Watch brand anniversaries and milestones in 2026: a year of horological celebrations

The year 2026 stands as a landmark moment in horological history, with an unprecedented concentration of significant anniversaries spanning from individual watch models to entire manufactures. From Seiko's 145th anniversary already underway to the highly anticipated 50th anniversary of the Patek Philippe Nautilus, collectors and enthusiasts face a year filled with commemorative releases, limited editions, and potential game-changing unveilings.

Based on official brand announcements and reliable industry sources, this comprehensive guide explores every major anniversary and milestone celebration shaping the watch industry in 2026.

Tudor 100th anniversary: a century of accessible luxury

Tudor Black Bay 54

Official anniversary: 1926-2026

Founded in 1926 by Hans Wilsdorf—the same visionary behind Rolex—Tudor was conceived to offer watches with Rolex-quality construction at more accessible prices. As Wilsdorf himself stated: "For some years now, I have been considering the idea of making a watch that our agents could sell at a more modest price than our Rolex watches."

One hundred years later, Tudor has evolved from Rolex's more affordable sibling into a fully independent manufacture with its own identity, in-house movements through Kenissi, and a dedicated facility in Le Locle, Switzerland, completed in 2021 and officially inaugurated in March 2023.

What to expect from Tudor's centenary

Unlike brands that frequently release anniversary editions, Tudor (like parent company Rolex) tends toward restraint. However, a 100th anniversary represents a milestone impossible to ignore. Industry speculation and enthusiast expectations point to several possibilities:

Potential anniversary releases

The Big Block Chronograph revival: The most anticipated potential release would be a modern reinterpretation of Tudor's Big Block chronograph. With Tudor's MT5902 chronograph movement (currently exclusive to the Pelagos Ultra) potentially adapted for production models, a Big Block revival would represent both heritage respect and technical advancement.

Tudor Submariner 7928 heritage model: The Tudor Submariner 7928, introduced in 1959 and featuring the brand's first crown guards, holds immense historical significance. A modern version equipped with Tudor's MT5602 movement, METAS certification, and contemporary materials while preserving the vintage aesthetic would resonate with collectors.

Expanded Black Bay METAS certification: Tudor has gradually introduced METAS Master Chronometer certification across select Black Bay models. A centenary announcement of expanded METAS certification throughout the entire Black Bay line, coupled with universal adoption of the T-Fit clasp, would demonstrate Tudor's commitment to technical excellence.

1926 Collection special editions: The 1926 collection—named for Tudor's founding year—recently expanded with the Luna moonphase model. Anniversary editions in precious metals or with enhanced complications would provide accessible entry points while honoring the brand's heritage.

Oyster Prince Revival: Vintage Tudor enthusiasts frequently cite the Oyster Prince Date Day as a deserving candidate for revival. A modernized version with certified movements and contemporary proportions would fill a gap in Tudor's current lineup.

Tudor's current position

Entering its centenary year, Tudor enjoys unprecedented success. Recent releases including the Pelagos Ultra, Black Bay 68, updated Black Bay Pro with opaline dial, and expanded Black Bay 58 GMT options demonstrate a brand confident in its identity and technical capabilities. The centenary celebrations—whatever form they take—will likely cement Tudor's position as a manufacture combining heritage, innovation, and value.

Patek Philippe Nautilus 50th anniversary: the watch world's most anticipated release

Official anniversary: 1976-2026

No anniversary in 2026 carries more weight or generates more speculation than the 50th birthday of the Patek Philippe Nautilus. Designed by legendary watchmaker Gérald Genta and launched in 1976, the Nautilus introduced an entirely new concept: a luxury sports watch in steel with an integrated bracelet, combining robust functionality with the horological prestige of Geneva.

The Nautilus legacy

Inspired by a ship's porthole, the Nautilus featured groundbreaking construction when introduced. Its case back and middle case formed from a single piece of steel, with only one additional seal beneath the bezel required to ensure 120 meters of water resistance—exceptional for the era.

At 42mm, the original Reference 3700/1A was considered extraordinarily large for 1976 and remained in production until 1990. Patek Philippe famously promoted it with the slogan: "One of the world's costliest watches is made of steel."

The 5711 phenomenon and discontinuation

While the Nautilus took time to achieve cult status, the steel Reference 5711/1A—introduced in 2006 for the model's 30th anniversary—became the most sought-after watch in the world during the 2010s through the COVID-19 pandemic. Decade-long waiting lists and gray-market prices soaring to multiples of retail created an unsustainable situation.

