Movado's 1917 Heritage Collection: A Timeless Revival

The Movado 1917 Heritage Collection represents a sophisticated fusion of historical design and contemporary appeal, marking a significant return to the brand's foundational principles. Established in 1881, Movado has consistently embraced geometric forms and balanced proportions throughout its history. This new collection is not merely a re-release but a thoughtful evolution, demonstrating how the brand's early 20th-century design language remains remarkably relevant today. By showcasing these pieces alongside vintage models, Movado emphasizes a continuous thread of design philosophy rather than a nostalgic backward glance.

A century after Movado's initial shift from traditional pocket watches to modern wristwatches, the 1917 Heritage Collection seamlessly integrates historical aesthetics with modern preferences. The enduring nature of its original design allows it to resonate strongly in 2025, a period keenly appreciative of vintage-inspired styles. To extend its reach, Movado has partnered with Indiana Pacers luminary Tyrese Haliburton, who appreciates the collection's "old soul" and versatility. Haliburton highlights the watches' adaptability, noting their suitability for both high-fashion events and casual wear, and their distinctive rectangular shape that offers a unique character beyond conventional round timepieces.

The collection features a rectangular case, a stepped bezel, and a minimalist dial that deliberately predates Movado's iconic Museum Dial. This design choice pays homage to the brand's Art Deco roots. Two distinct sizes are offered: a larger 45.2mm model that reintroduces the original silhouette with stylized Arabic numerals and an updated unilink bracelet, and a more compact 34.1mm version. The larger models are powered by a Sellita automatic movement, visible through an exhibition caseback, and are available in various sunburst ombré dial colors, including blue, charcoal gray, green, and silver white, with some featuring yellow-gold-tone bezels. The meticulously crafted solid-steel bracelet tapers to a butterfly clasp, enhancing comfort and wearability. The 34.1mm versions feature similar design elements, combining stainless steel or yellow-gold finishes with champagne, taupe, cherry, or green ombré dials, some adorned with lab-grown diamond bezels or unique flower-motif crowns inspired by early Movado designs. Priced between $795 and $1,795, these timepieces cater to diverse tastes and preferences.

This collection successfully navigates the delicate balance between honoring Movado's rich history and catering to contemporary tastes. While some might initially question the wearability of a 45.2mm watch, the specific dimensions and design of these pieces allow them to sit surprisingly well on the wrist, even for those accustomed to smaller watches. The brand's decision to offer a larger size alongside the more modest 34.1mm caters to a wider audience, acknowledging current trends while maintaining the essence of its heritage. The geometrical case designs, currently popular in the market, further underscore the collection's timely appeal, offering an accessible entry point into modern watchmaking.

By drawing on its profound legacy and innovative spirit, Movado positions the 1917 Heritage Collection as a forward-looking tribute to its past. This initiative not only celebrates a century of distinctive design but also reasserts Movado's commitment to creating watches that are both historically significant and relevant for today's discerning consumers.