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Sellita is one of the most renowned manufacturers of mechanical movements in the watchmaking industry. Sellita has been in the game since the 1950s and is an unwavering companion to many well-established watch brands today. At present, Sellita’s catalogue consists of 15 different caliber families that encompass a variety of functions. This includes the Sellita SW200, which is one of the brand’s most robust and reliable mechanisms to date. In this article, we will be delving deep into the Sellita SW200. This includes the Sellita SW200’s full range of capabilities and some of the best watches that offer it. Sellita SW200: A Background First launched in 2008, the Sellita SW200 is widely regarded as Sellita’s answer to the popular ETA 2824-2 calibre. This is in large part because the Sellita SW200 comprises many components similar to that of the ETA 2824-2 movement. In fact, many professionals have gone on record saying that the Sellita SW200 and ETA 2824-2 are practically identical in structure. We will discuss their similarities in greater detail later in the article, but for now, let us focus solely on the Sellita SW200. Currently, there are 22 variations of the Sellita SW200. These are all Sellita SW200 movements that come with different functions and complications. For instance, some movements incorporate date features and power reserve indicators, while others may come with moonphase features and so on. However, the standard Sellita SW200 caliber is the Sellita SW200-1. The Sellita SW200-1 serves as the base for all the other movements in the SW200 family. Anatomy of the Sellita SW200-1 The Sellita SW200-1 is a Swiss movement known for its reliability, robustness, and versatility. These characteristics are precisely why many brands have chosen this movement for their timepieces. As a result, there is quite an extensive selection of Sellita SW200-1 watches in the market. This is great, since it means that your options aren’t only limited to a specific kind of timepiece with the Sellita SW200-1. Whether you love dress watches or you are looking for rugged sporty watches, you will almost certainly be able to find one that is powered by the Sellita SW200-1. The Sellita SW200-1 is a self-winding movement that comes with a ball-bearing rotor and 26 jewels. The calibre itself has a diameter of 25.6mm and measures 4.5mm thick, which are rather standard dimensions for an automatic movement. The Sellita SW200-1 also beats at 28,800 vibrations per hour and boasts a decent power reserve of 38 hours. There are two basic versions of the Sellita SW200-1, which differ in terms of the complications offered. The Sellita SW200-1 A allows timepieces to have three hands, for the hours, minutes, and seconds, and an additional date function. This date function comes with a quick-setting option which you can control using the watch’s crown. The Sellita SW200-1 B, on the other hand, has largely the same build as the Sellita SW200-1 A, but does away with the date function. The Sellita SW200-1 is also available in different finishes: D1 to D4, along with the TAI. The Sellita SW200-1 D1 comes as it, without any decorations. The D2 is for simple embellishments, such as snailed components. Next, the D3 describes Sellita SW200-1 movements with more refined ornamentation and intricate textures. Finally, the D4 is for luxuriously-decorated Sellita SW200-1 calibres which offer the highest quality of design. TAI, on the other hand, describes Sellita SW200-1 movements which have tailor-made designs that are customized by the brand. Other SW200 Variants Here are all the different variations of the Sellita SW200 available today: SW220-1 (Automatic, 3 Hands, Date, and Day)SW221-1 (Automatic, 4 Hands, and Pointer Date)SW240-1 (Automatic, 3 Hands, Date, and Day)SW260-1 (Automatic, 3 Hands, Small Seconds, and Date)SW261-1 (Automatic, 3 Hands, Small Seconds, and Date)SW266-1 (Automatic, Regulator, and Date)SW270-1 (Automatic, 4 Hands, Date, and Power Reserve Indicator)SW279-1 (Automatic, 4 Hands, Small Second, Date, and Power Reserve Indicator)SW280-1 (Automatic, 3 Hands, Date, and Moon Phase)SW285-1 A (Automatic, 3 Hands, Date, Moon Phase, and Day/Night)SW285-1 B (Automatic, 3 Hands, Date, Moon Phase, and Day/Night)SW288-1 A (Automatic, 3 Hands, Date, and Moon Phase)SW288-1 B (Automatic, 3 Hands, Date, and Moon Phase) SW290-1 (Automatic, 3 Hands, Small Seconds, and Date) SW295-1 (Automatic, 4 Hands, Small Seconds, and Pointer Date) SW200-1 AJ (Automatic and 3 Hands)SW261-1 AJ (Automatic, 3 Hands, and Small Seconds)SW200-1 S A (Automatic, 3 Hands, and Skeleton)SW200-1 S B (Automatic, 3 Hands, and Skeleton)SW200-1 S C (Automatic, 3 Hands, and Skeleton)Pros and Cons of the Sellita SW200 Like any watch movement out there, the Sellita SW200 comes with its fair share of pros and cons. Here is a quick summary: Pros The Sellita SW200 is as robust and reliable as mechanical movements can get. While it comes from a well-established brand, the main reason why it is still so well-loved today is because it is incredibly durable and versatile. The Sellita SW200 calibers are well-built and composed of high-quality components, so you can really trust that your timepiece will last a long time with this movement. Another interesting thing about the Sellita SW200 is that it comes in four different grades: standard, special, premium, and COSC-certified. While each grade of the Sellita SW200 has essentially the same core, they differ in quality of precision and accuracy. This shows how versatile the Sellita SW200 caliber is and why each watch equipped with this movement is unique in its own way. Cons 1. There are not really a lot of negative things to say about the SW200. The main criticism watch enthusiasts point out is that the Sellita SW200 is one of the most basic movements out there. While it is reliable and durable, it does not have the same level of intricacy as other movements in the market. Some watch collectors are simply drawn towards more elaborate movements that show off luxury craftsmanship, which is why they may not be the biggest fans of the Sellita SW200. Sellita SW200 vs ETA 2824 As mentioned earlier, the Sellita SW200 and the ETA 2824-2 are two movements that are often associated with each other. This is primarily because, in terms of both structure and functions, the Sellita SW200 and ETA 2824-2 are essentially identical. In fact, the differences between the two barely matter to anyone besides the watchmakers themselves. That said, there are a number of slight differences between the two calibers. Firstly, you will find that the ETA 2824-2 has only 25 jewels. The Sellita SW200, on the other hand, is made up of 26 jewels, which helps in reducing friction. In addition, the Sellita SW200 also has a slightly different oscillating rotor with sharper ridges, so it looks more elaborate compared to its ETA counterpart. 5 Watches with the Sellita SW200 Moving on, below are some watches powered by the impressive Sellita SW200 movement. 1. Alpina Seastrong Diver Ref. AL-525LBN4V6 First up on our list of watches driven by a Sellita SW200 movement, we have the Alpina Seastrong Diver Ref. AL-525LBN4V6. It is one of the many diving watches created by Alpina as a way to showcase its commitment to both innovation and traditional watchmaking techniques. It boasts a handsome navy motif and a strong, robust build. This Alpina Seastrong watch is housed in a 44mm stainless steel case. It is coupled with a lovely blue rubber strap which showcases a pattern of criss-crosses. Affixed to the top of the watch case is a unidirectional bezel. It is fitted with a shiny blue aluminium insert for its elapsed time scale. On the right side of the watch, you can also find a thick screw-down crown made of steel and blue rubber, which contributes to the watch’s outstanding 300-metre depth rating. The dial of this watch also comes in rich blue, complementing the bezel and strap. It follows a simple layout that comprises rounded hour markers, thick sword hands, and a date window at 3 o’clock. The hands and indices of this watch are all coated in white lume, so you can read the dial clearly even in the dark. On the underside of this watch, you will find an exhibition-style caseback. It gives you a close-up view of the Alpina AL-525 Calibre that powers this watch. This movement is based on the Sellita SW200-1, so it has 26 jewels and a frequency rate of 28,800 vibrations per hour. When fully wound, it can last for up to 38 hours. One thing to note is that earlier models of this Alpina Seastrong Diver Ref. AL-525LBN4V6 were equipped with an ETA 2824 base caliber. If you are buying pre-loved versions of this watch, this is something you should keep in mind. The Alpina Seastrong Diver Ref. AL-525LBN4V6 retails at $1,400 USD. 2. Oris Aquis Ref. 0173377664185-SET Next, we have the Oris Aquis Ref. 0173377664185-SET. This is yet another impressive blue dial watch powered by a Sellita SW200 movement. It comes with an elaborate design that pairs well with its ruggedness, making this a perfectly balanced watch. Made in collaboration with the Shanghai Animation Film Studio Co, this Oris Aquis piece is based on a 1960s Chinese animated film, The Monkey King. The Oris Aquis Ref. 0173377664185-SET is presented in a 41.5mm stainless steel case, along with a three-piece link bracelet made of the same material. Sitting on top of the watch case is a blue elapsed time scale bezel. A luminous pip is placed on the bezel, at 12 o’clock, which helps illuminate the watch face in the dark. The blue dial of this Oris watch has a simple yet appealing design that is cleverly inspired by the Monkey King, Sun Wukong. It bears a pattern of straight lines that radiate out from the centre of the dial, like a sun. This dial is also filled with luminous applique hour indices, thick sword hands, and a date display at 6 o’clock. The seconds hand of this watch comes in vibrant red and yellow, and is designed to look like the Monkey King’s famous magical staff, the Ruyi Jingu Bang. On the back of this watch lies a sold stainless steel caseback. Aside from being engraved with the watch’s details, this caseback also shows off an embossed image of the aformentioned Monkey King and his staff. Sealed behind this caseback is an Oris 733 Calibre. Based on the Sellita SW200-1, the Oris 773 has a frequency rate of 28,800 vibrations per hour (4Hz) and a 38-hour power reserve. This Oris watch is also water-resistant up to depths of 300 metres, making it a great underwater companion. You can get this limited-edition watch for around $2,600 USD. 3. Baume et Mercier Classima Ref. M0A10215 Although the Baume et Mercier Classima Ref. M0A10215 also uses a Sellita SW200 movement, it offers a completely different aesthetic compared to the previous two watches. This is a classier dress watch, which is great for Sellita SW200 fans who want diverse options. It is also quite versatile, and serves as an excellent everyday beater watch as well. This Baume et Mercier Classima watch utilises a 40mm stainless steel case and a matching five-link stainless steel bracelet. This watch comes with a screw-down crown, along with a sapphire crystal and fixed bezel that protect its face from any external damage. It has a modest depth rating of 50 metres, which is the standard water resistance capacity most dress watches have. The dial of this watch comes in clean white, which blends well with the watch’s all-steel exterior. It is ornamented with applique stick indices, thin Roman numeral markers, and a compact date aperture at 3 o’clock. At the centre of the dial, you can also find sweeping blued steel leaf hands, which add a touch of elegant colour to this watch face. Flipping this watch over, you will see an exhibition-style caseback. It treats you to an up-close and personal view of the Sellita SW200 movement that runs inside. This calibre is made up of 26 jewels and delivers a 38-hour power supply. This Baume et Mercier watch is priced at $2,450 USD. 4. Sinn Uhren Ref. 556-I Next, we have a handsome utilitarian watch in the form of the Sinn Uhren Ref. 556-I. This is a robust and straightforward timepiece that makes for a fail-safe watch option, no matter what the occasion is. This Sinn Uhren watch comes in a 38.5mm stainless steel case, along with a H-link bracelet made of the same material. Both the case and bracelet are treated with a satin finish, giving the watch a gloriously smooth, sleek look. Seated on top of the watch case is a thick fixed bezel that is also made from satinised stainless steel. It helps protect the watch face from any impacts. The black dial of this watch shows off a very minimalistic layout, reminiscent of the German Bauhaus watch designs, that prioritises legibility. It is filled with rectangular, painted hour indices and thick luminous sword hands, along with a compact date complication at 3 o’clock. This is yet another watch with a see-through caseback, giving wearers a glimpse of the self-winding caliber inside. This watch runs on the Sellita SW200-1 movement, which has 26 jewels and promises a 38-hour power reserve. Aside from that, this Sinn watch is also water-resistant up to depths of 200 metres. This Sinn watch costs approximately $1,300 USD. 5. Yema Superman Heritage Ref. YSUP2018A-AMS Last but certainly not the least, we have the Yema Superman Heritage Ref. YSUP2018A-AMS. This watch has a very rugged and sporty exterior that perfectly matches the sturdy Sellita SW200 movement inside. On top of that, it also shows off a very contemporary style that the modern man is sure to enjoy. This Yema Superman watch sports a 39mm stainless steel case and a H-link bracelet that is also made from stainless steel. Pressed on top of the watch case is a curved-edge rotating bezel. This bezel bears a black ceramic insert, which is marked with a 60-minute count-up scale. On the right side of the case rests a large screw-down crown. It is equipped with a bezel-lock mechanism, which ensures the watch’s outstanding 300-metre depth rating. The dial of this watch has a jet-black finish, which matches its bezel. It follows a standard diving watch layout, containing luminous hour indices in various geometric shapes and large arrow-headed hands. A small date display also lies at 3 o’clock. Driving all of these features is the robust Sellita SW200-1 Calibre. It is made up of 26 jewels and offers a 38-hour power supply. This Yema watch is worth around $1,150 USD. Frequently Asked Questions Now, let us move on to some of the most frequently asked questions about the Sellita SW200. How accurate is the Sellita SW200? The standard Sellita SW200 has an accuracy rate of +/-12 seconds per day, paired a frequency rate of 28,800 vibrations per hour. That said, the precision rate of the Sellita SW200 does improve based on the grade of the movement. With the premium version of the Sellita SW200, you can get an accuracy rate of +/-4 seconds per day. How long do Sellita movements last? Sellita movements can last up to two decades or more. However, it should be noted that the lifespan of a movement also depends on many different factors. These include the maintenance it is given, how often it is being used, and more. Final Thoughts The Sellita SW200 is truly one of the most trustworthy mechanisms to ever be made. It is the epitome of a simple yet reliable caliber, which is why it continues to be the go-to movement for many watch brands today. If you have a timepiece powered by a Sellita SW200 caliber, rest assured that you have utmost quality and functionality on your wrist! Photo Credits: Sellita and WatchShopping Sites Before you go, check out this article all about the Doctor Strange Watch!
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Have you ever gone hiking outside and wished you had a smart tool that can help you navigate your way? Or have you ever gone through a full workout session and realized that you want to know your physical stats in real-time? Well, these are only some of the reasons why we now have smartwatches like the Coros APEX Pro. This handy sports smartwatch was designed with athletes in mind so that they would be able to go through rugged environments as conveniently and easily as possible. With that in mind, let us delve a little deeper into the details of the reliable Coros APEX Pro and everything it has to offer. Overview of the Coros APEX Pro The Coros APEX Pro was originally released back in September 2019. This sports watch made quite an impact on both patrons of the brand and the general public because it was equipped with all sorts of impressive features that allowed it to stand out even amongst a veritable crowd of smartwatches in the horology industry. In fact, just a month after it was officially introduced to the world, the Coros APEX Pro became the recipient of the Best in Gear award by BelieveInTheRun running blog. This just shows that there is far more to the Coros APEX Pro than meets the eye. In-Depth Look at the Coros APEX Pro First things first, the Coros APEX Pro is actually an improved version of the Coros APEX, which was launched just a year prior to the Pro. It is classified as a Premium Multi-Sport Watch that is designed for athletes and those who love going on outdoor adventures. Now, let us take a closer look at the extraordinary features of the Coros APEX Pro. Case and Dial The Coros APEX Pro is presented in a 47mm titanium alloy case with a durable, scratch-resistant aluminum cover. Its bulky size makes this watch best suited for those with average-to-large-sized wrists. However, it is also made from titanium alloy, which weighs 45% less than regular stainless steel. As a result of its titanium composition, the Coros APEX Pro has a rather lightweight build, so even those with smaller wrists can easily wear this watch around all day. The Coros APEX Pro is offered in three different colorways: white, silver, and black. Each option is incredibly sleek and classic, showcasing a sporty exterior that is perfect for that athleisure style. On the right side of the case, you can also find a stout crown which is surrounded by two smooth pushers. The crown has wide, deeply grooved sides, which provides wearers with a better grip so they can hold and turn it more easily. The functions of the two pushers are also carefully engraved in black on the watch case. This facilitates ease of use and ensures that you will not be confused by the Coros APEX Pro’s many functions. Meanwhile, the dial of this watch showcases a Touch Screen Memory LCD display with a resolution of 240 x 240 pixels. It offers a colorful and vibrant display screen that is highly legible, whether under bright light or in the dark. This dial is also protected by a layer of sapphire glass, which boasts unmatched robustness and scratch-resistant properties. This means that you can peacefully work out and exercise without having to worry about damaging your watch in the process. Band The Coros APEX Pro comes with a high-quality black silicone band that measures 22mm long, so it fits snugly around your wrist. You also have the opportunity of adding a nylon strap to your purchase, in case you ever want to swap out the original bracelet and try a different style. Both the nylon strap and silicone bracelet are great, practical options for sports and outdoor activities, so you can choose whichever one best suits your personality and preferences. Technical Specifications The most important part, when talking about an outdoor smartwatch, is what technical specifications it has to offer. These details would determine whether the smart accessory is worth it or not. Luckily, the Coros APEX Pro is equipped with numerous functions that are perfect for all kinds of adventures and activities. In fact, it was designed specifically with athletes enduring harsh conditions in mind. First of all, the Coros APEX Pro has an in-depth navigation system that supports offline mapping, which means you can keep track of your routes in real-time. This model also comes with an extensive training mode that covers different sports like cycling, running, swimming, and strength training. It offers over 200 accessible workouts and exercises that range from simple running and trekking to more niche activities like speed surfing, catering to just about any sport you could think of. With the Coros APEX Pro, you also get state-of-the-art sensors such as an oximeter, a heart rate monitor, a barometric altimeter, a compass, and many more. This watch also possesses a water resistance capacity of up to 100 meters, which makes it quite a reliable underwater companion as well. All of these functions are powered by a rechargeable battery that boasts superior quality. You can wear the Coros APEX Pro continuously for 30 days in regular use mode, for 40 hours in full GPS mode, and for 100 hours in UltraMax mode. When you finally do need to recharge this Coros APEX Pro, it will take only up to two hours for you to get a full battery charge. Price With the range of high-tech features they offer, smartwatches tend to come at fairly exorbitant prices. That said, the Coros APEX Pro breaks from the mold, offering a very reasonable price tag of just $399 USD. It almost sounds too good to be true when you think about all the functions and capabilities the Coros APEX Pro comes with. 3 Alternatives to the Coros APEX Pro Below are some alternative models to the Coros APEX Pro that you should also keep on your radar. 1. Suunto 9 Ref. SS050450000F First, we have the Suunto 9 Ref. SS050450000F, which is a staple smartwatch amongst outdoor enthusiasts and those with active lifestyles. Much like the Coros APEX Pro, it is equipped with excellent features that would make your adventures even more fun and convenient. On top of that, this timepiece also doubles as a great everyday watch, as it comes with handy functions that you can use daily. This Suunto 9 watch comes in a glass-fiber-reinforced polyamide case, which is paired with a textile strap in a bright lime hue. The touchscreen dial is made of sapphire crystal, which is a material known for its durability and scratch resistance. It showcases an LED matrix display with a decent resolution of 320 x 300 pixels, providing wearers with a vibrant color display. The biggest reason why this Suunto watch is a great alternative to the Coros APEX Pro is because of all its impressive functionality and multitude of features. These include 24/7 trackers and numerous outdoor modes for trekking, hiking, and other such activities. For instance, if you like exploring the great unknown, you can feel at ease with this watch as it has an elaborate GPS and navigation system. It also offers access to different environmental trackers such as a barometer, a thermometer, a weather radar, and more. When it comes to exercise and training, this Suunto 9 watch comes with multiple sports modes that cover both land and water activities. If you are currently in recovery, you can also manage your physical stats through the watch’s impressive health trackers. Finally, this watch runs on a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that allows for a lifespan of one to 14 days, depending on the mode in use. If you do not mind forking out more money, you should definitely consider getting this excellent $640 USD smartwatch. 2. Alpina AlpinerX Ref. AL-283LBBO5SAQ6 Next up, we have the Alpina AlpinerX Ref. AL-283LBBO5SAQ6. This is perfect for those who want something as powerful as the Coros APEX Pro, but with a more traditional, classic aesthetic. Highly-advanced smartwatches are great, but they are not for everyone, so this Alpina watch serves as a great middle-ground for those who want the best of both worlds. This Alpina AlpinerX piece is housed in a 45mm stainless steel case, coupled with a thick black rubber strap that gives the watch a very sporty and robust look. Affixed to the top of the watch case is a thick, rotating stainless steel bezel. Unlike most smartwatches that come with fixed bezels, the Alpina AlpinerX Ref. AL-283LBBO5SAQ6’s bezel shows off indicators in black for its compass scale. The dial, likewise, distinguishes itself from traditional smartwatches by showing off a hybrid layout with both analog and digital displays. It contains pointed hour indices and Arabic numeral hour markers in a bold white typeface, all of which are generously coated with lume. Located on the top half of the dial are luminous sword hands outlined in vivid orange, which add a more playful, vibrant edge to this timepiece. On the lower half of the watch face, you can also find a simple black digital screen. Thanks to this digital screen, this watch can do a lot more than your average analog timepiece. Its functions include activity and sleep tracking, dynamic coaching, a Worldtimer, a smart alarm, notifications for calls and messages, a UV indicator, an altimeter, a thermometer, a barometer, and a time recorder. All of these features can be helpful when you are out and about in nature or in everyday life. Our very favorite thing about this Alpina watch is that you do not have to constantly charge it, as it is powered by an MMT-283-1 quartz movement. This quartz caliber has a battery life of more than 24 months, so you just need to get the batteries changed every couple of years. You can also use this watch for all sorts of water activities as it has a 100-meter water resistance rating. The Alpina AlpinerX Ref. AL-283LBBO5SAQ6 retails at $1,195 USD. 3. TAG Heuer Connected Ref. SBR8010.BT6255 Last but not the least, we have the TAG Heuer Connected Ref. SBR8010.BT6255, which serves as the most luxurious option on this list. It belongs to TAG Heuer’s acclaimed selection of smartwatches, which is known for being equipped with top-of-the-line specifications. Like the Coros APEX Pro, this watch comes with a very chic and modern design that is easy to pair with any style. This TAG Heuer Connected Modular watch utilizes a 42mm stainless steel case and a smooth black rubber strap, enhancing the watch’s sophisticated yet sporty vibe. The dial features a boxed sapphire crystal, which allows for a clean and clear screen view. While it does have a full touchscreen display, you also have the option of using the crown and pushers to navigate this watch too. Moreover, it is powered by a rechargeable battery that boasts a 330 mAh capacity, which can be charged to full in just one hour and thirty minutes. When it comes to functionality, this TAG Heuer Connected watch showcases high-level innovation. Its features include fitness tracking, health monitoring, and seamless WiFi connectivity. If you like to exercise or play certain sports, you can easily track your performance through TAG Heuer’s optimized sports system, too. You can also connect it to your smartphone, so you will have access to smart notifications and other downloadable apps for your watch. The TAG Heuer Connected Ref. SBR8010.BT6255 might be considerably more expensive than the Coros APEX Pro. That said, it is only to be expected, considering you are paying both for the watch’s impeccable specifications and for its prestigious TAG Heuer branding. You can get your hands on this watch for approximately $1,830 USD. Final Thoughts The Coros APEX Pro is one of the best smartwatches you can get on the market, especially for its value. Despite its reasonable price, it is equipped with quality features that are on par with big names like Suunto and Garmin. In fact, the Coros APEX Pro serves as a safe choice for those who are not comfortable spending over $500 USD on a smartwatch. Despite its affordability, you can rest assured that the functionality and reliability of the Coros APEX Pro are not compromised in any way. Photo Credits: Coros Website and WatchShopping Site If you are sporty and like playing golf, check out this piece on the 10 Best Golf Watches!