In 2021, Patek Philippe President Thierry Stern made the controversial decision to discontinue the 5711/1A, replacing it with the white gold Reference 5811/1G. This move, Stern explained, protected existing owners and prevented the brand from becoming "too commercial."

What the 50th anniversary may bring

Based on Patek Philippe's 40th anniversary celebration in 2016 and Stern's public statements, several scenarios appear possible:

The Platinum 5811P hypothesis

In 2016, Patek released a platinum Reference 5711P with blue gradient dial and diamond hour markers to mark 40 years of the Nautilus. Given Stern's repeated statements that steel is not his priority, a platinum Reference 5811P seems highly probable—potentially with subtle anniversary markings and enhanced finishing.

A new steel Nautilus reference

Despite Stern's position on steel, market realities and the magnitude of the 50th anniversary may warrant a new steel reference. This could feature:

• Updated movement beyond the Caliber 26-330 S C used in the 5711

• Modified dimensions or proportions compared to the 5711

• Unfortunately, likely reduced water resistance to 30 meters (Patek's new standard across all models as of 2024)

• Anniversary-specific dial details or caseback engravings

Limited Edition complications

Patek may release multiple anniversary models spanning different complications and price points, similar to the 2016 strategy that included both the simple 5711P and the Reference 5976/1G chronograph in white gold.

The Patek Philippe grand exhibition Milan

Beyond watches themselves, Patek Philippe will host a Grand Exhibition in Milan in October 2026. These exhibitions—previously staged in Dubai, London, Singapore, New York, and Munich—showcase historical Patek Philippe timepieces alongside event-exclusive limited editions, offering collectors unprecedented access to the manufacture's heritage.

Market impact

Whatever Patek unveils for the Nautilus 50th anniversary will dominate horological headlines in 2026. The brand's ability to balance collector expectations, market dynamics, and its own principles regarding exclusivity and commercialization will be tested. With Watches and Wonders Geneva 2026 less than 100 days away as of this writing, the wait is nearly over.

Rolex milestones: Oyster centenary and Day-Date 70th anniversary

The Rolex Oyster 100th anniversary: 1926-2026

In 1926, Rolex achieved a watershed moment in watchmaking with the Oyster—the world's first waterproof and dustproof wristwatch. The Oyster case's revolutionary three-piece construction with screw-down case back, bezel, and winding crown created hermetic sealing that protected the movement from the elements.

Mercedes Gleitze's 1927 English Channel crossing with an Oyster on her wrist—remaining perfectly functional after more than ten hours in water—cemented Rolex's reputation for waterproof sports watches and effectively founded the concept of the brand ambassador.

The Oyster case became the foundation for virtually every subsequent Rolex model, including the Datejust (1945), Submariner (1953), GMT-Master (1955), Day-Date (1956), and countless others.

Will Rolex celebrate?

Rolex maintains an ambivalent relationship with anniversary editions. While the brand has occasionally released commemorative models, it's far from standard practice. The 70th anniversary of the GMT-Master in 2025 passed without acknowledgment, for instance.

However, 100 years represents an achievement of different magnitude. The Oyster fundamentally shaped Rolex's identity and the entire watch industry. Whether through special editions, technical innovations referencing the original Oyster design, or simply marketing emphasis on the centenary, Rolex will likely acknowledge this milestone in some form.

Rolex Day-Date 70th anniversary: 1956-2026

Introduced in 1956, the Day-Date occupies a unique position in Rolex's catalog. It was the first wristwatch to display both the date and the day of the week spelled out in full—a technical achievement at the time.

Available exclusively in precious metals (yellow, white, and pink gold, plus platinum) with either smooth or fluted bezel and the purpose-designed President bracelet, the Day-Date became known as the "President's watch" due to its association with world leaders, visionaries, and cultural icons.

The Day-Date's last major update came in 2015 with the Day-Date 40, which introduced the 32xx generation of movements. With 11 years since that refresh and the 70th anniversary arriving in 2026, the timing aligns for potential updates—though as with all Rolex speculation, certainty remains elusive.

Rolex Milgauss 70th anniversary (unofficial): 1956-2026

Rolex officially recognizes 1956 as the launch year of the Milgauss, despite earlier Reference 6543 prototypes dating to 1954. The Reference 6541 represented the first production Milgauss, designed to resist magnetic fields up to 1,000 gauss through a soft iron inner case (Faraday cage) protecting the movement.

However, Rolex discontinued the Milgauss in 2023—the second time the model left the catalog (the first discontinuation lasted from 1988 until its modern return). With the model currently out of production, a 70th-anniversary celebration appears unlikely, though Rolex's tendency toward surprise means nothing is impossible.

