The Formula 1 season is back again, with the inaugural race of the 2026 season being held in Australia this weekend.
There is a symbiotic relationship between horology and motoring; it is hard pressed to find collectors who do not have a passion for both of these.
To commemorate the start of the new Formula 1 season (which also means the start of a new era with arguably the greatest regulation changes), we will be looking at six watches with a motoring pedigree. What have we selected? Let us find out!
TAG Heuer Monaco
We begin the article with a timepiece that is named after the legendary Monaco Grand Prix: TAG Heuer Monaco.
Introduced in 1969, the Monaco was propelled into its iconic status when the legendary Steve McQueen wore the timepiece in the 1971 film Le Mans. Aside from its provenance, we love the timepiece for its slightly unusual square case, as well as its attractive design which curiously includes a rounded minute track. There are also various limited editions – such as the Gulf version as pictured above – which adds to the allure of the timepiece.
Prices of the Monaco begin at S$7,900, and we think this is a great timepiece especially for collectors who want to have a watch with a strong motoring heritage. In addition, the design of the Monaco definitely makes it stand out, and this is certainly a nice addition to any respectable watch collection.
Reservoir GT Tour Blue Edition
We have a thing for brands who try to do something different, and introduce complications to the masses at a relatively affordable price point. The Reservoir GT Tour Blue Edition is one such timepiece.
Reservoir, who is a relative newcomer into the watchmaking scene, has caught our attention with their repertoire of interesting timepieces. The 43mm GT Tour Blue Edition combines both automotive and watchmaking together, with a timepiece that leverages on the retrograde complication that mimics a car’s tachometer. This is further seen in the power reserve indicator, which reminds us of a car’s fuel gauge. It is a refreshing take, and we like how the brand has incorporated interesting complications into the watch.
The GT Tour Blue Edition is priced modestly at US$5,297 (approximately S$6,752). We like the inspiration behind the brand’s creation, and the use of such complications at a relatively accessible price point. While it might seemingly not be everyone’s cup of tea with a more polarising take on designs, we applaud Reservoir for being different.
Chopard Mille Miglia Classic Chronograph
Chopard’s Mille Miglia collection, launched in 1988, was born out of Karl-Friedrich Scheufele’s love for motor sports and classic cars in general. The name, incidentally, is a nod to the historical open-road endurance race that took place between 1927 to 1957. Chopard has been a sponsor and the official timekeeper for the revived version of the Mille Miglia, and they have been producing a special timepiece for each edition of this racing event ever since.
The Mille Miglia Classic Chronograph (picture above courtesy of Chopard) features a very classic design, with a satin-finished silver dial and the signature tri-compax layout. We like the contrasting sub-dials, as well as the small touches including the red-tipped centre chronograph hands, pump pushers, and the iconic Mille Miglia motif.
The 40.5mm watch is priced at S$14,100. Granted, there are very compelling choices at this price point, but if one is looking for a beautiful timepiece with a classic car provenance, the Mille Miglia Classic Chronograph is something that is worth a consideration.
Bell & Ross BR-X5 Racing
Bell & Ross is a brand that is often associated with speed and adrenaline, and the brand’s BR-X5 Racing continues to uphold this ethos.
Launched in 2024, the BR-X5 Racing – as its namesake suggests – features automotive-inspired touches with this particular variant. This model features a grade 2 titanium case, as well as carbon fibre elements for its bezel insert. There are also interesting touches, such as the power reserve indicator that is reminiscent of a fuel gauge in a car.
Priced at S$15,100 (S$16,500 with the titanium bracelet), the BR-X5 is an exciting option for someone who is looking for a sporty and cool timepiece. Similar to the Chopard, its price point opens up many options – but there is always something inherently attractive about a Bell & Ross timepiece.
Singer Reimagined Caballero
For car collectors, Singer Reimagined is certainly a brand that is instantly recognised by many. The California-based car restoration workshop is known for its works on classic air-cooled Porsches, and it has now teamed up with Marco Borraccino to bring its philosophy into timepieces.
The Caballero (picture courtesy of Singer Reimagined) is the brand’s latest novelty, with a simpler three-hand concept that draws inspiration from timepieces in the 1960s and 1970s. While the 39mm may look minimalistic, the same cannot be said for its movement – the Calibre-4 Solotempo. This movement is restored from a Valjoux 236, with a very solid execution that is reminiscent of the incredible work that the brand does with its cars. Refined is perhaps the best word to describe this creation.
Just like its namesake, the watch is indeed created with the modern gentleman in mind. The watch does not shout, and it is quietly confident about itself. The Caballero is available currently in three dial options (green, blue, and black), and it is priced at CHF 17,500 (approximately S$28,828).
MB&F HM9 Flow
MB&F’s watches are often also touted as “wearable art”, and the HM9 “Flow” shows us exactly how with its sensuous and sculpture-like case.
Drawing inspirations from classic cars and planes – most notably the Mercedes-Benz W196 race car and the sleek De Havilland Venom plane – the HM9 is a stunningly gorgeous watch with smooth flowing lines. Looks aside, the watch also features a movement that incorporates two fully independent balance wheels with planetary differential, as well as a vertical timing display.
There is pretty much nothing in the horological world that looks remotely like the HM9. The voluptuous and provocative watch is in a league of its own, combining unconventional (yet beautiful) designs with working principles of haute horlogerie. Even by MB&F’s high standards, the HM9 is a truly spectacular timepiece.
Concluding Thoughts
There are many obvious choices that we have omitted on the list today – including the likes of the Rolex Daytona, Omega Speedmaster, and Richard Mille (who incidentally sponsors a few Formula 1 drivers). We thought we would like to showcase something that is slightly different in today’s article.
When the world of watches and motoring comes together, the result is often rather exciting. We think most of the watches today show this, although the likes of Chopard and MB&F might cater to the less exciting (but equally enthrilling) world of classic cars.
What are your thoughts on our selection today, and do you think you agree that cars and watches always go together? Let us know in the comments section below!