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Many of the watches we have today are more than mere time-telling accessories. Over the decades, advances in watchmaking technology have allowed watchmakers to design timepieces with more specific, varied purposes. For example, we now have dive watches for seafaring adventurers, sports watches for outdoor enthusiasts, digital watches for those who love greater convenience, and many more. In this article, we will be focusing on a specific type of timepiece made just for the explorers out there: the altimeter watch. Read on to find out more about what an altimeter watch is and some of the best altimeter watches in the market today. What Is An Altimeter Watch? First and foremost, altimeter watches are essentially timepieces that can measure altitude above a fixed level. Altimeter watches are equipped with barometric altimeters which use changes in air pressure to calculate the altitude the wearer is currently at. In analog timepieces, you can find different scales for altitude (in feet) and air pressure, with indicators that will illustrate the exact measurements. These scales can usually be found on the dial or bezel of the watch. Smartwatches and digital timepieces, on the other hand, have in-built altimeter functions which can quickly calculate your current altitude for you. These watches are perfect for all the tech-savvy explorers out there. 15 Best Altimeter Watches Without further ado, let us take look at some of the best altimeter watches you can get right now. 1. Oris Big Crown ProPilot Ref. 01 733 7705 423 First up on our list, we have the Oris Big Crown ProPilot Ref. 01 733 7705 423 with its robust and powerfully-built exterior. Just one glance at its rugged all-black profile, and you can already tell that this Oris watch is made to withstand the harsh conditions of the great outdoors. Housed in a 47mm black-plated stainless steel case, this Oris Big Crown ProPilot piece showcases a complex watch face in black and a grey textile strap that perfectly complement each other. Accentuated by indicators in white, yellow, and red, the black dial consists of luminescent white hands and Arabic numerals, a small rectangular date window, an air pressure scale, and an altitude scale (in feet). Powering all these functions is an automatic Oris 733 Caliber, which is based on an SW 200-1 movement. This caliber comes with a solid 38-hour power reserve. You can get the Oris Big Crown ProPilot Ref. 01 733 7705 423 for approximately $4,340 USD. 2. Citizen Promaster Altichron Ref. BN5055-05E The next watch on this list, the Citizen Promaster Altichron Ref. BN5055-05E serves as the perfect timepiece for those in the beginning stages of their adventurer lifestyle. It has a very sporty and rugged build, but with an added hint of a cool, vintage vibe. This Citizen watch is presented in a 47mm black stainless steel case, paired with a black and brown Cordura strap. Fitted on top of the case is a rustic bronze-tone rotating bezel that adds to the watch’s old-school aesthetic. This bezel is marked with white indicators for the electronic compass function, which you can use to navigate yourself out of any tight spots. The busy-looking watch face is also made up of a black dial with the following components: an analog time display, a square date window, a skeletal, arrow-shaped hand for the compass, and an altimeter function with a range of up to 32,000 feet. In addition, this Citizen Promaster timepiece is equipped with Citizen’s Eco-Drive technology, so it can be charged using various light sources. Retailing at just $595 USD, this is one of the best altimeter watches you can get at such an affordable price. 3. Casio Pro Trek Ref. PRW-60T-7AJF Next up, we have the Casio Pro Trek Ref. PRW-60T-7AJF which boasts a very quintessential sports watch vibe. As part of the brand’s renowned Pro Trek collection, this watch was designed to be a multi-functional, rugged outdoor timepiece through and through. This Casio watch comes in a 47mm stainless steel case and bezel paired with a lightweight titanium bracelet, so it does not feel too heavy on your wrist despite its sizable build. This bezel, which is engraved with the names of 29 different cities, can be used to track 29 different time zones. The dial shows off a hybrid digital-analog display with luminescent sword hands, thick hour indices, and an LCD window on the lower half of the watch face. This model is also equipped with triple sensor technology, which means it comes with an altimeter-barometer, a compass, and a thermometer. On top of that, it also has a chronograph, a perpetual calendar, and a power reserve indicator. This watch is driven by a quartz movement that runs on solar energy. If you want an altimeter watch jampacked with a bunch of other functions, you can get the Casio Pro Trek Ref. PRW-60T-7AJF for just $609 USD. 4. Suunto 9 Baro Ref. SS050149000 The Suunto 9 Baro Ref. SS050149000 serves as the perfect companion for adventurers and those with active lifestyles. It is a multi-functional smartwatch that is built to last, regardless of whatever may come its way. Aside from the impressive features offered, this Suunto 9 watch is also highly regarded for its aesthetics, having been awarded the iF Design Award in 2019. The Suunto 9 Baro Ref. SS050149000 is presented in a glass-fiber-reinforced polyamide case with a hardy titanium bezel and a comfortable silicone strap. The dial has a fully digital display with touchscreen capabilities and an LED backlight for optimal legibility even in poor lighting conditions. As mentioned, this watch comes with a multitude of functions, including 24/7 activity tracking, a GPS, an altimeter, a weather indicator, a variety of sports modes, and more. Powering this Suunto model is a rechargeable lithium battery with a lifespan of up to 14 days in time mode, so you need not worry about having to change this watch’s batteries. Retailing at $669 USD, this is one of the best all-around altimeter watches for explorers of any level. 5. Apple Watch Series 7 Another great watch option for those who want a timepiece with more handy features than just an altimeter is the Apple Watch Series 7. This is a great choice for novice adventurers who are not really looking for a professional outdoor watch, as it can be used for both active and casual days. The Apple Watch Series 7 comes in either a 41mm or 45mm case and is made from materials that you can customize to your liking. You can choose between titanium, aluminum, or stainless steel for the case and silicone, leather, stainless steel, or fluoroelastomer for the strap. In addition, on the rectangular retina dial display, you get access to the following: detailed health functions including blood oxygen tracking and ECG apps, music players, activity tracking, map functions, an altimeter, and lots more. Priced at $799 USD, this is recommended for those who want a customizable lifestyle watch that makes for a good companion outdoors as well. 6. Alpina AlpinerX Black/Orange For something that caters more to younger audiences, take a look at the Alpina AlpinerX Black/Orange. Our favorite thing about this piece is that it is something new from such a well-established Swiss brand, with its robust and highly modern design. With this timekeeper, Alpina has proven that Swiss watchmaking remains as resilient and innovative as ever. The AlpinerX is presented in a 45mm black-tone case and bi-directional compass bezel, both made out of stainless steel. This is paired with a vibrant orange strap of your choice, which can be made from either leather, rubber, or fabric. The dial has a hybrid display that showcases an analog layout, with luminous orange hands, white indices and hour markers, and a digital screen on the lower half of the dial. The outer rim of the dial is also colored bright orange, matching the AlpinerX Black/Orange’s strap and adding to its quirky, playful vibe. This watch also boasts a multitude of features, such as an altimeter-barometer, a compass, a connected GPS, a UV indicator, alarms, timers, and the like. It runs on a Horological Smartwatch MMT-283-1 movement, which has an impressive battery life of a little over 2 years. If you want a contemporary, Swiss-made altimeter watch to accompany you on your next adventure, you can get this piece for approximately $895 USD. 7. Garmin Fenix 6 Ref. 010-02410-23 The Garmin Fenix 6 Ref. 010-02410-23 is the go-to timepiece of many individuals who love staying fit both indoors and outdoors. It shows off a very cool, robust, and monochromatic design that is sure to complement virtually any type of attire. This Garmin watch comes in a 47mm black case made of durable carbon fiber and is paired with either a silicone or titanium band. The dial has a touchscreen memory-in-pixel display with a resolution of 260 x 260 pixels. Performance-wise, it comes with excellent functions, from health monitoring and fitness tracking to environmental sensors and outdoor recreation. Of course, it would not be on this list if it did not have a barometric altimeter as well. This Garmin Fenix 6 timepiece is powered by a lithium-ion battery that you can charge using either electricity or solar energy. The Garmin Fenix 6 Ref. 010-02410-23 retails at around $729 USD. 8. Tissot T-Touch Connect Solar Ref. T121.420.47.051.04 Another great watch for the contemporary explorer is the Tissot T-Touch Connect Solar Ref. T121.420.47.051.04. This is yet another top-notch Swiss watch made for any and every kind of outdoor adventure. The best thing about this model is that it is the perfect combination of classic, sleek, and stylish. This Tissot T-Touch watch comes in a 47mm lightweight titanium case with anti-magnetic properties, a scratch-resistant black ceramic bezel, and a smooth rubber strap. Its compass bezel and dial are peppered with bright white and orange indicators, contrasting delightfully against the black exterior of the watch and enhancing its stylishness. The dial also shows off a hybrid digital-analog display, with luminous hands and a touchscreen feature. Outside of its time-telling capabilities, this watch is equipped with a perpetual calendar, an altimeter, a compass, a barometer, mobile connectivity, and more. This Tissot watch is powered by a quartz solar tactile movement that boasts Swiss craftsmanship. If you are interested, you can get this suave altimeter watch for $1,150 USD. 9. Casio Pro Trek Camper Line Ref. PRG-30-5 Next, we have another model from the iconic Casio Pro Trek collection, in the form of the Casio Pro Trek Camper Line Ref. PRG-30-5. As part of a selection of timepieces specially designed for camping, this is a truly quintessential outdoor watch. This particular Casio model comes in an oversized 51mm black resin case along with a silicon band in brown. It has a fully digital dial, with bold black fonts against a white backdrop and an LED backlight for better readability. Since this watch is optimized for the wilderness, it comes with numerous features designed to make the outdoors an easier experience, such as an altimeter, a barometer, a digital compass, a sunrise/sunset display, and low-temperature specifications. Inside its tough yet casual exterior, you can find a solar-powered battery driving this whole timepiece. The Casio Pro Trek Camper Line Ref. PRG-30-5 retails at just $370 USD. 10. Polar Grit X The Polar Grit X is another digital sports watch made for outdoorsy folks who enjoy active lifestyles. It is known to be an incredibly tough timepiece that comes with loads of features meant to guide and help its wearer in every type of situation. This Polar watch has a 47mm stainless steel case along with a reinforced polymer caseback and a durable silicone strap. The watch face showcases an always-on touchscreen display with anti-fingerprint coating, which ensures the dial will remain clean, highly legible, and not get smudged up just from touching. This timepiece has a multitude of functions all geared towards making your outdoor excursions smoother and more enjoyable, including swimming metrics, a running guide, weather information, GPS, compass, an altimeter in training mode, and the like. Just like most of the smartwatches on this list, the Polar Grit X runs on a rechargeable battery with up to 40 hours of battery life in training mode. The best part is that you do not have to spend thousands of dollars on this powerfully-built altimeter watch. The Polar Grit X has a price tag of approximately $499 USD. 11. Suunto 7 Ref. SS050382000 Another outstanding altimeter watch from Suunto is the Suunto 7 Ref. SS050382000. Despite being one of the predecessors to the aforementioned Suunto 9 Baro, this watch has its fair share of differences compared to the previous Suunto model we recommended. One important example of this would be their battery lives, as the Suunto 7 has a 2-day lifespan when fully charged, while the Suunto 9 Baro can run for up to 14 days. The Suunto 7 Ref. SS050382000 comes in a large 50mm glass-fiber-reinforced polyamide case with a rose gold-tone stainless steel bezel and a silicone strap. The dial features an AMOLED touch display with a resolution of 454 x 454 pixels. This watch comes with a barometric altimeter, GPS tracking & navigation, sports mode, a 24/7 activity tracker, and more. It is also driven by a rechargeable lithium-ion battery which has a 48-hour battery life in smartwatch mode. If you felt like the Suunto 9 was a bit too complex for you, this Suunto 7 timepiece makes for a great alternative at just $429 USD. 12. Favre-Leuba Raider Bivouac 9000 The Favre-Leuba Raider Bivouac 9000 is another altimeter watch that boasts masterful Swiss craftsmanship. Unlike most of the altimeter watches mentioned on this list, this timepiece pulls off a fully analog display that pairs well with its bold, sporty design. This Favre-Leuba watch stands out with its tonneau-shaped lightweight titanium case, paired with a bi-directional rotating bezel in black and an antelope grey leather strap. Its black dial consists of luminous silver hands and hour indices, a third hand in vibrant red for the altimeter function, a sub-dial for air pressure and altitude, a small seconds counter, a date window, and a power reserve indicator. All of these components are powered by an impressive, hand-wound FL311 caliber with a substantial 65-hour power reserve. Retailing at around $8,205 USD, this is one of the best altimeter watches that does not have a digital or touchscreen display. 13. Garmin Instinct Tundra Ref. 010-02064-01 For something a little different, check out the Garmin Instinct Tundra Ref. 010-02064-01, with its distinctive, light-colored exterior inspired by the vast tundra biome. This is one of the most highly recommended models from Garmin, a top brand for high-quality outdoor watches. The Garmin Instinct Tundra shows off a 45mm fiber case paired with a matching white silicone strap. The dial has a touchscreen display through which you can access the following features: a built-in compass and barometric altimeter, a heart rate monitor, smartphone notifications, and many sports/training functions. All these are made possible, thanks to the watch’s powerful battery which has a 14-day lifespan in smartwatch mode. Priced at only $309 USD, this is one of the best value-for-money altimeter watches on the market. 14. Coros Apex 46mm The Coros Apex 46mm is a highly-regarded timepiece among those who love going on outdoor adventures. Whether you are on a leisure walk in the woods or a serious hiking expedition up a mountain, this watch is one of the best companions to take with you because of its multi-functionality. This Coros Apex watch is presented in a 46mm black-tone aluminum case with a titanium bezel and a silicone strap of the same hue. The dial has an always-on memory LCD screen with a display size of 240 x 240 pixels. Rather than just being an altimeter watch, the Coros Apex 46mm ups the ante by incorporating features such as training and sports guides, health monitors (heart rate, blood oxygen, etc), and environmental sensors (GPS, compass, a barometric altimeter, etc). Lastly, it boasts a reliable battery life of up to 100 hours in UltraMax GPS mode and 30 days in regular use mode. You can get your hands on the Coros Apex 46mm for around $350 USD. 15. Suunto Traverse Alpha Ref. SS022469000 Lastly, we have the Suunto Traverse Alpha Ref. SS022469000, which is a consistent recommendation when talking about tactile, outdoor altimeter watches. Right off the bat, it has a very cool and sleek design that will surely appeal to any explorer. This Suunto Traverse Alpha piece is quite bulky, coming in a 50mm black composite case paired with a stocky stainless steel bezel and a textile strap in black. Powered by a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, it possesses a matrix display with an LED backlight for optimal legibility, no matter the circumstances. On top of that, this Suunto watch also incorporates a multitude of capabilities uniquely suited to the fervent adventurer: outdoor modes (for hiking, fishing, and hunting), sunrise/sunset time alerts, speed and distance trackers, an altimeter function through FusedAlti™, a compass, alarms, and more. Priced at $580 USD, this is one of the most reliable companions you can bring on your different outdoor excursions. Final Thoughts From the list above, you can tell that there is quite a wide variety available when it comes to altimeter watches in the market. Whether you want an analog piece or a highly versatile digital model, you are bound to find what you want and need. You also do not have to worry about spending thousands of dollars, since there are many outstanding models that come at affordable prices. That said, all the recommended altimeter watches listed above are indeed worth checking out! Photo Credits: Official Watch Sites and WatchShopping Interested in watch lists? Check out our article on the 15 Best Sailing Watches!