Gallet 200th anniversary: the revival of a chronograph legend

Official anniversary: 1826-2026

Founded by Julien Gallet in La Chaux-de-Fonds in 1826, Gallet stands among watchmaking's oldest names. The brand achieved prominence through precision chronographs for aviation, motorsport, and professional use, with historical significance including:

• 1903: A Gallet stopwatch timed the Wright brothers' first powered flight at Kitty Hawk, North Carolina

• 1939: Introduction of the MultiChron Clamshell, among the first water-resistant chronographs

• Flying Officer Model: Worn notably by U.S. President Harry S. Truman

• 1856: Expansion to the U.S. market through exclusive distributor Jules Racine & Co.

Like many Swiss manufactures, Gallet suffered during the quartz crisis of the 1970s-1980s, eventually fading from prominence.

Breitling's acquisition and revival strategy

In March 2025, Breitling CEO Georges Kern announced the acquisition of Gallet, timed perfectly to coincide with the brand's 200th anniversary in 2026. This follows Breitling's 2023 acquisition of Universal Genève for approximately CHF 65 million, creating what Kern calls the "House of Brands" strategy.

The House of Brands positioning

Gallet: Entry-level segment (CHF 3,000-5,000)

Breitling: Mid-price core segment (average CHF 7,400)

Universal Genève: Ultra-luxury segment (CHF 15,000+)

This three-tier approach allows Breitling to address different market segments while each brand maintains distinct identity rooted in authentic watchmaking heritage.

Gallet's 2026 relaunch details

According to official Breitling statements and interviews with CEO Georges Kern published by Hodinkee and other sources:

Timeline: Mid-2026 launch

Manufacturing: Watches assembled at Breitling facilities in Switzerland

Movements: Sellita or other third-party calibers (no Breitling in-house movements initially)

Certification: High-quality movements from trusted suppliers, COSC certification under consideration

Distribution: Sold through Breitling boutiques and selected wholesale partners

E-commerce: Dedicated Gallet website launching by end of 2026

Design Focus: Drawing on heritage models including Flying Officer, MultiChron Clamshell, and pilot's chronographs

Strategic timing

Kern addresses skepticism about launching two brands amid economic uncertainty: "A colleague said: 'Oh my God, you're launching two brands. You're very courageous in this environment.' And I told him, listen, I think it's correct. It would be more courageous not to do anything when you're in a difficult environment. Exactly at this moment in time you have to do something."

The Gallet revival represents Breitling's solution to a common retail challenge: "Many people who walk into our boutiques are walking out because it's just too expensive," Kern explains. Gallet provides an entry point for price-sensitive customers while maintaining Swiss quality standards and historical authenticity.

Seiko 145th anniversary: four limited editions celebrating Japanese craftsmanship

Official anniversary: 1881-2026

Founded by Kintaro Hattori in 1881 when he opened a watch shop in Tokyo's Ginza district, Seiko marks 145 years of watchmaking innovation in 2026. While not a traditional milestone number, Seiko's anniversary celebration reflects the brand's commitment to honoring its heritage while pushing forward with contemporary watchmaking.

The four 145th anniversary limited edition models

According to Seiko's official announcement on January 6, 2026, the brand unveiled four limited-edition watches unified by gold-colored accents inspired by intricate patterns Kintaro Hattori had engraved on his early timepieces. All four models are scheduled for release in February 2026.

King Seiko KS1969 145th anniversary (Ref. SJE121)

The King Seiko SJE121 joins the KS1969 series with a distinctive gray gradient dial that darkens toward the edges, enhancing the intricacy of the pattern inspired by Hattori's original engravings. Gold-colored hands, indexes, and lettering provide elegant contrast against the textured surface.

Prospex Speedtimer Mechanical Chronograph 145th anniversary (Ref. SRQ059)

Drawing on Seiko's pioneering chronograph heritage—including the world's first automatic chronograph with column wheel and vertical clutch in 1969—the SRQ059 reimagines the Speedtimer with Hattori's historical pattern on a white dial enhanced by gold-colored elements.

Presage Classic Series "Craftsmanship" Enamel Dial 145th anniversary (Ref. SPB538)

Perhaps the most historically rooted model in the anniversary collection, the Presage SPB538 draws inspiration from Seiko's 1895 Timekeeper pocket watch and the 1913 Laurel—Japan's first wristwatch. This 35mm model showcases master artisan Mitsuru Yokosawa's white enamel dial work.

