A piece of technology, like our modern-day wristwatch, hasn’t always measured time. The origins of timekeeping are traceable back to a time long before precision mechanics. A time when we looked to the sun and moon and seasonal cycles to measure the passage of time. Then came the first depictions of calendars and later the sundial—the first measurement of hours in a day and the precursor to the watch as we know it.
When we think of time today, we look to our wrist instead of the sky. Still, countless watchmakers continue to take inspiration from the astronomical foundation of timekeeping. Pocket watches featuring astronomical functions first appeared during the Renaissance—they depicted celestial elements from phases of the moon to signs of the zodiac. Today, these same types of astronomical functions as well as more complex ones are found in some of the most complicated wristwatches in the world.
So, we decided to give into the cosmic roots of timekeeping and look to the universe to predict which watches would best align with the zodiac signs. Keep reading to see which model is in the stars for you.
The ram represents Aries – a fire sign. They are leaders, rulers, and loyal companions. Aries are often admired by those around them and enjoy being in command. When thinking about leaders in the watch world with a steadfast, proven history, Rolex immediately comes to mind. The Oyster Perpetual embodies the strong and steady Aries spirit. When they developed the patented system in 1926 as the first water resistant case, it became the building block for all the Rolex watches that would come after it.
The bull represents Taurus – an earth sign. They try to take meticulous care in acting thoughtfully and deliberately in everything they do. Yet Taurus’s also have a gentler side and an uncanny ability to make those around them feel special and appreciated. The IWC Da Vinci perfectly represents the balance of strength and softness of the Taurus. The collection pays homage to the legendary Leonardo Da Vinci, who was equal parts scientist and artist, inventor and creator.
In the zodiac, the twins represent Gemini – an air sign. As their depiction indicates, duality defines Geminis. They’re intense but intriguing, confident yet charming. When contemplating which watch best personifies the Gemini’s character, none seems more fitting than the Jaeger LeCoultre Reverso. The iconic Reverso has a revolutionary reversible case, one side being the robust protector and the other being a delicate timekeeper.
The crab represents Cancer – a water sign. They aim to be gentle but fearless leaders. Cancers can be bold innovators yet tender and even romantic. They try to acclimate to their surroundings, ever-changing but reliable, much like the moon. That’s precisely why the OMEGA Speedmaster Moonwatch is perfect for Cancer. The Speedmaster blazed the trail out of this world and made history on the wrist of Buzz Aldrin as he took his first steps on the moon. Over the years, the model has certainly adapted and evolved to become one of OMEGA’s most prominent watches.
The lion represents Leo – a fire sign. Like the sun, they have an inherent allure that naturally attracts others. Leos tend to gravitate toward the center of the action and enjoy lighting up a room and spreading their energy like wildfire. The Panerai Luminor captures the bright and fiery nature of Leo. The model, characterized by the groundbreaking luminous substance that gives the Luminor its name, has the ability to illuminate even in the darkest conditions.
The virgin represents Virgo – an earth sign. They tend to be all-knowing, reliable, and wise beyond their years. Virgos aim to be independent and stand for themselves. Therefore, they’re typically strong leaders. The Bell & Ross Aviation exemplifies Virgo’s stoic energy. This utilitarian watch is a purpose-built tool for pilots. However, those who enjoy a highly functional and practical timepiece will love it as well. Its unique cockpit inspired design is commanding and distinctive, just like Virgo.
The scales represent Libra – an air sign. They desire to be selfless and loving. Libras try to go out of their way to take care of others, expecting nothing in return, which makes them great companions. Much like Libra, the IWC Pilot is a sturdy confidant. It was first created specifically for practical use by military forces, expecting no adoration for its style or aesthetic. Since IWC added the collection to the permanent catalog, its flourished in many unique forms.
The scorpion represents Scorpio – a water sign. They’re known for their bold disposition and charm. Scorpios can be intense at first, but once you get to know them, they can have a softer side. Their aquatic nature and temperament lend themselves toward the OMEGA Seamaster—a watch with an equally big personality and unmistakable allure. The Seamaster is versatile, like Scorpio. It’s equal parts fashion and function, sport watch and dress watch.
In the zodiac, the archer represents Sagittarius – a fire sign. They’re often the lone wolf, not tied down by expectation or conformity. Moreover, Sagittarius’s tend to be free spirits with an inherently curious nature. The Hublot Big Bang is just the watch a Sagittarius needs to stand out from the crowd. When Carlo Crocco conceptualized Hublot, he had a distinct vision that failed at first, but he persisted. He stayed true to his concept for an unconventional porthole-shaped case and rubber strap. The result was the Big Bang, a revolution in watchmaking.
The mountain goat represents Capricorn – an earth sign. They’re often characterized by an insatiable thirst for knowledge. Capricorns are known for reaching new heights and being capable of great things. Their adventurous personality suits none other than the Rolex Explorer. The Explorer was one of the first watches to reach the peak of Mount Everest in 1953. As the name indicates, the model took inspiration from thrill seekers who aim to push boundaries.
In the zodiac, the water bearer represents Aquarius – an air sign. They’re known for their unique, intriguing, and colorful personalities. Aquarius’s tend to live for themselves, not caring what others think. Such a bright, bold, and distinctive personality needs an equally matched watch: the Franck Muller Conquistador. Franck Muller, known for their personality-inspired, one-of-a-kind whimsical style produce their watches in limited quantities, making them particularly special.
Last, but not least, Pisces. The fish represents Pisces – a water sign. They can tend to be dreamers, approaching life through rose-colored glasses. Pisces’s undoubtedly optimistic approach keeps them constantly seeking ways to make a difference. The idealist in Pisces needs a watch that proves the unimaginable is possible, like the OMEGA Constellation Co-Axial. The co-axial escapement, invented in 1974, was the first practical new watch movement to be created in over 250 years. It revolutionized modern watchmaking.
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