Giorgio Armani. The watch you weren't supposed to notice.
In 1975 Giorgio Armani launched menswear without shoulder pads or structure. The watch was part of the same brief. A quiet signal. Not a status object.
Armani's first watches were made by Bagutta in Milan from 1982. Emporio Armani followed in 1981 with the eagle. Roman numerals, cream dial, burgundy strap — not subtle, still restrained.
In 2024 Armani collaborated with Parmigiani Fleurier on the '11' collection. A fashion house commissioning a watchmaker — it meant something different in 1982.
How to date an Emporio Armani watch: eagle on dial = Emporio line. 'Swiss Made' case back = post-2000. 'Made in Italy' = 1990s.