Astron GPS Solar Dual-Time Chronograph 145th Anniversary (Ref. SSH186)

Completing the quartet, the Astron SSH186 represents Seiko's technological prowess with GPS solar technology housed in a deep black titanium case illuminated by gold-colored accents tracing every curve.

Seiko's legacy and positioning

Seiko's 145th anniversary celebrates not just longevity but also the brand's role in democratizing fine watchmaking. From affordable entry-level timepieces to haute horlogerie under the Grand Seiko and Credor banners, Seiko's reach spans the entire spectrum of watchmaking, making these anniversary pieces accessible to collectors at multiple price points.

Additional 2026 anniversaries and milestones

TAG Heuer Monza 50th anniversary: 1976-2026

The TAG Heuer Monza, first released in 1976, commemorated Ferrari's historic achievement winning both constructor's and driver's Formula One championships for the first time since 1964. Featuring a distinctive C-shaped blackened case and positioned as an "economy" chronograph model, the Monza has been reissued multiple times, including the 40th anniversary in 2016.

A 50th-anniversary edition could build on the recent Monza Flyback Chronometer in forged carbon with openworked dial, potentially incorporating heritage design elements with contemporary materials and movements.

IWC Ingenieur SL 50th anniversary: 1976-2026

Designed by Gérald Genta—alongside the Patek Philippe Nautilus and following his Audemars Piguet Royal Oak—the IWC Ingenieur SL launched in 1976 as IWC's interpretation of the integrated-bracelet luxury sports watch. While less celebrated than its siblings, the Ingenieur SL's 50th anniversary may see recognition from IWC, particularly given recent brand focus on heritage collections.

Vacheron Constantin Overseas

Vacheron Constantin Overseas 30th anniversary: 1996-2026

Introduced in 1996, the Vacheron Constantin Overseas brought Geneva haute horlogerie into the luxury sports watch segment. The collection's 30th anniversary represents an opportunity for Vacheron to highlight this increasingly popular line, potentially with limited editions or technical updates.

Patek Philippe 5035R Annual Calendar

Patek Philippe Annual Calendar 30th anniversary: 1996-2026

Patek Philippe invented the annual calendar complication in 1996 with Reference 5035, creating a user-friendly alternative to perpetual calendars that requires adjustment only once per year (at the end of February). The 30th anniversary of this innovation may see commemorative models or expanded annual calendar offerings.

Ulysse Nardin Freak 25th anniversary: 2001-2026

Ulysse Nardin has officially declared 2026 "The Year of the Freak," marking 25 years since the revolutionary Freak debuted in 2001. The original Freak eliminated traditional hands and dial, with the movement itself rotating to indicate time. Expect significant releases highlighting this groundbreaking collection.

The significance of 2026 for watch collectors

The concentration of major anniversaries in 2026 creates unprecedented opportunities and challenges for collectors:

Opportunities

Historical Significance: Limited-edition anniversary pieces often become highly collectible, particularly from prestigious manufactures marking major milestones

Access to Icons: Commemorative releases may provide allocation opportunities for watches typically difficult to acquire

Innovation Showcase: Anniversaries often coincide with technical innovations or design breakthroughs as brands push boundaries

Value Propositions: Entry-level brands like Gallet's revival offer accessible entry into historic marques

Considerations

Allocation Challenges: High demand for anniversary pieces from brands like Patek Philippe and Rolex will make acquisition extremely competitive

Premium Pricing: Anniversary editions typically command premiums over standard references

Market Speculation: Some releases may see inflated secondary market pricing driven by hype rather than intrinsic value

Choice Paralysis: With so many significant releases, collectors must prioritize based on personal preferences, budget, and long-term collecting goals

Investment perspective: anniversary watches as collectibles

Anniversary watches historically perform well in the collector market, though outcomes vary dramatically by brand, execution, and rarity.

Strong performers

Patek Philippe Anniversary Models: The 40th-anniversary Nautilus Ref. 5711P (2016) has appreciated significantly, as have other limited Patek commemoratives

Rolex Anniversary Pieces: When Rolex does release anniversary models, they typically achieve strong secondary market performance due to rarity and brand prestige

Omega Limited Editions: Speedmaster and Seamaster anniversary models with meaningful connections to history (moon landing, Olympics, James Bond) have proven collectible

Factors affecting value

Production Numbers: Genuine scarcity (under 1,000 pieces) typically supports long-term value better than higher production runs

Historical Significance: Anniversaries marking truly pivotal moments (50th, 100th) carry more weight than arbitrary milestones

Execution Quality: Technical innovation, exceptional finishing, or design excellence justify premiums

Brand Prestige: Anniversary pieces from independent manufactures or haute horlogerie maisons often appreciate more than mass-market brands

Collector advice

Purchase anniversary watches because you love them and their historical significance, not purely as investments. The most successful collector strategies combine genuine passion with informed decision-making based on rarity, execution, and brand trajectory.

