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Ben Cook’s Must-Haves: A Professional Enthusiast’s Picks

Watch-collecting influencer Ben Cook offers up a curated selection of his favorite watches on Bezel, including picks from Rolex, Patek Philippe, Tudor, and more.

By

Ben Cook

August 31, 2024

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8 min read

Ben Cook is New York-based content creator and watch collector, sharing his insights and perspectives on all things horological through his widely-followed TikTok and Instagram channels. As a true obsessive, Cook knows a thing or two and then some about building a respectable collection. With this in mind, we tasked the influencer with creating a curated selection of his favorite watches on Bezel, including picks from Rolex, Patek Philippe, Tudor, and more.

Shop the entire collection of Ben's picks here.

Reminiscent of "Stella" dial Day-Date references, this fan-favorite Oyster Perpetual shines in Rolex's signature color.

Rolex Oyster Perpetual 36 Ref. 126000-0005

This reference truly represents Rolex at its best. Between its traditionally sized case and iconic Rolex green dial, it’s most definitely a must-have. The passage of time is generally quite kind to Rolex watches with green dials, and this OP 36 shouldn’t be any different. I’m hoping to pick one up soon!

Perhaps the ultimate subtle flex, the Aquanaut is a strong contender for the ultimate everyday luxury watch.

Patek Philippe Aquanaut Ref. 5167A-001

This is one of my absolute grails. Though the gold executions of Patek Philippe’s luxury sports watch are attractive, in my opinion, the Aquanaut is best in stainless steel. Hardwearing, versatile, comfortable, and elegant–the list of virtues goes on and on. Can’t go wrong with one of these.

Channeling the aesthetics of vintage, patinated "Ghost" Submariners, Tudor's heritage-inspired hit is hard to resist.

Tudor Black Bay Fifty-Eight 925 Ref. M79010SG-0002

As one of the only silver-cased watches currently in production, this Black Bay variant certainly is special. Like most other Tudor watches with non-stainless cases, the watch also features a sapphire crystal display caseback. Over time, this reference’s case develops an incredible patina, making it all the more attractive.

Fitted with a brilliant, blue sunburst dial, this vibrant JLC Reverso from JLC stands out from the pack.

Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Tribute Monoface Small Seconds Ref. Q397848J

With so much hype currently surrounding the Cartier Tank, I’m honestly unsure of why the Reverso doesn’t get more love. It’s similarly rectangular, has no shortage of history behind it, and its reversible case is a joy. If you’re looking for something a little more unique, this is it.

Produced for just under a decade, this now-discontinued Submariner continues to entice dedicated Rolex collectors.

Rolex Submariner Ref. 114060

There are few more classic sports watches than the Rolex Submariner. This is the first reference to have been fitted with a Cerachrom bezel, which gives this watch the pop factor. On top of that, this is the previous generation Submariner, making it 40mm - a much better size for most enthusiasts.

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