What Watches Do Watchmakers Wear?

It's a fascinating paradox: the artisans who design, assemble, and repair luxury watches often favor timepieces that are starkly different from the ones they create for others. Imagine spending hours perfecting the intricate movements of a Rolex or a Patek Philippe, only to strap on a modest Seiko or a vintage Omega at the end of the day. The choices made by watchmakers reveal their deep appreciation for craftsmanship, reliability, and functionality—often in a way that the untrained eye might overlook.

1. The Unseen Preferences of Watchmakers

Before diving into specific brands and models, it's crucial to understand the underlying philosophy that guides watchmakers in their personal choices. Unlike most consumers who may be drawn to a watch's aesthetic appeal or brand prestige, watchmakers prioritize technical mastery and historical significance. Their watches are not just accessories but tools, reminders of the industry’s storied history, and symbols of personal identity.

2. Surprising Choices: Tool Watches Over Luxury

The majority of watchmakers lean towards tool watches—rugged, reliable timepieces that prioritize functionality over form. Brands like Seiko, Omega, and Sinn often top their lists. The Seiko SKX007, for example, is a favorite among many, thanks to its robust design and reliable movement. These are watches that can withstand the demands of daily life in a workshop, where bumps, scratches, and exposure to dust and oils are part of the norm.

In contrast, you might find a watchmaker meticulously assembling a high-end Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Ultra Thin during work hours but wearing a vintage Casio G-Shock outside the atelier. Why? Because, at the end of the day, it's not about the price tag but the practicality and sentimental value.

3. Emotional Attachments and Vintage Selections

Many watchmakers have a strong emotional connection to their watches. It’s not uncommon for them to wear vintage pieces that have been passed down through generations or those they’ve personally restored. A restored Omega Speedmaster or a vintage IWC might be more cherished than a brand-new luxury piece, as these watches often come with stories that connect them to the past.

4. The Appeal of Independent Brands

Interestingly, some watchmakers gravitate towards independent brands. Timepieces from Nomos Glashütte, F.P. Journe, and MB&F offer a unique combination of innovative design and mechanical brilliance, aligning closely with the artisanal spirit that drives the watchmaking community. Wearing a watch from an independent maker is often a statement of solidarity and appreciation for horological craftsmanship beyond the mainstream.

5. The Role of Sentimentality

Beyond professional preferences, there's a personal side to the watches chosen by watchmakers. A family heirloom, such as a 1960s Rolex Submariner passed down from a father or mentor, might hold more value than any modern marvel. These watches serve as daily reminders of the personal journey each watchmaker has taken to master their craft.

6. Watchmakers and Their Work Watches: A Symbolic Bond

The connection between a watchmaker and their preferred timepiece often goes beyond practicality and comfort. It’s a symbolic relationship. For instance, an Omega Seamaster might remind its wearer of the first movement they ever serviced, while a Grand Seiko could be a nod to the meticulous finishing techniques they strive to master.

7. What This Means for the Watch Industry

The choices made by watchmakers can have a ripple effect on the broader market. When those in the know choose certain brands or models, it can lend a certain credibility or desirability to those pieces. For collectors and enthusiasts, knowing that a particular model is favored by professionals can be a strong endorsement of its quality and durability.

8. Conclusion: A Matter of Personal Philosophy

Ultimately, the watches that watchmakers wear reflect their unique perspective on the industry. They’re a blend of practicality, sentiment, and respect for horological history. Whether it’s a Seiko SKX or a vintage Omega Speedmaster, these watches are chosen not for the statement they make to the world but for the satisfaction they bring to their wearer. For those who spend their lives creating and caring for watches, what’s on their wrist is a deeply personal choice—one that goes far beyond fashion or status.