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For most of us, watches are more than just mere accessories that tell time. Today, timepieces are also frequently used as tools to guide people through various activities in their daily lives. This is largely because, over the decades, technological innovations have introduced countless functions and features into the watchmaking world. This has allowed the purpose of watches to broaden and branch out as well. A perfect representation of this would be the existence of watches specifically used in industries and activities such as aviation, motorsports, diving, and even sailing. In fact, the last of those industries is actually related to our main topic for today. In this article, we will delve into what sailing watches are, how they can help us carry out nautical activities and some of the best sailing watches that are worth checking out today. What is a Sailing Watch? Sailing watches, also referred to as yachting watches, are a specific type of timepiece best suited for maritime-related conditions. For a timekeeper to be considered a sailing watch, it needs to have certain specifications, like high accuracy and an impressive water resistance rating. There are also some models with additional functions meant to aid seafarers and yachtsmen in their tasks. That being said, when it comes to aesthetics and design, sailing watches are not necessarily limited to a typical nautical style. While some sailing pieces are specifically marine-inspired, the majority of these models simply boast sporty-looking exteriors. 15 Best Sailing Watches Without further ado, here are some of the best sailing watches available in the market right now. 1. Omega Speedmaster X-33 Regatta Chronograph Starting off this list with a bang is the Omega Speedmaster X-33 Regatta Chronograph, which is one of the best models for professional sailors out there. Just with a single glance at its robust build, you can tell that it is a powerful timepiece packed with impressive capabilities. This Omega Speedmaster watch is presented in a 45mm lightweight, scratch-resistant titanium case along with an anti-reflective sapphire crystal and a black nylon fabric strap with blue stitching. The black watch face has a hybrid layout, featuring both digital and analog displays. This includes a bezel with a minute track scale, luminous hands and hour indices, three LED windows, and cool blue, red, and white accents. Driven by a quartz OMEGA 5620 caliber, this limited edition model also comes with the following: an alarm, a date function, a countdown timer, a race timer, a logbook, and more. You can get this watch for approximately $5,900 USD. 2. Garmin quatix® 6 The Garmin quatix® 6 is one of the best digital sailing watches you can invest in. It is a must-have for all the tech-savvy folks out there who enjoy timepieces with utmost functionality both on land and at sea. This Garmin model has a fiber-reinforced polymer case paired with a comfortable silicone strap in blue. The watch face consists of a screwed-in stainless steel bezel and a transflective memory-in-pixel (MIP) display. Aside from the usual timekeeping abilities, some of its other main functions include health monitoring, GPS tracking, smartphone connectivity, various sports modes, boat data streaming, a built-in barometer, tide tables, and lots more. Lastly, it has a battery life of around 14 days, so you do not have to worry about bringing this timepiece with you on long boat trips. With a substantial depth rating of around 100 meters, this smartwatch retails at just $699 USD and is an ideal companion for all your ocean adventures. 3. Breitling Superocean Heritage Chronograph 44 Ref. A13313161C1S1 Next up, we have the Breitling Superocean Heritage Chronograph 44 Ref. A13313161C1S1, with its sporty and highly-functional exterior. Everything about this model screams nautical-inspired, which makes sense because it belongs to Breitling’s iconic diving collection. This Breitling Superocean piece comes in a 44mm stainless steel case paired with a mesh-patterned rubber bracelet and a unidirectional rotating bezel in blue. The matching sunray blue dial follows a classic analog layout featuring oversized arrow hands, applied indices, day-date windows, and a chronograph display with 3 sub-dials. Lastly, this watch is powered by a COSC-certified Breitling Caliber 13, which has a 48-hour power reserve and a water resistance rating of 200 meters. This is one of the more classic sailing watches on this list and is priced at around $6,100 USD. 4. Panerai Luminor 1950 Regatta Chrono Flyback Ref. PAM00526 The Panerai Luminor 1950 Regatta Chrono Flyback is one of those sailing watches made especially for professional seafarers out there. It has a distinct and robust exterior — thanks to its unusual, bulky cushion-shaped case and durable titanium build. This is paired with an oversized crown and semi-circle crown guard, and caoutchouc strap in black. The dial of this Panerai Luminor 1950 piece features a black backdrop, with thin sword-shaped hands, luminous hour indices and Arabic numerals, and a chronograph layout with 2 sub-dials for the small seconds and flyback counters. As per its name, this watch also comes with a regatta countdown function and is powered by an automatic P.9100/R caliber. It has an impressive 72 hour-power reserve and a water resistance capacity of 100 meters. This is a great sailing watch for all the serious regatta racers out there and you can purchase it for around $17,200 USD. 5. Bulova Marine Star Chronograph Ref. 98B301 The Bulova Marine Star Chronograph Ref. 98B301 is yet another nautical-inspired piece with a stunning blue dial and bezel that is reminiscent of the ocean. The case, bezel, bracelet, and crown guards of this Bulova Marine Star watch are all made of scratch-resistant stainless steel. The rotating bezel, however, has a blue insert marked with an elapsed time scale in rose gold that blends perfectly with the watch’s rose gold pushers and crown. Like the bezel, the dial of this Bulova piece also comes in deep blue. It is furnished with bold luminous indices, sword-shaped hands, a date window at 6 o’clock, and a chronograph layout with 3 sub-dials. In addition, this 6-hand model is powered by a quartz movement and has a 200-meter depth rating. This is one of the more affordable sailing watches on the market with a price tag of just $575 USD. 6. Alpina Sailing Yachttimer Countdown The Alpina Sailing Yachttimer Countdown is one of the most rugged, sporty sailing watches on this list. It has a 44mm stainless steel case paired with a robust black rubber strap and a handy rotating compass bezel in black. The matching black dial is furnished with countdown windows for the regatta timer, along with luminous hands and hour markers in red and white for greater contrast and legibility. This watch is powered by a self-winding movement and has an impressive 300-meter water resistance rating. This Alpina watch is no longer part of the brand’s current catalogue. However, you can still find it going for around $3,060 USD on the second-hand market, depending on the seller and the condition of the watch. 7. Rolex Yacht-Master 2 Ref. 116680 Of course, this list of best sailing watches would not be complete without a model from the Rolex Yacht-Master 2 collection. The Yacht-Master 2 Ref. 116680 is one of the most popular sailing watches ever released. It has a classic, sporty exterior that goes really well with the complexity of its watch face. This Rolex model comes in a 44mm case and bracelet made from Oystersteel, which is a robust, shock- and corrosion-resistant material developed by the Swiss brand. Fitted on top of the case is a matching Oystersteel bezel with a bright blue insert. The white dial of this watch follows a unique layout with thin luminous hands and compact hour markers, a stop-seconds sub-dial, and a regatta countdown timer in the form of an elongated arch. All of these features are powered by the brand’s in-house, self-winding Caliber 4161. If you are a sailing professional, this is a great luxury sailing watch to invest in for around $23,600 USD. 8. Seiko Prospex Marine Master Ref. SBEX005 The Seiko Prospex Marine Master Ref. SBEX005 is a beautiful timepiece that draws inspiration from the ocean. It is the perfect sailing watch for those who are completely enamored with both the marine sport and the sea itself. This Seiko Prospex watch is presented in a hardy 48mm titanium case and bracelet with a rotating bezel in metallic blue. With its larger build, this piece is best suited for those with average-to-big wrists. Its exquisite wave-patterned blue dial consists of large luminous markers, sword-shaped hands, and a small date window between the 4 and 5 o’clock positions. Powered by a Japanese automatic movement, this Seiko watch packs a punch with its incredible 1000-meter water resistance rating. The Seiko Prospex Marine Master Ref. SBEX005 retails at approximately $5,089 USD. 9. Panerai Luminor Marina Ref. PAM00778 The Panerai Luminor Marina Ref. PAM00778 is one of the most versatile and classy sailing watches you can get. Although it is frequently used for nautical activities, this watch does not have a marine-inspired design or super sporty exterior. Thus, you can pair it with just about any attire and bring it with you to all sorts of events, including dinner parties and even the office. This Panerai watch has a cushion-shaped stainless steel case paired with a leather strap in light brown. Like the other Panerai Luminor models, it has an oversized crown that is easy to grip and turn and the signature semi-circle crown guard. Meanwhile, its exquisite white dial is adorned with luminous sword-shaped hands, small circular hour markers, neat Arabic numerals, and a small-seconds counter. This three-hand watch is equipped with a hand-wound P.6000 caliber and has a 100-meter water resistance capacity. If you want a versatile, classy sailing watch that you can use every day, you simply have to fork out around $5,400 USD for this Panerai Luminor Marina Ref. PAM00778. 10. Bremont Regatta AC Next up, we have the Bremont Regatta AC, which is one of the best models from the brand’s selection of sailing and nautical-inspired watches. It comes with impressive functions that will surely appeal to both casual and professional sailors out there. This Bremont timepiece is presented in a 43mm lightweight titanium case along with a Temple Island rubber strap in black and a sleek rotating bezel. The white dial has luminescent hands and indices, a date window, and a chronograph display with three sub-dials, including a countdown timer. This dial is also peppered with red and blue accents, giving it a more colorful, vibrant look. Powering the watch is an in-house Bremont self-winding movement with a 42-hour power reserve and a 100-meter water resistance rating. Retailing at around $15,900 USD, this is a must-have timepiece for yachtsmen who prefer complex yet playful timepieces. 11. Ulysse Nardin Marine Regatta Ref. 1553-155-3/43 The Ulysse Nardin Marine Regatta Ref. 1553-155-3/43 is a model with very modern, nautical-inspired aesthetics and an array of handy abilities. This Ulysse Nardin Marine watch has an exceptionally advanced-looking design, with its gear-like bezel, patterned sector dial, and sleek metallic blue and silver accents. The Ulysse Nardin Marine Regatta Ref. 1553-155-3/43 comes in a 44mm stainless steel case paired with a sporty rubber strap in blue. The sunray blue sector dial consists of a smooth outer ring, a chapter ring marked with a bright yellow regatta countdown timer, and a patterned inner dial. On the outer ring, you can find silver hour indices, stylized Roman numeral markers, and a date window, while the inner dial is furnished with luminous lozenge hands. A small seconds counter straddles all three sections of the dial, enhancing its sophisticated, high-tech look. These complications are all driven by a UN-155 Manufacture movement with a 60-hour power reserve. With a price tag of approximately $19,420 USD, this is the perfect modern watch to wear on your open water sails. 12. Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra Ref. 220.10.41.21.03.001 Next up, we have another model from Omega, but one from its iconic Seamaster Aqua Terra collection instead. The sporty and professional Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra Ref. 220.10.41.21.03.001 is a watch that can complete any nautical task, both above and underwater. This Seamaster watch comes in a 41mm stainless steel case paired with a bracelet made of the same material. Its striking blue dial features a horizontal teak pattern, inspired by the look of luxury sailing boats. It is also furnished with luminous triangular indices, hands, a date window at 6 o’clock, and a minute track scale on the rim of the dial. The Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra Ref. 220.10.41.21.03.001 is powered by a self-winding Caliber 8900 movement, which is certified by the Swiss Federal Institute of Metrology. It possesses impressive technical specifications, including a 150-meter depth rating, a 60-hour power reserve, and a resistance to magnetic fields of up to 15,000 Gauss. You can get your hands on this Aqua Terra model for around $5,700 USD. 13. Frederique Constant Yacht Timer Regatta Countdown Ref. FC-380GT4H6B The Frederique Constant Yacht Timer Regatta Countdown is probably one of the most elegant modern sailing watches you can purchase. Everything about its design screams simple sophistication, making it a great accessory to wear to lavish yacht parties or high-profile regatta races. This Frederique Constant model comes in a 42mm brushed stainless steel case and three-link bracelet that gives off a chic, professional vibe. Its suave dark grey dial boasts a guilloché pattern, luminous dauphine hands, silver indices, and 5 circular windows at the 10 to 12 o’clock position for the countdown timer. Underneath this refined exterior, you can find an automatic FC-380 caliber with a 48-hour power reserve and a 100-meter depth rating. If you are willing to shell out around $4,025 USD, you should definitely consider getting this watch for your next yacht race! 14. Yema Navygraf Marine Nationale Ref. YMNGMT39-GMS The Yema Navygraf Marine Nationale Ref. YMNGMT39-GMS is the only model on this list that was designed by a professional from the French Navy. It is a military-grade sailing watch that is built to survive the harshest circumstances. This Yema sailing watch is presented in a slim 39mm stainless steel case paired with a blue and yellow fabric strap and a rotating GMT bezel. The matching blue dial features large hands and hour indices that are coated in Super-LumiNova for improved visibility even on dark stormy sailing trips, and a date window in white next to the 3 o’clock marker. Aside from that, it also has an impressive 300-meter water resistance capacity and is equipped with an in-house YEMA3000 caliber. If you are looking for a tried and tested sailing watch, make sure to check this piece for around $1,049 USD. 15. Tissot Sailing-Touch Ref. T056.420.27.051.01 Lastly, we have the Tissot Sailing-Touch Ref. T056.420.27.051.01, which is another digital sailing watch packed with countless useful features. One of the best things about this particular Tissot model is that it caters specifically to those who enjoy sailing, be it casually or professionally. The Tissot Sailing-Touch Ref. T056.420.27.051.01 comes in an anti-magnetic 45mm stainless steel case paired with a bi-material bracelet in black made of rubber and steel. The dial has a sleek hybrid layout with luminous indices and a touch-screen tactile display that cleverly mimics the radar system of a boat. Some of its functions include a compass, alarms, a perpetual calendar, a tide indicator, a regatta timer, multiple time zones, and more — all of which are powered by a powerful Renata CR 2032-N quartz movement. With a price tag of just $1,220 USD, this is one of the best multi-functional watches you can invest in, especially for serious sailors. Features of a Sailing Watch The list of 15 sailing watches we have curated above are some of the best models in the market, but it is by no means an exhaustive list. There are plenty of other excellent sailing watches out there, and you simply have to do the research to find out which is best suited to your taste. To help you along the way, here are some of the key characteristics that you can find in sailing watches, although it should be noted that these are not necessarily present in every single sailing watch. Superior Water Resistance Even though yachtsmen do not necessarily go swimming or diving when sailing, having a watch with an excellent depth rating is still very important, given the nature of the environment they are in. The ocean is known to be a volatile, unstable domain so there is always a possibility of you and your watch getting dunked into water, whether you like it or not. While there are no official criteria, a water resistance capacity of at least 100 meters should suffice. Excellent Durability Another essential characteristic of a sailing watch is its excellent durability. Due to the changes in the environment that may occur, sailors need a well-built timepiece made from quality materials that can take any kind of damage, be it scratches, hard impacts, or corrosion. With that in mind, it is best to look for timepieces made of materials with scratch, shock, and corrosion-resistant properties, like stainless steel steel, aluminum, copper, soft rubber, and more. Utmost Functionality Telling time is the bare minimum when it comes to sailing watches. While not all nautical-inspired models come with additional complications, multi-functionality is always a welcomed bonus. Some of these features may include a compass, a barometer, a GMT display, and many more. Many sailing watches today are also equipped with a regatta timer, which is a crucial complication in yacht racing. A regatta timer allows the wearer to track how much time is left before the competitors in the regatta can start the cross line. This function is essential in sailing competitions because boats and yachts are in constant motion, which means the countdown is necessary as sailors maneuver the waters before the official start of the race. Ultimately, all these complications help make the sailing process easier to handle for wearers, which is the essence of a true sailing watch. Final Thoughts We hope that this list of 15 sailing watches has helped you to get more familiar with some of the numerous sailing watches out there. Each and every piece has its own share of strengths and weaknesses, so it is understandable if you are a little confused about which model to get. At the end of the day, it all depends on your personal criteria and preferences but rest assured that you will find the perfect watch for your sailing adventures. Photo Credits: WatchShopping and Official Watch Sites If you are hooked on listless, check out our piece on the 15 Best Retro Watches Worth Your Time!
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If you are currently on the hunt for new members of your growing timepiece collection, chances are you know the names Cartier, Omega, Rolex, and TAG Heuer like the back of your hand. However, in reality, there are dozens of other watch labels out there that create outstanding timepieces with compelling designs, unparalleled precision, and superior longevity. Perhaps you are the type of person who does not like settling for the mainstream, and who likes their time-telling accessories unique yet versatile. If so, here are fifteen obscure watch brands that should be on your radar. 15 Best Lesser-Known Watch Brands 1. Georg Jensen Georg Jensen Vivianna Ref. 3575655_0Established by its Danish silversmith namesake, Georg Jensen, is one of the most unknown yet extremely artistic watch companies today. Georg Jensen is better known for its amazing line up of well-designed jewelry, cutlery, gift products, tableware and other home items made out of pure silver. That said, the brand also makes some fine wristwatches using high-quality stainless steel and sophisticated Swiss automatic movements. As a company heavily influenced by Scandinavian principles, Georg Jensen’s timepieces are sleek, breathtaking and elegant. These watches embody simplicity and focus on just the essentials of timekeeping. Famous Models The brand ventured into the horological realm in the late 1960s with the release of the well-acclaimed Vivianna Bangle, made in collaboration with talented Swedish silversmith Vivianna Torun Bülow-Hübe. Equipped with a mirror dial, an odd-shaped bangle bracelet, and a hand-wound movement made by Chopard, the timekeeper screams fanciness and timelessness all at once. Today, the Vivianna Bangle watch remains one of the most quintessential pieces from Georg Jensen. One modern variant is the Vivianna Ref. 3575655_0, which comes in a 34mm stainless steel case with a diamond-studded dial and bezel. Powered by a Swiss-made Caliber ETA E61.031 that has a battery life of up to 49 months, it costs around $13,500 USD. This makes it the most expensive piece from the obscure Danish watch brand today. 2. Giuliano Mazzuoli Manometro Compressed Polished Blue and Trasmissione Meccanica ChronographNext up, we have another luxury brand from Europe that excels in manufacturing fully-functional and stylish timepieces. This brand is perfect for sports timepiece lovers and those who have an eye for unusual concepts. Known as Giuliano Mazzuoli, this obscure watch company has a remarkable heritage under its belt. Its story began in 1949 when its namesake owner’s father decided to bring their family’s designs to life through various products. When Mazzuoli took the helm in the 1970s, the company shifted its focus to manufacturing planners, notebooks, and writing instruments with compelling appearances. Eventually, they also expanded to crafting bold watches with unique aesthetics. Famous Models One version that stands out is the Manometro Compressed Polished Blue. This watch comes in a 45mm chunky stainless steel case and a bezel made out of the same material. Secured with a brown calfskin Florentine leather strap, it also features a beautiful blue dial. This dial is adorned with white railroad-like markings on the outer ring, Arabic numeral indices and luminous baton-style hour and minute hands. Priced at around $2,900 USD, this Giuliano Mazzuoli watch is water-resistant up to depths of 30 meters and relies on a 25-jewel automatic ETA 2824/2 movement. Perhaps you want something with a little more attitude? Try the Trasmissione Meccanica Chronograph instead, which costs around $6,720 USD. Taking inspiration from an automobile transmission, this piece with a black strap has a stainless steel case with unusual patterned edges. It tells more than just the time by having a handy chronograph function as well. 3. Junghans Junghans Max Bill Chronoscope Ref. 27/4500.49 and Junghans Force Mega Solar Ref. 18/1938.44Another obscure watch brand worth knowing is Junghans, which is a company based in Schramberg, Germany. The German brand began creating products bearing its own name in 1866 and soon became the largest clock manufacturer in the world, with around 3 million pieces produced yearly. Junghans finally decided to manufacture wristwatches in 1927, and eventually started crafting its own movements in the 1930s. Oozing with precision, their watches are not only refined but also stylish enough to be worn at any occasion. With their vintage and commanding designs, extremely neat lines and impressive movements, it is no surprise why Junghans watches are popular among seasoned enthusiasts and lovers of classic aesthetics. Famous Models Whether you are into chic dress watches or highly-robust timekeepers equipped with a few useful complications, Junghans has definitely got you covered. However, if there is one piece that encapsulates what the brand is all about, it would probably be the Max Bill watch. First produced in the 1950s, the Max Bill perfectly embodies the revolutionary Bauhaus art movement. It utilizes a unique, minimalist blueprint and numerous functionalities that make its wearers’ lives simpler. One good contemporary example is the Junghans Max Bill Chronoscope Ref. 27/4500.49. This piece comes in a 40mm stainless steel case paired with a silver-colored Milanese bracelet. Protected by a plexiglass crystal, its black dial has luminous Arabic numeral indices and pencil-style hands, two chronograph subdials at 12 and 6 o’clock marks, and a date-day indicator at 3 o’clock. In terms of durability, this watch runs on a self-winding Caliber J880.2 movement with 48 hours worth of power reserve. Priced at around $2,200 USD, this Max Bill piece is also water-resistant up to depths of 30 meters, meaning it can easily withstand a few accidental splashes and raindrops. 4. Komono Komono Ray Legacy Nato Lunar and Komono Mono SkyHailing from Belgium, Komono can be your next source of affordable watches made from superior materials. The youthful nature of this young and obscure brand is inspired by its founders Raf Maes and Anton Janssens, who are former snowboarders by profession. They officially introduced watches to their sunglasses and opticals brand in 2009, and have been making waves in the horological field since then. Famous Models Eye-catching and stunning, the Komono Ray Legacy Nato Lunar is a great option if you are into understated and straightforward pieces that steal attention effortlessly. With its 38mm alloy case and nude-colored recycled webbing band, this dive watch can easily match any of your ensembles. Shielded by a tough mineral crystal, its black dial features white baton and Arabic numeral hour markers, stick-shaped hands, and a small seconds sub-dial sitting above the 6, 7, and 8 o’clock positions. In terms of its technical specifications, this $115 USD Komono watch runs on a reliable Japanese quartz mechanism and is water-resistant up to depths of 50 meters. If the Ray Legacy is not enough to satisfy your thirst for minimalistic and versatile timepieces, you could always go for a slightly bolder choice, the Komono Mono Sky. The Mono Sky watch is available in many colorways, but the sky-blue piece is the most pleasing to the eyes. It comes in a polycarbonate case that complements the sky-blue silicone strap and dial, which is adorned with grey baton hands and hour markers. Protecting the watch’s quartz movement is a sturdy case back made out of stainless steel. You can cop this Komono piece for around $69 USD, making this one of the most affordable obscure watches out there. 