14 January 2025

Luxury Watch Anniversaries to Watch Out for in 2025

BY JAMES SAMPSON

The world of luxury watches is no stranger to grand celebrations. Anniversaries and milestones have always been an integral part of the watchmaking industry, not just to commemorate their storied past but also to intrigue and excite enthusiasts with new, innovative designs. As we look forward to 2025, some major names in watchmaking are set to mark significant jubilees, and the whispers of what might be unveiled are already stirring anticipation.

Vacheron Constantin’s 270th Anniversary

Founded in 1755, Vacheron Constantin, one of the oldest watch brands, is celebrating its 270th anniversary in 2025. Known for crafting masterpieces to mark such occasions, the brand’s history includes the remarkable Tour de l’Ile for its 250th anniversary and the hyper-complicated reference 57260 for its 260th. 

In honour of its 270th anniversary, Vacheron Constantin has unveiled the stainless steel Historiques 222, a stunning revival of one of its most iconic designs. First introduced in 1977, the original 222 was a bold expression of modernity and elegance. This reimagined edition pays homage to the classic while embodying the innovation and craftsmanship that define Vacheron Constantin’s legacy.

Audemars Piguet’s 150th Anniversary

Audemars Piguet, founded in 1875, celebrates its 150th anniversary this year. Known for blending traditional craftsmanship with modern design, the brand’s recent direction has embraced collaborations with pop culture icons while staying true to its roots. Whether it’s an ultra-complicated model surpassing the Code 11.59 Universelle or a tribute to the Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar, AP never fails to impress.

Breguet’s 250th Anniversary

This year marks a quarter-millennium of this legendary brand. Breguet’s hallmark is the fusion of traditional design elements - think guilloché dials and fluted cases - with avant-garde innovation. Watch enthusiasts are hoping for a piece that encapsulates these values, reminiscent of the Classique Chronométrie 7727, which balanced classical aesthetics with cutting-edge technology.

Rolex Milestones: GMT-Master and Datejust Anniversaries

Rolex will mark two significant anniversaries in 2025: the 70th anniversary of the GMT-Master and the 80th anniversary of the Date-Just. The GMT-Master, launched in 1955, is expected to inspire a special edition of the GMT-Master II—perhaps a platinum Coke bezel? Meanwhile, the Datejust, introduced in 1945, could see an updated iteration of this timeless classic. Rolex remains tight-lipped, but its anniversary releases seldom disappoint.

The 40th Anniversary of the IWC Da Vinci Perpetual Calendar Chronograph

In 1985, IWC released the Da Vinci Perpetual Calendar Chronograph, a bold move in the midst of the quartz crisis. Featuring a perpetual calendar module developed by Kurt Klaus, this model demonstrated the brand’s commitment to mechanical watchmaking. As the 40th anniversary approaches, could IWC revive the Da Vinci collection with a contemporary twist on this technical marvel? A fresh take on perpetual calendars would certainly delight collectors and enthusiasts.

Girard-Perregaux Laureato’s 50th Anniversary

Girard-Perregaux joined the luxury sports watch movement in 1975 with the Laureato. Over the years, the Laureato has evolved, gaining a dedicated following. As the collection turns 50, expect Girard-Perregaux to mark the event with a special edition featuring innovative materials or complications that honour the model’s sporty yet sophisticated legacy.

Omega’s Tributes to Apollo 13 and James Bond

Omega’s role in the Apollo 13 mission has been celebrated with iconic Speedmaster editions, including the Silver Snoopy Award models. The 55th anniversary of the mission in 2025 may see yet another commemorative Speedmaster release. Additionally, the 30-year partnership between Omega and the James Bond franchise could yield a Seamaster Diver 300M edition, a nod to this cinematic collaboration.

With a year of anniversaries ahead, 2025 promises to be an exciting chapter for watch enthusiasts. Whether it’s groundbreaking complications, nostalgic tributes, or bold redesigns, these milestones are sure to keep us ticking with excitement this year!

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