The term “Beater” or “Daily Beater” gets confusing. It’s drenched in subjectivity since some collectors associate the term with a basic or cheap watch like an affordable Seiko and consider it disposable. In contrast, others consider the Rolex Submariner the perfect beater. In shorthand, it’s not a watch you shouldn’t care about but one that needs little maintenance and fulfils a basic need on the wrist. Does that sound like anything that belongs to your current collection? You may already own one and not realise it.
A beater watch is a casually endearing watch that bears some level of enthusiast credibility without the preciousness of a fussy, over-complicated, delicately engineered instrument. Rather than being disposable or replaceable, think reliable. A daily beater watch should let you live your life without impediment, and if it just so happens to look good with smart, professional, and casual attire - even better!
Of course, as is often the case with watch terms, one opinion may differ from the next. And while every watch collection should contain at least one daily beater, there is nothing wrong with having a couple that are non-beater types, too. But a watch that you can wear with confidence is worth its weight in gold. So, while this term may sound somewhat negative, a daily beater is really a watch that will take you from the boardroom to the beach without you having to think about what you’re pairing it with. Indeed, this kind of watch is special in its own right, but not one to be babied. It should be able to take a knock or two but give the impression of being bulletproof.
However, if you’re a one-watch person, seriously consider a beater watch before buying the most luxurious-looking precious metal iteration or a high-complication watch you’ll likely never utilise. Here are some handpicked beaters from our current online store that may help give you an idea of what to look for.
The Rolex Submariner 116610
The Submariner reference 116610 by Rolex is considered a great beater watch. Not only is the watch an icon, attracting legions of watch fanatics with its distinctive 1950s dive watch aesthetics, but it has a robust construction, a legible dial, and a reliable movement manufactured by one of the world’s most successful watchmakers in history. The Submariner really deserves a written piece of its own, but know that if you’re considering investing in a Rolex watch, the Submariner is the kind of grail watch that stands the test of time, both functionally and style-wise, lending to its “beater” status.
The Breitling Avenger
Toughness, boldness and a masculinity you can’t miss on the wrist. The Breitling Avenger takes up residence on the wrist with considerable presence. It’s a rugged pilot’s watch design, combining accuracy with legible hour markers, and is a distinctly modern take on the evergreen Navitimer watch. Over the years, Breitling has scaled the Avenger down and given the series a range of complications, including a chronograph and GMT feature. Above all, the Avenger watch is powered by a reliable Swiss automatic movement and is engineered to withstand extreme conditions, whether you plan to fly an aircraft with it or enjoy it with your feet firmly on the ground.
Oris Aquis Date
The Oris Aquis Date watch is another great daily beater. Its purposeful design plays a particular role on the wrist, with a 300-meter water resistance that assists both precision and legibility-wise underwater. Oris gears its wristwatches to consumers of the mid-priced bracket, promising great value for money. A robust and sturdy case, paired with a coloured ceramic insert on the unidirectional rotating bezel and a super strong bracelet, all prove indispensable features needed in any dry-land or aquatic tool.
TAG Heuer Aquaracer
Last on the list is the TAG Heuer Carrera – a fully fledged sports watch with tons of charm and character. Perfect for daily wear, this Carrera depends on the Calibre 8 – a COSC-certified engine which sits inside a solid 41mm stainless steel case. A useful 12-hour sub-dial sits at 6 o’clock against a dramatic black dial. Meanwhile, luminous material on the hands and hour markers make this a classic sports watch that you can wear during the day and throughout the evening. Completing a rather unconventional layout, this version of the Carrera features a big date at 6 o’clock, dressed against a white date wheel for optimum legibility.
Need more inspiration while in search of the perfect daily beater? Call and speak to our sales team at Charles Martin on 01889 560002, or why not pop in and see our range in person?