For years, we knew James May as the thoughtful, methodical “Captain Slow” from Top Gear and The Grand Tour. While his co-hosts were often associated with speed and chaos, May presented a different persona, one that valued precision, engineering, and a good story. It’s perhaps no surprise, then, that his personal watch collection is a fascinating reflection of that character. It’s not a vault of ultra-rare, six-figure luxury pieces you might expect from a global television star, but rather a carefully curated assembly of thoughtful, interesting, and often surprisingly accessible timepieces.
Taking A Look at James May’s Watch Collection from Top Gear – WatchRanker reveals a man whose horological tastes are as nuanced and witty as his on-screen commentary. He isn’t chasing status; he’s connecting with mechanics, history, and design. His collection is a breath of fresh air in a world often obsessed with brand prestige alone, showing us that what you wear on your wrist can be a genuine extension of your personality.
A Look at James May’s Watch Collection from Top Gear – WatchRanker
So, what exactly does the Captain have tucked away in his watch box? Unlike the predictable collections of many celebrities, May’s is wonderfully eclectic. It features everything from a watch connected to a famous ocean liner to a quirky digital model from the 1970s, each with its own rationale. He seems to gravitate towards items with a narrative, whether that story is about technological innovation, historical significance, or pure, unadulterated fun.
This approach makes his collection incredibly relatable. It demonstrates that you don’t need a bottomless bank account to appreciate fine horology. Instead, it emphasizes the joy of finding a timepiece that speaks to you personally, regardless of its price tag or perceived prestige. Let’s examine some of the standout pieces that define his philosophy.
The Omega Seamaster and a Nod to History
One of the most prominent watches in May’s collection is his Omega Seamaster. While many might associate the Seamaster with James Bond, May’s connection is typically more grounded. He has been seen wearing a model that aligns with the Seamaster’s core identity: a robust, reliable, and elegantly designed tool watch for everyday life. Omega represents a sweet spot in the watch world—a brand with undeniable heritage and technical prowess, but without the ostentatious flair of some of its competitors.
This choice is very “James May.” It’s a quality item from a respected manufacturer that does its job perfectly without needing to shout about it. It’s the horological equivalent of a well-engineered, practical sports car rather than a temperamental hypercar. For anyone looking for a first serious watch, May’s apparent approval of Omega offers a solid, classically stylish path that will stand the test of time.
The Citizen Aqualand and a Touch of the Unusual
Perhaps the most telling piece in his collection is the Citizen Aqualand. This is not a watch you see every day. It’s a distinctive dive watch with an extra depth gauge sensor on the side, a feature that is both highly functional and visually unique. May’s ownership of this watch highlights his appreciation for genuine tool watches—instruments designed for a specific purpose.
The Aqualand isn’t trying to be the most beautiful or thinnest watch; it’s built to provide critical information to a diver. This aligns perfectly with May’s well-documented love for engineering and gadgets. It shows that he values function and interesting complications over pure aesthetics or brand name. For watch enthusiasts, this is a great reminder to look beyond the usual suspects and consider the innovative and purpose-built models that often fly under the radar.
The Sinclair Black Watch and Embracing Quirkiness
If any single watch could be called the quintessential James May timepiece, it might be the Sinclair Black Watch. This is a piece of British technological history from the 1970s, infamous for its unreliability. It was a flat, digital watch that was revolutionary in concept but plagued by technical issues. For most people, this would be a forgotten footnote, but for May, it’s a cherished part of his collection.
This choice is pure, unadulterated James May. It reflects his Britishness, his love for quirky and often flawed engineering, and his wonderful sense of humor. Owning a Sinclair Black Watch isn’t about telling the time accurately; it’s about celebrating an ambitious, if imperfect, piece of innovation. It teaches us that a collection doesn’t have to be filled with perfect, high-performance machines. There is room for the odd, the nostalgic, and the conversation-starting misfits.
What We Can Learn from Captain Slow’s Approach
Looking at James May’s collection, a clear philosophy emerges. He isn’t a spec-sheet hunter or a brand-name collector. His choices are driven by curiosity, a respect for engineering, and a desire for a good story. He buys what he likes, whether it’s a respected Omega, a quirky Sinclair, or a functional Citizen. This is a wonderfully liberating way to approach watch collecting.
It encourages you to think about what you truly value in a watch. Is it the movement? The design? The history? Or simply the way it makes you feel? May’s collection proves that a personal and thoughtful connection to a timepiece is far more rewarding than simply acquiring what is considered “the best” by popular opinion. His wristwear is an authentic expression of his wide-ranging interests, from classic mechanics to forgotten technological adventures.
In the end, James May’s watch collection is a refreshing departure from the norm. It’s intelligent, personal, and full of character, much like the man himself. It shows us that horology isn’t just about luxury and investment; it’s about passion, history, and a little bit of fun. The next time you consider a new watch, you might ask yourself not “What is everyone else buying?” but rather, “What story do I want to wear on my wrist?”