In Daniel Craig’s debut as James Bond in Casino Royale, he encounters Vesper Lynd, his primary love interest and a complex double agent, who mistakenly assumes he’s just another SAS soldier with “easy smiles and expensive watches.” Noticing his wrist, she asks, “Rolex?” to which Bond coolly replies, “Omega.”
When it comes to iconic movie characters, James Bond stands out not just for his suave demeanor, thrilling adventures, and sophisticated gadgets, but also for his
taste in watches. As Bond’s character has evolved, so has his choice in wristwear.
Before Omega became synonymous with James Bond, several other iconic brands had their moment on 007’s wrist. The most notable of these was Rolex, particularly the Rolex Submariner. Rolex appeared in the very first Bond film, Dr. No (1962), worn by Sean Connery. This association continued for years, with Connery sporting the Submariner in multiple films, including From Russia with Love and Goldfinger.
The Submariner, with its robust build and understated elegance, was the perfect accessory for the gentleman-spy throughout the 1960s and 70s.
However, Rolex wasn’t the only watchmaker featured in Bond’s early years. As the films entered the 1970s and the gadgetry became more sophisticated, Bond’s watches evolved. Starting with Live and Let Die (1973), Roger Moore’s portrayal of Bond introduced a number of new brands. Seiko, a Japanese
manufacturer known for its advanced technology and quartz movements, had a substantial role in Bond films throughout the 1970s and 80s. Seiko watches made appearances in The Spy Who Loved Me (1977), Moonraker (1979), and Octopussy (1983), often equipped with imaginative spy gadgets like communications devices or explosives. Seiko’s run in the Bond franchise lasted from 1977 through 1985, ending with A View to a Kill.
Additionally, Hamilton made a brief appearance in Live and Let Die, with Bond sporting a Pulsar LED watch, marking a futuristic and high-tech moment for the character. While Rolex remained the most iconic of Bond’s earlier watches, the 1970s and 80s saw more diversity in watch brands as the films embraced cuttingedge technology.
In 1995, Pierce Brosnan took over the role of James Bond in GoldenEye, marking the debut of the iconic Omega Seamaster. This wasn’t just a random change; the decision to switch to Omega was rooted in real-world connections. The Seamaster was inspired by Omega’s history of producing watches for the British Royal Navy, including elite divers. Naturally this made it a perfect choice for Bond, who is both a spy and an expert diver.
What makes the Seamaster Diver 300M the ideal choice for both Bond and watch enthusiasts worldwide is its combination of style and performance. The 42mm stainless steel case and iconic wavepatterned ceramic dial is suitable for the demands of a spy while remaining elegant for formal events. With 300-meter water resistance and a helium escape valve, it excels in underwater missions and extreme environments. The unidirectional ceramic bezel features a diving scale in white enamel for easy legibility, while Omega’s Co-Axial Master Chronometer movement ensures precision, antimagnetic resistance, and long-term reliability.
In 2020 Omega created the special 007 Bond Edition Seamaster. Designed in collaboration with Daniel Craig, this watch pays tribute to Bond’s legacy while incorporating unique features that set it apart from other models. It features a 42mm case made from Grade 2 titanium, which ensures durability while keeping the watch lightweight and comfortable. The tropical brown aluminum dial and bezel offer a vintage military aesthetic, while the domed sapphire crystal boosts both style and scratch resistance. The watch is powered by Omega’s Master Chronometer Calibre 8806, which delivers precision with a 55-hour power reserve. The beige “aged” Super-LumiNova on the hour markers and hands offers excellent legibility in low-light conditions, making it perfect for fieldwork or evening wear. Completing the look is a brown and beige NATO strap with a titanium buckle.
The caseback of the 007 Bond Edition Seamaster is rich in symbolism that highlights James Bond’s connection to military service. It features a series of engravings resembling military-issue codes, including ‘0552/923 7697,’ which reference the British Ministry of Defence and diver’s watch classifications. Additionally, the watch showcases a unique serial number and the iconic broad arrow symbol, traditionally used to identify British government property in military contexts. This symbol, visible on both the dial and caseback, signifies Bond’s identity as a British naval officer. The 007 Edition Omega Seamaster is not just a watch—it’s an essential tool for a spy in the field.
Imagine yourself slipping through the shadows of a foreign city, every second counting down to the success of your mission. Your gear? Sleek, discreet, and indispensable. On your wrist, the 007 Edition Omega Seamaster serves as more than just a timekeeper—it’s your silent partner. The lightweight titanium case
allows you to move without a trace, while the tropical brown aluminum dial blends seamlessly with the urban environment. When the lights dim and danger is near, the luminous hands ensure visibility without compromise. Whether you’re dodging laser security systems or diving into deep waters to evade capture, the Seamaster performs flawlessly, combining precision and ruggedness in a package that suits the most sophisticated and daring of agents. For a spy, trust in your tools is paramount—and the 007 Edition Seamaster never misses a beat.
