The Resurge of 70s Watches
For those who lived through the 1970s, it was an era marked by bold colours, exuberant style, and distinct design. From big hair and bell-bottom trousers to oversized collars, the decade was a visual feast. But beyond fashion, the 70s also left an indelible mark on horology with its adventurous case shapes, angular edges, and daring aesthetics.
The 70s inspired watches live on in these designs. Although many have receded into the archives, they are only now appreciated by those fortunate enough to have preserved them. Today, however, we are witnessing a thrilling resurgence of 70s-inspired watches, bringing back the iconic styles with a modern twist. The designs have been rekindled, but now boast modern materials and movements. Long may we see 70s inspired watches, as I doubt they will tire us. So writing my top 5 70s inspired watches was a must.
Audemars Piguet [Re]Master 02: A Retro Rebirth
First up in my top 5 70s inspired watches is this, the Audemars Piguet [Re]Master 02, a watch that seamlessly blends the audacious design ethos of the 70s with contemporary sophistication. Sporting an asymmetric 41mm x 9.7mm case with angular contours, it could easily be a prop from the classic sci-fi series “Space 1999.” Its sharp edges and 18kt pink gold case, give this a stylish and contemporary look. Flipping this over, you’re given a real treat, as you feast on the 2.8mm “extra thin” Audemars Piguet Calibre 7129, a beautiful self winding movement.
Although Audemars Piguet launched the [Re]Master 01 in 2020, the 02 version is significantly larger and arguably cooler. Its (Bleu Nuit, Nuage 50) blue PVD sectored dial, brimming with edges, finishes, and textures, exudes a vintage charm. It’s the faceted crystal that gets my vote, as it blends in perfectly with this geometric offering.
With only 250 pieces available, for £41,000.00 it’s a collector’s dream—provided you have the budget.
Photo Credit – Audemars Piguet
Photo Credit – Audemars Piguet
Nivada Grenchen Chronking Salmon Mecaquartz: Disco Delight
Photo Credit – Nivada Grenchen
Another exciting nod to the 70s revival is the reissued Chronoking Salmon Mecaquartz from Nivada Grenchen. This watch embodies the spirit of disco with its eye-catching salmon dial and functional chronograph. The 38mm case meets contemporary size preferences, but it’s the dial that truly shines, evoking the glitz and glamour of the era. This reissue brings a modern twist with its Mecaquartz movement, combining the convenience of “set and forget” functionality with significant cost savings compared to its mechanical predecessor.
With 100 meters of water resistance, the Chronoking is versatile enough for both the office and seaside adventures. Priced at approximately £450.00.00, it offers a stylish yet affordable option that doesn’t compromise on quality. The watch’s design, reminiscent of the flamboyant 1970s, from bell bottoms to vibrant silk shirts, is a true homage to the decade.
Its boldness and flair, coupled with the reliable Seiko VK64A movement, make it an accessible choice for a broader audience looking to capture a piece of that nostalgic charm.
Photo Credit – Nivada Grenchen
Credor Locomotive: A Genta Tribute
Photo Credit – Credor
Photo Credit – Credor
Credor, the high-end arm of the Seiko Watches group, has unveiled a watch, that honours an original sketch by the legendary designer Gérald Genta. To celebrate their 50th anniversary as part of the Seiko group, Credor has reissued the Locomotive. Featuring a 38.8mm x 8.9mm titanium soft hexagonal case and bezel, with hexagonal Allan screws, this is still in keeping with its predecessor.
The crown is positioned at 4 o’clock and the watch is rated for 100m of water resistance. Its shimmering textured dial is inspired by a steam locomotive boasting around 1600 lines radiating from its centre. You can’t help but notice the Genta DNA in this watch. Even the tapered bracelet looks somehow familiar, although touted as “integrated”. It joins the case in a single central connection and has a modern push-button butterfly clasp.
With a polished case, integrated bracelet, and distinctive screws on the case top, the Locomotive exudes Genta’s unmistakable influence. Priced at around £12,000.00, it offers considerable value for a piece with such a rich heritage.
Bamford X Neprosolar: A Bold Collaboration
Photo Credit – Bamford London
My penultimate of my top 5 70s inspired watches is from Bamford London. George Bamford has long championed Nepro watches, renowned for their distinctive 70s designs that often pushed the boundaries of conventional watchmaking. The upcoming Bamford X Neprosolar continues this legacy with an angular, oblique case that harkens back to those bold, brutish designs. This forgotten concept watch has been reawakened and given the full GB treatment.
The Neprosolar was originally introduced in 1976 at the Basel Watch Fair, as a solid-state quartz electronic prototype, powered by high-tech solar cells that transform light into energy. Back then it had an LED display, however, the concept watch eventually faded into their archives.
The watch’s top section features a solar panel, capable of powering the internal battery for up to 500 days. With a black PVD case, signature Bamford blue model inscription, and a digital time and date display at the press of a button, this limited edition is available for a seven-day window at £699.00—a fair price for such a striking watch.
Photo Credit – Bamford London
Amida Digitrend: A Retro-Futuristic Marvel
Finally, in my top 5 70s inspired watches, the Amida Digitrend captures the spirit of the 70s with its unique design. The 39.6mm x 39mm x 15.6mm sloping, curved satin-finished case features an oval dashboard-style display window on its edge, typical of a driving watch. This is reminiscent of the Girard Perregaux Casquette and others around that time. Unlike the traditional LCD displays of its era, the Digitrend employs a mechanical jumping hour for the hours and minutes.
The display utilises an LRD (Light ReflectingDisplay), a prism-shaped sapphire crystal, that optically flips the horizontal discs through 90′ to the viewing windows. The undeniable automotive car shape case is clearly from the 70s era, as is the orange used in the display. There is also a porthole in the case back to view the beating regulator.
The original Digitrend debuted in the mid-1970s with a futuristic vibe, and this new iteration, powered by a robust Soprod movement, retains its distinctive case design. Priced at around £2,500.00, it’s a bold choice for those daring enough to wear it.
Photo Credit – Amida Timepieces
Photo Credit – Amida Timepieces
My Thoughts
In the world of horology, the 1970s continue to be a wellspring of inspiration. With their daring designs, bold colours, and inventive spirit, watches from this era captured the essence of a time that celebrated individuality and innovation. Today’s reissues and reinterpretations pay homage to that vibrant decade, blending retro aesthetics with modern craftsmanship.
“Drawn to the disco dazzle or the rugged resilience of 70s inspired watches? These watches seamlessly blend nostalgia with modern flair. Embracing these timeless designs reminds us that true classics don’t fade—they only grow more captivating with time.”
The resurgence of 70s inspired watches with retro designs is heartwarming, reminding us of a time when watch brands were unafraid to innovate and push the envelope. Whether these watches will continue to captivate future generations remains to be seen, but the joy of wearing such classic pieces today is a reward in itself. Writing this Top 5 70s Inspired Watches reminded me of how much I like them and how these designs have influenced many others we see today.
For More Watch Brother articles – Click HERE
You might also like
Leave A Reply