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10 Luxury Sports Watches To Wear In Time For The 2023 London Marathon

Slug: best-luxury-sports-watches-for-the-2023-london-marathon

If you are one of the few who enjoys running, or the rest of us who run because we feel bad if we don't, then you are certainly in the right place. The London Marathon, which started in 1981, is the ultimate fitness event where people from all over the world come to test their limits against the gruelling 26.2 mile course.

There's no need to get an unnecessary sweat on when choosing to buy a watch, as our list will have you covered. Most brands have released sports watches so us consumers really are spoilt for choice. You can buy a watch from most luxury watch brands and most will suit your sporting needs. This list however filters the creme de la creme of luxury sports watches so you are sorted in time for the 2023 London Marathon.

You don’t need to pound the streets in the search of horological perfection. That’s where we step in. Grab a water break as we reveal our top 10 luxury sports watches to keep you up to speed.

1. Patek Philippe Nautilus Travel Time 5990/1A

The Nautilus to a runner is what Paul Simon is to Art Garfunkel. A match made in heaven. The Nautilus is easily one of the most timeless sports watch collections of all time. Released in 1976 as a luxury sports watch, The Patek Philippe Nautilus Travel Time is one of the few rare steel watches made by this Swiss giant.

As it's so rare, if you buy a Patek Philippe in steel, the resale value will more than likely go up, especially with the prestige of it being a Patek Philippe. A blue ray sunburst dial beautifully graduates into the periphery, giving a wonderful contrast from light blue to black. Furthermore, the dial features a horizontally embossed Nautilus pattern which makes the colour gradiation even more pronounced.

The watch itself is instantly recognizable, with its rounded edges formed in an octagonal bezel bearing resemblance to legendary Audemars Piguet Royal Oak. While we don't think you’ll be veering off track, it's good to know the watch offers 120m of water resistance.

Nautilus Travel Time - Source - Patek Philippe

The CH 28-520 C FUS movement has a strong frequency of 28,800vph and features useful functions like a central dual time display as well as indicators for both day and night.

The model has a flyback chronograph, while it can be set back to zero with a simple press of the second push piece, all while the measurement continues to run. This is a fantastic feature for those running as it means you can time intervals without pressing buttons more than once.

The 60 minute chronograph function at 6 o'clock is complemented by the central chronograph seconds hand as seen through the central second's hand. If you decide you're keen enough to run home when the sun is coming down, the gold applied hour markers have a luminescent coating ensuring clear visibility. The Patek Philippe Nautilus Travel Time is therefore the ultimate luxury sports watch for those keen about getting their dab on during the London Marathon.

You can buy a Patek Philippe Nautilus Travel Time for £55,240 at retail.

2. Zenith Defy Skyline

Zenith have recently gone through a spate of updating their ‘Defy’ collection, releasing the Zenith Defy Extreme and Zenith Defy Skyline Skeleton. May I add that both of which are fantastic if you are looking to buy a Zenith. Heck, they have even gone one step further with the recent launch of a unique set of eight Defy watches encased in a chromatic box. Ranging from ultraviolet to jungle green, they all feature matte titanium in line with the series. With only, you guessed it, eight available, these are aimed at the younger super collectors of today’s times.

Defy Skyline - Source - Zenith

Launched in 1969, the Defy collection combines both a sporty and dressy mix with a functional octagonal watch face. At 41mm, the Zenith Defy Skyline is a slicked back utility watch perfect for those running against the clock.

It is powered by the El Primero 3620. Just as a quick recap, this is the same movement that Rolex eagerly adopted in their highly successful Rolex Daytona when the dawn of automatic movements broke. This movement has the very first 1/10th of a second indicator. Beating at a strong 36,000vph or 5Hz, it’s further endowed with an efficient bi-directional automatic winding mechanism and a 60 hour power reserve.

Following the design of the earlier Defy models, the Zenith Defy Skyline follows the unique octagonal structure which is reminiscent of the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak. Composed of steel, the octagonal design has a faceted bezel featuring the highly recognizable four pointed star originally conceived by Zenith in earlier models.

The dial features standard hours and minutes in the centre and a date indication at 3 o'clock. Interestingly enough, there’s a 1/10th of a second indication at 9 o'clock which pays homage to the calibre's achievement as the first movement by Zenith to achieve 1/10th of a second. Tell the time with absolute certainty thanks to the Zenith Skyline which is ideal for that final dash to the finishing line - whichever place you finish.

