Tested: 9 Best Car-Inspired Racing Watches

Although these two items undoubtedly serve different purposes, cars and watches share an inseparable bond dating back to the dawn of the automotive industry.

These items are not only steeped in tradition but are also characterized by complex engineering and thoughtful mechanics, as well as the need to combine form and function. Moreover, for most of motorsport history, watches have been used for timekeeping, establishing an even closer connection between these two sports. It is for these reasons that many car enthusiasts also appreciate exquisite watches. This has led to a wide range of racing watches designed for car and tech enthusiasts, the best of which we present today in this guide to the best car-themed watches for automotive lovers, where we tested our favorites.

Best Racing Watches

How We Tested

When it comes to car-themed watches, their quantity is much less than, say, diver's or pilot's watches. Nevertheless, there are still many models to sift through. Despite our extensive knowledge in this category, we researched the situation before starting the testing. We made a shortlist of candidates based on brand reputation, pedigree (if any), aesthetics, functionality, materials, and strap design. After that, we acquired watches for testing and spent some time with each model to understand how they feel and look on the wrist. Our results are detailed below.

What Are Racing Watches?

Mechanical chronographs and auto racing, emerging around the same time, have been linked together from the very beginning. In 1911, Heuer patented the first chronograph designed for car dashboards, following the growing trend of opening racetracks worldwide. It makes sense that racers and team members would want a device to time their runs and laps, as well as average speed.

This connection grew until the late 60s when the race for the first-ever mechanical chronograph began from companies like Seiko, Zenith, and Heuer (together with Breitling and Hamilton). At that time, auto racing was also gaining popularity, and the chronograph fashion became an integral part of racing culture as a whole.

Chronographs are tool watches, as they feature a unique way of telling time through a sequence of sub-dial registers, typically operated by a pair of pushers on the case's exterior. However, not all chronographs are considered racing watches. As a rule, they are equipped with a tachymeter bezel - a scale used to measure a driver's average speed over a specific distance. And last but not least, racing watches usually have leather straps, often labeled “racing” or “rally.”

And it’s not just limited to cars. There are watches designed for timing yacht races (also known as regatta timers), horse racing, and even cycling races. However, in this guide, we focused on car-themed watches.

What to Look For

• Case: Unlike the frame that holds a car, the watch case serves as the foundation and chassis for the rest of the watch components. Watch cases can be of various shapes, styles, and constructions; however, materials used in motorsport, such as carbon fiber or titanium, are often among the most common.
• Movement: Virtually any car enthusiast will tell you that what’s under the car's hood really matters, and this belief is no less true for motorsport-themed watches and the movements they house. Watches geared towards racers often use mechanical movements, yet there is a vast array of different types of watch movements to be found.
• Dial: Another way some watchmakers establish an even greater connection between watches and cars is by using dials modeled after automotive instruments and gauges. Such aesthetics are quite common in this realm, as are chronograph watch dials with additional sub-dials and tachymeters - scales used for measuring speed over distance.
• Strap: The bracelet or strap of a watch plays a large role in its overall appearance, and since many of these watches aim to create a motorsport-inspired image, quite a few models boast straps that visually resemble classic car interiors. Like tires, a watch strap can be changed at will, allowing the owner to dress up the watch depending on the occasion. Popular are perforated leather straps with small holes or rally straps with larger round holes in dot patterns.
• Motorsport Connection: Although watches are rarely used for timing these days, there are dozens of watches that have a tangible connection with racing teams, specific car manufacturers, iconic races, or legendary racing liveries. And while this factor doesn’t change the watch itself, it gives it a more specific connection to the motorsport world.

Q Timex Reissue 1971 Velocity 36mm

If you want to delve into the world of authentic and affordable retro reissues, check out what Timex is doing with its Q Timex Reissue line. This Velocity model, dedicated to 70s motorsport, is styled after the 1971 Electric model with a trapezoidal date window, sector dial, matte black aluminum tension bezel, and chapter ring inspired by the flag. Not to mention, the white and burgundy color scheme with a bright orange second hand is as attention-grabbing as ever, and the domed acrylic adds even more retro charisma - even if it's not as scratch-resistant as the sapphire glass option, and it shows.

Well-tailored thanks to its 36mm stainless steel case with a lug-to-lug length of 41mm and a thickness of 11.5mm, the 1971 Velocity runs on a hybrid meca-quartz Caliber 377 movement we've seen in Q Timex before. Paired with a black tropical-style rubber strap, the watch presents an interesting mix of vintage diving and retro racing, although it has a much more modest water resistance - just 50m (which is not surprising given the push-pull crown).

• Case Size: 36mm
• Case Material: Stainless Steel
• Movement: Mechanical-Quartz Hybrid

YEMA Rallygraf

The Yema Rallygraf is an attractive yet affordable motorsport-themed watch that significantly outperforms its weight - and MSRP. The Rallygraf is a modern reissue of the original 70s racing chronograph worn by Mario Andretti when the racing legend drove his 700-hp Brawner Hawk MK III to victory at the 1969 Indy 500. The Rallygraf, housed in a 39mm stainless steel case with a black tachymeter bezel and knurled crown with a double ring seal, is powered by a Seiko VK64 quartz movement, a steel mesh strap, and a uniquely designed dial with mirrored trapezoidal sub-dials under a double-domed mineral crystal.

