If you love cars, there’s a good chance you like watches, too (or vice versa). Both appeal to the mechanically inclined, and once upon a time, a wristwatch was actually an essential tool in motorsport. This is something modern watch brands will capitalize on, usually through co-branding deals or reissues of once-iconic racing chronographs. Some are great, while others miss the mark. But consistently, the vintage timepieces with a direct link to cars do not fail to disappoint; that’s where these three, relatively obtainable vintage watches come in.
Eberhard & Co. Cal 262-1
What we like: Yes, the car and watch co-branding schtick is actually a pretty old one, but this Fiat-branded Eberhard shows that at least some vintage pieces are pretty charming. That’s partially because the classic Fiat logo looks weirdly at home on this super clean-looking, cream-and-gold timepiece.
From the seller: Fantastic original condition overall with minor honest wear consistent with age and light use; solid stainless steel case appears to be unpolished with razor-sharp edges and bevels. Original co-branded dial with crisp printing throughout and attractive rose gold-tone accents.
Yema Rallye “Andretti”
What we like: Though it’s less remembered, like the Heuers and Rolex Daytonas of its day, the Yema Rallye was a chronograph made for racing. And like those chronographs, this model was worn by one of the top drivers of the era, Mario Andretti. Given that prices for Heuers and Daytonas have skyrocketed, a bit more than three grand isn’t as bad a price to pay for a piece of racing history.
From the seller: Original dial in excellent condition. Movement working at present. Case is in very good condition, with some scratches due to general use.