5. Objest Objest Hach Grey Automatic and Objest Simple Black WatchIf a customized timepiece sounds appealing to you, then Objest might be the answer to your prayers. From the dial, hands, and strap, down to the buckle, rotor, crown, and date window down, almost every detail of Objest watches are fully customizable. You do not have to worry about the design process since Objest offers lovely colorway, finish, and material choices that will surely fit all your needs and preferences. This company also houses ready-made pieces designed in London and assembled by veteran watchmakers from Switzerland. Boasting minimalistic aesthetics. These unisex Objest watches also use top-tier engines made by either Ronda or ETA, so you do not need to worry about their durability at all. Famous Models Looking for something that exudes a luxurious and an athletic vibe? The Objest Hach Grey Automatic is the right choice. Its 42mm DLC-treated stainless steel case guarantees protection from any kinds of scratches and bumps. Matched with a black numberless dial with three-dimensional patterns and thick rounded baton-style hands, this watch is effortlessly attractive. It also has a single vibrant yellow minute hand, which adds a youthful touch to the watch’s whole look. though the single vibrant yellow accent also adds a youthful touch. This Swiss-made watch also has an exhibition case back and a grey strap made from soft Italian leather. Powered by a 25-jewel ETA 2824-2 automatic movement with 38 hours of power reserve, this Objest unisex watch will set you back by around $690 USD. 6. Shinola Shinola The Runwell 47mm Ref. 20223880-SDT-010752541 and Shinola Middle Child Detrola Ref. 20194499-sdt-008445313Let us take a break from European brands and take a closer look at this impressive but frequently unknown American watchmaker. Shinola‘s legacy officially started in 2011, with entrepreneur and former executive for Fossil, Tom Kartsotis. The founder had one goal in mind: to craft affordable and fully-functional American timepieces that could directly compete with watches produced by renowned Swiss manufacturers. Famous Models From the build and finishes to the dial layout and style of the crowns, pushers and strap, everything about Shinola watches will remind you of the old times. One good example of a vintage-inspired timepiece from the brand is the Shinola The Runwell 47mm Ref. 20223880-SDT-010752541, which is priced at only $625 USD. As its name suggests, it comes in a 47mm case made out of sandblast PVD gunmetal and a hand-sewn brown Cattail strap. The matte velvet dial boasts a fierce midnight blue color, and is adorned with a small seconds subdial, silver Arabic numeral indices and sword-style hands. As if these were not enough, this Shinola watch relies on a powerful Argonite 1069 quartz movement and has around 2 years worth of battery life. This striking piece is also available in many other colorways and sizes. It is an excellent, if somewhat obscure, choice for urbane men who wish to express themselves through their watch. 7. Skagen Skagen Ancher Ref. SKW6779 and Skagen Anita Ref. SKW2151Coming from the northernmost town in Denmark, Skagen has been in operation since 1989. This obscure brand offers pocket-friendly and trendy timepieces suitable for any occasion. As proof of its growth over the past few decades, the company now houses other goods in their product lineup, such as handbags, jewelry, homewares, decors, and other accessories. Attractive and streamlined, Skagen watches are generally for people who appreciate sustainable and timeless concepts. Besides having thin cases that feel light on the wrist, most Skagen watches sport colors that fall on the monochromatic or neutral side. Endorsing variety, many models come with leather or NATO straps but loyal consumers also love the Milanese bands designed personally by Skagen. Though they showcase minimalistic concepts, these Skagen watches pack a lot of features, ranging from open-worked dials, date and day components, chronographs and dual time. Famous Models If you have been looking for a good monochromatic timepiece, the Skagen Ancher Ref. SKW6779 is definitely an excellent choice. This men’s watch comes in a 40mm case and a thin fixed bezel made out of 50% recycled stainless steel. This matches well with the beautiful stainless steel mesh bracelet with a safety mesh buckle. As a Bauhaus-inspired watch, its charcoal-colored dial is tidy and pleasing to look at. It features silver baton hour markers and luminous hands that glow brightly in low-light conditions. Powered by a simple three-hand movement, this Skagen Ancher piece is one of the best Skagen watches you can get, costing around $135 USD only. Next, we have another chic and graceful watch, but this time catered towards the ladies. The Skagen Anita Ref. SKW2151 comes in a 30mm rose gold stainless steel paired with the signature mesh bracelet of the brand. What makes this Skagen Anita watch especially popular among women is its stunning silver sunray dial, which is adorned with Arabic numerals and dot indices, and baton hands in rose gold. Much like other Skagen watches, this piece also runs on a three-hand movement and is water-resistant up to depths of 30 meters. You can get it for $135 USD as well. 8. Thomas Earnshaw Thomas Earnshaw Beaufort ES-8059-02 and Thomas Earnshaw Bloomsbury ES-8124-33English watchmaker Thomas Earnshaw was the man who simplified the production of marine chronometers back in the 1700s. This unknown brand, named after the esteemed watchmaker, excels in creating intricately-designed watches that fit the lifestyles of passionate adventure-seekers. The dials and case backs of Thomas Earnshaw watches are mostly skeletonized and transparent, which lets users view the beauty of their movements. As a brand which likes utilizing retro themes and techniques, you will also notice that its watches have cases and straps that come in quintessential silver, black, gold and white hues. When it comes to performance, most Thomas Earnshaw watches rely on automatic movements and have simple time-telling capacities only. Famous Models One outstanding watch from the brand is the Thomas Earnshaw Beaufort ES-8059-02. This watch comes in a 43mm gold-colored case and a brown strap made out of genuine leather. Showcasing the brand’s mastery of watchmaking, its insanely intricate dial features subtle lines and skeleton parts that allow wearers to admire the beauty of its movement. As if this unique design is not enough, this Thomas Earnshaw watch also runs on an automatic movement and has a water resistance rating of 50 meters. Priced at around $601 USD, this is one of the best-seller pieces from the obscure brand. 9. Alpina Alpina Alpiner4 Automatic Ref. AL-525G5AQ6 and Alpina Seastrong Diver Heritage Brown AL-525BR4H4Alpina is a lesser-known yet still impressive watch company that started making history in the late 1800s. It built its underrated reputation crafting exquisite and classy sports watches. Today, Alpina continues to impress with its robust yet sophisticated watches, which are perfect for people who equally prioritize form and function. Every watch that comes out of its factory undergoes various tests to ensure its effectiveness and reliability while faced with tough conditions. Despite being rather obscure, Alpina is a brand you can definitely trust if you are on the hunt for masterful but budget-friendly pieces that do not disappoint. Famous Models If you are more of the old-school type, then you will surely love this brown diver from Alpina that is water-resistant up to a whopping 300 meters. The Alpina Seastrong Diver Heritage Brown AL-525BR4H4 has a 42mm stainless steel case in a bronze hue and a matching brown strap made out of leather. Protected by a sapphire crystal, its brown dial features rose gold indices and hands with beige luminous elements. Priced at around $1,827 USD, this Alpina Seastrong watch runs on a robust automatic movement that beats at 28,800 vibrations per hour. 10. Ball Ball Engineer III Pioneer Ref. NM2026C-S15CJ-BK and Ball Engineer Trainmaster Standard Time Ref. NM3888D-S1CJ-WHAmong the lesser-known brands listed here, this next one offers some of the most advanced timekeepers. Ball Watch Company, better known as Ball, is known for pioneering numerous horological innovations over the last 130 years. Originating from Cleveland, United States, this unknown watch brand deeply honors the American railroad industry. Today, the brand continues to release state-of-the-art timepieces, made for all kinds of professional pursuits. Tough and compelling, Ball watches are equipped with extremely legible dials, sturdy straps, useful functions, and high-performing movements. Many of Ball’s tool watches also embody an athletic appeal that men will surely appreciate. One of the major inventions of the brand is the helium escape valve system, which allows watches to operate more efficiently underwater. Famous Models For those of you who prefer subtle timepieces that are not too overwhelming, you can get the Ball Engineer III Pioneer Ref. NM2026C-S15CJ-BK, which retails at around $2,515 USD. It comes in a 40mm stainless steel case and a bracelet made out of the same material. Apart from the magnified date display, its black dial has baton-style and Arabic numeral indices, and dauphine hands, all fitted with tritium gas tubes. Together, they allow for great readability, especially in low-light conditions. The Ball Trainmaster Standard Time Ref. NM3888D-S1CJ-WH is also a great option if you like dials with a simple but organized design. This $2,924 USD men’s Ball watch bears a milky white dial that matches well with its stainless steel bracelet. Aside from the stylized Roman numeral indices, the watch face is also adorned with a date window and playful blued steel hands. Performance wise, this Ball Trainmaster watch runs on a Caliber BALL RR1105-C automatic movement and has shock-resistance rating of up to 5,000 gauss. 11. Festina Festina Chrono Sport Ref. F20439/1 and Festina Women’s Boyfriend Ref. F20403/1Another excellent watchmaker that has been continuously impressing everyone with its magnificent creations is Festina. Founded in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland in 1902, this relatively obscure watch corporation now includes brands like Candino, Perrelet, Lotus, Jaguar, and Calypso. Festina also has a huge global presence, maintaining production hubs in countries worldwide and selling about 5 million units per year. Festina is also well-known for its involvement with the cycling industry and for being the official timekeeper for the Tour de France from 1992 to 2016. The brand specializes inelegant dress watches and practical chronograph timepieces, perfect for modern men and women. Famous Models Moving on to a more dainty option, Festina offers delightful pieces suitable for the ladies. One of them is the Festina Boyfriend Ref. F20403/1, which has a silver and rose gold color scheme that endorses supreme elegance. Priced at $207 USD, this piece features a 36mm 316L stainless steel case and a matching bracelet with rose gold links. Protected by a mineral crystal, its dial has stone-studded indices and baton hands coated with luminous elements. This Festina Boyfriend piece runs on an analog movement and has a water resistance rating of 50 meters. 12. MeisterSinger MeisterSinger Circularis Ref. CC903 and MeisterSinger Classic N°01 DM303_SV02 Moving on, we have a relatively young, obscure brand from Münster, Germany, which produces distinctive and high-concept watches that fuse traditional and modern concepts. Known as MeisterSinger, this revolutionary company was established in 2001. What makes MeisterSinger watches so distinct are its award-winning designs, vintage-inspired appearances, and contemporary details. Inspired directly by tower clocks from the 15th century, these watches only have one hand that tells the time instead of the standard two or three hands. While many of you may find this odd, this concept brought the brand fame and immense recognition among seasoned collectors. In fact, it also allowed the brand to win numerous awards from well-known horological award-giving bodies. Famous Models For an affordable but highly dependable and solid option, the MeisterSinger Classic N°01 DM303_SV02 is the right choice. Its stainless steel case and domed sapphire glass guarantee protection from any kinds of scratches and impacts. Matched with an ivory dial and a thin black hand that sweeps smoothly over the Arabic numeral hour markers, this watch is effortlessly classic. Aside from a large, easy-to-grip crown that makes timekeeping easier for wearers, this Swiss-made watch has a water resistance rating of 50 meters. Priced at around $1,607 USD, this MeisterSinger Classic watch runs on a high-powered Sellita SW210 hand-wound movement. 13. Nixon Nixon Sentry Ref. A356-502-00 Demonstrating what American watchmaking is about, Nixon began making waves in the industry in 1997. It started out by producing voguish yet dependable timepieces that would not break the bank. The brand started with only seven models, but slowly expanded its offerings in the succeeding years. Nixon watches were initially crafted for a more youthful audience, who enjoy thrill-seeking and love being outdoors. Today, however, Nixon’s expanded selection of watches, along with its other fashion items like bags, accessories, and clothing, cater to people from different walks of life. These include professionals, casual wearers, and sports lovers. Famous Models The Nixon Sentry Ref. A356-502-00 stands out due to its all-gold color scheme, and its brushed case and bracelet that look good even from afar. Embodying the phrase “simplicity is beauty”, its dial only has a simple date-day component and baton hour markers and hands. Apart from a three-link bracelet, this watch also features a Miyota quartz movement at its core. You can get this 100 meter water-resistant Nixon Sentry watch for only $275 USD. 14. SevenFriday SevenFriday P-Series Ref. P1B/01 and SevenFriday S-Series Ref. S2/01If you are into futuristic and ultra-unique timekeepers that do not stick to the status quo, then you will surely love what this lesser-known Swiss luxury watch brand has to offer. Called SevenFriday, this young company lives by the principle of enjoying life as if everyday is Friday. Its products also embody this vision perfectly, which is why they are all unique and well-designed. As a lifestyle brand which prioritizes creativity and constant innovation, SevenFriday also offers eyewear, watch accessories, and apparels. Famous Models One of the most popular SevenFriday watches is the P-Series Ref. P1B/01. It is a piece that can instantly spark conversations with its 47mm square-shaped case, case back and bezel, all made out of polished stainless steel. What’s more, it is protected by an anti-reflective sapphire crystal and is powered by a high-caliber Miyota 82S7 automatic movement. Retailing at $995 USD, the focal point of this SevenFriday P-Series watch is its ornate dial, which is adorned with black markings and a delicately skeletonized portion that gives wearers a glimpse of its inner mechanisms. Another eye-catching timepiece is the 47mm S-Series Ref. S2/01, which costs $1,250 USD. Just like the previous model, it comes in a polished stainless steel case and bezel that match the embossed and padded black calfskin leather strap. Protected by a layer of anti-reflective mineral glass, its dial has antique brass PVD-coated metal all over its surface, as well as black texts that exhibit great legibility. With its tough machine-like exterior and extraordinary format, this SevenFriday S-Series watch is indeed worth getting. 15. Bremont Bremont ALT1-C Griffon-R-S and Bremont ALT1-WT-BL-R-SLast but not the least is another British luxury brand, Bremont, which specializes in creating chronometers suitable for the members of the aviation niche. Fueled by its passion for British engineering, Bremont started producing watches equipped with numerous groundbreaking technologies such as the TRIP-TICK case, Bremont Anti-Shock, and the like. Most of the brand’s watches are reserved for the members of the armed forces, which serves as proof that they are indeed robust and reliable. As proof of the brand’s excellence and commitment to superior watchmaking, they have even won numerous awards with their commendable designs. If you are looking for an obscure brand that houses timepieces worth every penny, Bremont is definitely the way to go. Famous Models A good pilot watch from the brand is the Bremont ALT1-C Griffon-R-S, which costs around $9,220 USD. It comes in a 43mm stainless steel case and case back, with a black strap made out of leather. The dial is in a stark black color, decorated with Arabic numeral hour markers and Super-LumiNova-coated hands. Aside from bearing two-subdials for the chronograph function, it also has a date window at 6 o’clock and a sweep seconds hand. On the inside, this Bremont watch runs on an automatic Caliber 13 1/4”’ BE-50AE with 25 jewels and a 42-hour power reserve. While the brand undoubtedly excels at creating pilot watches, they also make quality pieces perfect for dedicated explorers. One of them is the Bremont ALT1-WT-BL-R-S, which has a World Time function, in addition to its date, chronograph and UTC hand features. It runs on a Caliber 13 1/4”’ BE-54AE as well and is water-resistant up to depths of 100 meters. You can expect this hardy $5,000 USD watch to last you for years—perhaps even decades. Final Thoughts On the whole, lesser-known brands will make you realize that not all dependable timepieces worth collecting always come from acclaimed labels. They may be considered as underdogs for now but these obscure watch brands should not be underestimated. This is especially true given the massive amount of dedication, creativity, and meticulosity they put into their watchmaking process. With their incredible passion for craftsmanship, it will be quite interesting to see how these unknown watchmakers will grow and what they will offer in the future. Given how these lesser-known watch labels give equal importance to design, performance, and innovation, it will not be surprising if they also become mainstream in the future. Either way, you can be sure that any piece that comes out from these obscure watch companies’ respective factories will deliver precise timekeeping and reliable dependability. Looking for more timepieces worth adding to your growing collection? Better check out our articles on the Top Eco-Friendly Watches and the 7 Best Minimalist Watches for Men. Photos from the aforementioned brands’ official websites, unless otherwise noted
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As a man, whether you are craving smartwatches, fitness trackers, or classic timepiece designs, there is something out there in the market for you. Indeed, there is a certain allure that brands like Omega, Rolex, and TAG Heuer bring to their watches. Men’s watches from these renowned brands simply elevate your attire in a way other accessories cannot. If you happen to be a fan of such men’s watches, then this article is just for you. Given how many top watch brands there are in the market today, it can be very difficult to come to a decision. As such, we have curated a list of 60 best men’s watches for your perusal. This is a diverse catalog of best men’s watches, so whether you are working with deep pockets or a limited budget, we are sure that you will be able to find the right fit just for yourself. 1. Timex Navi XL Automatic 41mm Timex has a wide variety of watch designs for everyone, whether you want something fun and quirky, as well as robust and serious. Given its diverse catalog, it can be a challenge to pick just one watch from the brand. That said, we ended up going with the Timex Navi XL. This automatic 41mm watch was first launched in a limited run, and was met with such huge demand that Timex eventually gave it a re-release. In its current incarnation, this Timex watch is equipped with a reliable 21-jewel Japanese automatic movement. We chose this military-influenced watch for its popular demand and incredibly low price point. This timepiece also possesses 100 meters of water resistance, which is quite substantial for a powerful watch that costs only $259 USD. 2. Hublot Spirit Of Big Bang Meca-10 There’s something about Hublot watches that make them truly captivating. Every watch from this brand is an interesting take on watchmaking and the innovative use of materials. This company proves how craftsmanship plays a huge part in making a watch company successful. Perhaps the most perfect example of a Hublot watch is the Spirit of Big Bang Meca-10. In keeping with Hublot’s constant experimentation with materials, there are three different versions available for this watch — titanium, Black Magic (black ceramic), and King Gold (5N 18k gold alloy). All versions are powered by a mechanical movement that packs a power reserve of up to 10 days. This Spirit of Big Bang piece is a strong entry from 2020 and definitely something you should consider adding to your collection. At just a glance, you can immediately see the time, effort, and attention to detail put into this watch. It features a sophisticated open-heart dial and the brand’s familiar chunky rubber strap. It is impressive, masculine, and definitely a good investment. The titanium model costs $23,100 USD while the King Gold version sits at around $45,000 USD. Prepare to dish around $27,300 USD for the Black Magic version. 3. Roger Dubuis Excalibur Twofold If Hublot wowed you, then you might want to take a look at Roger Dubuis. This luxury brand is unstoppable when it comes to modern innovation. From its fresh designs to the use of materials, the brand never fails to impress. The watch we have for you today is the Roger Dubuis Excalibur Twofold. This is a 45mm watch featuring a case made from the brand’s proprietary Mineral Composite Fiber (MCF). Roger Dubuis developed this ultra-white composite material made of 99.95% silica, as it allows for better and long-lasting illumination. Inside the watch is a manual-wound caliber RD01SQ with a double-flying tourbillon. You can observe this movement at work through the watch’s open-heart dial. This Roger Dubuis watch is extremely rare, with only 8 pieces available. As such, it carries quite a hefty price tag of $276,000 USD. 4. Bulova Chronograph A You have most likely heard of Bulova before. Many people attribute the invention of the first electronic wristwatch to this brand. Indeed, the Bulova Accutron, released in 1960, helped pave the way for the brand’s success. However, there is more to the brand than just this watch. Take a look, for instance, at the Bulova Computron, or the equally iconic Chronograph A. The Chronograph A’s vintage look is inspired by the 1970s. This watch is nicknamed the “Surfboard” due to the oval shape on the dial of the watch which houses its two sub-dials. This design has since been adopted by brands like Breitling and Vulcan, but the Bulova Chronograph A remains the most iconic of all these men’s watches. Realistically speaking, you will probably have a hard time looking for an original version of the Chronograph A. They are among some of the most expensive collector’s items today. That said, you can get a modern interpretation of the Chronograph A, with the same design as the original, but equipped with a quartz movement instead. You would have to fork out around $600 USD for this men’s watch. 5. Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Calibre 321 Of course, it would not be a list of best men’s watches without Omega. The brand Omega greeted 2020 with the launch of a new version of the Speedmaster, which they dubbed the “Ed White”. The Speedmaster Moonwatch “Ed White” Calibre 321 is named after the astronaut who wore a Speedmaster on the first ever spacewalk in 1965. The Speedmaster Moonwatch Calibre 321 boasts a classic combination of a stainless steel case and three-link bracelet. It comes with all the usual Speedmaster Moonwatch trappings, including three chronograph sub-dials, a bezel marked with a tachymeter scale, and a sleek three-hand layout. You can get this popular men’s watch at around $14,100 USD. 6. Zenith Defy 21 Chronograph Zenith has defied a lot of watchmaking principles in the past year or two. The brand’s effort can be seen now more than ever, as it leans into modern ideas and technology. One outstanding recent men’s watch from Zenith is the Defy 21 Ultraviolet. Incorporating the use of the brand’s famous El Primero 21 movement, this model stands out from the crowd because its movement has received an ultraviolet treatment that strikingly contrasts its titanium case. This men’s watch comes in two different variants. You can choose between a sleeker black model, or a more streamlined and professional looking version in white. Both versions feature clean, brushed cases, alligator leather straps, three-dimensional dials, and scratch-resistant ceramic bezels. The price for this Zenith Defy timepiece ranges from $12,000 to $14,000. 7. Alpina Seastrong Diver Heritage Photo by Imgur.com Alpina watches are made for the outdoors. Some of the brand’s more famous collections include the Alpiner, Startimer, and Seastrong, all of which offer sturdy and sporty watches that would be great companions for your adventures, whether on land or sea. Our favorite among the men’s watches from this brand is the Alpina Seastrong Diver Heritage. This Alpina Seastrong watch is equal parts chic and functional, making it one of the best men’s watches of all time. In particular, the Seastrong Diver Heritage Ref. AL-525G4H6 is a collaboration between Alpina and Gnomon. It is an excellent vintage-influenced remake of the 1969 Alpina 10 Super Compressor. This sporty blue reinterpretation includes two operable elements in the rotating bezel and the right case flank. This Alpina watch retails at around $980 USD. 8. Junghans Max Bill Hand-Winding In 1961, Junghans collaborated with industrial designer Max Bill to create the iconic Junghans Max Bill mechanical watches collection. Bill’s work became a legendary prototype, not only for the brand, but for the watchmaking industry as a whole. Today, the Max Bill watches remain true to their roots. They retain the original, minimalistic Bauhaus influences that made the collection so influential in the first place. In particular, we recommend the Max Bill Hand-Winding, which features a puristic dial and clean lines. It also has a layer of domed glass, which adds a very vintage charm to the watch. Powered by the hand-winding movement J805.1, which is based on the ETA 2801-2 caliber, you can get this watch for $800 USD. 9. Gucci Grip Gucci is more than just a storied fashion house. While some skeptics have doubted the quality of Gucci watches, the brand remains unbothered as they continue to put out some of the most stunning watches in the industry. After all, fashion is their game, and what is a watch but a fashion accessory. The Gucci Grip is a unisex fashion watch that appeals to many. Inspired by the skateboarding community, the Gucci Grip cleverly incorporates elements of street culture. This collection of watches offer a wide variety of designs, straps, case treatments, and more, so you are sure to be able to find something that fits your tastes. Its sizes also vary between 35mm and 38mm. One thing that remains constant across all Gucci Grip pieces is the fascinating way it tells time. It makes use of three rotating discs to show the hour, minute, and date. If you want a fashionable and quirky timekeeper, you can get the Gucci Grip at prices ranging between $1,450 USD to $2,250 USD. 10. William Wood Valiant Collection There is a very inspirational story behind William Wood and its watches. This brand was founded by Jonny Garrett as a tribute to his firefighter grandfather. As a mark of that, every watch from this brand carries a part of a Twenties British brash firefighter’s helmet. With William Wood watches, patrons can have a piece of heroism in a timepiece. The William Wood Valiant is one of the brand’s first watches, made possible by a Kickstarter that raised up to $25,000. Despite being new, it easily made its way to our list of the best men’s watches. There are six watches from this collection, all of which are equipped with automatic movements and function as dive watches. The straps of these watches also add a heroic spin, as they are made using rubber materials from the Angus Duraline British fire hoses. Finally, the rotating bezel of the watch also takes inspiration from firefighters and their oxygen tanks. You can get all this for just $952 USD. 11. Swatch BIOCERAMIC C-Black Swatch is known for its collaborations with popular artists, estates, and designers. There is no doubt that the company knows exactly how to appeal to the masses. However, there is more to Swatch than just collaborations. The company also comes up with inspiring green designs as a part of its sustainability promise. One of its efforts lies with the Swatch BIOCERAMIC line. What is BIOCERAMIC, you ask? It is a Swatch-made material that is one part bio-sourced plastic, and two parts ceramic. This gives the watch much more resistance to abrasions and scratches, while still boasting a silky and smooth exterior. Our choice from this collection has to be the BIOCERAMIC C-BLACK. It is black all over with a quartz movement ticking inside. To make sure that the watch remains as eco-friendly as possible, the buckle of its bio-sourced black strap is also made from aluminum, which is infinitely recyclable. For only $125 USD, this Swatch watch can be yours. 