Yema is one of the most unique and affordable meca-quartz chronographs that remains underrated in the watch world. Besides the two-tone trapezoidal registers reminiscent of racing car gauges, the watch offers a lot for its price. The watch fits well in its 39mm diameter case with a 48mm lug-to-lug length, finished to a mirror shine from almost any angle, including the crown and two satisfyingly clicking pushers. To match the racing theme, Yema has equipped the watch with a matching blue rally strap, which is not often seen these days.

• Case Size: 39mm
• Case Material: 316L Stainless Steel
• Movement: Mechanical-Quartz Hybrid

Seiko Prospex Speedtimer SSC911

Despite not having the same reputation as other famous car watches, the Seiko 6139 model was arguably the first automatic chronograph when it debuted in the late 60s and became a favorite of many at the time. The Prospex Speedtimer, powered by the solar Caliber V192, recalls classic models from the 60s and 70s. The modern version is housed in a 41.4mm stainless steel case that feels much smaller than expected.

Despite the brand's claim of “curved sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating on the inner surface,” the crystal has no curves. However, distortion when viewed at an angle makes us think the interior of the sapphire may be concave. We couldn't help but notice the Rolex influence here, but also noted some unique qualities, such as the intense use of brushing on the main case, as well as the overall pusher design. The dial is also timeless.

• Case Size: 41.4mm
• Case Material: Stainless Steel
• Movement: Solar

Autodromo Group B Series 2 Automatic

From 1982 to 1986, Group B rally racing became somewhat of a myth in modern car culture. In 2015, Autodromo paid homage to this infamous category by releasing a minimalist series of watches that reflect the Group B ethos and 80s aesthetics. Available in several striking colors and even a black-and-white variant, the integrated watches feature a 39mm bi-metal case of titanium and stainless steel with industrial elements such as bezel knurling, a hexagonal crown, and bevels around the case.

We love the slim case (no surprise given the integrated bracelet) and flat sapphire crystal with AR coating, under which on a strict “steering wheel and gauge” style dial are thin markers, small Arabic numerals, and a white-yellow hand. A mesmerizing touch – the hands and dial elements glow in different shades of green and blue. The watch runs for 42 hours and is equipped with an automatic Miyota 9015 movement with hacking seconds.

• Case Size: 39mm
• Case Material: Stainless Steel and Titanium
• Movement: Automatic

Hamilton Intra-Matic Auto Chrono

Born out of the iconic race with Seiko and Zenith to become the first automatic chronograph, Hamilton in the late 60s, in collaboration with Heuer and Breitling, created the iconic Heuer Caliber 11 movement. It was used in the 1969 Hamilton Chrono-Matic model, and today its honor is laid on the bi-compax Intra-Matic by the American brand. The 40mm Panda watch, executed in the most traditional style we've ever seen in modern vintage-inspired chronographs, looks incredibly stylish and easily reminds of past models.

We love the classic “panda” color scheme, which pairs well with the chapter ring serving as an inner black tachymeter. The lume here isn't aggressive, but very subtle. The watch, adorned with a black leather strap with a beautiful tan lining and traditional hardware, is equipped with an H-31 automatic chronograph movement based on ETA. Despite the moderate 40mm stainless steel case, the watch is quite thick at 14.45mm, which isn't related to the flat sapphire on top; essentially, it will be harder to wear on smaller wrists.

• Case Size: 40mm
• Case Material: Stainless Steel
• Movement: Automatic Chronograph

Tissot Heritage 1973

The aptly named Heritage 1973 chronograph is housed in an oval 316L stainless steel case modeled after one of Tissot's 1973 chronographs and has undeniable motorsport influences. At the heart of the Tissot Heritage 1973 lies the Swiss automatic Valjoux A05.H31 movement with 27 jewels and a 60-hour power reserve. The watch features a panda-shaped dial with a tachymeter and comes with a breathable leather rally strap, inspired by vintage racing car steering wheels.

While Tissot may not be the first name that comes to mind when it comes to automotive pedigree, the Swiss brand has partnered with and sponsored races over the years. The Heritage 1973 model is an ode to the collaboration with the Kessel Classics F1 racing team, reminiscent of iconic Tissot chronographs like the Navigator. Debuting in 2020, these watches added a third sub-register (the Navigator had only two) and added blue to break up the black color scheme. With a diameter of 43mm and a thickness of 14.8mm, these hefty watches sit quite high on the wrist but draw attention with their beautiful tonneau-shaped case.

