From race track to wrist: The luxury watches of Formula 1
As the Formula 1 Belgian Grand Prix returns to the legendary Spa-Francorchamps circuit from 24–26 July, motorsport fans are gearing up for one of the most exciting weekends on the racing calendar.
With the championship battle heating up, all eyes will be on whether Oscar Piastri can strengthen his lead at the top of the standings, while teammate Lando Norris will be determined to close the gap.
Meanwhile, reigning world champ Max Verstappen will be hoping to bounce back with a strong result at one of Formula 1’s most iconic circuits.
From the legendary Eau Rouge corner to the famously unpredictable Ardennes weather, Spa is a track where every second counts – something that has always linked Formula 1 with the world of luxury watches.
It’s a relationship that stretches back decades. Through official partnerships, limited-edition collaborations and the timepieces worn by the drivers themselves, Formula 1 has helped shape some of the most recognisable and sought-after luxury watches ever made.
TAG Heuer Carrera
If there’s one watch that perfectly captures the spirit of motorsport, it’s the TAG Heuer Carrera.
First launched in 1963, it’s become one of the most iconic racing chronographs ever made and a fan favourite.
One of the standout modern models for the team here is the Carrera Chronograph Glassbox (reference CBS2216.BA0041). With its beautifully domed crystal and crisp panda-style dial, it pays tribute to the original while offering all the performance you’d expect from a modern TAG Heuer.
Rolex Cosmograph Daytona
No chat about Formula 1 would be complete without the Rolex Cosmograph Daytona.
Although the Daytona was originally designed with endurance racing in mind rather than Formula 1 specifically, it has become one of the most sought-after sports watches in the world.
The current Rolex Cosmograph Daytona (reference 126500LN) continues that legacy. Its black Cerachrom bezel and in-house calibre make it one of the most desirable modern Rolex models, but don’t expect to get anywhere with the waiting lists anytime soon!
IWC Pilot’s Watch Performance
Thanks to its long-running partnership with the Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team, IWC has become a familiar name in the paddock.
The collaboration has introduced the brand to a whole new generation of watch enthusiasts, bringing together Swiss craftsmanship and one of the most successful teams in modern motorsport.
One model that really captures that spirit is the Pilot’s Watch Performance Chronograph 41 (reference IW388309).
With its black ceramic tachymeter bezel, in-house chronograph movement and sporty styling, it’s a watch that’s clearly inspired by speed and precision. While it officially sits within IWC’s Pilot’s collection, its strong links to Mercedes-AMG mean it’s become a firm favourite with Formula 1 fans looking to bring a little racing heritage to their wrist.
Richard Mille RM 67-02
If there’s one brand that’s become almost impossible to separate from modern Formula 1, it’s Richard Mille. Always pushing the boundaries, the brand has become a favourite among some of the sport’s biggest names, including Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc.
Leclerc is often spotted wearing the Richard Mille RM 67-02 Automatic Extra Flat, a watch that’s every bit as impressive as the cars he races. Incredibly lightweight and crafted from advanced materials, it’s designed with performance in mind.
It’s the sort of watch you can almost forget you’re wearing, yet it’s packed with cutting-edge engineering.
Richard Mille has never been afraid to do things differently, and that’s exactly why the brand has become one of the most talked-about names in luxury watchmaking.
More than just sponsorships
The connection between Formula 1 and luxury watches goes far beyond the logos you see around the track. At their heart, both worlds are built on the same principles.
Every component inside a mechanical watch has a job to do, just as every aerodynamic tweak on a Formula 1 car is designed to shave precious milliseconds off a lap time.
As the Belgian Grand Prix gets underway, it’s a great reminder of why motorsport has inspired some of the world’s most iconic timepieces.
Whether you’re drawn to the timeless appeal of the Rolex Daytona, the racing heritage of the TAG Heuer Carrera or the cutting-edge engineering of a Richard Mille, these are watches with stories to tell.
Long after the chequered flag has fallen, they’ll continue to be admired by collectors everywhere.
If you’re looking to add a motorsport icon to your collection, explore our range of pre-owned luxury watches. From classic racing chronographs to modern collector favourites, our team can help you find a watch that’s built to go the distance.