12. Chopard Alpine Eagle In 1980, Chopard released the St Mortiz, which is notable for being the first sports watch from the brand. What made it even more impressive was that, despite its classification as a sports watch, it boasted a sleek exterior that made it a fine piece of jewelry as well. 22 years later, Chopard re-released the St Mortiz as the Alpine Eagle. Like its predecessor, this is an unusually elegant sports watch encased in finely brushed stainless steel. It is also even better in terms of accuracy, with a full COSC certification. Even though it looks nothing like most men’s sport watches in the market, this is a versatile sports piece that you could easily bring to dressy events too. The stainless steel iteration of the watch costs around $12,900 USD, while the two-tone variant retails at $19,700 USD. 13. Urwerk EMC Time Hunter Have you ever heard of Urwerk? If not, then there is a lot you’re missing out on. This company adds a modern, unique flair to watchmaking. The brand’s goal is to introduce futuristic cues into the more traditional watchmaking techniques used in Haute Horlogerie. Released in 2016, the Urwerk EMC Time Hunter remains the most impressive watch from the brand. It was a hard choice to make but its unique form and function makes it easily one of the best men’s watches around. Urwerk innovatively balances the balance wheel of this EMC watch’s mechanical movement. In addition, it also features a manual-winding generator. This generator is made by Swiss company Maxon, which is mostly known for developing the motors used on NASA’s Mars rovers. It might take a while for you to get used to this watch, but it is, without a doubt, a powerful timekeeper to bear. You can purchase this watch for around $125,000 USD. 14. Harry Winston Project Z14 In 2020, American-brand Harry Winston released Project Z. This was a line of men’s watches with cases made from Zalium. If you are not familiar with this material, it is a sturdy zirconium-aluminium alloy typically used in aeronautical engineering. The most recent model in this collection, the Project Z14, was released in 2021. The dial of this watch features a combination of different brushed and polished finishes. In addition, it also displays a quirky red retrograde hand that quickly and satisfyingly swings back to zero every 30 seconds. This is paired with a comfortable black leather strap. There were only 300 pieces of this watch made, which explains its fairly heavy price tag of around $24,300 USD. 15. Montblanc 1858 Geosphere Limited Edition Next up, we have Montblanc’s Montblanc 1858 collection, which aims to uphold the spirit of mountain exploration. These watches take inspiration from the professional Minerva watches made during the 1920s and 1930s, which were typically used for military and exploration purposes as well. The Montblanc 1858 Geosphere Limited Edition watch, in particular, is dedicated to the Seven Summits climbing challenge that aims to conquer Earth’s highest peaks. True to its name, there are only 1,858 pieces available for this model. It comes in an interesting colorway, with rose gold hands over a khaki dial that displays two rotating gloves. These gloves are incredibly artistic, showing off the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. The dial also features a second time zone. Adding to the watch’s vintage feel is its woven khaki strap. This watch costs around $7,300 USD. 16. Oris Hangang Limited Edition 01 The Han River (Hangang in Korean), is one of the longest rivers in South Korea, connecting various cities across the country. Over the past few years, there have been efforts to clean up the river, and Oris has been one of the brands helping make this happen. As part of their efforts, the brand also released the Oris Hangang Limited Edition 01. Oris released the Hangang Limited Edition 01 in collaboration with the Korea Foundation for Environmental Movement. It aims to help with the organization’s clean-up operation on the Han River. This watch features a brilliant emerald green dial, inspired by the creeks of the Han River’s source. It also has a delicately engraved case back which depicts the river’s path across South Korea. For around $2,000 USD, this limited edition watch can be yours. 17. Tissot Heritage 1973 Chronograph Tissot has been a part of the motor racing industry since the 1950s. This Swiss company first became closely intertwined with the automotive industry when they sponsored entrants at the Le Mans 24-hour endurance race in the 1970s. Tissot also reached first place with French car builder Alpine at the Monte Carlo Rally World Championship in 1973. As a tribute to that win, the brand released the Heritage 1973 Chronograph. Inspired by the 1970s Tissot Navigator, the Heritage 1973 Chronograph is a mechanical racing watch with modern specs. It features a polished stainless steel case with a 43mm diameter. The watch also has a dial highlighted with green SuperLumiNova at the indices. Plus, it also features neon orange counters and a date window positioned between 4 and 5 o’clock. This is paired with a period-perfect black perforated leather racing strap, which adds a vintage touch. Aptly limited to only 1,973 pieces, this watch retails at $2,250 USD per piece. 18. Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe Mokarran The 1950s was a defining decade for the watch industry. It was during this time that Blancpain launched the first modern diving watch, which we know today as the Fifty Fathoms. This name was inspired by the British measurement of depth. Fifty fathoms is equivalent to around 91 meters, or around 300 feet deep. Over the years since its launch, Blancpain has released around 100 different variations of this dive watch. Honestly, all these iterations certainly deserve a slot in a best men’s watches list. However, if forced to pick one, then we simply have to go with the modern Bathyscaphe Mokarran. The Bathyscaphe Mokarran is a limited edition model with only 50 pieces available. The name of the watch comes from the scientific name of the great hammerhead shark, the Shyrna Mokarran. This watch also serves as a tribute to this great animal, as Blancpain has stated that the money raised from the sales of the Bathyscaphe Mokarran will go to the Mokarran Protection Society. The Bathyscaphe Mokarran costs around $15,500 USD in retail. 19. Longines Hydroconquest Photo from Watchshopping.com Up next is another outstanding dive watch entry, with the Longines Hydroconquest. When it comes to best men’s watches, there are a lot of Longines watches to choose from but the Hydroconquest was an easy choice. There are different iterations available for this watch but the one that stands out the most is the royal blue Longines Hydroconquest L37813987. The Longines Hydroconquest L37813987 is a versatile dive piece that looks perfect both underwater and on the dress floor. It boasts an exquisite rose gold and stainless steel exterior, paired with a striking sunburst blue dial that looks perfect in the water. This watch is water-resistant up to depths of 300 meters and costs around $1,600 USD to $2,000 USD. 20. Tudor Black Bay Chrono Tudor is commonly known as Rolex’s little sister, offering watches with designs that resemble Rolex watches, but at much more affordable prices. Hans Wildorf founded this brand in order to make Rolex designs more accessible to the wider public. So, you should not be too surprised if you see a watch that looks a lot like a Rolex in Tudor’s vast catalog. Case in point: the Tudor Black Bay collection. As a dive watch, the Tudor Black Bay exudes luxury reminiscent of the classic Submariner divers, which is why it is one of the brand’s biggest hits. That being said, the Black Bay Chrono is not just a Rolex wannabe. In fact, it is revered in its own right for its robust features and powerful movement. These days, collectors use Tudor as a stepping stone into a grail collection. This watch, in particular, is one of the go-to watches for that, with its sleek 41mm build and striking panda dial. As a chronograph piece, this watch bears some similarities to the Paul Newman Rolex Daytona. This watch retails at around $4,900 USD to $5,225 USD. 21. Tag Heuer Carrera 160 Years Silver Limited Edition Tag Heuer celebrates 160 years of its extensive watchmaking tenure with the latest Carrera 160 Years Silver Limited-Edition model. This is a meticulously brilliant homage to the original Carrera timepieces. It bears the brand’s popular racing chronograph design, with three corresponding pushers, a polished dial, and the original Carrera’s classic silver stainless steel dial. One difference that has been made to the Carrera 160 Years Silver is that it comes with a 39mm diameter, which is up from its original 36mm case size. It has also been updated with a shiny new 21st-century movement, boasting an 80-hour power reserve and a total of 168 components. You can purchase this men’s watch for just $2,100 USD. 22. IWC Portofino Automatic Photo from Watchshopping.com Thanks to its elegant, laid-back Mediterranean style, the IWC Portofino has been one of IWC’s most consistently popular watches over the past 30 years. In particular, we recommend the IWC Portofino Automatic IW356522. The IWC Portofino Automatic IW356522 comes with a stunning sunburst blue dial, paired with an exquisite 40mm rose gold case. The dial also features exquisite gold hour indices and Roman numeral indicators at 6 and 12 o’clock, and is protected by a layer of sapphire crystal with an anti-glare coating. This Portofino watch is secured by a sleek alligator leather strap with a pin buckle, and retails at a price of $9,729 USD. 23. Bell & Ross BR 03-92 Bell & Ross is mostly known for its square military watches, which is known as the brand’s trademark. One of the newer, robust pieces from Bell & Ross is the excellent BR 03-92 Diver Military. This watch features 300 meters of water resistance, making it perfect for the recreational divers out there. Aside from that, it also has resistances to shocks and magnetic interference. With a stainless steel interior and ceramic exterior, this watch is durable enough to handle just about anything. The white markers of this piece are also coated in luminescent material, so they glow bright green in poor lighting conditions. In addition, this watch boasts an olive green dial, reminiscent of a military uniform. You can wear it with either a black rubber strap or a matching olive green vector band. There are only 999 pieces of the Bell & Ross BR 03-92 available. You can purchase this military men’s watch for around $3,300 USD. 24. Patek Philippe 6007A-001 Calatrava Patek Philippe has a famous slogan that goes, “You never really own a Patek. You merely look after it for the next generation.” Indeed, the watches from this brand are all extremely expensive, but for one very good reason: they are timepieces built to last generations. Simply owning a Patek Philippe watch can be used as a measure of your success, and a list of best men’s watches simply would not be complete without this brand. At the top of our list is the Patek Philippe 6007A-001 Calatrava. With only 1,000 pieces available, this watch was crafted in commemoration of the opening of the brand’s manufacture in Geneva. It boasts a gleaming, polished 40mm stainless steel case and comes with a powerful in-house automatic movement. You can expect to fork out around $82,500 USD for this Patek Philippe Calatrava watch. 25. Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Tribute Duoface Jaeger-LeCoultre made the Reverso especially for polo matches. This watch was designed with a reversible square case, so you could keep the watch face from being damaged during polo matches. It became an iconic design, and the Reverso collection has continued to be incredibly popular over the years. The Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Tribute Duoface model is a great callback to the Reverso timepieces from the 30s. This watch comes with the collection’s signature reversible stainless steel square case. It is also equipped with a manual winding movement that powers the watch’s timekeeping functions, practical day/night indicator and two time zones. The attractive blue leather strap of this watch was specifically designed by renowned boot-maker Casa Fagliano. You can purchase this timepiece at$23,900 USD brand new. 26. Girard-Perregaux Quasar Azure In 1889, Swiss luxury brand Girard-Perregaux developed the watchmaking icon La Esmeralda. This pocket watch earned a gold medal from the Jury of the Paris Universal Exhibition, becoming an iconic design that remains unparalleled to this day. It boasted a movement that displayed architectural excellence and technical brilliance. Paired with a stunning finish and an open-heart dial, this movement eventually came to be known as the “Three Bridges”. The modern Girard-Perregaux Quasar Azure Tourbillon pays tribute to the La Esmeralda’s by mimicking its legendary Three Bridges design. The name of the watch is derived from a luminous astronomical entity called the Quasar. Its design also incorporates a translucent azure blue case, which is sculpted from a single block of sapphire. This see-through case gives you a clear view of the watch’s “Three Bridges” skeletonized movement. You can purchase this piece for $309,000 USD. 27. Rolex Explorer Rolex boasts a vast catalog of watches that have helped build the brand’s reputation today. Among others, we have the Submariner, the Cosmograph Daytona, and the Day-Date. Although it was nearly impossible to settle on just one watch, we decided to go with an underrated Rolex offering: the Rolex Explorer. This majestic men’s watch was named as such to honor Sir Edmund Hillary’s ascent of the perilous Mount Everest. Its case and bracelet are made out of a heavily-resistant alloy known as Oystersteel. As a material mainly used in chemical and aerospace industries, it offers maximum resistance to corrosion and an extremely fine, polished finish. As such, the Explorer is an incredibly durable watch that can withstand just about anything you have to throw at it. Modern versions of the Rolex Explorer are equipped with the brand’s in-house, self-winding caliber 3132. This movement features a Parachrom hairspring as well as Paraflex shock absorbers, making it extremely shock-resistant. This watch’s selling price starts at around $11,000 USD. 28. Seiko Prospex Black Series Night diving is what gave birth to a new line of dive watches from Seiko — the Seiko Prospex. There are just too many pieces from this collection that we can easily verify as great men’s watches. For instance, the line’s environmentally-friendly PADI models are perfect for those who want to give back to the ocean. However, there is also a line of Seiko Prospex watches made especially for lovers of monochrome looks. The Seiko Prospex Black Series is easily recognizable thanks to their exquisite black DLC-coated stainless steel cases. These watches are all equipped with the brand’s LumiBrite technology, which allows wearers to view their displays even in the dark. Some models are also solar chronographs, which are equipped with solar cells that have high-performing electricity generation. This gives the watches an alternative source of energy, so they can be charged using the power of the sun. There are three fantastic models available in this sub-collection: a 45mm version known as the SPB125J1 “Sumo”, the solar-powered SSC761J1, and the 300m water-resistant SLA035J1 Professional. The prices of watches in this range start at $850 USD. 29. Ball Engineer Hydrocarbon NEDU Ball Watch Co is an American legend. Its founder, Webb C. Ball, was an American watchmaker, and the first watchmaker whose creations were sanctioned for use by the US railroads during the 1900s. By the time Ball died in 1922, 125,000 miles worth of train travel had been achieved with the help of his timekeepers. One outstanding modern release by the brand is the Engineer Hydrocarbon NEDU. This dive watch takes inspiration from the US Navy’s Experimental Diving Unit (NEDU). It features a case that is water-resistant up to a depth of an incredible 600 meters. As a diving watch, it also comes with a unidirectional ceramic bezel marked with a tachymeter scale. Plus, you will not have any difficulty reading the time underwater, since this watch is equipped with hydrogen gas tubes that illuminate its markers and hands. This timepiece costs around $5,264 USD brand new. 30. Andersen Genève Tempus Terrae Worldtimer Andersen Genève’s founder, Dane Svend Andersen, first made a name for himself working in Patek Philippe’s complications department. Then, some 40 years ago, he decided to open up his own workshop located in Geneva. Despite being a relatively young brand, Andersen Genève has managed to achieve quite a bit under Anderson’s leadership. In 2020, the brand introduced the Tempus Terrae, as a 25th anniversary tribute to the first Worldtimer that the company released. This watch only has 25 pieces available, making it one of the rarest watches on our list. This stunning timepiece features a blue-gold dial which is crafted by melting down regular 21K gold and adding a bit of iron to it. In addition, its bezel is embedded with 36 baguette diamonds, adding to its aura of luxury. The price of this watch ranges between $50,000 USD and $60,000 USD. 31. Hermès H08 Fashion houses like Gucci and Hermès definitely have their own ideas of what a watch should be, and we are definitely here for it. One great offering by Hermès is the H08. This timepiece, with its cushion-shaped case, makes for a great luxury everyday piece and is definitely one of the best men’s watches of today. You have three different choices of cases for this watch. These include titanium, black DLC-coated titanium, or graphene with ceramic. The watch is powered by an in-house caliber H1837 Vaucher. This is an automatic movement, with 50 hours of power reserve and a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour. The titanium iterations of the watch cost around $5,000 USD to $6,000 USD. Meanwhile, the graphene version with a rubber strap costs around $8,900 USD. 32. Bulgari Octo Roma Naturalia The Bulgari Octo is one of the biggest names in the contemporary watch-making industry. The timepiece, launched in 2012, became an instant icon and garnered various awards for its impressive design. It was highly recognized for its astoundingly thin, eight-sided case with a perfectly round bezel. This Bulgari watch is sophisticated, lightweight, and truly one of the best men’s watches to grace the modern era. One incredibly fun piece from this collection is the Bulgari Octo Roma Naturalia. This is a customizable high jewelry watch. You can choose between different case materials such as titanium, rose gold, or platinum, all based on your own liking. Other materials you can include in your watch also include precious stones like black onyx, lapis lazuli, and malachite, so you can craft a luxurious Bulgari Octo piece that truly represents your personality. The base price of this watch starts at $89,000 USD. 33. Rado Captain Cook Bronze The 1960s was a great time for the dive watch industry. Many of the most iconic dive watches were born during that era. This includes big players in the industry such as the Rolex Submariner and the Omega Seamaster. During this time, Rado also launched a great dive offering of their own: the Rado Captain Cook. Its name is inspired by British navigator and explorer James Cook, who is famous for mapping a huge part of the South Pacific. The original 1960s Captain Cook has long since been discontinued, and is no longer available for purchase. However, the brand has also released the Captain Cook Bronze, which boasts a design that skews as close to the original as possible, with its classic bronze case and forest green dial. The updated Captain Cook Bronze also boasts bronze hour indices and arrow-shaped hands, along with a comfortable NATO strap. You can purchase this men’s dive watch for just $2,600 USD. 34. Baume No. 10600 Every watch enthusiast knows the brand Baume & Mercier. Founded in 1830, the brand is generally known for its more conservative take on Haute Horlogerie. However, as the watch industry has turned towards greater sustainability, the brand also followed suit by launching the sub-label Baume. Aside from producing eco-friendly watches, Baume also offers more affordable options, so more people can experience Baume & Mercier’s expertise and watchmaking without having to break the bank. The Baume 10600 is a model that is the perfect epitome of all this. This watch boasts an exquisite round gold case, with an elegant and thin crown unusually placed at 12 o’clock and slight horn-shaped lugs. Its default strap is a gray cotton band made entirely from natural materials, but you can change this for other bracelets as well. What’s more, this classy watch costs only $500 USD. 35. Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Chronograph The elite watch enthusiasts are all-too-familiar with the Audemars Piguet, known commonly as AP. Having been around since 1875, the Royal Oak sports watch is arguably AP’s most popular piece. Designed by legendary watchmaker Gerald Genta, its outstanding rounded octagonal bezel kicked off a huge trend in the watch industry, inspiring many other Royal Oak lookalikes. The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak was one of the first sports watches to be made from stainless steel, and the modern Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Chronograph continues this trend. In addition, it boasts a signature, gorgeous blue Grand Tapisserie dial. This watch is powered by a self-winding 3835 movement, which has a 40-hour power reserve and a water-resistance capacity of 50 meters. You can purchase this piece for $82,000 USD. 36. Movado Museum Classic Up next, we have the Museum watches, released by the watch brand Movado, which means “always in motion” in Esperanto. Designed by Nathan George Horwitt, this collection of men’s watches is known for its minimalist dials, decorated only with sleek dauphine hands and a gold dot located at 12 o’clock. The Movado Museum Classic measures around 40 mm in diameter. You can get it in plain stainless steel, or a black or gold PVD-coated case. This watch is also offered in a variety of dial colors, including blue, mother-of-pearl, and jet-black. One constant across all these watches is the iconic 12 o’clock dot marker. This watch will set you back by a little less than $900 USD. 37. Bamford × Revolution GMT Joe Cool Everybody loves Snoopy. However, some people are more enamored by the beagle’s stylish alter ego, Joe Cool. Joe Cool debuted in 1971, taking the form of Snoopy with a pair of black sunglasses and a red sweater with the words ‘Joe Cool’. In 2020, Bamford was already featuring Peanuts characters in its watches. This time, the brand decided to introduce Joe Cool into their catalog. The Bamford × Revolution GMT Joe Cool is a GMT watch, with a 40mm stainless steel case and a polished, luminous rotating bezel. Ticking inside the watch is a Sellita SW330-1 movement with 42 hours of power reserve. This watch also has a GMT hand, shaped like Snoopy’s arm, so you can monitor two time zones at once. At $1,900 USD, this is a fun and quirky collector’s piece that Snoopy fans would love to have in their collection. 38. Frederique Constant Manufacture Classic Worldtimer Frederique Constant has a whole array of timepieces that can be included in our list of the best men’s watches. Some of its conic collections include the Slimline, Highlife, and Classics. However, for this entry, let us focus on the Manufacture collection. As its name suggests, it features the brand’s in-house manufacture calibers. In particular, we are looking at the Frederique Constant Manufacture Classic Worldtimer Ref. FC-718NRWM4H9. This watch comes in a luxurious 18K rose gold case measuring around 42 mm in diameter. This is contrasted with a gorgeously decorated navy blue dial which has a gray world map at its center. The indices of this watch are luminous and plated with rose gold. As a Worldtimer, this watch has a counter that indicates 24 different cities on a disc, allowing you to keep track of multiple time zones. It also features a 24-hour day/night indicator split into two – red for day, and gray for night. This elegant and highly-functional men’s watch costs around $18,000 USD. 39. Jacob & Co. Opera Scarface Anyone who has ever seen the movie Scarface will remember the lines, “Say hello to my little friend!” Indeed, Scarface had an impact on the generation that witnessed it in cinema and everyone else that came after. Jacob & Co. pays tribute to this cinematic icon by creating a watch in its honor. Under the Opera collection, the Jacob & Co. Opera Scarface was born. The Opera Collection is an incredibly unique addition to the watch industry. It is the only watch with a music box in it. The Opera Scarface, in particular, is fitted with a music box that plays the tune Bolivia from the Scarface movie. The iconic poster with Al Pacino can also be found on the watch’s dial. In terms of its technical specifications, the Opera Scarface is equipped with a tourbillon movement, with a 42-hour power reserve. Overall, the watch has 658 individual components, making it one of the most complex watches in the world. In addition, the music box function can be played up to three times before you have to wind it again. This is a great collector’s item for both watch connoisseurs and fans of Scarface. That said, it is quite an expensive buy, retailing at $330,000 USD. 40. NOMOS Glashütte Tangente Sport Neomatik There is something about German watches that makes them truly captivating. Today, we’ll be looking at NOMOS Glashütte’s Tangente collection. This is a classy, minimalistic watch that features an angular design with clean lines. It is a prize-winning watch that has been a 25-year bestseller for the brand, having won the German Design Award, iF Design Award, and the Reddot Design Award. Our favorite watch from the collection has to be the NOMOS Tangente Sport Neomatik. This watch features 1,000 feet of water resistance, making it the perfect sports watch for those who love clean and simple designs. It comes in a stainless steel case, paired with either a black or silver-plated dial. At 3 o’clock, you will find an extra-large date window. It is also equipped with an in-house caliber DUW 6101, with 42 hours of power reserve and 27 jewels in total. This watch can be yours for just $4,980 USD. 41. Bremont MB Savana Bremont is one of the oldest British watchmakers in the industry. It has a wide selection of watches that display the brand’s excellence in watchmaking. Among those is the MB Savanna. It is a timepiece created in collaboration with Martin-Baker, a British company that develops safety systems for pilots. It is also responsible for providing more than 70% of the world’s air forces with ejector seats. The collaboration between Martin-Baker and Bremont began in 2007 and is still going strong to this day. Based on Martin-Baker’s feedback, Bremont came up with various watch tests for the MB Savanna to ensure that they were providing pilots with only the best aviation watches. These include ejection tests, crash tests, temperature tests, altitude tests, and of course, vibration tests. The MB Savanna also features a desert-inspired design. The 43mm of this watch is made from Grade 5 Titanium, and it comes with an additional protective and tactical coating. It is also powered by an automatic chronometer, the modified caliber BE-36AE, and comes with a beige rubber strap. This watch retails at $5,795 USD. 42. Victorinox I.N.O.X Mechanical Victorinox is one of the most popular accessible brands for those seeking rugged and hardy watches. Among its many innovations, our favorite is the I.N.O.X. This collection consists of various models. Although most of them are quartz watches, there are also mechanical iterations of the I.N.O.X. This makes automatic timepieces more accessible to the general public. The Victorinox I.N.O.X Mechanical comes with a neat guilloche pattern on its dial. This is designed to resemble the look of a Swiss Army Knife handle, and it helps add a high-end feel to this otherwise affordable watch. This watch is also the first of its kind, as it features a sturdy wooden strap. This type of strap is more durable than other materials and comes with a leather lining perfect for people who are looking for a sustainable watch option. If you are not a fan of the wooden strap, however, you could also opt for a stainless steel bracelet. Models with stainless steel bracelets cost around $875 USD while those equipped with wooden straps retail at $825 USD. 43. Hamilton American Classic Intra-Matic Hamilton is one of the best-known American watch brands, producing robust watches at very affordable prices. Not only that, many of the watches from Hamilton are known for having very impressive movements ticking inside. Take, for example, the Hamilton American Classic Intra-Matic Auto Chrono. This Hamilton American Classic watch is a modern take on a 1968 signature Hamilton piece that is both classy and sporty. It combines authentic 1960s aesthetics with a powerful modern movement, the H-31 automatic caliber. With this in-house movement, this watch has an extended 60 hours of power reserve. The oscillating bridge of the movement also has a ‘H’ pattern design, representing the brand’s trademark. In terms of its aesthetics, this watch boasts a striking panda dial and a supple leather strap that gives it a quintessential, luxurious look. For $2,195 USD, this bad boy can be yours. 