You can buy a Zenith Defy Skyline for £7,100 at retail.

3. Rolex Submariner Date

The Submariner is instantly recognisable by name alone, meaning if you buy a Rolex Submariner for the 2023 London Marathon, your watch will undoubtedly be the talk of the track.

Rolex Submariner - Source - Rolex

Originally designed as a divers tool watch, it was destined to be the first watch that offered a minimum 100m of waterproof resistance. Created in 1954, the style has remained the same which is certainly an ode to its timelessness. Made out of Oyster Steel, Rolex's own alloy, the watch is as tough as Tyson Fury scaling Mount Everest. It is both scratch and corrosion-resistant. Meanwhile, the water resistance has increased by 200m to a sterling 300m in case you find that intrepid puddle.

The hours, hands and zero markers on the bezel are luminous meaning readability is always available with just a glance at the dial whatever time you finish. This timepiece can no doubt be manipulated for running by using the bezel as a timer for water breaks or quickly grabbing a quick bite to eat.

The Rolex Submariner is simple with a time and date function, but don't be fooled by its minimalism. It's a phenomenal all round watch which is worn by everyone across all walks of life including Sean Connery in James Bond. Now, you may not be shooting baddies while running in a tuxedo, but you can wear this beauty for your perfect Instagram finishing line pose.

Buy a Rolex Submariner Date for the retail price of £8,650.

4. Jaeger-Lecoultre Master Chronograph Q1538530

The Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Chronograph Q1538530 is a phenomenal model derived from the Master Control Line.

Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Chronograph Q1538530 - Source - Fratello Watches

The Master Control collection started from 1992 and takes its inspiration from the 1950s. Design ideas such as elongated triangular indexes give a contemporary feel on the sunbrushed dial, offering a clear view of the time for maximum legibility. The collection thrives on its minimalism, no more so than in this model which features a cream sunburst dial with the smallest touches of blue on the hands, tachymeter and subdials.

This model offers a more relaxed version of a typical sports watch, taking away from the brashness of the bulkier sports models such as the TAG Heuer Carrera collection. At 40mm, it is refined and has polished bezels with subtle curvature on the lugs to define Jaeger-LeCoultre’s interpretation of what a sports watch should look like.

The soft calf leather strap has a clean matt finish which means it projects the intricacies of the case and dial as it isn't too ostentatious. The in-house JLC calibre 751G is made in the Vallée de Joux and undergoes the standard 1000 hour control test. This certification establishes the watch as extremely tough, ideal for those looking to buy a Jaeger Le-Coultre for the London Marathon.

This watch can work outside of the London Marathon as you can order more straps such as alligator skin or stainless steel. The leather straps are perfect for donning your classy black suit and picking up your trophy after the event.

You cannot buy a Jaeger Le-Coultre Master Chronograph Q1538530 at retail anymore but it sells on the secondary market from around £6,500.

5. TAG Heuer Carrera

TAG Heuer and sport are linked on the track as closely as Torvill and Dean on the ice. Its racing heritage goes back decades, especially with F1. In particular, they are the official timekeeper for F1, symbolising the depth of the relationship. Collaborating with F1 and Porsche to create some phenomenal sports watches, they are the perfect start for those looking to buy a TAG Heuer with a tinge of sporting prowess.

The TAG Heuer Carrera blends polished ceramic and steel to give a clean yet rugged masculinity to the model. The black dial is enhanced by sporty flashes of red on the ends of the hour and minute hands and on the hands of the subdials. The steel case is essentially indestructible. Measuring 44mm, the indices and hands along with the date window are luminescent, allowing for optimal readability in the heat of competition.

Keeping with the sporty vibe, the TAG Heuer Carrera has a black tachymeter, fixed ceramic bezel and a screw down sapphire case back. The sapphire crystal on the front is domed and anti reflective, meaning you won't be blinded by your watch.

TAG Carrera - Source - TAG Heuer

The Heuer 02 movement is robust, offering 80 hours power reserve in case you lose track of time! The 100m water resistance aint bad either. Numerous functions such as hours, minutes, chronograph to ¼ of a second and 30 minute counter make it as busy as Fifth Avenue. But we do like the distinct silver numerals contrasting against the deep black dial. The perfect arm candy to show off on the start line at the 2023 London Marathon

You can buy a TAG Heuer Carrera CBN2A1AA at retail for £4,200.

