Why Are Vintage-Inspired Watches Making a Major Comeback in 2024?
by Khadija Husain
4 Oct 2024
Vintage watches have always had a certain allure, but the trend for vintage-inspired timepieces in 2024 feels more like a movement than a passing phase. From subtle nods to mid-century design to full-on reissues of classic models, nearly every major watch brand is dipping into their archives, and collectors can’t seem to get enough. But what is it about these timepieces that’s sparking such a surge in popularity? Is it just nostalgia, or is there more to the story?
Part of the appeal comes from the fact that modern watches have, in some ways, lost a bit of their soul. Yes, today’s watches are technical marvels with precision and durability that vintage pieces couldn’t match, but there’s something about the character of an old-school watch that just speaks to people. Brands like Omega, Tudor, and Breitling are capitalizing on this, releasing models that offer modern reliability while keeping the charm of the original designs intact.

Take Omega’s Seamaster 300, for example, which nods to the brand’s 1957 model. With its retro dial and bold, vintage-styled numerals, it’s the kind of watch that feels like it could’ve been passed down through generations. It’s priced at around AED 23,000, which puts it firmly in luxury territory, but for those who appreciate the craftsmanship and history behind the piece, it’s well worth it.
Tudor is another brand that’s been killing it with vintage-inspired releases. Their Black Bay collection has been a massive hit, with models like the Black Bay Fifty-Eight taking clear inspiration from their 1950s dive watches. Priced at around AED 14,500, the Fifty-Eight has a smaller, more classic case size, which is something collectors have been craving in a world dominated by oversized sports watches.

Breitling, too, has embraced its heritage with the Superocean Heritage line. This modern reimagining of their 1950s diver is both a throwback and a fully capable tool watch. At AED 18,000, it’s a piece that blends nostalgia with current-day functionality, proving that you don’t have to choose between the two.
Of course, not every brand is focusing on revamping their entire collection with vintage inspiration. Some, like Longines, have been subtly integrating heritage into specific models. The Longines Legend Diver, priced at AED 10,000, is one such example, capturing the spirit of their early dive watches while offering the modern reliability that today’s collectors expect.
One of the reasons behind this surge is that vintage watches, particularly well-preserved ones, are becoming increasingly hard to find. Prices in the vintage market have skyrocketed, making these modern reissues more accessible alternatives. For a fraction of the cost, you get the look and feel of a classic watch without the anxiety of buying a piece that might need constant maintenance. Plus, brands are incorporating modern technologies like anti-magnetic movements, better water resistance, and scratch-resistant sapphire crystals, so you get the best of both worlds.
But it’s not all about practicality. Let’s be honest – vintage-inspired watches are cool. They exude an effortless style that modern watches sometimes lack. There’s something about wearing a watch that feels timeless, something that connects you to a bygone era of watchmaking. And whether it’s the sleek lines of a Breitling Superocean or the rugged charm of a Tudor Black Bay, these timepieces offer a sense of history while fitting seamlessly into today’s wardrobe.
What’s also interesting is the shift in size preferences. As more people gravitate toward vintage-inspired watches, we’re seeing a trend toward smaller case sizes. The Tudor Black Bay Fifty-Eight, for instance, is a 39mm watch, which might seem small by today’s standards, but it’s actually perfect for those who want a more understated, classic look. This move away from oversized, attention-grabbing watches is another nod to the past, where watches were more about elegance and less about making a bold statement.
In 2024, wearing a vintage-inspired watch isn’t just about telling time – it’s about making a statement. It’s about appreciating craftsmanship, history, and design. Whether you’re drawn to the dive watches of the 1950s or the dress watches of the 1960s, there’s a piece out there that will resonate with your style. And with so many brands jumping on board, from Omega and Tudor to Longines and Breitling, you’re spoiled for choice when it comes to finding the perfect blend of old and new.
So, are vintage-inspired watches making a major comeback? Absolutely. And for anyone who values timeless style, they’re more than just a trend – they’re here to stay.