44. A. Lange & Söhne Datograph Perpetual Tourbillon Heading back to Germany, let us take a look at A. Lange & Söhne. The brand’s Datograph collection consists of elegant and sophisticated mechanical chronographs. In particular, the Datograph Perpetual Tourbillon, which debuted back in 2016, is one of the most complex watches from A. Lange & Söhne. Its stunning salmon-colored dial is truly a sight to behold. Some of its marvelous features include a perpetual calendar with a moon phase indicator, two depressed sub-dials with intricate markings in black, and button-like pushers. A fly-back chronograph and a one-minute tourbillon regulator are safely secured within its 41.5-millimeter white-gold case. This watch has a relatively hefty price tag of $448,694 USD. 45. Ulysse Nardin Blast Ulysse Nardin has the most modern designs in today’s brands. The brand is unafraid to take a step into the future with masculine, avant-garde designs that truly draw everyone’s eyes. A great example of this is the Ulysse Nardin Blast. The Ulysse Nardin Blast is as complex as any Ulysse Nardin piece can be, with a skeleton dial that emphasizes clean, geometric lines. Moreover, the buckle on the strap is a self-deploying one, and is extremely well-synchronized thanks to the patented 3-blade system it is equipped with. Inside this watch is a UN-172 Manufacture movement with a flying tourbillon complication. The watch also comes with 50m of water resistance. There are three versions of this watch. You have a mode with a ceramic case in either white or black, priced at $46,000 USD. The last variant is an 18K rose gold piece worth $54,000 USD. 46. Citizen Promaster Diver GMT Japanese brand Citizen has made quite a name for itself in the global market. Thanks to the brand’s ingenuity, many modern, high-tech innovations in watchmaking are now accessible to many. In particular, many of these inventions can be found in the outstanding and diverse Promaster collection. The Citizen Promaster Diver GMT features an especially neat invention from the brand — its patented Eco-Drive technology. This light-powered tech allows you to charge your watch using any light source, making this a very environmentally-friendly watch indeed. In addition, this watch is also a bold and robust piece, with its stainless steel case and bracelet and striking pepsi bezel. It comes with a layer of anti-reflective sapphire crystal and luminous hands and markers. As a GMT watch, it is also equipped with a 24-hour layout so you can monitor two time zones at once. You can purchase this watch for $525 USD. 47. Reservoir Hydrosphere Air Gauge If you are looking for a unique and quirky watch to add to your watch collection, the French brand Reservoir has something for you. The brand debuted in 2016 with a retrograde minute, jumping hour watch. This was an innovative, speedometer-like piece whose minute hand swung back to zero every time it reached 60. Today, however, we are looking at a more recent offering from the brand: the Reservoir Hydrosphere Air Gauge. Unlike the debut watch of Reservoir, the Hydrosphere Air Gauge takes inspiration from the pressure gauges of the first divers. This can be seen from its unusual dial, which features a bold and fun interplay of red, green, and blue colors against a stark white backdrop. This watch also has a 45mm 316L stainless steel case with a smooth satin finish. Ticking inside is a self-winding movement with 37 hours of power reserve. This movement is based on the ETA caliber 2824-2, but Reservoir has modified it to include a 124-piece module. As per its name, this dive watch is also equipped with a helium valve that is designed to let out air pressures from the watch when deep underwater. This watch costs around $4,300 USD. 48. Carl F Bucherer Heritage BiCompax Annual The 1950s and 1970s was a true peak in the watchmaking age, with many iconic designs emerging that have continued to influence modern-day watchmaking. This can especially be seen through Carl F Bucherer’s Heritage collection, a modern watch line that draws its inspiration from the 1950s. Our choice from this collection is the Heritage BiCompax Annual watch. It features a sporty design, with a rugged rubber strap and a striking reverse panda dial. This watch comes with powerful modern features, including a chronograph, an annual calendar, a date window, and a tachymetric scale. With only 888 pieces of this Carl F Bucherer watch available, you can purchase this watch at $7,200 USD. 49. Breguet Classique ‘Grand Feu’ Blue Enamel Breguet is the brand established by Abraham-Louis Breguet, the ingenious creator of the tourbillon mechanism. In particular, the Breguet Classique is one of the brand’s modern icons. This watch comes in various iterations but the Classique 5177 ‘Grand Feu’ Blue Enamel is our favorite. It boasts a gorgeous deep blue dial, created using Grand Feu enamel. Grand Feu enamel is an artistic process which involves fusing glass and metal together. In this process, an artisan uses an incredibly thin metal disc and applies multiple layers of enamel powder over it, fired at 800 degrees Celsius or higher. This process is a sophisticated one, and the use of it pushes this watch’s price up to around $25,000 USD or more. 50. Breitling Premier Bentley Mulliner Limited Edition The collaboration between Breitling and Bentley has been show-stopping, to say the least. There have been quite a few collaborations between watchmakers and car manufacturers over the years. However, the Breitling Premier Bentley Mulliner Limited Edition is a particular standout. This watch was debuted in honor of Bentley’s Continental GT Convertible Mulliner Edition. Limited only to 1,000 pieces, it is a luxurious tribute to a luxurious automobile, boasting a chronograph dial that resembles the dashboard of a racing car. This watch comes in a 42mm stainless steel case with a water resistance capacity of around 10m. It is powered by an in-house Breitling 01 self-winding mechanical movement, which features 70 hours of power reserve and vibrates at 28,800 vph. This Breitling Bentley piece costs $8,650 USD in retail 51. Cartier Santos-Dumont There is a popular story behind the Cartier Santos-Dumont. One day in 1904, Louis Cartier granted Alberto Santos Dumont’s wish. The Brazilian aviator wanted to fly while still being able to tell time. This favor gave birth to one of the world’s first-ever wristwatches. To this day, the Cartier Santos-Dumont is one of the best men’s watches to ever exist. Lucky for us, Cartier continues to produce these watches, giving everyone the chance to experience history on their wrists. It features a square case with both mechanical and quartz movements. Prices range from $3,800 USD to $56,000 USD depending on the material, design, and movement used. 52. Vacheron Constantin Patrimony Moon Phase Retrograde Date Of all the brands mentioned in this list of best men’s watches, Vacheron Constantin has to be the oldest. Founded in 1755, this company produces only the best of the best in the world of watchmaking. Today, it functions as a subsidiary of the Swiss Richemont Group. Perhaps one of the most complicated watches from the brand, the Vacheron Constantin Patrimony Moon Phase Retrograde Date is a sight to behold. It comes in an exquisite 18K gold case, paired with an elegant black alligator leather strap. It is equipped with a retrograde date display as well as a classy moon phase indicator. This highly advanced watch only needs to be reset every 122 years. Its retail price sits at around $44,800 USD. 53. Garmin Enduro Garmin is a brand known around the globe for its incredible and hardy smartwatches. It was hard to choose among its models but the Garmin Enduro is truly one of the most impressive in the pack. The Garmin Enduro comes in a tassel case, paired with a gray UltraFit Nylon strap. As you might imagine from its name, this smartwatch was made specifically for endurance athletes. It uses solar power to function, and you can easily manage its battery use by turning some of its sensors off. This men’s smartwatch can monitor various activities such as running, climbing, and mountain biking. It even comes with a timer that states how much recovery time you need after an exercise session, and a tracker that takes note of your daily performance metrics. This handy smartwatch costs only $800 USD, and it is more than worth its price. 54. Richard Mille RM 61-01 Ultimate Edition There is no denying that Richard Mille has become the epitome of luxury in modern-day watchmaking. Its designs are instant classics, boasting sophisticated, avant-garde cues that look like they come from the future. Richard Mille watches are also customizable, which makes this brand especially delightful to patrons. The Richard Mille RM 61-01 Ultimate Edition is just another work of art from Richard Mille. This new Ultimate Edition model is an improved version of the RM 61-01. It comes with a carbon TPT® and quartz TPT® bezel and case back. It also features a skeletonized Grade 5 titanium caliber treated with PVD for improved durability. There are only 150 pieces of this watch available. As such, it is not surprising that it bears a hefty price tag of around $200,000 USD. 55. Apple Watch Series 5 This sophisticated convenience that is offered by Apple’s Watch Series 5 is commendable. This is the most ideal waterproof companion for all your fitness needs, coming with a heart-rate tracker that supports a variety of training and exercise routines. It is also Apple’s greatest timepiece, thanks to its always-on display, which means you do not have to constantly flick your wrist in order to open up the display. Furthermore, thanks to Apple’s collaboration with Hermes, this watch’s elegant leather strap and sleek titanium build give it a hint of class. Offered in a variety of colorways, including pink, black, and white, this watch can be purchased for around $680 USD. 56. Panerai Submersible Bronzo Blu Abisso Panerai is known for its very unique watch designs. Panerai watches have cases that come in a bulky cushion shape, paired with bezels that are round. In addition, the Panerai Submersible stands out from the crowd even more with its striking, oversized crown guard which is shaped like a semicircle. The Panerai Submersible is an instantly recognizable statement piece that anyone should consider adding to their collection. In particular, the Panerai Submersible Bronzo Blu Abisso comes in a beautiful combination of bronze and blue, with a 42mm bronze case and a deep blue dial and leather strap. It features an automatic mechanical movement with 3 days of power reserve. It is also robust and durable, as it is equipped with an Incabloc® anti-shock device. Equipped with a water resistance capacity of 300m, this watch costs $15,900 USD in retail. 57. Nordgreen The Pioneer Chronograph Nordgreen has given us every reason to believe in brand philosophy. This Danish company has made it a goal to provide eco-friendly and accessible timepieces to the people. As part of its objectives, Nordgreen donates a portion of every sale to different charities. The brand also provides sustainable packaging for all its products. Indeed, the brand remains true to the art of sustainable watchmaking as it continues to produce award-winning timepieces. One of its most highly-recognized watches is the Pioneer Chronograph. It comes with a 42mm 316L stainless steel case that is available in various hues such as silver, rose gold, or gunmetal. The brand also offers a wide range of bracelets to choose from. Powering the watch is a Japanese quartz movement with 50 meters of water resistance. The price of this elegant everyday men’s watch ranges between $289 USD and $314 USD. 58. Suunto Core If the outdoors is your thing or if you have a job that requires you to be on the field a lot, Suunto is a great brand to opt for. It carries different smartwatches perfect for just about every occasion. Whether it is for athletes or for tactical use, there is sure to be a Suunto watch for you. However, if you want an everyday men’s watch that can keep up with your active lifestyle, the Suunto Core is the best option. It comes with all the features you can think of in a smartwatch. The watch has an altimeter, barometer, and even a compass. Plus, it comes with a durable and scratch-resistant sapphire crystal lens. The price for the Suunto Core ranges from $219 USD for the all-black version to $529 USD for the variant with a brushed steel case. 59. Ressence Black Type 3X Limited Edition You may not be familiar with the brand Ressence. Despite having only been in the industry for about 10 years, Ressence pioneered various innovations, such as an automated crown for mechanical watches and a stunning oil-filled dial. The latter, in particular, even gives you the ability to visually touch the dial yourself. This technology can easily be seen on the Ressence Black Type 3X Limited Edition. Aside from celebrating the brand’s 10th year anniversary, this watch also displays modern watchmaking at its most daring. It features a convex microbilled grade 5 titanium dial applied with Super-LumiNova for improved visibility in dim lighting conditions. You would hardly believe that the movement ticking inside this watch is an ETA 2824-2 caliber either, as it is customized with advanced improvements such as magnetic transmission. Limited only to 40 pieces, this watch costs around $50,000 USD. 60. Piaget Altiplano Ultimate Concept Piaget is the manufacturer responsible for making some of the world’s thinnest watches. For instance, some of the Piaget Altiplano models can even get up to 2mm thin. What began as just a concept of the thinnest men’s watches became a reality for many watch enthusiasts thanks to Piaget’s masterful watchmaking. The Piaget Altiplano Ultimate Concept features a white gold case that measures 41mm in diameter. It is powered by the Manufacture Piaget 900P-UC ultra-thin, hand-wound mechanical movement. This is an impressive watch that was awarded the prestigious “Aiguille d’Or” watch prize at the 2020 Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève (GPHG). At $400,000 USD, wearing this watch is like wearing air on your wrist. Picking from the Best Men’s Watches We know that we gave you quite a lot to think about. One way to start could be by picking the most affordable best men’s watches for now and slowly build your collection from there. You can also aim for the most extravagant options and be a part of the few people who own those best men’s watches. No matter how you take this list, we assure you that none of the choices here will fail you. Images credited to official watch websites unless otherwise stated
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A quartz watch is a specific type of timepiece that is powered by batteries instead of the usual mechanical mainspring mechanism. To this day, there really is no consensus as to whether quartz watches are superior to mechanical pieces, or vice versa. It generally depends on your personal preference, since both quartz and mechanical watches have their fair share of pros and cons. With all that being said, today we will take a look at some of the best quartz watches out there. Quartz Watches: Selling Points Before delving into the list proper, let us first discuss some of the biggest benefits you can get from a quartz watch. More Affordable. It is a well-known fact among the watchmaking community that quartz pieces come at a lower cost compared to mechanical watches. The reason for this is because the manufacturing process for quartz watches is less extensive, which means lower expenditures in terms of labor and materials. That being said, it should be noted that even though it is more affordable, the quality of quartz watches is often on par with its mechanical counterparts.More Accurate. In order to work consistently, mechanical timepieces need some form of winding, whether manual or automatic. Meanwhile, quartz watches are almost completely reliant on batteries, which means there is little human involvement. This allows the quartz watch to consistently and accurately function on its own until the battery runs out. Low Maintenance. Unlike mechanical timepieces that need to be serviced consistently, quartz watches only require battery changes every couple of years. Even then, there are a lot of watch repair shops out there that can do the job in a couple of minutes. In addition, if you are competent when it comes to DIY activities, you can also easily attempt to switch out the batteries of your quartz watch on your own. 25 Best Quartz Watches Here’s a list of some of the best quartz watches available in the market right now. 1. Hamilton American Classic PSR Quartz Let us start off our list with a piece from Hamilton, which is a brand that played a big role in the quartz revolution. In fact, the American Classic PSR Quartz is a modern-day reincarnation of the first–ever digital watch, the Pulsar, from the 1970s. This Hamilton American Classic piece is presented in a stainless steel case and a bracelet made of the same material. The dial follows a digital display, with red Arabic numerals on a black background. This watch is driven by a quartz movement and boasts a water resistance rating of 100 meters. Retailing at around $815 USD, this quartz watch is perfect for those who like retro-inspired digital pieces. 2. Timex Navi Harbor 38mm Next, we have the Timex Navi Harbor, which boasts a casual and retro vibe perfect for your everyday routines. It belongs under the brand’s Navi collection, making it a military-inspired outdoor watch. This model is presented in a 38mm stainless steel case paired with a nylon strap in army green. It also has a bi-directional rotating bezel which makes it extra functional. Meanwhile, the black dial features luminescent hands, hour markers in various geometric shapes, and a 24-hour time display. Lastly, this watch is powered by a quartz movement and boasts a water resistance rating of 100 meters. With a price tag of approximately $140 USD, this model is ideal for those who want a low-key yet reliable quartz watch. 3. Instrmt T42 Gold Moving on, the next quartz watch is all about sophistication and minimalism. The Instrmt T42 Gold’s overall aesthetic is heavily inspired by industrial design codes from the previous century. For example, this particular model comes in a 40mm stainless steel case paired with a vegan tan leather strap. Its black dial follows a modest layout with only the essential elements present, like the thin hands and indices, small Arabic numerals, and a compact date window. Lastly, it is equipped with the Swiss Ronda 585, which is a very popular quartz movement, and has a 50-meter water resistance capacity. Priced at around $257 USD, this is a great and affordable quartz watch for minimalist enthusiasts. 4. TAG Heuer Formula 1 Ref. WAZ101A.FC8305 This TAG Heuer Formula 1 watch screams sporty, retro, and fun all at the same time. It is based on previous Formula 1 models from the 80s and 90s. This piece is presented in a 43mm stainless steel case paired with a comfortable nylon strap in black. It also has a black rotating bezel that goes really well with the vibrant orange watch face. The dial consists of luminescent hands, rectangular indices, and a date window at 3 o’clock. Lastly, in terms of its technical specifications, this TAG Heuer watch is powered by a quartz movement and has a whopping 200-meter water resistance capacity. If you enjoy sporty and stylish timepieces, then you can get this quartz watch for around $1,450 USD. 5. Omega Speedmaster Skywalker X-33 Chronograph The Omega Speedmaster Skywalker X-33 Chronograph is a very futuristic and distinct-looking quartz watch. Designed to explore the galaxy, its overall design is bound to give you space and exploration vibes. This Omega Speedmaster model is presented in a 45mm lightweight titanium case and bracelet with a rotating bezel. Its black dial follows both a digital and analog layout with luminescent hands, hour markers, and an LCD display. Equipped with the OMEGA quartz caliber 5619, this quartz watch comes with many features including a chronograph display, alarms, a time zone function, and a perpetual calendar. With a 24-month battery life, its quartz movement has been tested and is recognized by the European Space Agency. For a little over $6,000 USD, you can get this advanced and eccentric quartz piece! 6. Tissot PRC 200 Chronograph Up next, we have the Tissot PRC 200 Chronograph, which is a quartz watch that revolves around high-performance and versatility. This model comes in a 42mm stainless steel case and bracelet. Its busy black dial features luminescent hands and hour markers, a date window, and a chronograph display with 3 sub-dials. Following a quartz movement, this Tissot piece is equipped with a Renata 394 caliber and an impressive water resistance rating of 200 meters. Retailing at around $500 USD, this is a great quartz watch that will surely prove to be a reliable companion. 7. Longines Les Grandes Classiques L47436320 The Longines Les Grandes Classiques quartz watch boasts quintessential and vintage aesthetics. Its overall design is made up of antique-inspired elements for all the classy ladies out there. This Longines Les Grandes Classiques watch comes in a 33.5mm 18K yellow gold case paired with an elegant alligator leather strap in black. The dial, which boasts a rustic gold color, consists of slim hands, applied indices, and a date window at 3 o’clock. Lastly, it is driven by a L156 quartz movement with a 30-meter water resistance rating. If you are looking for a classic and quaint timepiece, you can get this quartz watch for around $1,700 USD! 8. Baume et Mercier Classima 10323 Here we have another classic and straightforward quartz watch in the form of the Baume et Mercier Classima 10323. This Baume et Mercier Classima quartz watch has a more contemporary and elegant design. It comes in a 40mm steel case and a calfskin leather strap in black. Its white dial features rhodium-plated hands, classy Roman numerals, and a rectangular date display. In addition, it is equipped with a Swiss-made quartz movement and has a 50-meter water resistance rating. With a price tag of approximately $990 USD, this is the ideal timepiece for men who like sleek, sophisticated, and stylish quartz watches. 9. Cartier Santos De Cartier Ref. W2SA0011 The Cartier Santos De Cartier is the perfect representation of charming and luxurious. It is a well-known piece that is loved by many thanks to its refined and distinct aesthetics. This Cartier model is presented in a 43.5mm x 31.4mm steel case with a unique square shape. This is paired with an 18K rose gold bezel and an alligator leather strap in black. Its silver dial, which has a satin-brushed sunray finish, simply consists of blue hands and large Roman numerals. Lastly, it is powered by a top-notch quartz movement and has a 30-meter water resistance rating. If you are looking for a lavish and renowned watch, you can get your hands on this quartz piece for around $5,900 USD. 10. Sinn Uhren Model UX Next, we have the Sinn Uhren Model UX, which is all about functionality and durability. When it comes to the aesthetics, this Sinn Diving watch has a rather simple layout that is made up of incredibly striking elements. For example, this Sinn watch is presented in a 44mm German submarine steel case and bracelet with a unique captive bezel. The black dial includes bold luminescent hands, rectangular hour markers, a date window, and vibrant red accents. Beneath the straightforward exterior of this watch is an impressive mechanism that boasts a multitude of features. Powered by an ETA 955.652 quartz movement, this model has a stunning water resistance capacity of up to 5,000 meters, HYDRO technology for superior readability, and temperature-resistant functions as well. Retailing at approximately $2,263 USD, this is the perfect quartz watch for those who want an extremely reliable piece to bring on all your adventures. 11. Orient Quartz Classic Ref. RA-KA0003S Here we have the Orient Quartz Classic which perfectly combines functionality with vintage aesthetics. Its overall design is bound to give you vintage vibes thanks to its quaint color combination and dial elements. This Orient model comes in a gold-plated stainless steel case paired with a classy crocodile leather strap. The silver dial consists of elegant leaf hands, Roman numerals, date-day counters, and a gorgeous day/night indicator. Lastly, it is powered by a Japan-made quartz movement and has a water resistance capacity of up to 50 meters. If you want an artistic and retro-inspired quartz watch, you can get this for only $250 USD! 12. Maurice Lacroix Aikon Chronograph Ref. AI1018-PVB01-337-1 This Maurice Lacroix Aikon Chronograph serves as a very stylish and sporty-looking quartz watch. It has a mostly monochromatic color palette with hints of blue to bring out that cool masculine vibe. This Maurice Lacroix Aikon model is presented in a 44mm PVD case and leather strap, both of which come in black. The dial, boasting a sunray pattern, features luminescent hands, slim double indices, a date window at 6 o’clock, and a chronograph display. Lastly, it has a 100-meter water resistance rating and is equipped with a quartz movement that boasts chronometric precision. Priced at approximately $1,500 USD, this is a great quartz watch for those who live an active and rugged lifestyle. 13. Alpina Startimer Pilot Ref. AL-240B4FBS6 The Alpina Startimer Pilot Quartz is all about straightforwardness. Rather than going for a complicated layout, this quartz model showcases only essential elements, which allows for excellent readability. This Alpina Startimer watch comes in a 42mm stainless steel case paired with a nylon strap in gray. The black dial consists of luminescent hands, Arabic numerals, minute indices, and a date window. Moreover, it is driven by a precise quartz movement and has a 100-meter water resistance rating. In terms of minimalistic quartz watches, it will not get much better than this. You can get this Alpina quartz watch for only $650 USD! 14. Seiko Prospex SNJ029P1 Next up, we have a robust and intimidating quartz watch in the form of the Seiko Prospex SNJ029P1. Everything about this model, from the design to the functions, screams powerful, rugged, and distinct. This Seiko Prospex watch comes in a sizable 47.8mm stainless steel case paired with a rotating bezel and a silicon strap in brown. The dial consists of luminescent hands and stout hour markers, a 24-hour layout, and an LCD window. Lastly, it is powered by an H851 caliber, which is an eco-drive quartz movement that can run on solar energy. With a price tag of around $530 USD, you should not miss out on this if you want a sustainable and reliable quartz watch! 