Ref. 166.051 Gold-Plated Dress Watch
1960s Croton Chronomaster Aviator Sea Diver Ref. 105-9870
1970s Universal Genève Dress Watch Ref. 842101 In Stainless Steel
1940s Omega Pocket Watch With Two-Tone Dial
1960s Omega Speedmaster Professional Ref. 145.012-67 SP
A 1970s Jaeger-LeCoultre Memovox Polaris II 'GT' Ref. E870 By Saori OmuraThe Jaeger-LeCoultre Polaris II is the epitome of a 1970s design. In particular, the grey colorway is one we rarely come across. It's big, it's loud (literally), and it's oddly satisfying on the wrist. Perhaps it was even too avant-garde for the adventurous minds back then. This model was said to only have been produced in approximately 1,120 examples and only for a couple of years in the early 1970s.
Here, we have an example built for the European market denoted by the stylized "GT" signature for "Grande Taille," or "large size," on the dial. On the other hand, the American version was signed "HPG" for "High Precision Guarantee," reflecting the high-beat movement inside that runs at 28,800 vph. The watch was offered in bright turquoise blue, rich burgundy red, as well as in this more understated smokey grey. The condition of this piece stands out with its large compressor-style case featuring the original sand-blasted finish, the unusual grey rotating bezel, and the attractive patina on the lume on the dial and hands. Plus, it comes with its presentation box, international guarantee, instruction manual, and additional bezel and crystal, which look like they were stored away perfectly for decades. We don't know when we will come across another Polaris II in such great condition with all the additional goodies, so catch this daring piece while you can by heading over to the Shop!
A 1979 Rolex Submariner Ref. 5513 With Mark 3 'Lollipop' Maxi Dial By Brandon FrazinThe Submariner ref. 5513 is one of the most iconic Rolex sport replica watches out there. The non-date watch pays tribute to the original Submariner that came out in 1953, and today, Rolex still offers the Submariner sans date. There is something about a non-date Submariner that collectors gravitate toward. Whether it be the symmetry or the simplicity, it's something that gets us fired up. The two lines of text at the bottom of the dial coupled with the moniker and "Oyster Perpetual" text at the top of the dial is just perfect. It's not too much, but just enough to know what you have on your wrist and its capabilities. My favorite things about vintage Rolex sport replica watches are all the tiny differences between the same models that most people don't see and, quite frankly, don't care about. We thrive off of those, and when you can spot a tiny detail from afar, it's seriously satisfying.
The ref. 5513 we have in the Shop today is the perfect example of this. This watch features a Mark 3 Maxi "lollipop" dial, which is quite sought-after by collectors. This dial has a subtle feature where the lume plots are super close, or nearly touching, the minute hash mark next to the plot, making it look like a lollipop, hence the nickname. Also, due to the nature of the dome crystal, this detail can be accentuated. These Maxi 5513s are great replica watches for all occasions, and when you want a new look, popping off the bracelet and slipping on a NATO or leather strap is super easy, especially with the lug holes. Check this one out for yourself, right here.
A 1970s Heuer Monaco Ref. 1133B By Cait BazemoreI'm a sucker for a chronograph, and of all the iconic chronograph designs, none are quite as instantly recognizable as the Heuer Monaco. Every element of this model, from the inside out, was revolutionary when it first debuted in 1969 (and frankly, is still pretty special over 50 years later). It housed one of the first automatic chronograph movements, the caliber 11. It showcased a distinctive square case shape, and it notably featured the crown on the left-hand side with the pushers on the right. As if this one-of-a-kind design wasn't enough, the Monaco became a pop-culture legend on the wrist of Steve McQueen two years after its initial release in the film Le Mans.
Sure, I'm immediately drawn to any chronograph watch, but the Monaco won't just grab your attention as one of the world's first self-winding chronos. It ticks all the boxes of a true icon. If you're a diehard enthusiast looking for a model with a significant place in the history of watchmaking, look no further. If you're more of a racing or film junkie who appreciates the pivotal role replica watches play in sports and our culture, the Monaco is equally important. No matter what your preferences or passions, the Monaco is an instant conversation piece. Plus, this particular example we have in the Shop right now, the 1133B, was not only one of the original references but also the exact reference McQueen wore on screen. See it for yourself right here.
To view the entire current selection of vintage replica watches available in the HODINKEE Shop, click here.
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A 1973 Replica Rolex GMT Master Mark 2 A 1960s Enicar Sherpa Super Dive And A 1970 Bulova Deep Sea B Chronograph 688