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Watch Fact of the Day: The ‘Liberty Bell’ Watch: A Symbol of American Independence in Time

Did you know that in 1976, to commemorate the United States Bicentennial, a unique watch was created featuring a miniature, working ‘Liberty Bell’ that would st

📅 Saturday, July 4, 2026

Did you know that in 1976, to commemorate the United States Bicentennial, a unique watch was created featuring a miniature, working ‘Liberty Bell’ that would strike the hours? This highly intricate timepiece was a testament to both American ingenuity and Swiss watchmaking precision, blending patriotic symbolism with horological artistry. It remains a fascinating, albeit lesser-known, piece of watchmaking history tied directly to a pivotal moment for the nation.

NOTE: In Doing Further Research, it appears this was never actually Manufactured, But was indeed an Awesome Concept!

Disclaimer: Every effort has been made to keep these watch facts accurate, but the world of horology is full of myths, disputed stories, and fascinating trivia. Consider these facts a starting point for discovery rather than the final word. If you have corrections or additional insights, let us know—we’re always happy to keep the record ticking in the right direction.

Below is a Render of How it MAY Have looked:

Creating a miniature chiming mechanism small enough to fit inside a wristwatch was an extraordinary engineering challenge. Watchmakers had to carefully design tiny hammers, gongs, and springs that could reliably produce a clear sound without compromising the watch’s accuracy or wearability. These types of complications are among the most difficult to manufacture and are still considered hallmarks of high-end watchmaking today.

The Liberty Bell motif also reflected a growing appreciation for commemorative timepieces during the 1970s. Rather than simply printing a patriotic logo on the dial, designers sought to create a watch that celebrated American history through both its appearance and its function. By incorporating a bell that chimed the hours, the watch paid tribute to one of the nation’s most recognizable symbols in a way that was both mechanical and meaningful.

Today, commemorative watches remain popular with collectors, but few are as distinctive as the Liberty Bell concept. Whether honoring historic anniversaries, space missions, sporting events, or royal milestones, these special-edition timepieces offer a snapshot of history on the wrist. The Liberty Bell watch stands as a reminder that great watchmaking isn’t just about telling time—it’s also about preserving stories, celebrating culture, and marking moments that deserve to be remembered.

Category: Watch History

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Watch Fact of the Day: The ‘Dirty Dozen’: British Army’s Secret WWII Watch Order

During World War II, the British Ministry of Defence commissioned 12 different Swiss watch manufacturers to produce robust, accurate, and waterproof wristwatche

📅 Friday, July 3, 2026

During World War II, the British Ministry of Defence commissioned 12 different Swiss watch manufacturers to produce robust, accurate, and waterproof wristwatches for their soldiers. These watches, known collectively by collectors as the ‘Dirty Dozen,’ each featured a black dial, Arabic numerals, a sub-seconds register, and a specific ‘W.W.W.’ (Wrist Watch Waterproof) engraving on the caseback, making them highly sought after today.

Category: Watch History

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Bulova Precisionist

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Watch Fact of the Day: The ‘Dirty Dozen’: WWII’s Secret Watch Order

During World War II, the British Ministry of Defence tasked 12 Swiss watch manufacturers with creating durable, precise, and waterproof wristwatches for military personnel. These timepieces, characterized by their black dials, Arabic numerals, luminous hands, and minute markers, became known as the ‘Dirty Dozen.’ Due to their historical importance and practical design, they are now highly valued by collectors. For more information on watches, including facts, reviews, and buying guides, visit WatchesAndMore, which also earns from qualifying purchases as an Amazon Associate. Additionally, featured watches include the Bulova Precisionist and Timex Marlin Automatic.

📅 Thursday, July 2, 2026

During World War II, the British Ministry of Defence commissioned 12 Swiss watch manufacturers to produce robust, accurate, and waterproof wristwatches for their soldiers. These watches, featuring a black dial, Arabic numerals, luminous hands, and a railway track minute marker, became known collectively as the ‘Dirty Dozen’ and are highly sought after by collectors today for their historical significance and utilitarian design.