15. Grand Seiko Heritage SBGN011 Taking the 15th spot on our list is the Grand Seiko Heritage SBGN011. Unlike the previous model, this Grand Seiko watch has a more classic, elegant, and sophisticated overall design. This quartz watch is presented in a 40mm stainless steel case paired with a bracelet made of the same material. The luxurious champagne dial features silver dauphine hands, rectangular indices, Arabic numerals, a date window, and a GMT layout. Moreover, it is powered by the brand’s iconic 9F86 quartz movement and boasts a water resistance rating of 100 meters. Priced at around $3,149 USD, this is the perfect quartz watch for all the lavish jetsetters out there. 16. Luminox Original Navy Seal 3000 Moving on, the Luminox Original Navy Seal 3000 has a very sturdy and powerful exterior. It boasts a fairly monochromatic design that goes really well with its overall ruggedness. This Luminox model comes in a 43mm polycarbonate case paired with a rotating bezel and a rubber strap in black. The black dial features luminescent hands and hour markers, Arabic numerals, a date window, and a 24-hour layout. In addition, it is driven by a Swiss quartz movement with a whopping 200-meter water resistance rating. Retailing at a little under $400 USD, this is a robust and tough quartz watch that is perfect for all the hardy adventurers out there. 17. Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Next up, we have one of the most well-known quartz watches in existence, the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak. This watch is known to boast one of the most popular designs in watchmaking history. It has a very distinct exterior that is characterized by its iconic octagonal bezel. This Audemars Piguet model comes in a 33mm stainless steel case along with a bracelet of the same material. The black dial, featuring a Tapisserie pattern, consists of luminescent hands and indices, plus a date window at 3 o’clock. It is equipped with the AP Caliber 2713, which is a quartz movement and has a 50-meter water resistance rating. If you do not mind shelling out $23,579 USD, then don’t miss out on getting this iconic quartz watch! 18. Longines Presence L47904112 Here we have the Longines Presence L47904112, which is another quartz watch with a classic aesthetic. While there really is nothing too flamboyant about this design, its simplicity and straightforwardness make it appealing to many. This model is presented in a 38.5mm stainless steel case with an alligator leather strap in black. Its white dial consists of thin hands, slim Roman numerals, and a date window at 3 o’clock. In addition, it is powered by an L157 quartz caliber and has a decent water resistance capacity of up to 30 meters. Priced at around $850 USD, this makes for a quintessential and stylish quartz watch! 19. TAG Heuer Aquaracer Ref. WBD1325.BB0320 The next model on our list is from one of the most recognized diving collections out there. The TAG Heuer Aquaracer Ref. WBD1325.BB0320 is the perfect blend of luxurious and sporty for all the active people out there. This TAG Heuer Aquaracer watch comes in a 32mm stainless steel case paired with a gold-plated bezel and a plated bico bracelet. Boasting a textured sunray-brushed finish, the blue dial features luminous hands and hour markers, along with a date window. Lastly, it is equipped with a quartz movement and has a substantial water resistance rating 300 meters. If you want a classy and stylish quartz watch, you can get this piece for around $3,000 USD. 20. Bulova 96C125 Next up, we have the Bulova 96C125, which has a rather stylish and contemporary overall design. The royal blue color of the watch face is what draws people into this stunning quartz watch. This Bulova piece comes in a 39mm stainless steel case with a bracelet made of the same material. Meanwhile, the deep blue dial consists of luminous hands, silver-tone indices, a date window, and an elongated day display at the 12 o’clock position. When it comes to the technical details, this watch is driven by a quartz movement with a 30-meter water resistance rating. Be sure not to miss out on this $300 USD quartz watch if you prefer elegant, dressy aesthetics! 21. Briston Clubmaster Classic Gun Steel Now that we are down to our last 5, we have the Briston Clubmaster Classic in all its rugged glory. This is one of the more distinct quartz watches in the market, especially with its unusual square-shaped case. Its overall aesthetic screams robust, powerful and distinct. This Briston model comes in a sandblasted stainless steel case paired with a vintage leather strap in grey. The dial follows a straightforward layout with luminous hands, Arabic numerals, a date window at 6 o’clock, and a chronograph display with 2 counters. Lastly, it is equipped with the Miyota OS21 quartz movement and has a 100-meter water resistance rating. Retailing at a little under $400 USD, this quartz watch makes for a reliable everyday companion! 22. Hugo Boss Ambassador HB1513041 Next up, we have the Hugo Boss Ambassador HB1513041, which is a distinct watch with vintage-inspired aesthetics. Its design is a lovely mix of classic and modern, making it a great versatile accessory. This Hugo Boss model comes in a 43mm stainless steel case paired with a leather strap in brown. The dark grey dial features a disc-like design, luminescent hands, exquisite rose gold Roman numerals, and a date window at 6 o’clock. This watch is driven by a three-hand quartz movement and has a water resistance capacity of 30 meters. If you are interested, you can get this stylish quartz timepiece for around $185 USD! 23. Hermes Heure H HH1.110 The Hermes Heure H HH1.110 is a dainty and unique-looking piece for all the ladies out there. Everything about it screams Hermes, which makes it especially appealing to patrons of the said brand. Ladies who are looking for nice quartz watches to bring to their next dinner party should definitely consider this piece. This Hermes watch comes in the brand’s iconic H-shaped stainless steel case, paired with a tan leather strap in brown. Following a straightforward layout, the white dial simply consists of sword-shaped hands and squared Arabic numerals. Lastly, it is equipped with a quartz movement that boasts excellent precision. For a little over $2,000 USD, you can get your hands on this distinct quartz watch! 24. Hublot Classic Fusion 581.NX.1171.RX Next, we have the Hublot Classic Fusion 581.NX.1171.RX which boasts a sleek and sophisticated exterior. Its dark color palette along with the unique bezel design makes this quite a subtle yet highly recognizable model. This Hublot Classic Fusion piece comes in a 33mm titanium case paired with a comfortable rubber strap in black. The matte dial features rhodium-plated hands and thick indices, and a date window at 3 o’clock. Its polished silver bezel features six screws, giving it a very technical image. Aside from its classy exterior, this model also boasts a well-crafted Hublot quartz Caliber HUB2912 and 50-meter water resistance rating. If you want a sharp and distinct quartz piece to accompany you on your daily routines, you can get this for around $5,700 USD! 25. Hamilton Ventura Chronograph H24432751 Last but not the least, we have the Hamilton Ventura Chronograph H24432751, which is a rather eccentric-looking piece. This Hamilton piece is perfect for those who want quartz watches that are avant-garde and out of the ordinary. This Hamilton Ventura watch comes in a unique triangular stainless steel case paired with a calfskin leather strap in black. The white dial consists of dauphine hands, slim indices, a date window, and a chronograph display with 3 sub-counters. In addition, it is driven by a quartz ETA Caliber 251.474 and boasts a water resistance capacity of up to 50 meters. If you are looking for a stylish yet unconventional timepiece, you can check this out for approximately $1,139 USD! Final Thoughts All these timepieces listed above simply prove that the watchmaking industry is full of well-crafted quartz watches. It also shows that you do not have to break the bank or shell out thousands just to get reliable and accurate quartz watches because there are lots of great options out there. Ultimately, this list serves as a mere glimpse at what the market has to offer. Rest assured you will find the perfect quartz piece for you in no time! If this got you curious about mechanical timepieces, check out our article on the 25 Best Automatic Watches. Photo Credits: WatchShopping and Brand Websites
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There is a common misconception amongst people that nice watches all have to come at exorbitant prices, while more budget-friendly watches are of poorer quality or are useless. Of course, that is not at all true. You can find timepieces in all kinds of styles, with varying quality and price points as well. In this guide, we will be introducing you to chronograph watches that are easily available, have great value for money, and are priced under $2,000 USD. 30 Chronographs Under $2000 USD 1. Nomos Glashutte Club Campus 38 This Nomos Glashutte watch has its origins in Germany, made by a very small manufacturer that has gained a lot of popularity over the years. The entire series of Club Campus is worth having a look at, as it is made up of authentic, high-quality materials. You can get this chronograph watch for around $1,650 USD. The manual display on this watch shows the hours, minutes, as well as seconds. If you are about to buy a chronograph watch for yourself, then do have a look at this amazing Club Campus 38 chronograph timepiece! 2. Longines Column-Wheel Chronograph This Longines Column-Wheel Chronograph watch was first introduced in 2011. It is considered a great and unique chronograph with excellent quality. Although it has been 8 years since this watch came out in the market, it has retained its value quite well. With two sub-dials and a date display, this model has quintessential elements that give off a vintage feel. The retail price of this watch is just around $2,000 USD, which is extremely affordable for a timepiece like this, so this is one that you should definitely get your hands on quickly. 3. Oris Big Crown Pointer Date Oris is a brand known for offering a great collection of watches at very affordable prices. The Oris Big Crown Pointer Date was introduced in 1938, but even after more than 80 years, it is still an iconic chronograph. True to its name, the main feature of this watch is its oversized, which makes it extremely easy for pilots to grip and turn, even while wearing gloves. This chronograph watch is truly a great masterpiece and is available at a very affordable price of $1,750 USD. 4. Mido Multifort Chronograph If your budget is quite limited and you cannot afford a very expensive watch, yet you want something which is unique and classy, then go for this Mido Multifort Escape watch. It is priced at around $1920 USD, which is quite affordable. Besides its price, this watch’s durability, features offered, and other components altogether make it an excellent chronograph timepiece. It has a 66-hour power reserve, along with a self-winding movement and a tachymeter indicator. So, what are you waiting for? Put your hands on this amazing Mido Multifort Escape watch and become the proud owner of an excellent watch! 5. Seiko Presage SRQ025J1 Over the years, Seiko has been very successful in the promotion of its luxurious collections of watches, including the Seiko Presage. The main aim of the Presage line is to introduce the latest, modern versions of old-school classic Seiko watches released in the past. In 2016, Seiko introduced chronograph watches, which were inspired by Seiko’s own 1913 chronograph designs, to the Presage collection. One outstanding model is the SRQ025J1, which boasts a classic stainless steel case, dark brown leather strap, and elegant white watch face with three chronograph sub-dials. This is a must-have for your watch collection, as it is great for everyday wear. The best part is that you can get it for just $1,800 USD. 6. Sinn 103 These Sinn chronograph watches promise timepieces with great features that come at perfectly accessible prices. Available at a steal price of around $1,800 USD, the Sinn 103 chronograph watch has a ton of handy features, including luminescent white hands that complement the watch’s glossy black dial. If you are in search of a model that is reliable, durable, and very budget-friendly to boot, then this is the chronograph watch for you. 7. Frederique Constant Classics Quartz Chronograph These Frederique Constant chronograph watches have a great reputation for not only possessing the best of features but also for being light on the wallet. The Classic Quartz Chronograph, available for around $915 USD, is the perfect piece for both everyday and formal occasions. It is not only elegant but also quite reliable as well. This chronograph’s patterned white dial boasts Roman numerals and sleek Breguet-style hour markers, along with the three standard sub-dials. This is probably one of the best chronograph watches in terms of quality, authenticity, and, most importantly, price, making it quite the package! 8. Alpina Startimer Pilot Quartz Chronograph Big Date Alpina is a Swiss brand with over a century’s worth of experience in the watchmaking industry. They were a key figure in the rise of Swiss sports watches back in the 1930s, and remain a respected innovator in the horological world today. A perfect reflection of their expertise can be seen through the Alpina Startimer Pilot Quartz Chronograph. It is a well-crafted timepiece, priced at around $1,080 USD, with all the qualities one would want in a chronograph model. One of the best things about it is how it is so easy to read because of the large, visible counters on the dial. Overall, it serves as a simple yet classy chronograph piece that is definitely worth its price! 9. Bulova 98A252 Men’s Archive Series Bulova is an American brand best known for providing quality timepieces at relatively affordable prices. Through the years, they have mastered the art of consistent innovation, and have numerous milestones to prove it. While their current catalogue consists of a variety of watches with different features and functions, one of their most interesting models is the Bulova 98A252. This timepiece can be found in their Archive series. It is a chronograph watch that draws inspiration from some of their most iconic divers back in the 1970s. Priced at around $500 USD, this model has quite a distinct chronograph layout, with 2 sub-dials inside a surfboard silhouette. This is a great pick if you want something a little more unique compared to the standard chronograph displays. 10. Citizen Chandler Chronograph Citizen, as most of us know, is a company that offers more sustainable, green timepieces. A good number of their models are equipped with their Eco-Drive technology, which means they run on light energy. As if that is not impressive enough, the Japanese brand was also able to incorporate this technology into a variety of watches with different functions, and not just simple time-tellers. For example, this particular Citizen Chandler is a chronograph piece that takes inspiration from military elements. It has an H500 caliber that is powered by all forms of light, which means it does not need any batteries to run. If you want a rugged outdoor chronograph watch, you can get your hands on this for just $295 USD. 11. Victorinox FieldForce Sport Chrono 241891 Victorinox is a Swiss brand that is known for providing a variety of quality products, from cutlery to timepieces. The watches they offer are made of high-grade stainless steel which boasts superior durability. When it comes to watchmaking, they promise utmost precision and reliability, which is clearly seen in their pieces. The Victorinox FieldForce Chrono 241891, for example, is a very classic yet contemporary chronograph model. Retailing at around $575 USD, it is both versatile and multi-functional, which means you can use it on all sorts of occasions. Whether you are going on an outdoor adventure or crashing a party, this chronograph watch will prove to be a worthy companion. 12. Orient KU00004B Orient is another watch company that offers timepieces boasting high-level Japanese craftsmanship. Their current catalogue consists of over 500 models that vary in design, specs, and function. In fact, the Orient KU00004B is just one of the many chronographs they have in their arsenal. This sports watch, in particular, is a classic option that would go well with any ensemble. It boasts a straightforward chronograph display with 3 sub-dials and a date window. With a price tag of around $95 USD, this is definitely recommended for those who want a safe and simple piece. 13. Zodiac Grandrally Quartz Zodiac may be an unfamiliar brand for some, but they have actually been in the industry since the 1880s. This brand is all about showcasing the art of Swiss watchmaking through the creation of precise and innovative timepieces. Over the years, they have amassed their very own selection of both classic and unique models that will not disappoint. For example, Zodiac’s Grandrally Quartz watch is a distinct chronograph piece inspired by automotive sports. Its dial layout is based on the dashboard of race vehicles, which gives it a very sporty and quirky look. Priced at around $495 USD, this one is perfect for all those who like automotive-inspired watches. 14. Ikepod Chronopod White Horse 013 Next up, we have Ikepod, which is a Swiss manufacturer that offers bold statement watches. The concept of their brand revolves around making unusual, avant-garde pieces that are bound to last a lifetime. They want to show the watch community that good watches can be affordable and ooze with creativity at the same time. This is something you can evidently see with their Chronopod White Horse 013. With a price tag of approximately $860 USD, this model has quite a straightforward chronograph layout contained inside a striking disc-like case. The Chronopod is definitely ideal for those who want a minimalist yet distinct timepiece! 15. Hamilton Khaki Aviation X-Wind Auto Chrono Hamilton is home to some of the most iconic timepieces out there. Whether you are looking for military-inspired watches, digital models, or even chronographs in different styles, you will surely find what you seek with this Swiss-American brand. Their Khaki Aviation X-Wind Auto Chrono, for example, is a rugged and powerful-looking chronograph watch for pilots. Its sophisticated looks and impressive features make it appealing to both aviation professionals and watch enthusiasts. If that is not enough to intrigue you, this model was also worn by actor Liam Hemsworth’s character in the movie Independence Day: Resurgence (2016). Retailing for a little over $1,700 USD, this chronograph watch is perfect for all those living an adventurous lifestyle. 16. Casio Ediface EQW-T650DB-2AJF Casio is a very popular brand best known for its vast selection of affordable watches. Despite the low prices, each and every model they have is guaranteed to be of good quality. One of the best things about this brand is the diversity of its pieces when it comes to design, functions, and specifications. This is why it really is no surprise that they offer their own range of high-performing chronographs as well. For example, the Casio Edifice EQW-T650DB-2AJF has a simple three sub-dial chronograph layout, with the sub-dials placed just slightly off-center, which adds to the sophisticated vibe the watch has going on. Priced at around $399 USD, this piece makes for a versatile option, especially if you are on a strict budget. 17. Citizen Luke Skywalker Next up, we have another watch from Citizen. Aside from showcasing impressive technological prowess, the Japanese brand is also known for its collaborations with different companies and firms. They actually have an ongoing partnership with Disney, which explains the concept behind this particular piece. The Citizen Luke Skywalker is a chronograph watch with a Star Wars-inspired design. The sub-dials feature elements from the iconic movie franchise such as a lightsaber, the Rebel Alliance symbol, and a galaxy background. Retailing at around $375 USD, this watch is the perfect chronograph piece for all the Star Wars fans out there. 18. Junghans Meister Chronoscope Junghans is a German company that offers an extensive range of Bauhaus-inspired watches. Aside from their reputation as a minimalist brand, they also have a long and interesting history with the aviation industry, which is a testament to their technological prowess. That being said, they also have a couple of chronograph watches that boast very classy aesthetics. The Junghans Meister Chronoscope, for example, serves as the perfect sophisticated and multi-functional watch. The chronograph display, paired with its overall classy exterior, makes it versatile enough to be used for both casual and dressy affairs. If you are a fan of the elegant/minimalist design, you can get your hands on one of these chronographs for only $1,900 USD. 19. Tissot T-Sport Seastar 1000 Tissot is one of the most established Swiss brands in the market. They have a very rich history, which has helped in cementing their reputation as a trusted source of quality timepieces. Much like others on this list, Tissot also has an extensive catalogue in their arsenal that consists of a variety of chronographs. One of the best chronographs they offer is the T-Sport Seastar 1000 which has spectacularly vibrant and robust aesthetics. With its bold orange hues, it is the perfect example of a trendy and contemporary sports chronograph. Priced at $495 USD, this one is recommended for those who want a fun and rugged chronograph timepiece. 20. Maurice Lacroix Aikon Chronograph Maurice Lacroix is a relatively young luxury brand that was only founded back in the mid-1970s. They have made a name for themselves in the watchmaking world as both creative and technical pioneers. This reputation is clearly reflected in each watch they offer as they boast excellent Swiss craftsmanship. Maurice Lacroix’s Aikon Chronograph model serves as a perfect example of their expertise. This limited edition piece showcases very sporty yet elegant aesthetics, with its rugged all-black exterior complemented by beguiling blue accents. The best part is, on top of its refined exterior, it is also equipped with cutting-edge technology, such as its quartz movement, which boasts unparalleled precision. If this chronograph watch has caught your eye, you can get it for approximately $1,500 USD. 21. Rado Hyperchrome Chronograph Up next, we have a piece from yet another Swiss luxury watch manufacturer called Rado. Even if you are not familiar with watch brands, you have probably heard of Rado at least once or twice in your life. They offer a vast selection of timepieces that run across 16 different collections. Under their Hyperchrome line is a lovely chronograph model that screams classic luxury. It is marketed as a versatile and multi-functional piece that will serve its purpose well regardless of the circumstance. Retailing at around $1,600 USD, this is the perfect chronograph for those who enjoy quintessential, sporty, and vibrant watches. 22. Luminox Navy SEAL Chronograph Luminox is a Swiss brand best known for offering a diverse range of military and outdoor watches. They put a lot of effort into ensuring that each and every piece can withstand even the harshest of environments. Since they focus on providing the highest forms of durability and functionality possible, it is only expected that they have their own selection of impressive chronographs. The Navy SEAL Chronograph 3581, priced at $595 USD, makes for an ideal multi-functional outdoor watch. It has robust and tough aesthetics, which makes it extra appealing to all the explorers out there. If you want a reliable companion on your adventures, then this chronograph watch is definitely one to check out! 23. Hamilton Jazzmaster Chrono Quartz Next up, we have another lovely chronograph from Hamilton. Unlike the previous model from the brand, the Jazzmaster Chrono Quartz offers a more classic and sophisticated style. It still exudes that sporty vibe, but it also feels more like a dress watch compared to the Khaki Aviation Chrono. Regardless, this model boasts an equal level of quality and functionality. Priced at around $865 USD, this piece is recommended for those who want a more classy and snazzy chronograph watch. 24. Skagen Ancher Chronograph Skagen is a Danish brand that focuses on showcasing the Nordic way of life through its products. Since minimalism and sustainability are prominent lifestyles in those countries, Skagen’s timepieces also revolve around these concepts. The Skagen Ancher Chronograph, for example, has quite a sleek and minimalist exterior that is actually made from recycled materials. One of the best things about it is that the focus is really on the chronograph display, because the watch is minimalistic and does not have many other unnecessary elements. Retailing at around $155 USD, make sure to check this chronograph out if you want a more minimalist or sustainable alternative. 25. Timex Standard Chronograph Timex is one of the most popular brands that offer really affordable timepieces. They are a go-to for many who want laid-back watches that could easily mix with different outfits. Their current portfolio consists of different kinds of models, such as digital watches, military-inspired pieces, chronographs, and many more. The Timex Standard Chronograph, priced at $109 USD, oozes retro vibes through and through. The chronograph dial contains a lot of vintage elements like its overall off-white color and slim yet slightly rounded font, which give it a more classic and casual feel. Since chronographs tend to be a little overwhelming, this is a great option for those who want something more relaxed and easygoing. 26. Farer Seagrave Monopusher Farer is a British watch manufacturer that prides itself on creating unconventional yet well-crafted timepieces. As an independent company, their commitment to providing only high-quality products is evident from their entire watchmaking process. A perfect representation of this is their Seagrave Monopusher model, which is a more avant-garde take on chronographs. One of the sub-dials is noticeably bigger compared to the other, which adds an unusual visual sensation to the whole piece. Retailing at a little under $2,000 USD, this piece is ideal for those who like subtle yet radical chronographs. 27. Tag Heuer Formula 1 TAG Heuer is one of the most highly-regarded luxury watch brands in the industry. They are home to countless iconic collections and models that always seem to catch people’s eyes. A cool thing about this Swiss manufacturer is how they have probably mastered the art of making chronographs through their involvement in the racing scene. In fact, one of their most popular lines is the Formula 1 series, which consists of its fair share of chronographs as well. This particular piece serves as a tribute to certain motor-racing icons like Gulf, which explains its vibrant blue and orange exterior. Retailing at around $1,900 USD, this chronograph model is a must-have for motorsports timepiece enthusiasts. 28. Orient KV0403S Here we have another piece from Orient that has a slightly different vibe compared to the other model previously mentioned. This chronograph has more of a quintessential and refined exterior, which gives it a very subtle vintage vibe. Moreover, the placement of the sub-dials actually plays a big role since its symmetry makes it look a lot more elegant and pleasing to the eyes. With a price tag of around $140 USD, this serves as an affordable chronograph watch for vintage enthusiasts out there. 29. Yema Speedgraf Yema is a French watch company known for its timepieces which draw inspiration from different institutions and fields. Under their motorsports category, they have a collection called Heritage Chronographs. This range is home to the Yema Speedgraf. This Yema Speedgraf chronograph watch is a vintage-inspired piece that draws its influences from iconic chronograph models in the 1960s. Despite its unassuming exterior, the understated dial design and layout catch the interest of people in a very subtle way. If you are hooked on this piece, you can get your hands on one for only $1,500 USD. 30. Hamilton Ventura Chrono Quartz Lastly, we have another watch from Hamilton. Seeing as this is the third piece from the American brand on this list, it goes to show that they truly offer a wide variety of chronographs that will not break the bank. The reason why I just had to include this chronograph watch is because of how eccentric and fun it is. Chronographs tend to be relatively straightforward and can sometimes be intimidating, so finding a genuinely unconventional piece is like a breath of fresh air. The Ventura Chrono Quartz, priced at around $1,080 USD, serves as a radical and distinct alternative, making it perfect for those who want something different. Final Thoughts After reading through all that, hopefully, you are convinced that there are numerous chronograph watches out there that are perfectly affordable. You do not have to spend thousands of dollars to get a quality piece, and the 30 budget-friendly chronographs above serve as just a glimpse of what the market actually has to offer. If you’re really interested in chronographs then don’t miss out on our article on the Sinn 356 Pilot Chronograph! Photo Credits: Official Watch Websites
