Hanhart Books/Calendars

When it comes to pilot’s or tactical watches, the mind often leaps to IWC’s iconic Big Pilot or Casio G-Shock’s impressive lineup of aviation and survival-inspired timepieces. But, in the world of watches designed for the adventurous, IWC and Casio are far from the sole contenders, catering to pilots, underwater explorers, and desk divers alike.

Once upon a time, Steve McQueen was one of the most famous actors in Hollywood, appearing in countless westerns and action/adventure films in the 1960s and 70s. It’s not surprising that the “King of Cool” became a legend during his lifetime: the charismatic actor wasn’t just a daredevil on the silver screen, but in real life, too. Outside the film industry, McQueen was a passionate sportsman and loved to race cars and motorcycles. In 1970, he finished second in the 12 Hours of Sebring, driving his Porsche 908. The most interesting aspect for us may be the fact that the actor was an avid watch collector. In this article, we’ll be taking a look back at the watches of Steve McQueen.