The Seamaster has become more than just a luxury watch; it’s a cultural icon. Collectors and Bond fans alike seek out limited-edition “Bond watches” to own a piece of cinematic history. Omega’s partnership with the film franchise has solidified its connection to Bond’s contemporary narrative, showcasing a watch that balances tradition with modernity, just like the iconic spy himself.
With its legacy secure in both cinematic history and real-world use, the Omega Seamaster leaves only one question: which watch do you think truly embodies the spirit of James Bond? |
GLASHÜTTE ORIGINAL
At Fox & Bailey, we’ve always sought out the finest timepieces for our customers. That’s why we’re proud to introduce Glashütte Original to our collection. This legendary German watchmaker, with a heritage spanning over 175 years, is renowned for its precision engineering and unmatched craftsmanship. Now, you can experience their iconic creations right here in North Carolina.
Founded in 1845 in the small town of Glashütte, Germany, the brand’s origins lie in a government-backed initiative to develop a watchmaking industry that could compete with Swiss craftsmanship. Under the leadership of Ferdinand Adolph Lange, Glashütte became a horological hub, producing watches that rivaled anything made across the border.
The brand has weathered wars, economic challenges, and political shifts, evolving into a world leader in luxury timepieces. After Germany’s reunification, Glashütte Original emerged from state-owned GUB (Glashütter Uhrenbetriebe), reclaiming its place as a key player in high-end watchmaking. Today, it continues to push the boundaries of what handmade timepieces can achieve, using state-ofthe-art technology while honoring its centuries-old heritage.
The Senator Chronometer features a classic design with a large date display at 6 o’clock. It boasts a 40mm stainless steel case and is powered by the inhouse Calibre 36 movement, certified for accuracy by the German Calibration Service.
balance cocks are as much a part of the brand’s identity as the time itself.
iconic brand firsthand. |
The PanoMaticLunar showcases an
These elements, visible through sapphire
TURQUOISE BLUE NORQAIN SKELETON
Whether you’re conquering the outdoors or challenging yourself in the heat of competition, your timepiece should keep up without compromise. The Norqain Wild ONE Independence Skeleton 42mm delivers just that—a watch that combines cutting-edge luxury with utility, designed for those who live life to the fullest.
No matter the season, this watch offers unparalleled comfort, crafted to be both lightweight and durable. Forget about heavy leather or metal straps that weigh you down; the Wild ONE is engineered for adventure. Its innovative design ensures that whether you’re exploring the great outdoors or powering through your daily routine, your watch is as ready as you are.
The Wild ONE Skeleton is not just about function—it’s a stunning piece of craftsmanship. The skeleton dial reveals the intricate inner workings of the watch while keeping the weight to a minimum. Made with proprietary carbon fiber, it is six times lighter than stainless steel and 3.5 times lighter than titanium, without sacrificing strength.
Available in three striking colors— turquoise, coral red, and gecko green— this model is anything but ordinary. These bold hues are reflected not just on the dial but also on the rubber shock absorber and watch hands, bringing a cohesive and dynamic design to life. The sporty colors are inspired by tennis courts—turquoise for hard courts, red for clay, and green for grass—making this watch a favorite among elite athletes like former world No. 3 tennis player Stanislas Wawrinka.
The customization possibilities are endless, with 3.5 million options available for creating your unique version of the Wild ONE. This impressive flexibility is a testament to Norqain’s innovative approach to watchmaking, which has earned the endorsement of industry legend Jean-Claude Biver, former head of watches for LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton. Biver’s collaboration with Norqain has propelled the brand to new heights, blending tradition with a forward-thinking vision.
catching the attention of style icons and athletes alike.
Celebrities like Oscar-nominated actor Mark Wahlberg have been drawn to the Wild ONE, adding it to their collections. Known for his active lifestyle and eye for fine timepieces, Wahlberg was introduced to the Turquoise Skeleton model by Wawrinka himself. The watch even made an appearance on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert—a fitting stage for its sleek, contemporary design.