• Case Size: 43mm
• Case Material: 316L Stainless Steel
• Movement: Automatic

TAG Heuer Monaco

The original square-cased chronograph worn by Steve McQueen in the 1971 film “Le Mans,” the TAG Heuer Monaco is an incredibly iconic motorsport watch and the world's first square and waterproof chronograph. And despite more than half a century having passed since it graced the wrist of the King of Cool, the Monaco remains an icon of watchmaking. The 39mm case of the watch, made of stainless steel and equipped with a crown located to the left of the pair of chronograph pushers, contains the Swiss-made automatic Calibre 11 movement.

Some of the most unique watches that still exist today, the Monaco remains as legendary as ever, and not just because of its history. Even new models are in high demand by fans and collectors, both new and old. Retaining mid-century style, this modern model is an exact reproduction of the original. Unlike the original, this version is equipped with a right-side crown and the automatic Heuer 02 movement, debuting in 2016. The case with two smooth curves on the sides doesn't seem all that thick, but at 15.21mm it's quite large, although this is partly explained by the presence of high-bezel sapphire glass. It's also important to note that TAG Heuer has taken some liberties with the bracelet: it now looks more modern than the watch itself, but doesn't lose the overall design.

• Case Size: 39mm
• Case Material: Stainless Steel
• Movement: Automatic

Breitling Top Time B01 Deus

Breitling's Top Time is an authentic vintage-style chronograph that exists in several versions - all thanks to limited collaborations. Regardless of the version, the Top Time features a 41mm stainless steel case housing Breitling's in-house B01 automatic movement. The Top Time series includes additional models such as the Ford Mustang and Chevrolet Corvette, as well as collaborations with lesser-known names like the world-famous motorcycle brand and custom motorcycle shop Deus Ex Machina.

In these Top Time B01 Deus watches, one of the most fun moto watch collaborations, Breitling's automotive roots combine with Deus' modern success in the motorcycle industry, creating a super sporty chronograph. This reverse-panda model simply exudes energy. We love the trio of rounded square sub-registers, although the lightning bolt second hand seems a bit much (though we like the red color). Given the 50.3mm lug-to-lug and 13.3mm thickness, the watch looks quite modest on the wrist. As for the rally strap, it's one of the most energetic samples we've seen, with a bright yellow inner lining and a velvety smooth surface.

• Case Size: 41mm
• Case Material: Stainless Steel
• Movement: Automatic

Porsche Design Chronograph 1

In the 70s, Ferdinand Alexander Porsche - the grandson of Ferdinand Porsche - left to create his own eponymous brand. First introduced in 1972, the Porsche Design Chronograph 1 remains an icon of watchmaking that only gets better with time. The modern version of Chrono 1 is executed in full black, featuring an enlarged 40.8mm titanium case with a black titanium carbide coating and a matching black titanium bracelet with a titanium clasp. The chronograph is equipped with a COSC-certified 25-jewel Porsche Design WERK 01.140 movement with a 48-hour power reserve, 28,800 BPH, and a signature rotor design - albeit with black chrome plating.

You won’t see any (good) watches created by real car companies, but this model is the best there can be. Limited to 1,000 pieces, this All Black Numbered Edition from 2022 slightly differs from its predecessors, including the use of titanium (instead of steel) and bead-blasted coating (instead of PVD). The larger 40.8mm case (up from 38mm) doesn't greatly change the look, but it's worth mentioning, especially since it means increasing the thickness to 14.15mm (from 12.5mm). Nonetheless, the watch is lightweight - just 4.7 ounces. We particularly like the titanium bracelet, which facilitates micro-adjustments thanks to double screw pins. This bracelet uses one of the fastest quick-release mechanisms, which is ridiculously easy to use.

• Case Size: 40.8mm
• Case Material: Black Titanium with Titanium Carbide Coating
• Movement: Automatic

Honorable Mentions

We couldn’t get our hands on perhaps the two most iconic racing watches ever created, but we felt we couldn’t leave them unmentioned out of respect for both.

Although originally designed for use on the racetrack, the Omega Speedmaster became the first watch worn on the Moon in 1969 and has since been worn on astronauts' wrists during lunar missions more than any other watch on Earth (or beyond). The modern version - the Omega Speedmaster Racing - pays homage to its racing heritage by adorning its dial with a checkered flag and a black ceramic bezel. Inside the case is the automatic chronograph Calibre Omega 9900 with a column wheel and Co-Axial escapement, as well as a 60-hour power reserve and rhodium plating with Geneva waves in arabesque.

First appearing on the market in 1963, the Rolex Cosmograph Daytona is almost certainly the most iconic chronograph ever created. Modern versions of the world-renowned Swiss-made chronograph typically feature Oystersteel cases paired with matching Oystersteel bracelets. However, the latest version of these watches looks far from outdated and boasts plenty of echoes of the original 1960s model, including a black bezel and molded tachymetric scale. The watch is equipped with the automatic chronograph Calibre 4130 with a Parachrom hairspring that provides shock resistance and protection from temperature fluctuations. Apart from being simply stunning, the Rolex Cosmograph Daytona is also an excellent investment.