24 January 2025

Onaro’s Top 5 Most Loved Watches: A Watch Enthusiast's Perspective

BY JAMES SAMPSON

At Onaro, we don’t just sell luxury watches - we live and breathe them. For us, and for our customers, a watch is more than a tool to tell time. It’s a masterpiece of engineering, a piece of history on your wrist, and sometimes even a companion for life.As watch enthusiasts, we know that certain timepieces resonate in a special way, and these five models have certainly captured the hearts and imaginations of the Onaro community. Let’s dive into what makes these watches so beloved.

1. Vacheron Constantin Overseas 4500V/110A-B128

The Overseas 4500V is perfect for someone who’s always on the go but still wants to look sharp. One of our favourite features?The quick release strapsystem which allows you to switchbetween the bracelet, leather, or rubber strap at home within seconds. Customers love thelacquered blue dial, with its striking sunburst hues in all lights and it’s clear why - Vacheron Constantin has been making exceptional watches for over 260 years. This model is ideal if you want a versatile, stylish piece thatcan go from casual to formal with ease.

Strap versatility: Easily interchangeable between a stainless steel bracelet, leather, or rubber strap. A perfect one watch collection with its amazing versatility.
Dial details: Intricate design with exceptional craftsmanship that reflects Vacheron Constantin’s long heritage.
Movement: Equipped with an in-house automatic movement, ensuring precision and reliability.
Water resistance: Ideal for those who travel or live active lifestyles, featuring a 150-meter water resistance.
Design: A seamless blend of sporty aesthetics and refined luxury, making it appropriate for both casual and formal settings.

2. Patek Philippe Aquanaut 5167A

The Aquanaut 5167A has a sporty feel but still carries that classic Patek Philippe elegance. The black dialand “Tropical“ composite rubber strap make it fly under the radar while being tough enough to handle everyday wear. What our customers really appreciate is how effortlessly this watchblends luxury with a laid-back vibe. It’s a go-anywhere, do-anything kind of watch, and that’s exactly why it’s so popular.

Sporty yet elegant: Combines a sleek, modern look with Patek Philippe's signature craftsmanship.
Rubber strap: The tropical composite strap is both durable and comfortable, designed to resist wear and tear.
Lightweight feel: Comfortable for everyday wear, with a sporty design that doesn’t sacrifice luxury.
Signature dial: The embossed black dial with luminescent hands and markers offers excellent readability.
Water resistance: With 120 meters of water resistance, it’s great for an active lifestyle, including swimming or water sports.

3. Patek Philippe Calatrava 5226G

The Calatrava 5226G is all about timeless elegance. What makes it special is the mix of old-school charm and modern design. The hobnail pattern around the case gives it a classic touch, while the textured charcoal grey dial and retro-stylenumerals bring something new to the table. Customers love this watch for its simplicity and the way it quietly commands attention. It’s the perfect piece if you appreciate subtle, refined beauty.

Hobnail bezel: The textured pattern adds a touch of tradition, nodding to Patek Philippe’s heritage.
Vintage-inspired dial: A grey dial with Arabic numerals and syringe-style hands gives it a distinctive retro aviation/pilot feel.
Subtle elegance: Understated, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer a quieter form of luxury.
Case material: Crafted in white gold for a refined, polished finish.
Movement: Powered by Patek Philippe’s Caliber 26-330 S C, known for precision and craftsmanship.

4. Vacheron Constantin Historiques American 1921 82035/000R

The American 1921 is one of those watches that really stands out. Its off-centre dial might seem quirky at first, but that’s exactly what makes it special. The pink gold case and vintage-inspired design transport you back to the 1920s, yet it feels fresh and bold today. This watch is a favourite for those who love something unique and a little different from the norm.

Off-centre dial: The tilted dial layout is a bold design choice that evokes the spirit of the 1920s.
Art Deco inspiration: Its aesthetic pays homage to the American Roaring Twenties, blending vintage appeal with modern functionality.
Pink gold case: The 18K pink gold gives the watch an opulent, warm tone, perfect for those dressier occasions.
Manual-winding movement: Features Vacheron Constantin’s manual-wind caliber 4400 AS, offering a 65-hour power reserve.
Distinctive flair: Perfect for those looking for a standout piece that reflects individual style and taste.

5. Rolex Cosmograph Daytona 116500LN/126500LN “Panda”

The Daytona “Panda” is a legend in the watch world, and it’s easy to see why. The white dial with black subdials gives it a sleek, sporty look that’s instantly recognisable. It’s a watch built for speed and precision, but it’s also incredibly stylish. Whether you’re into motorsport or just want a statement piece, this watch is a favourite for customers who appreciate both form and function.

Iconic “Panda” dial: The white dial with black subdials nicknamed the ‘panda', creates a striking contrast that’s highly sought after for its simplicity and versatility.
Chronograph function: Built for precision timing, originally designed for motorsports, with a tachymeter scale on the bezel for measuring speed.
Cerachrom bezel: The black ceramic bezel is highly resistant to scratches and offers durability and lasting beauty compared to the previous pre-ceramic Daytona generation
Sport meets luxury: Combines robust functionality with Rolex’s renowned craftsmanship, making it suitable for both professional use and casual wear.
Highly collectible: One of the most coveted Rolex models, often seen as an investment piece due to its popularity and limited availability from official boutiques.

Each watch on this list highlights its unique features while blending brand heritage, versatility and timeless style making them standout pieces in the world of luxury watches.