Watch Madness 2019: The Final Four

The madness is just about to come to a close. We’re down to the final watches before we announce the big winners. Which watch will reign supreme? Which bracket made the right predictions to score a $1500 credit? The anticipation is killing us! But, before Watch Madness 2019 is over, we still have time to celebrate the watches that remain in the race. Rolex has been dominating the competition so far, but will they come out on top? The odds are in their favor, but if anyone could beat out Rolex, it’d be OMEGA. Here, we’ll take one final look at those left standing.

OMEGA Speedmaster

Omega first debuted the Speedmaster in 1957 as a racing chronograph. However, fans of the Speedy know it went on to be much more than just another sports watch. A few years after its initial release, NASA put the Speedmaster to the test. The Speedy came out on top, destroying its competition and becoming the official watch of the space program. By 1969, the model had solidified its place in history. That year, it became the first watch to set foot on the moon. Ever since, OMEGA has continued to work closely with NASA to refine the Speedmaster. While its design has remained largely unchanged, its technical capabilities have enhanced. For example, some of the latest incarnations of the iconic model boast Master Chronometer certification from METAS.

Rolex Daytona

Rolex first started developing a line of mechanical chronographs in the 1930s. However, many consider the Daytona to be the brand’s first official collection of chronographs. The Daytona has been one of Rolex’s most popular sport models since it launched in 1963. Over the years, it has evolved exponentially. It ranges from the Paul Newman Daytona’s of the 1960’s and 70’s to the latest Rainbow Daytona in everose gold. Models in the collection are available in an assortment of styles, from stainless steel to two-tone and gold to platinum. Inside, the Daytona has also improved over time. The model started out with a manual Valjoux-sourced caliber. Then, Rolex upgraded the collection with the iconic El Primero movement. Finally, in 2000, the Daytona came equipped with an in-house caliber.

Rolex Pepsi GMT

Rolex initially created the GMT Master in collaboration with Pan Am in 1954. The original model featured a two-tone red and blue bezel in the airline’s signature colors. Today, collectors consider this color scheme to be the purist and most iconic combination. However, the colorway is no longer associated with Pan Am. Instead, like many other Rolex models, this GMT has garnered and affectionate nickname. It’s called the “Pepsi” for its resemblance to the soda brand’s famous globe logo. Despite the wide array of color offerings available today, the “Pepsi” continues to be highly coveted. Even with the retirement of the original GMT and the launch of the GMT Master II, the hue remains. Rolex reimagined the red and blue duo in their virtually scratchproof Cerachrom bezel.

 

Rolex Submariner “Hulk”

Similar to models in the GMT family of watches, some of those in the Submariner collection have gained clever monikers. One example is the “Hulk.” Consider what image pops into your mind when you picture the fictional superhero. The Rolex Submariner “Hulk” embodies all those elements. It’s big and bold, with wide lugs and a thick case design. Of course, it wouldn’t be the “Hulk” without the character’s signature green hue. However, the color goes beyond the bezel. With the “Hulk,” Rolex includes the daring green tint on the dial as well. Also like the “Pepsi,” the “Hulk” is one of the most popular iterations of the Submariner.  In fact, it commands a higher premium than the original black Sub.

Which Watch Will Win It All?

Just a few weeks ago, 64 of the most popular watches from your favorite brands entered the Watch Madness tournament. Now, it’s a race to the finish, and only one will win and emerge victorious. Will it be a Rolex model? The brand has been clearing out the competition from the first match, and now they’re on a roll. But, which Rolex model is king? Perhaps Omega will blow Rolex out of the water and swoop in for the big win. We’re down to the final moments of a hard fought battle. We can’t wait to see which watch is the champion and which lucky fan lands the sweet $1500 prize. Stay tuned for the final results!