Fast Cars, Epic Watches: The Legend of Briggs Cunningham

Originally published by Benjamin Clymer on Hodinkee.

One of the countless reasons why any given person may have an interest in timepieces is that these little machines, bound to the wrists of their owners, may in fact be witness to greatness. In the ever-growing list of heroes and their watches, today's subject is not near the top for his contributions to exploration – like, say, a Neil Armstrong might be with his Omega Speedmaster – nor for his importance in the macro-level collecting world, like Paul Newman might be with his Daytona. No, Briggs Cunningham is an American hero of a different sort. His name means little to those outside the highest echelons of motorsport and aquatic racing, or classic timepiece and vehicle collecting. But, to those in the know, Briggs Cunningham and his collection of bespoke wristwatches and sports cars are downright legendary. Today, I'll break them down for you.