Not only is the Wild ONE a standout in design and technology, but it also carries the prestige of Swiss craftsmanship. Despite its modern aesthetic, it maintains the meticulous quality associated with Swiss-made watches. It’s a piece that’s already making waves in the watch world,
For those seeking a timepiece that balances luxury with functionality, the Norqain Wild ONE Skeleton 42mm is a worthy contender. Whether on the wrist of an athlete or a collector, this watch is built to endure any adventure while looking effortlessly stylish year-round. |
THE SEIKO TURTLE DURABILITY & DESIGN
The Seiko Turtle is not just a dive watch; it has solidified its status as a beloved icon in the world of horology. First introduced in 1976, it quickly gained recognition for its reliable performance, durability, and exceptional value, making it a favorite among both professional divers and watch enthusiasts.
A key feature of the Turtle’s design is its distinctive cushion-shaped case, which not only resembles a turtle’s shell but also provides protection for the bezel and crown. This thoughtful combination of form and function has established the Turtle as a reliable choice for those seeking a rugged dive watch.
Although the Turtle series was discontinued in 1988, Seiko responded to popular demand by reintroducing it in 2016 with the SRP777, known as the “Turtle Reissue.” This modern version retained the classic design elements of the original while incorporating updated technology, such as a more advanced Seiko Caliber 4R35 movement, which offers improved accuracy and a longer power reserve. Additionally, the reissue features a scratch-resistant Hardlex crystal, ensuring better durability against everyday wear and tear. The upgraded luminescent markers utilize Seiko’s Lumibrite, providing enhanced visibility in low light conditions. These thoughtful enhancements not only honor the watch’s heritage but also ensure its relevance in the modern watch market.
Among the most iconic models is the Seiko 6105-8119, known as the
“Captain Willard.” This timepiece gained fame when it was worn by Martin Sheen’s character in the 1979 film Apocalypse Now. Its rugged design and reliability earned it favor among U.S. military personnel during the Vietnam War, particularly in harsh jungle conditions.
Crafted in 1972, the 6105-8119 features a 44mm stainless steel case, a selfwinding Seiko caliber 6105B movement, and tritium lume for excellent visibility in low light. Originally paired with a unique “chocolate bar” rubber strap, it is now often found on various options, including the versatile NATO strap. Designed for military practicality, the NATO strap offers increased strap length and a secure fit on top of a military uniform, making it an ideal companion for the Captain Willard.
What truly sets the Seiko Turtle apart is its historical significance and enduring relevance in today’s market. Vintage Captain Willard Seiko Turtle watches, especially the sought-after 6105-8119
model, have become prized collectibles, often commanding prices between $1,000 and $2,500, depending on factors like condition and provenance. As the interest in vintage dive watches grows, collectors appreciate their rugged aesthetics and storied past, particularly their association with Apocalypse Now. This enduring allure makes the Captain Willard a compelling choice for those seeking a timepiece that embodies resilience and adventure.
Whether you’re interested in a vintage watch with a rich history or a modern piece from a renowned collection, the Seiko Turtle line is an excellent choice. It exemplifies reliability and adventure, making it a versatile option for any watch enthusiast. With its iconic design and lasting appeal, the Turtle not only stands the test of time but also reflects Seiko’s commitment to quality and craftsmanship. This line offers something for everyone, making it a perfect companion for daily
BLANCPAIN SWISS EXCELLENCE
We’re thrilled to announce that Fox and Bailey Watch Shop is now an authorized dealer of Blancpain, the oldest watch brand in the world. Established in 1735 by JehanJacques Blancpain, the brand has over 280 years of heritage, making it a cornerstone of luxury watchmaking. Blancpain’s rich history of innovation and craftsmanship sets it apart, offering timepieces that not only respect traditional watchmaking techniques but also push the boundaries of design and technology.
Blancpain’s story began in a modest workshop in the Swiss village of Villeret, where Jehan-Jacques Blancpain handcrafted watches using traditional methods. During this time, watchmaking was a manual craft, reliant on hand tools and meticulous attention to detail.
Jehan-Jacques could never have imagined the global influence his small business would eventually have. Fast forward to today, and Blancpain operates on a global scale, employing advanced technologies while still maintaining the spirit of traditional craftsmanship.
Despite the introduction of modern techniques, Blancpain proudly retains its “no quartz, no digital” philosophy, producing only mechanical watches, with most models featuring automatic movements. These movements are meticulously engineered, with many achieving power reserves far beyond the standard 40 hours. Notably, Blancpain’s Villeret watch boasts the longest power reserve among their models, holding power for an impressive 12 days (288 hours). The brand has adapted to the times by integrating new design techniques and
modern materials like silicon, but every watch is still assembled and finished by hand. This combination of history and technology allows Blancpain to produce watches that honor their heritage while offering the highest levels of precision, durability, and innovation
Blancpain is also celebrated for its mastery of complications. The 1735 Grande Complication watch is a prime example, featuring an impressive combination of six complications, including a tourbillon, perpetual calendar, moon phase, minute repeater, split-seconds chronograph and leap year. Each piece is hand-assembled and can take up to a year to complete. Released in 1991, it was considered the world’s most complicated watch for many years.
