5 vintage watches that would look perfect at Goodwood Revival

What is Goodwood Revival and when is it on in 2025?

Goodwood Revival is the UK’s finest celebration of all things classic motoring and mid-century style. Held annually at the Goodwood Motor Circuit in West Sussex, it’s part historic race meet, part time-travel fantasy, and part fashion show for petrol heads.

For 2025, the Goodwood Revival dates are set for Friday 12th to Sunday 14th September. The Goodwood Revival dress code is famously strict – and delightfully fun – with attendees encouraged to dress in authentic 1940s to 1960s styles. That means no modern gear on show – from head to toe, and especially on the wrist.

If you’re going the extra mile with your outfit, make sure your timepiece isn’t letting you down. Let’s dive into our top five picks.

Heuer Carrera 12 Chronograph 2447T (1960s)

Let’s start with a motorsport legend. The Heuer Carrera 2447T is arguably one of the cleanest chronographs ever made. With its pump pushers, crisp white dial, and Valjoux 72 manual movement, it’s pure mid-century magic and a beautiful vintage watch.

Why it works for Goodwood:
Channel your inner Juan Manuel Fangio or Steve McQueen. The Carrera pairs beautifully with a 1960s driver outfit – think racing gloves, suede jackets, or roll-neck sweaters. Heuer Carrera model’s with the original tritium lume and “Swiss” signed dials give extra vintage credibility. If there are signs of a little case wear, that’s not a bug, it’s a feature of a great vintage watch.

Universal Genève Tri-Compax 42201 (1950s–60s)

The Tri-Compax is a masterclass in complexity and charm. Moonphase, chronograph, calendar – all neatly arranged on one beautifully proportioned dial. And yet, it’s not overbearing.

Why it works for Goodwood
This one’s for the dandy. It’s ideal if you’re going for a 1950s evening look – think double-breasted suits, cravats, and a slick pair of brogues. The Universal Genève Tri-Compax has become increasingly collectible, so finding an untouched example might take patience (and quite a bit of cash). Embrace the dial patina – it only adds character.

Omega Speedmaster 105.003-65 (aka ‘Ed White’)

The Omega Speedmaster 105.003 isn’t just another vintage Omega watch – it’s the Speedmaster worn by astronaut Ed White during the first American spacewalk. Straight lugs, no crown guards, and that NASA-approved calibre 321 make this a top-tier choice.

Why it works for Goodwood:
If your vibe is more mid-60s explorer than track-side gentleman, this is just the ticket for you. It’s versatile enough to match a utility-style jacket or period-correct military surplus. These early references are serious grail material. Prices have skyrocketed but so has the cool factor. Don’t over-polish the case – let it show its age.

Rolex Datejust 36 ref. 1601 (1960s–70s)

Timeless, elegant, and often surprisingly accessible, the Rolex Datejust 1601 is the perfect daily vintage piece. With its fluted bezel, Jubilee bracelet, and pie-pan dial, it oozes sophistication.

Why it works for Goodwood
If you’re going for a posh 1960s weekend-in-the-country look, then this is your watch. Think linen suits, straw hats, and Martinis at the ready. What, what..!! The silver or champagne dials are classic, but those with tropical patina or rare dial colours command collector attention. This model is one of the best entry points into vintage Rolex watches.

Jaeger-LeCoultre Memovox Speedbeat (1970s)

This funky late-70s alarm watch from Jaeger-LeCoultre combines utility and flair. The “Speedbeat” moniker refers to its faster-beating calibre 916 – the first fully automatic alarm movement from Jaeger-LeCoultre.

Why it works for Goodwood
Perfect for mod-era stylings – think checked trousers, Chelsea boots, and short Harrington jackets. The Memovox Speedbeat adds just enough quirk to perfectly match the outfit. The internal rotating disc and mechanical alarm give it serious retro sci-fi appeal.