One of the great things about vintage watch re-editions is that they allow watch brands to make timepieces look more classic with updated materials and mechanics. Vintage watches can be definitely exceptional but normally seems a bit weak in durability and reliability compared with modern replica watches. One of my favorite updates this year came from Seiko, which did a re-issue of the 6159-7001: the SLA025. The 6159-7001 is a fairly precious watch (it was wholly made for only two years, 1968-69) and the new model has all the idiosyncratic, form-follows-function appeal of the original, but with an updated movement, and many small tweaks to the basic design. This handsome timepiece is ready for you and the deep blue sea anytime.
James Stacey – Longines Military Watch
If you’re hunting for a new vintage look, Longines did it best at Baselworld this past year and no one could beyond it even the past several years. Their new Longines Military Watch has a lovely and old-school 38.5mm steel case that wraps around a beautiful faux-aged dial replete with fake age spots and its classic blued steel hands are powered by a Longines automatic L888 movement (based on the ETA A31). It’s a new watch that certainly looks old but beautiful, and at CHF 2000, actually, it’s not cheap but it does offer a strong value and the Military Watch is outstanding among many competitions.  
Stephen Pulvirent – Tudor Black Bay Fifty-Eight
Heritage watches have been a big part of Tudor’s collection for many years, it’s no doubt that another great one should come. However, I have to admit that the Black Bay Fifty-Eight comes anywhere as far as to me. The watch pays tribute to the original Tudor Big Crown Submariner (from 1958, hence the name) and takes on a slimmer, smaller profile than any of the existing Black Bay divers. It’s just 39mm across and a hair under 12mm thick, meaning it wears almost exactly like an old, crown-guard-free Sub from the 60s. It’s the closest thing you’re going to find in a modern replica watch at least. The bevels on the lugs and the gilt finishing really make this watch warm and glamorous although I know that last bit is a little controversial, it can’t prevent you to appreciate it.