6.Breitling Endurance Pro

If this can be worn by world record Ironman and Triathlon holders Jan Frodeno, Ms Daniela Ryf and Chris McCormack, then you should definitely buy a Breitling Endurance Pro!

Made of Breitling's own creation, Breitlight, it is tougher and lighter than titanium making it perfect for running or a gentle jog. Whatever your pace, we aren't going to be too critical. It is 3.3 times lighter than titanium and 5.8 times lighter than stainless steel. The watch is powered by Breitling's own ‘Superquartz’ calibre which is accurate to a highly impressive +/- 10 seconds per year. On the inside, the Breitling 82 calibre gives a chronograph 1/10th of a second and 30 minutes subdial, along with a date aperture. With a battery life of 3 to 4 years, this timepiece will certainly last you for many London Marathons to come.

Endurance Pro - Source - Breitling

Breitlight is also warmer than standard steel models as it is ‘thermally stable’ meaning that early morning runs won't be so punishing without that block of ice on your wrist. It’s hypoallergenic, resistant to scratches and corrosion, making this watch suitable for all manner of weather conditions.

We are a fan of their bold sporty rubber straps. And this one is no different, fitted with Breitlights double tang-type buckle, allowing you to slip it on and off with ease. There’s sapphire glass on both sides which have been glare proofed allowing clarity of vision when taking a glimpse of your time. This watch is certainly built for active folks who love a rigorous workout. Although we cannot guarantee it will hold its value as this brand loses 25% straightaway on the wrist, you can buy a Breitling Endurance Pro for £2,750.

7. Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Jumbo Extra-Thin 16202st

Royal Oak Jumbo Extra-Thin - Source - Audemars Piguet

On the 50th anniversary of the Royal Oak’s release in 2022, The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Jumbo Extra-Thin 16202st was released.

Measuring 39mm, it has the same octagonal bezel with screws that made the Royal Oak so utterly iconic. The bracelet is integrated, with brushed and polished effects, creating a wonderful sheen that you could see your reflection. Perfect if you want to buy an Audemars Piguet you can brush your hair with.

The dial is a blue sunburst, or ‘Bleu nuit nuage 50’ and has a Tapisserie motif with applied hour markers. They are luminous as are the hours and minute hands, ensuring full legibility in the heat of the run. The model comes with a date feature which is a handy tool to keep a countdown until the London Marathon.

Housing a calibre 7121 which beats at 28,800Vph, it has a 55 hour power reserve. Compared with the previous edition which was the 15202ST with the calibre 2121, there are some noticeable improvements. This model represents the peak of stainless steel luxury watches. The dial is protected by sapphire crystal covering the dial and caseback meaning there’s no glare for optimal readability. The intricacies such as adding ball bearings to the rotor in the movement mean there is less wear, allowing you to run this monster into the ground.

You can buy an Audemars Piguet Extra Thin on the secondary market for around £80,000.

8. A. Lange & Söhne Odysseus in Titanium

The Odysseus is unfortunately quite a tough nut to crack if you want to get your horological mitts on one.

ODYSSEUS in titanium - Source - A. Lange & Sohne

And with their new release of The Odysseus at Watches and Wonders 2023, this has further garnered interest among enthusiasts. Limited to 250 pieces, this model was specially designed for the sporting world. Its movement is certainly indicative of that. As a self winding calibre, the L155.1 DATOMATIC has an oscillation system that allows for peak stability.

As such, it is able to run at 28,800Vph as the balance is suspended under the balance bridge. For watch geeks, the movement is also hand-finished and engraved with a wave pattern as a reference to its 120m water resistance. The case and bracelet is made out of grade 5 titanium. This is a key component as titanium is both lighter and stronger than titanium, making it ideal to take with you on the London Marathon. Furthermore, this is the first titanium watch made by A. Lange & Söhne and is already lauded as quite possibly the best titanium finished case in the world. Who says all that glitter is gold?

The bracelet features a fine adjustment safety buckle that allows for intricate movements and adjustments to be made without having to re-assemble the bracelet. Specifically, the bracelet is so skillfully finished that each of the links before assembly is polished by hand, emphasising the level of craftsmanship. The dial has an outer hour track with guilloche motif that stems inward to each individual hour marker. The dial colour is a fresh blue tone that is described as ‘Ice Blue’ which is extremely eligible for any distance.

