Cookies' exploration of luxury watches suitable for golf delves into a fascinating intersection of horology and sport. This article examines how watch brands have engineered timepieces to withstand the rigors of a golf swing, a challenge that historically posed a significant risk to mechanical movements. Cookies highlights several notable examples, prompting a discussion on the evolution of shock resistance and the personal preferences of collectors on the green.
They actually wore Rolex pieces while hitting the ball; this was what I observed in the 90's when I accompanied my father on weekend golf games. I wonder if they knew they could break their watches that way.
At some point, sure as the sun rises in the morning, they would have to send the watches for servicing. I believe golf and luxury watches go well together. There is a certain unexplainable joy of wearing an expensive piece to play golf, sort of a similar feeling to driving a vintage sports car on the weekend, on meandering mountain passes.
A game of one-upmanship is a popular weekend passion to many - some play fairly, some play rather dirty. It is where the true gentleman appears, and the vile power-hungry wolves show their true colours.
Fast forward to the present era. There has been some technology developed to withstand the shock. If you had to play golf, and had to wear a luxury watch, which piece would you pick?
Here are a few I have come across:
Tag Heuer Golf Watch
Source: forumscalibre11
Source: forumcalibre11
This piece was developed with input from Tiger Woods. Made of titanium, and with a quartz movement, it is said to be able to withstand a lot of shock. The "deployant buckle" is integrated behind the watch, making it very comfortable to wear (no jutting deployant buckles compressing the wrist). It has been discontinued.
Omega Aqua Terra Ultralight
Source: Journalhautehorology
Source: Hodinkee
This piece weighs only 55g (in comparison a Rolex Submariner weights about 155g). Developed with input from Golfing superstar Rory McIIroy, the superwatch features a handwound titanium calibre, and a telescopic crown design. It costs a whopping USD$55,0000, but this is a small cost to pay in comparison to the prices of golf memberships at some elite clubs such as Liberty National in New Jersey. I'd imagine the golfers at these elite clubs will find this piece rather obtainable. But to a mere mortal like me, I can dream of this - well, the dreams are pretty good still.
Glashutte Original Sport Evolution Impact
Credit: watchstreet
The Glashutte Original Sport Evolution Impact is a pretty unusual piece, featuring elastomers (the red pieces at the dial periphery) which suspend the movement. Decksurgeon
posted about this previously
Richard Mille RM 38 and RM 55
Credit: monochrome-watches
Credit: Forbes
These pieces were made for Golf. They are the creme-de-la-creme. The greeny has a G-force sensor. They cost more than a nice house in many first-world countries such as Spain or Australia. Having one also means you could afford an apartment in London with at least 50% upfront payment. The stuff of legends.
Tag Heuer Connected Golf Edition
Source: Tag Heuer
I admit I like this piece. It represents a sincere effort to develop a timepiece for today, with a dedicated golfing application. It is made of titanium, and costs US$2500. It also makes for good birthday or Christmas presents for business associates/family/friends who are golf lovers.
In the meanwhile, happy Golfing and always play like a gentleman.
