In a world where watches continue to grow in size and become more cunning in the way they display time, and the boundaries between jewelry and timepieces are increasingly blurred, one sector is beating on against the current: relaunched classics. These are watches with clean, simple lines, enduring style and lasting prestige - catering to the needs of a gimmick-weary market.

This July, the watch world will see two relaunches. The sleek and simple Omega Seamaster 1948 London 2012, previewed at Basel this year, will be released in late July as a pre-Olympic tie-in. The model features the same dial as the original-which was developed specifically for deep dives-and is a streamlined 38 millimetres, just a bit larger than the 1940s model, with an updated calibre. The company will sell 1,948 pieces, retailing at around $6,800. The only downside to the new model is a rather gaudy Olympic slogan-which is thankfully hidden from view on the back.