The racing watches every speed lover needs

While cars and watches serve different purposes, they have a long-standing connection dating back to the early days of the automobile. Both are steeped in tradition and involve complex engineering that skillfully merges form and function. Additionally, watches have historically been used to time motorsports, cementing the link between the two. It is for these reasons that many car enthusiasts deeply appreciate fine timepieces. This has resulted in a wide variety of racing-inspired watches made for automotive fans. In this guide, we showcase some of the top watch options for gearheads that were inspired by cars and tested by reviewers.

Racing watches have their origins in early 20th-century motorsports. In 1911, Heuer patented the first chronograph designed specifically for use in vehicles, following the rise in the popularity of automobile racing worldwide. Drivers and crews naturally wanted a way to accurately time races, laps, and average speeds.

Chronographs became the tool of choice thanks to their unique timing functions, often accessed via pushers on the case. However, not all chronographs can be considered racing watches. To earn that title, watches generally include a tachymeter bezel for calculating average speed over a set distance. Racing watches also typically come with leather straps, such as specialized designs for motorsports. 

What to look for in a racing watch:

Case: Much like a car's frame, the watch case forms the foundation for the rest of the timepiece. Cases come in various shapes, sizes, and materials - some common in motorsports like carbon fiber or titanium.

Movement: Just as an engine is essential, the movement powers the watch. While mechanical versions often feature, various types can be found including chronographs with subdials.

Dial: Auto-inspired dials emulate gauges and instrumentation, drawing the eye in. Tachymeters and subdials add functional racing flair.

Strap/Bracelet: The band is a prime way to channel motorsports through perforated leathers akin to interiors or larger "rally straps."Bands can also be changed like tires for various looks.

Motorsport Heritage: Few actually time races today, but ties to teams, brands, events or liveries give watches tangible connections to the world of motorsport beyond design. Though not altering function, such relevance provides context for enthusiasts.

In sum, cases, movements, dials, bands and history are all facets to examine when seeking a watch truly tuned for those who live for speed. Authentically engineered details enrich the racing experience on the wrist.

Yema Rallygraf 

The Yema Rallygraf delivers impressive quality and motorsport heritage beyond its reasonable price point. As a modern reissue of Yema's original 1970s racing chronograph, it channels the very timepiece seen on the wrist of racing legend Mario Andretti during his 1969 Indy 500 win.

Housed in a robust yet refined 39mm stainless steel case with a black tachymeter bezel and double-sealed knurled crown, technical specifications are matched by authentic aesthetics. A Seiko meca-quartz movement powers mirrored trapezoid subdials underneath a double-domed crystal on the distinctive dial. Fit and finish reflect Yema's rich motorsports history through nuanced details like the integrated steel mesh bracelet. 

Seiko Prospex

Though lesser known than some rivals today, Seiko's 1960s 6139 chronograph blazed trails as possibly the first automatic. Renowned among racing circuits then, the Prospex Speedtimer stylishly recalls those originals through classic good looks and reliable mechanics. Despite measuring a modest 41.4mm, the stainless steel case is surprisingly compact. Within beats Seiko's solar-powered V192 caliber, a technical tour de force hinting at the brilliance of earlier 6139 innovations. Simple yet sophisticated dial details honor Seiko's motorsports heritage through subtle evocations of the past. 

Tissot Heritage 1973

The Heritage 1973 draws clear inspiration from Tissot's motorsports heritage. With an oval 316L stainless steel case shaped like the chronographs of 1973, this Swiss-made timepiece proudly displays its racing roots. Powered by a Swiss Valjoux A05.H31 automatic caliber with 27 jewels and a generous 60-hour power reserve, the mechanicals match the aesthetic. A tachymeter-equipped panda dial and breathable leather rally strap, evoking vintage steering wheels, complete the racing package.

Detailed after Tissot designs of the era yet also distinctly modern, the Heritage 1973 finds the sweet spot between retro style and reliable functionality. Through subtle nods and authentic detailing, it pays tribute while remaining wearable and road-ready and delighting collectors with its well-executed fusion of heritage and performance.