Marketing plays an important role in the world of watches. While often genuine, there is sometimes a bit of an overkill, making it that some models are presented with much more pedigree than they actually have. As to many watch enthusiasts historic credibility plays an important factor in their purchase decisions is it not so strange that this happens. In 'Pure Pedigree' we zoom in to the true history of some of the worlds most iconic watches, starting with Blancpain's Fifty Fathoms.

A Nautilus is by any means a desirable watch, but even among its peers, some rank higher on the scale than others. This also depends on what type of collector you are. Some want the very first version, while others prefer a more recent edition with complications. For those who want something really, really rare, is this platinum Nautilus is right up their alley!

Patek Philippe just didn't happen to become one of the benchmarks of the industry overnight. One thing that helped them establish this position, or actually continue this into the 20th century, was the way that they embraced the wristwatch. This single-button chronograph in and officers case is a perfect example of this.

Part of the appeal of the earlier Rolex Submariners is that they transport you to a different time. A time in which these type of watches where worn by people who mainly bought them as a tool for their chosen profession. People that explored the world, that went to places, and in case of the Submariner, depths that no human being has gone before. That appeal can still be found in this Rolex, but especially in the earlier models.

While for non-Italian speakers the nickname 'Padellone' sounds beautiful, it is used to describe a large frying pan, and that is not something you expect in relation to one of the most beautiful watches Rolex ever made; Reference 8171.

There is something about a triple calendar with a moon phase. Especially with vintage watches, such a dial configuration gives a watch something extra. In the past, a few watches of this type have reached celebrity status, and one of them is the Omega Cosmic.

Cartier has a very rich watchmaking history. The majority of the watches that they made, especially in the earlier years of La Maison, have always been remarkably uncomplicated. It was their refined case shapes, matched with classic, elegant dials that were the focus. But there are exceptions to this, like this Cartier Tortue Monopoussoir from 1929.

As a diving watch pioneer, the Blancpain Fifty Fathoms is one of those watches that always get special attention from many watch connoisseurs. This goes for the current collection, but even more so of the vintage pieces, like this Fifty Fathoms "No Radiations".

It is not uncommon to remake something decades after it was first launched....at least, in the car world. Aston Martin did it not too long ago with the DB4GT, and Jaguar just announced that it will make another 25 D-Types, which they stopped producing in 1956. In the watch world, this is a bit more uncommon, yet Vacheron Constantin did something similar with this chronograph in 1990, at the request of a client.

There is something about a Rolex chronograph that makes it stand apart from the rest, and what makes it a legend. Of course, this status was consolidated by the Daytona, which became the favorite watch for many race car drivers, from Paul Newman to Tom Kristensen, but it where the chronographs before that laid down the groundwork for this reputation, such as the reference 3668.

There are a lot of very tempting things about this exquisite Patek Philippe, but first and foremost that it is such a very understated watch! With its distinct tonneau case and subtle Roman numerals, it shows that it is a fine watch, yet disguises how technically refined it is!

Some brands have been focussed on a single complication for a very long time. This goes for sure for Heuer, who has nurtured the chronograph as the focal point of most of its endeavors. That they excelled at this can not only their current collection testify for, but also their vintage models such as this single button chronograph from 1930.

When it comes to Rolex and chronographs, there is always a focus on the famed Daytona, while the brand has made other chronographs that are equally interesting. An example of this is this reference 3525.

While the demand, or appreciation, for vintage watches of the leading brands seems to be still on the rise, the same can be said of certain watches that are of a far more recent make. Especially limited edition, or limited production, watches can be in high demand, and an excellent example of this is Patek Philippe's Sky Moon Tourbillon.

When it comes to Rolex, the dial can make all the difference. Think of the Stella dials on the Day-Date or the Paul Newman dials on the Daytona, while with the Rolex Submariner the difference is all in the details. With the Datejust however, there is not one particular dial that made a prominent name for itself, but there are some out there that should, like this Lapis Lazuli dial.

Military watches have always had a great appeal to collectors, especially when it concerns vintage examples. One of the most sought after pieces is the Breguet Type XX.