Watch Fact of the Day: The “Dirty Dozen” – WWII’s Secret Watch Order

When people think of famous military watches, names like the Rolex Submariner or Omega Seamaster often come to mind. But one of the most influential military watch programs in history wasn’t built around a single brand—it was a coordinated effort involving twelve Swiss watch manufacturers working together during World War II.

Known today as the “Dirty Dozen,” these watches have become some of the most collectible military timepieces ever produced.

Britain Needed a Better Military Watch

By the early 1940s, the British Army needed a wristwatch that could withstand the harsh realities of combat.

Soldiers required watches that were:

Highly accurate
Easy to read in low light
Resistant to dust and moisture
Durable enough for daily military use
Simple to maintain in the field

Rather than purchasing commercial watches, the British Ministry of Defence (MoD) created a detailed specification for what became known as the W.W.W. (Watch, Wrist, Waterproof) standard.

Only manufacturers capable of meeting these demanding requirements would receive military contracts.

The Twelve Manufacturers

Twelve Swiss companies successfully produced W.W.W. watches for the British military.

They were:

Buren
Cyma
Eterna
Grana
Jaeger-LeCoultre
Lemania
IWC
Longines
Omega
Record
Timor
Vertex

Together they would later earn the nickname “The Dirty Dozen,” inspired by the famous 1967 war film.

Although the nickname didn’t exist during the war, it has become the accepted name among collectors.

Built for War

Despite being made by different manufacturers, every Dirty Dozen watch followed the same military specification.

Common features included:

Black matte dial
Large Arabic numerals
Luminous hands and hour markers
Railroad-style minute track
Small seconds subdial at 6 o’clock
Manual-wind mechanical movement
Stainless steel case
Screw-down or waterproof case construction
Military issue markings engraved on the caseback

This standardized design allowed soldiers to read the time quickly under difficult conditions while ensuring reliability in harsh environments.

Function always came before fashion.

Why They’re So Important

The Dirty Dozen watches helped establish many of the design principles that still define military watches today.

Modern field watches from brands like Hamilton, Marathon, CWC, and even contemporary military-inspired collections from Longines and IWC owe much of their aesthetic to these wartime designs.

Their influence can still be seen in:

High-contrast black dials
Large Arabic numerals
Minimalist layouts
Highly legible hands
Rugged mechanical construction

More than 80 years later, the formula still works.

The Rarest of the Twelve

Not all Dirty Dozen watches are equally common.

Grana produced the fewest examples, making it the rarest and most valuable member of the collection today.

Omega, Cyma, and Record manufactured significantly larger quantities, making them more attainable for collectors.

Completing a full collection of all twelve manufacturers has become one of the ultimate achievements in military watch collecting.

Collecting the Dirty Dozen Today

Original Dirty Dozen watches continue to attract strong interest from collectors around the world.

Values depend heavily on:

Original dial condition
Matching military engravings
Correct movement
Original hands and crown
Service history
Overall originality

A complete set of all twelve watches can command substantial prices at auction, while individual examples remain highly collectible due to their historical importance.

A Legacy That Lives On

The Dirty Dozen wasn’t created as a luxury collection or a marketing campaign.

These watches were purpose-built tools designed to help soldiers survive one of history’s largest conflicts.

Ironically, their clean, functional design has made them timeless icons that continue to inspire modern watchmakers decades later.

Their story reminds us that some of the world’s most celebrated watches weren’t born in boardrooms—they were forged by necessity.

Did You Know?

The term “Dirty Dozen” was never used during World War II. It was adopted years later by collectors, inspired by the classic 1967 war movie The Dirty Dozen. Today, the nickname is recognized worldwide as one of the most legendary chapters in military watch history.

Category: Watch History

Disclaimer: Every effort has been made to keep these watch facts accurate, but the world of horology is full of myths, disputed stories, and fascinating trivia. Consider these facts a starting point for discovery rather than the final word. If you have corrections or additional insights, let us know—we’re always happy to keep the record ticking in the right direction.

