A new Bond meant a new Bond watch: Omega. This simple statement, while factually accurate for the majority of the Daniel Craig era and beyond, ignites a furious debate among watch enthusiasts and Bond aficionados alike. The question of which brand reigns supreme as the "true" Bond watch – Rolex or Omega – is a complex one, steeped in history, marketing, and a hefty dose of personal preference. This article delves into the fascinating history of 007's timepieces, exploring the arguments for both sides, and ultimately concluding that the "true" Bond watch is less about a specific brand and more about the enduring legacy of the character himself.
James Bond Watches Review: A Timeline of Wrist-Worn Espionage
Before we dive into the Rolex versus Omega debate, let's establish a chronological overview of James Bond's watch history. This serves as a crucial foundation for understanding the nuances of the ongoing discussion.
The early Bond films, starring Sean Connery, famously featured a Rolex Submariner 6538. This iconic watch, with its rugged build and understated elegance, became intrinsically linked to the character's image. The Submariner's association with Bond solidified its status as a legendary timepiece, far beyond its practical functionality. Its appearance in *Dr. No* (1962) and *From Russia with Love* (1963) cemented its place in cinematic history and the collective consciousness of watch enthusiasts. The 6538, with its distinctive broad arrow hands and gilt dial, remains highly sought after by collectors today, commanding astronomical prices at auction.
Connery also sported a Rolex Submariner 5510 in *Goldfinger* (1964) and *Thunderball* (1965). This model, while sharing the Submariner's robust design, featured subtle differences that further enrich the timeline of Bond's wristwear. The transition from the 6538 to the 5510 showcases the evolution of both the character and the technology of the time. These early films establish a strong association between Bond and Rolex, a connection that would endure for years to come.
George Lazenby’s brief stint as 007 in *On Her Majesty's Secret Service* (1969) saw him wear a Rolex Submariner 5513, continuing the established tradition. This highlights the consistent brand loyalty (or perhaps, the effective product placement) that defined the early Bond films.
Roger Moore's tenure as 007 brought a slightly more diverse range of watches to the wrist of the iconic spy. While he wore a variety of Rolexes, including the Submariner and a GMT-Master, he also occasionally sported other brands. This period, however, still largely maintains the association of Bond with Rolex.
Timothy Dalton’s portrayal of Bond saw less focus on specific watch brands, with the watches less prominently displayed in the films. This marks a shift in the cinematic portrayal of 007, where the gadgets and action sequences took center stage.
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