Watches and Wonders Geneva 2026: the unveiling platform

Many of these anniversary pieces will debut at Watches and Wonders Geneva 2026, the watch industry's premier annual event. Scheduled for early April 2026, this invitation-only trade show brings together major manufactures to unveil their most significant releases.

Brands confirmed or likely to present anniversary pieces at Watches and Wonders 2026 include:

• Patek Philippe (Nautilus 50th)

• Rolex (Oyster 100th, potentially Day-Date 70th)

• Tudor (100th anniversary)

• Cartier, Vacheron Constantin, Jaeger-LeCoultre (Richemont Group brands)

Public previews typically follow shortly after the industry event, with select pieces reaching boutiques throughout the year.

How to position for anniversary releases: practical guidance

Successfully acquiring anniversary pieces requires strategy, relationships, and realistic expectations.

Building relationships with Authorized Dealers

Start Early: Express interest in anniversary pieces well before release dates

Purchase History: Brands allocate limited editions to established customers with buying history

Multiple Touchpoints: Build relationships with sales associates, boutique managers, and brand representatives

Flexibility: Willingness to consider different references or configurations improves allocation chances

Alternative acquisition strategies

Pre-Owned Market: Some anniversary pieces become available through reputable pre-owned dealers, though typically at premiums

Auction Houses: Phillips, Sotheby's, and Christie's frequently offer modern limited editions, particularly from independent manufactures

Authorized Dealers on Platforms: Chrono24 Trusted Sellers and other verified dealer networks provide access beyond local boutiques

Setting realistic expectations

For ultra-exclusive releases like a potential steel Nautilus 50th anniversary, allocation will be nearly impossible for customers without substantial purchase history. More accessible commemorative pieces from brands like Seiko, Tudor (depending on model), and the revived Gallet offer realistic acquisition opportunities for passionate collectors.

The future of anniversary celebrations in watchmaking

The unprecedented concentration of anniversaries in 2026 raises questions about the future of commemorative releases in an industry increasingly focused on sustainability, authenticity, and long-term value.

Trends to watch

Meaningful Milestones: Expect fewer arbitrary anniversary editions, with focus on historically significant dates (50th, 100th, 200th)

Technical Innovation: Anniversary pieces increasingly showcase genuine technical advancement rather than cosmetic variations

Sustainability Messaging: Brands may emphasize long-term value and generational ownership aligned with anniversary themes

Digital Integration: Enhanced storytelling through digital platforms, virtual exhibitions, and augmented reality experiences

Beyond 2026

While 2026 represents an exceptional year for anniversaries, the watch industry's love affair with nostalgia ensures commemorative releases will continue. Major milestones approaching include:

• 2027: IWC Big Pilot 25th anniversary (if recognized), potential Rolex milestones

• 2028: Omega Seamaster 80th anniversary

• 2031: Rolex Explorer 75th anniversary

• 2033: Blancpain Fifty Fathoms 80th anniversary

Conclusion: a golden year for horological heritage

The year 2026 emerges as one of the most significant in modern watchmaking history, with anniversaries spanning from accessible Japanese manufactures to Swiss haute horlogerie's pinnacle. Whether you're drawn to Seiko's 145th-anniversary models starting under CHF2,000, anticipating Tudor's centenary surprises, holding your breath for Patek Philippe's Nautilus 50th anniversary, or intrigued by Gallet's historic revival, 2026 offers something extraordinary for every type of collector.

These anniversaries remind us that fine watchmaking transcends mere timekeeping. These pieces represent cultural touchstones, technical achievements, and artistic expression that connects us to the past while pointing toward the future. As Hans Wilsdorf, founder of Rolex and Tudor, understood a century ago, and as Patek Philippe's slogan reminds us, we never truly own these watches—we merely care for them for the next generation.

The commemorative pieces released in 2026 will become the vintage collectibles of tomorrow, marking a year when the watch industry celebrated its heritage while demonstrating continued relevance and innovation in an ever-changing world.

This article is based on official brand announcements from Seiko (seikowatches.com), Breitling/Gallet (gallet.com, breitling.com), Patek Philippe (patek.com), Rolex (rolex.com), Tudor (tudorwatch.com), and reliable industry sources including Monochrome Watches, Hodinkee, Fratello Watches, and Swiss Watches Magazine as of January 2026.