🕐 Discover more watch facts, reviews, and buying guides at WatchesAndMore

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Watch Fact of the Day: The ‘Dirty Dozen’: WWII’s Secret Watch Order

During World War II, the British Ministry of Defense commissioned 12 different Swiss watch manufacturers to produce robust, accurate, and waterproof wristwatche

📅 Wednesday, July 1, 2026

During World War II, the British Ministry of Defense commissioned 12 different Swiss watch manufacturers to produce robust, accurate, and waterproof wristwatches for their soldiers. These watches, known collectively as the ‘Dirty Dozen,’ were built to strict specifications, featuring black dials, Arabic numerals, luminous hands, and a railway track minute marker, becoming highly sought-after collector’s items today.

Category: Watch History

🕐 Discover more watch facts, reviews, and buying guides at WatchesAndMore

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As an Amazon Associate and affiliate partner, WatchesAndMore earns from qualifying purchases.

Bulova Precisionist

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★★★★★ 4.6 (1,100 reviews)

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Browse all 75+ expert-reviewed watches →

From the Streets to the Runway: G-Shock’s Impact on Streetwear Fashion

Explore how a utilitarian digital watch became the ultimate symbol of street style, hip-hop culture, and urban fashion. From skate parks to fashion runways.

When Casio engineer Kikuo Ibe designed the first G-Shock in 1983, he was solving a practical problem: creating a watch that wouldn’t break when dropped. He couldn’t have predicted that his indestructible timepiece would become one of the most influential fashion accessories of the past four decades, transcending its tool watch origins to become a genuine cultural icon embraced by everyone from skateboarders to luxury fashion designers.

Hip-Hop’s Adoption

G-Shock’s journey into fashion began in the late 1980s and early 1990s when hip-hop artists discovered the watches. The oversized, bold designs perfectly complemented the era’s aesthetic of excess and authenticity. Artists like N.W.A., Public Enemy, and later Jay-Z were photographed wearing G-Shocks, cementing the watch’s status as a symbol of street credibility. Unlike luxury watches that signaled wealth, G-Shock represented authenticity—a tool watch that worked, worn by people who did real things.

Skate Culture Connection

Simultaneously, G-Shock found a home in skate culture. Skateboarders needed watches that could survive repeated impacts, and G-Shock delivered. The watches became as essential as skate shoes and decks. This grassroots adoption by skaters—who were simultaneously influencing mainstream fashion—helped propel G-Shock from niche tool watch to cultural phenomenon. Collaborations with skate brands like Thrasher and Supreme further solidified this connection.

High Fashion Embraces G-Shock

The 2010s saw something remarkable: luxury fashion houses began collaborating with G-Shock. Brands like A Bathing Ape (BAPE), Stüssy, and even high-end designers created limited-edition G-Shocks that sold out instantly. These collaborations validated what streetwear enthusiasts had known for decades—G-Shock’s design language was genuinely compelling. The watches appeared on fashion runways, in Vogue editorials, and on the wrists of fashion influencers. G-Shock had completed its journey from tool watch to fashion statement.

The Democratization of Style

What makes G-Shock’s fashion impact unique is its accessibility. While luxury watches create exclusivity through price, G-Shock creates inclusivity through availability. Anyone can afford a G-Shock, yet wearing one carries genuine style credibility. This democratization of fashion—where a $100 watch can be as stylish as a $10,000 one—represents a fundamental shift in how we think about fashion. G-Shock proved that good design, authenticity, and functionality matter more than price tags.

G-Shock’s impact on streetwear and fashion extends far beyond watches. It demonstrated that utilitarian design could be beautiful, that tool watches could be fashion statements, and that authenticity resonates more than luxury. Today, G-Shock occupies a unique space: simultaneously a serious tool watch for professionals and a fashion accessory for style-conscious individuals. This duality—functional yet fashionable, affordable yet desirable—is G-Shock’s greatest achievement and the reason it remains relevant four decades after its creation.

Tissot Gentleman Powermatic 80 Review: The Swiss Automatic That Punches Way Above Its Price

At $950, the Tissot Gentleman Powermatic 80 delivers 80 hours of power reserve, a sapphire crystal, and Swiss automatic movement. Is it the best value Swiss dress watch you can buy?