There are a pair of integrated pushers on each side of the crown which controls the day and date windows. Both of which are of course, dosed in Super-Luminova. Who needs carrots to run in the dark when you can buy an A. Lange & Sohne Odysseus? This watch is so skillfully crafted and meticulously finished that you could wear this as a casual watch as well as a sports model. This would suit a navy suit with silver cufflinks to really show off the titanium…depending if you are running the 2023 London Marathon in one!

You do have the ability to buy an A. Lange & Sohne at retail but the price is currently on request.

9. Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra 150m

The Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra gives tribute to the amazing impact Omega has had on the maritime world.

Seamaster Aqua Terra - Source - Omega

Measuring 41mm, the green dial is sun-brushed and has a horizontal pattern which references the wooden floors on luxury sailboats. While we can't promise you your own yacht, we can definitely say you'll get in the nautical spirit if you buy an Omega Aqua Terra!

The stainless steel used, combines beauty with strength. Using 316L stainless steel, it is highly corrosive resistant and gives a wonderful lustre when polished. It most certainly can be used between the realms of endurance sports and your personal life. The dial houses a date window at 6 o'clock and rhodium plated indices and hands, coated in Super-LumiNova to attain constant eligibility.

The sapphire crystal is highly scratch resistant and has anti-reflective treatment, allowing for optimal readability. The sapphires are so well produced because they go through the Verneuil process wherein the sapphire crystals are melted and hardened, leading to them being graded a 9 out of 10 on the Mohs-hardness scale.

The bracelet is made out of the same tough steel as the case and the timepiece is powered by The Omega Master Chronometer calibre 8900, certified as the highest standard by the Swiss Federal Institute of Metrology. You can buy an Omega Seamaster with the knowledge that you’ll be using the best movements with the strongest case and bracelet. What's not to like!

The Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra can be snapped up at retail for £5,800.

10. Hublot Big Bang Original Steel

Back in the day, almost everyone went stir crazy and decided to buy a Hublot Big Bang. One of Hublot’s earliest and most renowned collections, Ed Sheeran started his collection with one of these babies while on tour in Hamburg doing promotion for the + album.

Big Bang - Source - Hublot

From Jean Claude-Bivers commitment to the ‘Art of Fusion’, the Hublot Big Bang centres itself on layering multiple materials to make up the case. It went on to win an award for the best sports professional watch in 2005 at the Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de la Ville de Genève.

Using this information, we can see why the 301.SX.1170.RX has so many plaudits. Powered by the HUB4100 self winding chronograph movement, this Big Bang provides 100m of water resistance and a 42 hour power reserve. Measuring 44mm, it is very sleek in its design featuring a stainless steel case and bezel with H -shaped titanium screws proudly bursting through a black lined rubber strap.

The Hublot calibre HUB4100 powers a date, chronograph, hour, minutes and small seconds which are easily accessible through the numbers and hands being etched with white against the black dial. For watch fans looking for first rate clarity at The 2023 London Marathon with added panache, a Hublot Big Bang Steel should be the one when lining up on the starting line. You can buy a Hublot Big Bang 301.SX.1170.RX for the retail price of £11,200.

Conclusion

There we have it watch enthusiasts. We hope you have sufficient energy left in the horological tank to buy a watch before The 2023 London Marathon after our exhaustive rundown. We are more than confident you will be satisfied with any one of our sports watches. While some are diver orientated like the Rolex Submariner, we can see how they have evolved becoming fully fledged luxury sporty watches. From Breitling’s innovative ‘Breitlight’ material to Patek Philippe's classic sports prestige, the list encapsulates the key big hitters of the watch world. It's definitely wise to buy a watch if you are looking to compete to the best of your ability. Plus you’ll look more stylish than pegging it around in a dinosaur costume or dressed as Super Mario.

Mind you, style or charity…it’s all for a great cause.

Feeling the need to don your running shoes and a new watch? Do any of these luxury sports watches catch your eye? Visit Chrono Hunter as we are the essential source to buy an Omega or buy a Rolex. Simply enter the details of your watch here and you are off to a flying start! Alternatively, why not download our dedicated app to receive live offers in real time from our expansive selection of verified luxury retailers. Accept the offer which is right for you and you’ll have your new watch in no time.

Feel free to contact us here if you have any queries about the watch you are interested in. Our expert team is always on hand to assist and provide guidance. Remember, we are only one click away. Happy Hunting!

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