Another significant model is the Tourbillon Carrousel, which was unveiled in 2013. This groundbreaking timepiece merges two intricate mechanisms, the tourbillon and carrousel, to enhance timekeeping accuracy by countering the effects of gravity. Blancpain is the first and only brand to have successfully combined these two complications into one watch.
One of Blancpain’s most significant contributions to horology is the Fifty Fathoms, launched in 1953. Developed in collaboration with the French Navy’s elite combat divers, the Fifty Fathoms was the world’s first modern diving watch. Its name refers to the depth of 50 fathoms, or about 91 meters, which was considered the maximum safe depth for divers at the time. The Fifty Fathoms introduced many innovations that have since become standard in diving watches, such as the unidirectional rotating bezel, which helps divers track of their time underwater, and a double-sealed crown to ensure water resistance
Today, the Fifty Fathoms remains an essential piece of Blancpain’s collection. The Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe, a more
contemporary take on the original model, combines classic dive watch design with modern materials like ceramic bezels and non-magnetic silicon balance springs. Whether you’re a professional diver or an enthusiast, the Fifty Fathoms is an example of both rugged functionality and timeless style
The Villeret collection, named after Blancpain’s birthplace, is another iconic line that embodies the brand’s commitment to traditional watchmaking. Known for its refined, classical design, the Villeret models feature Roman numerals, slim profiles, and intricate complications such as perpetual calendars and moon phases. A particularly remarkable piece is the Villeret Quantième Complet, which features a complete calendar with moon phases.
Blancpain showcases its refined aesthetics with the Villeret line through the Métiers d’Art collection. These pieces showcase intricate craftsmanship, including hand engraving, enameling, and other artisanal techniques that highlight the brand’s focus on haute horlogerie (high art of watchmaking) and decorative artistry. These watches are some of the most exclusive and unique pieces from the brand. The Villeret Shakudo Ganesh is an example that integrates the ancient Japanese art of shakudo, where a coppergold alloy is treated to develop a unique patina. The dial features an engraving of the Hindu deity Ganesh, blending cultures and art forms to create a truly unique timepiece
In 1956, Blancpain created the Ladybird, which housed the smallest round movement ever made at the time. The Ladybird was revolutionary in women’s watches, offering both elegance and technical sophistication. Today, Blancpain continues to cater to female collectors with the Ladybird Colors collection, which features vibrant gemstones, mother-ofpearl dials, and automatic movements.
In addition to its legacy of craftsmanship, Blancpain is dedicated to preserving the art of traditional watchmaking. Unlike many brands that rely on mass production, Blancpain prides itself on hand-finishing each of its watches, ensuring that no two are exactly alike. The brand’s commitment to excellence extends to the materials used, such as 18K gold, platinum, and diamonds, which adorn many of their highend timepieces
Blancpain is actively involved in promoting environmental sustainability through its Blancpain Ocean Commitment initiative. The brand has a long-standing connection with the marine world, thanks to its Fifty Fathoms collection, and has since used its influence to support ocean conservation projects. This initiative funds scientific expeditions and contributes to raising awareness about ocean preservation.
Blancpain’s timepieces offer a unique combination of history, artistry, and cutting-edge innovation. Whether you’re drawn to the rugged elegance of the Fifty Fathoms, the technical mastery of the Tourbillon Carrousel, or the refined beauty of the Villeret collection, Blancpain has something to offer every watch enthusiast. Now, as an authorized dealer, Fox and Bailey Watch Shop is excited to bring these legendary watches to our customers.
Becoming a part of the Blancpain family means you’re investing in more than just a watch—you’re owning a piece of horological history that reflects centuries of innovation and tradition. We invite you to visit us and explore Blancpain’s exceptional collections, each with its own story and crafted to the highest standards of Swiss watchmaking. |
ROLEX BATMAN & BATGIRL
Rolex has long been known for creating some of the most iconic and sought-after luxury watches in the world. Among its most popular models are the Rolex GMTMaster II “Batman” and “Batgirl.” (These nicknames are unofficial. They were created by the watch community) These watches have captivated the hearts of collectors and enthusiasts alike, both for their functionality and their distinct design elements. But what is it about these two timepieces that make them so special?
The blue and black color scheme associated with Batman first appeared in the 1960s. In the early years of Batman’s comic book history, which began with his debut in Detective Comics #27 in 1939, Batman’s costume was primarily depicted as black and gray. However, as comic book printing techniques and artistic styles evolved, artists began experimenting with colors to make the character more visually dynamic.