The question of whether the Tissot Gentleman Powermatic 80 is a ‘giant killer’ is one that gets asked repeatedly in watch enthusiast circles. The answer, after spending time with it, is: yes — with some important caveats. At $950, it sits at the entry point of the Swiss luxury watch market, and it delivers specifications that would cost significantly more from brands like Longines, Certina, or Hamilton. The 80-hour power reserve alone is a genuine differentiator.

What Is the Tissot Gentleman Powermatic 80?

The Gentleman is Tissot’s flagship dress watch — a 40mm automatic with a clean, versatile dial design that works equally well with a suit and with jeans. The Powermatic 80 designation refers to the movement inside: the ETA C07.111, a Swiss-made automatic calibre with an 80-hour power reserve. This is the same movement family used across the Swatch Group’s mid-range brands, including Longines and Hamilton.

The current generation (T127.407) is available in multiple dial colours: blue, silver, and black are the most popular. The blue dial with stainless steel bracelet is the definitive configuration — it is the version that most often appears in ‘best dress watches under $1,000’ roundups.

Key Specifications

| Specification | Detail |

| Case Size | 40mm diameter |

| Case Material | Stainless steel |

| Movement | Powermatic 80 (ETA C07.111) |

| Water Resistance | 100m |

| Crystal | Sapphire (anti-reflective coating) |

| Strap/Bracelet | Stainless steel bracelet |

| Lug Width | 21mm |

| Power Reserve | 80 hours |

| Accuracy | ±4 seconds per day |

The 21mm lug width is the one specification that gives some buyers pause — aftermarket straps in 21mm are less common than 20mm or 22mm. Tissot sells official straps for the Gentleman, but third-party options are more limited.

The Powermatic 80 Movement: Why 80 Hours Matters

The standard power reserve for most automatic watches is 38-42 hours. This means that if you take the watch off on Friday evening, it will have stopped by Sunday morning. The Powermatic 80’s 80-hour reserve changes this calculus entirely — you can take it off Friday evening and it will still be running Monday morning.

For a dress watch that might only be worn on weekdays, this is a genuinely practical advantage. You do not need a watch winder, and you do not need to reset the time and date every Monday. The watch is simply ready when you are.

The movement also features a silicon balance spring, which makes it more resistant to magnetic fields than traditional steel springs. This is increasingly relevant in a world full of electronic devices.

Check the current price on Amazon →

Design: Versatile, Not Boring

The Gentleman’s design philosophy is restraint. The dial is clean — applied indices, simple hands, date window at 3 o’clock. There is nothing superfluous. This is not a watch that demands attention; it is a watch that rewards close inspection.

The 40mm case is the ideal size for a dress watch — large enough to be noticed, small enough to disappear under a shirt cuff. The brushed and polished finishing on the case and bracelet is executed to a standard that exceeds what you typically find at this price point. The sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating gives the dial excellent legibility in all lighting conditions.

The blue dial variant has a subtle sunburst finish that catches the light differently throughout the day. It is one of the most visually interesting dials available under $1,000.

How It Compares to the Competition

The Gentleman’s direct competitors are the Hamilton Jazzmaster Viewmatic, the Longines Record, and the Certina DS-1 Powermatic 80.

| Price | ~$950 | ~$795 | ~$2,100 |

| Movement | Powermatic 80 | ETA 2824 | L888.4 |

| Water Resistance | 100m | 50m | 30m |

| Case Size | 40mm | 42mm | 40mm |

The Gentleman wins on power reserve versus the Hamilton and on price versus the Longines. The Hamilton is a strong alternative if you prefer a slightly larger case and a more classic aesthetic.

Check Price on Amazon.com — Tissot Gentleman →

Who Should Buy the Tissot Gentleman Powermatic 80?

The Gentleman is the right watch for someone who wants a genuine Swiss automatic dress watch without paying luxury watch prices.

**Buy the Gentleman if you:**

– Want a Swiss-made automatic dress watch under $1,000

– Value the 80-hour power reserve for weekend storage

– Want sapphire crystal and anti-reflective coating

– Need a versatile watch that works for business and casual occasions

**Consider alternatives if you:**

– Have a budget under $500 (look at Seiko Presage or Orient Bambino)

– Want a sport watch rather than a dress watch (look at Seiko Prospex or G-Shock)

– Need a larger case (look at Hamilton Jazzmaster at 42mm)

The Tissot Gentleman Powermatic 80 is one of the best value propositions in Swiss watchmaking. An 80-hour power reserve, sapphire crystal, and Swiss automatic movement for under $1,000 — this is a watch that genuinely punches above its weight class. If you are ready to step into Swiss automatic territory, the Gentleman is the place to start.

Check the current price on Amazon.ca

Not sure if a dress watch is right for you? Try our Watch Advisor for personalized recommendations.

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Citizen Brycen Eco-Drive Chronograph Review: Solar Power Meets Dress Watch Sophistication

The Citizen Brycen packs a solar-powered chronograph, perpetual calendar, and 100m water resistance into a refined package — and never needs a battery. Is it the ultimate set-and-forget dress watch?

There is a specific type of watch buyer who wants it all: the elegance of a dress watch, the utility of a chronograph, the practicality of never changing a battery, and the confidence of 100m water resistance. The Citizen Brycen Eco-Drive Chronograph exists for exactly that person. At around $439, it is not a budget watch — but measured against what it delivers, it represents exceptional value in the solar-powered dress chronograph category.

What Is the Citizen Brycen?

The Brycen is part of Citizen’s Eco-Drive lineup — the brand’s proprietary light-powered technology that converts any light source (natural or artificial) into electrical energy stored in a rechargeable cell. The result is a watch that, under normal wearing conditions, never needs a battery replacement. The Brycen specifically targets the dress-sport crossover market: it has the proportions and dial layout of a business watch, but the functionality of a serious chronograph.

The model designation BL5400-52E is the flagship variant, featuring a blue dial with rose gold-tone accents and a stainless steel bracelet. The 48mm case is large by dress watch standards, but the slim profile keeps it from feeling overwhelming on the wrist.

Key Specifications

| Specification | Detail |

|—|—|

| Case Size | 48mm diameter |

| Case Material | Stainless steel |

| Movement | Eco-Drive (solar quartz) |

| Water Resistance | 100m |

| Crystal | Mineral |

| Strap/Bracelet | Stainless steel bracelet |

| Functions | Chronograph, perpetual calendar, date, day, 24-hour indicator |

| Power Reserve | 6 months in the dark when fully charged |

The perpetual calendar is worth highlighting. The Brycen automatically accounts for month lengths and leap years — you set it once and it stays accurate indefinitely. Combined with Eco-Drive, this is genuinely a watch you can put on and forget about.

Eco-Drive: The Technology That Changes Everything

Citizen’s Eco-Drive technology has been refined over decades and is now one of the most reliable light-powered systems in watchmaking. The Brycen’s cell charges from any light source — indoor fluorescent lighting is sufficient for normal daily charging. A full charge provides approximately 6 months of power reserve in complete darkness, meaning even if you store the watch for extended periods, it will still be running when you pick it up.

For a dress watch that might spend time in a drawer between formal occasions, this is a significant practical advantage over a standard quartz watch that could have a dead battery waiting for you. It is also an environmental argument — no battery waste over the lifetime of the watch.

[Check the current price on Amazon →](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002NEFI4E?tag=ijgprojects06-20)

Chronograph Functions and Usability

The Brycen’s chronograph measures elapsed time with a central seconds hand and sub-dials for minutes and hours. The pushers are well-positioned and have a satisfying click. The layout is legible, with the chronograph sub-dials clearly differentiated from the running time display.

The perpetual calendar complication adds day, date, and month displays. The 24-hour sub-dial is useful for tracking a second time zone or distinguishing AM from PM at a glance. For a watch at this price point, the feature set is genuinely impressive — comparable to pieces costing two or three times as much from Swiss brands.