In the 1960s, Batman’s cape, cowl, and boots started to be highlighted in blue, alongside the original black. This change was largely influenced by artists like Carmine Infantino and Neal Adams, who used blue to create a sense of depth and texture in the illustrations. The blue and black color combination became more prominent in the Silver Age of Comics (roughly from the mid-1950s to the 1970s), when Batman was often shown with blue highlights, giving him the iconic blue and black appearance that would persist through much of his visual evolution in both comics and animated series.
This transition to a blue-and-black scheme is part of why the Rolex GMT-Master II “Batman” is linked to the Dark Knight—it echoes the classic color pairing associated with the character from this era.
The story of the Rolex Batman and Batgirl begins with the rich history of the GMT-Master II. Originally launched in the 1950s, the GMT-Master was designed as a tool watch for international pilots, allowing them to track multiple time zones simultaneously. The original GMT-Master quickly became a favorite not only for pilots but also for travelers who needed a reliable, functional, and stylish watch.
In 2013, Rolex introduced the GMT-Master II 116710BLNR, which would soon earn the nickname “Batman.”
This model stood out for its distinctive blue and black ceramic bezel, a first in Rolex’s history. The combination of the two colors, representing day and night, gave the watch its superhero-inspired name.
The Batman featured an Oyster bracelet, known for its robustness and sporty aesthetic, which perfectly complemented the tool watch’s functionality. Equipped with the caliber 3186 movement, the Batman delivered precision and reliability that Rolex is renowned for.
Fast forward to 2019, and Rolex unveiled the GMT-Master II 126710BLNR, which collectors quickly dubbed the “Batgirl.” While it shared the same blue and black bezel as the Batman, the Batgirl came with a Jubilee bracelet, giving it a slightly more refined and dressier look. The release of
the Batgirl also marked the introduction of the updated caliber 3285 movement, which offered enhanced performance and efficiency, including a longer power reserve.
Although the Rolex Batman and Batgirl share many similarities, there are a few key differences that set them apart. The most notable difference between the two models is the bracelet. The Batman comes with the traditional Oyster bracelet, a flat three-link design known for its durability and sporty feel. The Batgirl, on the other hand, is fitted with the Jubilee bracelet, a five-link design that offers a more refined and elegant appearance. The Jubilee bracelet is lighter and more flexible than the Oyster, providing a different wrist feel and aesthetic appeal. For many collectors, the bracelet is a significant factor when deciding between the two.
Another important distinction lies in the movements powering these watches. The original Batman is equipped with Rolex’s caliber 3186 movement, while the Batgirl benefits from the newer caliber 3285, introduced in 2018. The newer movement offers a longer power reserve (up to 70 hours compared to the 3186’s 48 hours) and improved accuracy thanks to Rolex’s
Chronergy escapement. For collectors who prioritize the latest in watchmaking technology, the Batgirl’s movement may be a key selling point.
Both watches feature the same 40mm stainless steel case and blue-black ceramic bezel, which is highly resistant to scratches and fading. However, there are subtle differences in the finishing of the lugs and the case design that give each watch a slightly different character. While the Batman maintains a more tool-like appearance, the Batgirl’s Jubilee bracelet creates a more polished overall look.
The Batman, with its 2013 release and bi-color ceramic bezel, is considered a modern classic, appealing to those who value its sporty versatility and historical significance. The Batgirl, featuring the updated movement and elegant Jubilee bracelet, has quickly gained a strong following for its refined aesthetic. Both models are highly coveted, and their rarity suggests continued appreciation in value, making them excellent investments for watch enthusiasts. So, what does the future hold for these beloved timepieces?
Given Rolex’s track record of incremental yet impactful innovations, it’s likely that
both models will continue to evolve. We might see subtle design updates in the years to come, such as advancements in the ceramic bezel technology or further refinements to the already-robust movements. With the growing demand for vintage-inspired pieces, Rolex may even introduce limited editions or new variations that pay homage to the Batman and Batgirl, perhaps with different materials or bracelet options.
In terms of collectability, both models are poised to remain highly sought after. The rarity of the Batman, especially in its original form, suggests it will continue to appreciate in value. Meanwhile, the Batgirl, with its modern movement and refined Jubilee bracelet, is likely to grow in popularity, particularly among those seeking a blend of elegance and utility.
As the luxury watch market continues to expand and evolve, it’s clear that the Batman and Batgirl will remain at the forefront of Rolex’s GMT-Master II family. For collectors and enthusiasts, the future of these models is bright, with their legacy only set to strengthen as Rolex pushes the boundaries of design and innovation. |
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