Design and Wearability

The Brycen’s 48mm case is the most common point of hesitation for potential buyers. In practice, the slim case height and the way the lugs curve down to the wrist make it wear smaller than the diameter suggests. The blue sunburst dial with rose gold-tone indices and hands is genuinely striking — this is a watch that draws compliments.

The stainless steel bracelet is well-finished with a mix of brushed and polished links. The clasp is secure and easy to operate. One honest criticism: the mineral crystal is less scratch-resistant than sapphire, which is standard on Swiss watches at this price. Citizen uses sapphire on some higher-end Eco-Drive models, but the Brycen uses mineral glass. It is not a dealbreaker, but it is worth noting.

How It Compares to the Competition

The Brycen’s main competitors are the Seiko Solar SSC813 and the Bulova Precisionist chronographs.

|—|—|—|—|

| Price | ~$439 | ~$295 | ~$350 |

| Water Resistance | 100m | 100m | 30m |

| Perpetual Calendar | Yes | No | No |

The Brycen wins on feature set — the perpetual calendar alone justifies the price premium over the SSC813. The Bulova Precisionist offers exceptional accuracy (±10 seconds per year) but lacks solar charging and water resistance depth.

[Check Price on Amazon — Citizen Brycen →](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002NEFI4E?tag=ijgprojects06-20)

[Check Price on Amazon — Seiko Solar SSC813 →](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07KXQXNQK?tag=ijgprojects06-20)

Who Should Buy the Citizen Brycen?

The Brycen is the right watch for someone who wants a sophisticated dress chronograph that is genuinely practical for daily wear. The solar charging eliminates battery anxiety, the perpetual calendar eliminates manual date adjustments, and the 100m water resistance means you never have to take it off.

**Buy the Brycen if you:**

– Want a solar-powered watch that never needs a battery

– Need a chronograph for professional or formal occasions

– Appreciate the perpetual calendar complication

– Want a watch that works as hard as it looks good

**Consider alternatives if you:**

– Prefer mechanical/automatic movements (look at Seiko Presage or Orient)

– Want a smaller case (the 48mm may be too large for some wrists)

– Need sapphire crystal (look at Citizen Promaster or higher-tier Eco-Drive models)

The Citizen Brycen Eco-Drive Chronograph is one of the most complete watches available under $500. Solar charging, perpetual calendar, chronograph, and 100m water resistance in a refined package that works for business and weekends alike. If you want a dress watch that also does everything, the Brycen is the answer.

[Check the current price on Amazon →](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002NEFI4E?tag=ijgprojects06-20)

Not sure which watch is right for you? Try our [Watch Advisor](/watch-finder) for personalised recommendations.

Watch of the Week Archive: Seiko Prospex HBC005 — Japan’s First Dive Watch, Reborn for 2026

Seiko’s 145th anniversary limited-edition Prospex diver. Calibre 6R55, 72-hour power reserve, 1965 heritage design reborn. A watch that will be worth more in five years than it is today.

To mark 145 years since Kintaro Hattori opened his Tokyo clock shop, Seiko has reissued the watch that started it all: the 1965 Prospex diver — Japan’s first purpose-built dive watch. The HBC005 is powered by the Calibre 6R55 with a 72-hour power reserve, features a super-hard coated stainless steel case, a silver-white aluminium rotating bezel with blue accents, and a bracelet with a diver-friendly clasp that adjusts in 2.5mm increments. It was our Watch of the Week for May 2026, and it earned that spot.

Why the HBC005 Is Special

The Seiko Prospex HBC005 is not just another anniversary watch. It is a faithful reissue of the watch that defined Japanese dive watch design — the 1965 Prospex, which was Japan’s first purpose-built dive watch.

The Calibre 6R55 inside is one of Seiko’s finest movements: 24 jewels, upgraded to a 72-hour power reserve in the HBC005. That means you can take it off on Friday evening and pick it up Monday morning and it will still be running. For a mechanical watch, that is exceptional.

The super-hard coating on the stainless steel case makes it significantly more scratch-resistant than standard stainless steel. The silver-white aluminium bezel insert with blue accents is a nod to the original 1965 design, and the bracelet’s 2.5mm micro-adjustment clasp is a practical detail that most watch brands charge $1,000+ to include.

The 145th Anniversary Context

Seiko was founded in 1881 when Kintaro Hattori opened a clock shop in Tokyo’s Ginza district. In 145 years, the company has grown from a small clock retailer to one of the world’s most respected watchmakers — responsible for innovations including the world’s first quartz watch (1969), the world’s first GPS solar watch (2012), and the Spring Drive movement.

The HBC005 is one of a small number of limited-edition pieces released to mark the 145th anniversary. It is not a concept watch or a museum piece — it is a fully functional, daily-wearable dive watch that happens to carry the heritage of 145 years of Japanese watchmaking.

Who Should Buy the HBC005?

The HBC005 is the right watch for:

– **Seiko collectors** who want a piece with genuine historical significance

– **Diver watch enthusiasts** who want a Japan-made automatic diver with a 72-hour power reserve

– **Investors** who recognise that limited-edition Seiko anniversary pieces tend to appreciate in value

– **Watch enthusiasts** who want a watch that can be worn every day but will also be a conversation piece

At $595, it is not a budget watch — but for a Japan-made, limited-edition Seiko Prospex with a 72-hour power reserve, it represents genuine value.

The Seiko Prospex HBC005 was our Watch of the Week for May 2026. It is the rarest thing in watchmaking: a limited-edition anniversary piece that is also genuinely wearable every day. At $595 for a Japan-made, limited-edition Seiko Prospex with a 72-hour power reserve, this is the kind of watch that will be worth more in five years than it is today.

[Check availability on Amazon →](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CXMHK1J4?tag=ijgprojects06-20)

See all our [Watch of the Week picks](/watch-of-the-week-archive) or find your perfect watch with our [Watch Advisor](/watch-finder).

Watch Fact of the Day: The First Waterproof Watch Wasn’t Rolex, But a Pocket Watch!

While Rolex popularized the waterproof wristwatch with the Oyster in 1926, the very first truly waterproof watch was actually a pocket watch. It was patented in

📅 Tuesday, June 30, 2026

While Rolex popularized the waterproof wristwatch with the Oyster in 1926, the very first truly waterproof watch was actually a pocket watch. It was patented in 1891 by François Borgel, a Genevan watch case maker, featuring a screw-down bezel and case back, a design principle still used today. This innovation predated Rolex’s famous Oyster case by 35 years, proving that water resistance was a horological pursuit long before wristwatches became dominant.

Category: Watch History

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🔥 Deal of the Day

Timex Weekender Chronograph

Timex

★★★★★ 4.5 (3,041 reviews)

$79

⏰ Offer expires in:

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Bulova Precisionist

Bulova

★★★★★ 4.6 (1,100 reviews)

$219

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Timex Marlin Automatic 40mm

Timex

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History of G-Shock

https://watchesandmoreco.blog/2026/06/29/the-legend-born-the-complete-history-of-the-g-shock-watch/

🛍️ You Might Also Like

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Britain Needed a Better Military Watch

The Twelve Manufacturers

Built for War

Why They’re So Important

The Rarest of the Twelve

Collecting the Dirty Dozen Today

A Legacy That Lives On

Did You Know?

🛍️ You Might Also Like

Share this:

🛍️ You Might Also Like

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Hip-Hop’s Adoption

Skate Culture Connection

High Fashion Embraces G-Shock

The Democratization of Style

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What Is the Tissot Gentleman Powermatic 80?

Key Specifications

The Powermatic 80 Movement: Why 80 Hours Matters

Design: Versatile, Not Boring

How It Compares to the Competition

Who Should Buy the Tissot Gentleman Powermatic 80?

Share this:

What Is the Citizen Brycen?

Key Specifications

Eco-Drive: The Technology That Changes Everything

Chronograph Functions and Usability

Design and Wearability

How It Compares to the Competition

Who Should Buy the Citizen Brycen?

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Why the HBC005 Is Special

The 145th Anniversary Context

Who Should Buy the HBC005?

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