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Those familiar with the watch market know that there are many well-established brands in the watchmaking industry that offer their own interpretations of timepieces which are either dedicated to or inspired by aviation. This is because a lot of watch manufacturers have some sort of history or involvement with the aviation world. Moreover, accurate and reliable timepieces are absolutely necessary for pilots and other professionals in said field. With such a readymade and defined market, it is no wonder why aviation models continue to be staple pieces for a lot of watch companies. With that being said, read on to find out just which timepieces made it to our specially-curated list of top aviator watches. Pilot Watch History in a Flash We trace the aviator watch to Paris, at the start of the 20th century, when French watchmaker Louis Cartier came across Alberto Santos-Dumont, a Brazilian-born aviation enthusiast. Alberto complained that his pocket watch was too clumsy for flights. Louis, in turn, added a strap to one of his Cartier watches, and history was made. Today, the square case of Cartier Santos makes it one of the most recognizable aviator watches in the world. During World War 2 the German military worked with watchmakers such as A. Lange & Söhne to churn out watches for its bomber crews. Using Swiss movement, the B-Uhr was big with a 58mm case, augmented by a double-rivet leather strap. It’s eye-catching with a stark black dial and Arabic numerals that are crossed by sharp sword hands. Elements of an Aviator Watch Note: These are just some elements that are more commonly present in flight-inspired timepieces. They are by no means fixed features in aviator watches. Durability. This quality is super important because pilots, especially those in military units, are exposed to all sorts of different environments. A durable watch that can withstand these changes, regardless of whether harsh or not, is necessary. Multi-Functionality. A multi-functional watch is not essential, but it is definitely helpful, especially at times when technology fails. There is always a possibility of accidents or malfunctions during flights and a reliable, multi-functional timepiece can serve as a tool to aid the pilot in that specific situation. GMT Function. Not all, but many aviator watches, especially in the modern era, have time zone functions. Many of us have flown through different time zones before, and understand the importance of a pilot’s ability to track multiple locations. So, a fine aviation watch is apt to have a GMT hand that makes a rotation every 24 hours, in contrast to the hour hand that rotates every twelve hours, allowing wearers to track multiple time zones. Legibility. Aviation watches were designed to withstand the rigors of air battles, where split-second decisions are literally a matter of life and death. As such, aviator watches have to be legible enough that, when you look down at your pilot’s watch, you can immediately read what you are seeing. 25 Aviator Watches: Top Picks Now that we have gone through some of the most important features a pilot watch typically has, let us take a look at some of the best aviator watches out there. 1. Cartier Santos-Dumont Ref. W2SA0012 First up, we have a watch from the iconic Santos-Dumont collection. Even though this particular piece does not really fit the image of a pilot’s watch today, I still chose to start the list with it because of its heritage. Long story short, the first-ever model in this range was brought into existence because Louis Cartier designed it specifically for aviator Alberto Santos-Dumont. Rather than being a practical option, this Cartier Santos-Dumont piece has served as a symbol of the close relations between the watchmaking industry and the aviation field since then. The Santos-Dumont Ref. W2SA0012 comes in a stainless steel case with an exquisite 18K rose gold bezel and an alligator leather strap in black. With a distinct square shape, it has quite the unassuming dial, with simply two hands and Roman numerals for the hour markers. Moreover, it is powered by a quartz movement and has a water resistance rating of around 30 meters. Finally, this symbolic aviator watch retails at around $5,500 USD. 2. Breitling Aviator 8 B01 Chronograph 43 Ref. AB0119131C1A1 Breitling is a brand that is widely known for manufacturing superior quality aviation watches. Some of their most iconic timepieces, such as the Navitimer and the Chronomat, have made huge impacts on pilots and other professionals. This is the reason why this Swiss brand is considered the go-to source for excellent, flight-centric watches. The Breitling Aviator 8 B01 Chronograph is presented in a sturdy case and bracelet both made of stainless steel. It features a clean blue dial with a chronograph display, luminescent hands, Arabic numerals, and a date window between 4 and 5 o’clock. Furthermore, it is equipped with an automatic Breitling 01 caliber and boasts an impressive power reserve of around 70 hours. Priced at approximately $8,000 USD, this aviator watch would make for an excellent investment piece. 3. Hamilton Khaki Aviation X-Wind Auto Ref. H77775960 Hamilton is yet another watch company that has a long and interesting history with the armed forces. They are perceived as one of the best manufacturers of military-inspired timepieces, which is reflected in the different collections they offer. Hamilton’s catalog boasts three watch lines that are dedicated to each branch of the military: the Khaki Field (army), the Khaki Navy, and the Khaki Aviation (air force). This Hamilton Khaki Aviation X-Wind Auto is a fan-favorite among patrons. It comes in a stainless steel case along with a textile bracelet in green, a rotating bezel, and three crowns. The dial, which features a camouflage pattern, consists of a 24-hour layout, luminous hands, Arabic numerals, a date-day window at 9 o’clock, and a scale on the outline to measure cross winds. Lastly, it is driven by an H-30 caliber that possesses a whopping 80-hour power reserve. With a price tag of around $1,300 USD, this is a great choice for those who want an aviator watch with combat aesthetics. 4. IWC Big Pilot’s Watch Shock Absorber XPL Ref. IW357201 For those already familiar with this brand, or with aviation timepieces in general, you are probably not surprised to find IWC on this list. This Schaffhausen-based brand has played a big role in the way aviation watches are designed today. They were the first brand to showcase a watch that took inspiration from cockpit instruments, a design that remains a classic blueprint for aviation pieces in the modern era. The IWC Big Pilot Shock Absorber XPL features quite a distinct and elegant overall exterior. It comes in a ceratanium case that is paired with a rubber strap in black. The black dial follows a straightforward, almost minimalist layout with Arabic numerals and luminescent hands. In addition, it also resembles the altitude indicator found in a cockpit panel. In terms of its technical specifications, this watch is equipped with a 32111 automatic caliber with an outstanding power reserve of 120 hours. Priced at a whopping $83,000 USD, this beautiful, avant-garde timepiece is perfect for all the luxury aviation enthusiasts out there. 5. Citizen Promaster Skyhawk A-T Ref. JY8075-51E Next up, we have a watch from a Japanese brand which is best known for manufacturing high-technology timepieces. While they do not really have direct military or aviation roots, Citizen is driven by their goal of providing quality sports and professional watches. This mindset of theirs is very much apparent in their Promaster collection, where you will find a wide selection of excellent timepieces for either air, land, or sea. The Citizen Promaster Skyhawk is all about multi-functionality, which makes it look quite intimidating at first glance. It is presented in a black stainless steel case along with a bracelet of the same material and color. Aside from the typical luminous hands and hour markers, the Promaster Skyhawk’s watch face also includes the following features: a perpetual calendar, dual time, countdown timer, pilot’s rotating slide rule bezel, and so much more. Lastly, just like most Citizen watches, it is equipped with their Eco-Drive technology, which means it has no battery as it is powered by any form of light. With a price tag of around $700 USD, this Citizen Skyhawk is for those who want multi-functional aviation watches of utmost quality. 6. Orient Pilot’s Sport Watch RA-AC0H04Y10A Orient is a Japanese watch company that is popular for producing good quality timepieces with affordable price ranges. They offer a couple of pilot watches as a part of their sports collection. While these models are not as well known as some others, those who have tried and tested Orient’s aviation watches believe that they are on par with many flight-centric watch brands in the market. The Orient RA-AC0H04Y10A has the aesthetic of a classic pilot watch. It comes in a stainless steel case with a classy leather strap in light brown. The yellow/beige dial features Arabic numerals, luminescent hands, an inner circle with the hour markers, an outer circle with the minute markers, and a small date window at 3 o’clock Iit is driven by an automatic F6722 caliber with a power reserve of approximately 40 hours. Retailing at around $300 USD, give or take, this flight-inspired timepiece from Orient is perfect for those who enjoy quintessential, vintage-style aviation watches. 7. Seiko Prospex SSG011P1 Seiko, being one of the most well-known watch brands out there, has a rather extensive selection of timepieces in their portfolio. While they are not popular for producing pilot watches, they still offer models that have the qualities of a good aviation piece. Seiko’s Prospex line, in particular, is recognized as an excellent source of professional watches. The Seiko Prospex SSG011P1 is both multi-functional and unique, as far as pilot timepieces go. It comes in a hardy stainless steel case along with a bracelet of the same material. The main watch face features a very busy dial with Arabic numerals, large luminous hands, a date window, and a chronograph display. It also includes the following functions: a full auto calendar, radio signal reception, world time, overcharge prevention, and lots more. Lastly, this timepiece follows a radio sync solar movement with a power save duration of approximately 2 years. Priced at around $500 USD, this model is for those who want a multi-functional watch that comes at a reasonable price. 8. Junghans Meister Pilot Junghans is a well-established German brand that offers a beautiful selection of Bauhaus-inspired timepieces. However, back in the early 1900s, they also made cockpit instruments for different kinds of aircrafts. Come the 1950s, and Junghans involvement in the aviation field is what eventually inspired them to create their own pilot chronograph for the German military. Today, Junghans continues to pay homage to their heritage through a few flight-inspired models. The Junghans Meister Pilot is the perfect Bauhaus interpretation of a pilot’s watch. It comes in a DLC-coated stainless steel case paired with a leather strap in brown. The easily legible dial features Arabic numerals, luminous hands, and a chronograph display with two counters. Moreover, it is powered by an automatic caliber J880.4 with a power reserve of 38 hours. Retailing at around $2,500 USD, this is the ideal aviator watch for those who favor minimalist Bauhaus designs. 9. Zenith Pilot Type 20 Chronograph Rescue Zenith is another Swiss luxury brand with a range dedicated to aviation watches. The vintage-influenced timepieces in Zenith’s Pilot collection are heavily inspired by their long-standing relations with the aviation industry. The Zenith Pilot Type 20 Chronograph Rescue comes in a steel case paired with a rugged-looking leather strap. It has a straightforward and legible dial with Super-LumiNova hands and Arabic numerals, a minute track on the rim of the dial, and a chronograph display with 2 counters. This timepiece is powered by Zenith’s iconic El Primo movement which boasts a minimum power reserve of 50 hours. With a price tag of approximately $60,00 USD, this Zenith Pilot watch is ideal for all the vintage enthusiasts out there. 10. Tissot T-Touch Connect Solar Jungfraubahn Swiss Edition Tissot is the go-to brand for premium quality timepieces that boast excellent Swiss craftsmanship. They offer a wide range of watches, from formal dress pieces to sportier models, so it is really not surprising that they have timepieces which can also pass as great aviation watches. While the Tissot T-Touch Connect Solar is not really a pilot watch, it does have qualities that make it rather appealing for those in the aviation field. This model comes in a sturdy titanium case paired with a synthetic rubber strap. Its dial features a luminescent hand, indices, and the usual Hour, Minute, Second, Day and Date [HMSDD] display. Some of its additional functions include an alarm, altimeter, compass, distance travelled indicator, perpetual calendar, multiple time zones, temperature/weather indicator, and many more. Finally, this timepiece stands out as it utilizes solar energy to power its quartz movement. Priced at around $1,000 USD, the Tissot T-Touch Connect Solar makes for a great aviation tool with its multi-functionality and digital display. 11. Panerai Luminor Due GMT Power Reserve PAM00964 Panerai is a watch company whose main heritage lies with the sea. This is why many of their timepieces are somehow related to or inspired by marine elements. Right off the bat, let me say that this particular piece is not a straightforward pilot watch. It simply has a few qualities, specifically its GMT feature, that make it suitable for those in the aviation industry. The Panerai Luminor Due GMT Power Reserve PAM00964 boasts a titanium case paired with a blue alligator leather strap. Meanwhile, its sun-brushed dial comes with luminescent hands, Arabic numerals, indices, a small seconds counter, and a power reserve indicator. This watch is also powered by a self-winding P.4002 caliber with a solid power reserve of around 72 hours. Retailing at around $12,200 USD, this Panerai watch is perfect for those in the aviation industry who prefer casual luxury pieces with an added GMT function. 12. Alpina Startimer Pilot Heritage Automatic Just like some other brands mentioned on this list, Alpina also has three different collections that are each dedicated to land, air, and sea-based timepieces. The Alpina Startimer line is the collection focused on aviation watches, and it pays homage to the brand’s longstanding involvement with said industry, which started in the 1920s. This Alpina Startimer Pilot Heritage Automatic follows the quintessential pilot watch design. It comes in a stainless steel case along with a calf leather strap in brown. The dial features luminescent Arabic numerals, a 24-hour layout, a minute track on the rim, and a date window. Lastly, it is equipped with the automatic AL-525 caliber which boasts a 38-hour power reserve. Priced at a little under $1,500 USD, this aviator timepiece serves as another classic and retro option for pilot watch enthusiasts. 13. Rolex GMT Master II The Rolex GMT Master II is not officially dubbed a pilot’s watch, but I think it deserves a spot on this list simply because of its iconic GMT function. While the Swiss luxury brand does have a model that pays tribute to aeronautics, known as the Rolex Air-King, the GMT Master II is such an iconic timepiece that is definitely a favorite among those in the aviation industry as well. The Rolex GMT Master II comes in an exquisite white gold case and bracelet with a ceramic GMT bezel. Its dial features luminescent hands, hour markers in different shapes, and a date window at 3 o’clock. This famous timepiece is driven by a self-winding 3285 caliber that boasts a 70-hour power reserve. With a price tag of around $40,000 USD, this ever-so-popular aviator watch is a must-have for jetsetters who enjoy luxury. 14. Bell and Ross BR V2-93 GMT Blue This particular Bell and Ross piece is similar to the previous model, in that its potential as a pilot’s watch lies in its GMT function. The Bell and Ross BR V2-93 GMT Blue belongs to a selection of timepieces that caters to those who frequently travel from one time zone to another. This watch comes in a satin-polished steel case with an elastic canvas bracelet in grey and a 24-hour bezel. Its blue dial features Arabic numerals, thin indices, luminous hands, and a date display between 4 and 5 o’clock. Moreover, it is equipped with a caliber BR-CAL.30 and has a 100-meter water resistance capacity. Retailing at around $3,400 USD, this timepiece serves as a classy option that gets the job done for all the travel enthusiasts out there. 15. Luminox F-117 Nighthawk GMT Luminox is widely recognized as an excellent source of outdoor timepieces. In fact, their collections can be categorized into three main series: air, land, and sea. This just shows that most, if not all, of their timepieces are actually designed to withstand the conditions of the great outdoors. This particular Luminox Nighthawk watch, which falls under the brand’s air series, has a very robust and rugged exterior. It comes in a CARBONOX case, and has a bi-directional bezel and a Kevlar strap in black. Its dial boasts chunky Arabic numerals, luminous hands, a 24-hour display, and a date window. In addition, the numbers on the bezel and the hour markers are actually based on the display found in an F-117 Nighthawk cockpit. This timepiece is powered by a quartz movement with a GMT function. Priced at approximately $875 USD, the Luminox F-117 Nighthawk GMT is a great aviation-inspired watch for those who enjoy tough-looking timepieces. 16. Oris Big Crown Pro Pilot Timer GMT Oris offers two collections dedicated to aviator watches: the ProPilot and the ProPilotX. These watches were designed specifically with pilots in mind, which is why they are equipped with high-levels of functionality. The Oris Big Crown Pro Pilot Timer GMT, for example, boasts quite a powerful exterior right off the bat. It comes in a robust stainless steel case along with a textile strap in green and a rotating bezel. Aside from the Arabic numeral markers and luminous hands, the dial also features a date window and a small seconds counter. Lastly, this watch is powered by an automatic GMT movement with a power reserve of around 38 hours. Retailing at a little under $3,000 USD, this aviator watch is a straightforward and well-crafted option, especially for professionals in the industry. 17. Longines Avigation BigEye Longines is known to have released their fair share of aviation watches and instruments, especially in the 1900s. This involvement with the aviation industry has pushed them to create a selection of flight-inspired timepieces today, and the Longines Avigation BigEye is a testament to this. This watch comes in a stainless steel case paired with a leather strap in brown. Following a chronograph layout, its black dial features Arabic numerals, luminous hands, and three sub-counters. Moreover, it is powered by an automatic L688 caliber which boasts a 66-hour power reserve. Priced at around $2,700 USD, you really cannot go wrong with this classic aviation timepiece. 18. Breitling Aviator 8 Automatic Day & Date 41 Next up, we have another piece from Breitling, which, as we know, is a reliable source of high-quality aviator watches. This timepiece, in particular, boasts a very distinct yet sleek overall exterior. This Breitling Aviator 8 timepiece comes in a stainless steel case and a calfskin leather strap in black. The dial, which has a very straightforward layout, features Arabic numerals, luminescent hands, a date window at 6 o’clock, and a day display at 12 o’clock. Lastly, this model is equipped with an automatic Breitling 45 caliber which has a power reserve of 38 hours. With a price tag of approximately $4,100 USD, this aviator watch is a must-have for those who like well-crafted timepieces which are easily readable with a glance. 19. Laco Pilot Watch Original Paderborn Laco is a German brand primarily known for producing aviation watches. Their products were a staple in many aircrafts back in the 1940s, which explains their reputation today. They are the go-to place for traditional, classic aviation timepieces. The Laco Pilot Original Paderborn is presented in a sandblasted stainless steel case with a calf leather strap in brown. The dial follows the quintessential cockpit-inspired layout with luminous hands, Arabic numerals, an outer circle for the minute markers, and an inner circle for the hour markers. This timepiece is driven by an automatic Laco 24 movement which is based on an ETA 2824.2 caliber. For just $1,190 USD, you can get your hands on one of the most renowned pilot watches out there. 20. Tudor Black Bay GMT Much like the Rolex watch mentioned earlier, this Tudor timepiece is on this list because of its GMT function, more than anything else. In fact, this model belongs to the Black Bay collection, which is better known for its dive watches. The Tudor Black Bay GMT comes in a sleek steel case with a Terra di Siena leather bracelet and a GMT bezel. The dial features hour markers in various shapes, luminescent hands, and a date window at 3 o’clock. This watch is powered by an automatic MT5652 caliber which is COSC-certified and has a 70-hour power reserve. Priced at a little under $4,000 USD, this piece makes for a versatile watch that can be utilized to great effect by those in the aviation field. 21. Victorinox Airboss Mach 9 Victorinox is an established company known for their quality products. They also offer their own range of aviation watches, which falls under their Pilot Watches category. The Victorinox Airboss Mach 9 is simply one out of many flight-centric timepieces they have in their arsenal. This watch comes in a steel case paired with an eco-leather strap in brown. The black dial, which features a layout clearly inspired by aeronautic mechanisms, consists of Arabic numerals, luminous hands, and a chronograph display. Lastly, it is equipped with an automatic ETA VALJOUX 7750 movement with a power reserve of around 48 hours. Retailing at approximately $2,100 USD, this watch is a must-have for all the adventurers out there who appreciate engineering inspired by aeronautics. 22. Vacheron Constantin Overseas World Time Vacheron Constantin is one of the most well-established brands in Haute Horlogerie. They offer a beautiful selection of watches that boast unparalleled quality and aesthetics. This particular watch, which makes for a lavish option for those in the aviation world, is no exception. Presented in a stainless steel case and bracelet, the Overseas World Time is a luxury piece for constant travelers. Its dial features the world map, famous cities, a 24-hour dial feature, and luminescent hands. Moreover, it is powered by an automatic movement that provides the watch with 37 time zones, a day-night indicator, and a power reserve of 40 hours. Priced at around $37,000 USD, the Vacheron Constantin Overseas World Time is the ultimate luxury statement timepiece for all the casual and professional jetsetters out there. 23. Yema Flygraf Pilot M1 Yema is another brand that has multiple collections dedicated to different branches of the military. They offer two different ranges for aviation watches, which are the Flygraf and the Superman French Air Force. The Flygraf focuses on timepieces for both flight professionals and enthusiasts while the Superman French Air Force series serves as a tribute to the brand’s relationship with said military unit. The Yema Flygraf Pilot M1 was actually designed in collaboration with professional pilot Sammy Mason. It comes in a stainless steel case and a bracelet which can be swapped out for a different strap. The dial, which follows a 24-hour layout, consists of Arabic numerals and slightly oversized hands, both of which are treated with Super-LumiNova pigments. Lastly, it is equipped with an in-house YEMA2000 caliber which has a 42-hour power reserve. With a price tag of around $749 USD, this is a great option for those who want a quintessential aviator watch at an affordable cost. 24. Bulova 96A225 While this Bulova model is more space-inspired than anything else, it still features excellent qualities that are great for aviation watches as well. The Bulova 96A225 comes in a stainless steel case paired with a NATO strap in black. Following a chronograph display, the dial includes luminescent hands and hour markers, a tachymeter scale, and three sub-counters. It also runs on an excellent chronograph movement which boasts top-tier quartz technology and accuracy. For around $575 USD, you can get this high-technology timepiece which can pass for a good aviator watch. 25. Bremont MBII-WH/BLUE Last but certainly not least, we have a timepiece from Bremont, a brand that is known for taking things to the next level. In crafting their pilot watches, Bremont made sure to get in touch with experienced figures in the aviation industry in order to come up with superior flight-centric timepieces. The Bremont MBII is a classic example of Bremont’s outstanding watchmaking process, because it went through numerous endurance tests before officially being sold. While it may look rather unassuming, this watch packs quite a punch. It comes in a hardened stainless steel case paired with a rubber, leather, or metal strap of your choice. The white dial features Arabic numerals, indices, luminescent hands, a minute track on the rim, and a date window. This watch is powered by an automatic BE-36AE chronometer with shock-resistant properties and a 38-hour power reserve. Retailing at around $5,500 USD, this aviator watch is definitely a recommended investment for serious pilots and professionals. Final Thoughts Ultimately, these are just 25 models, out of hundreds and thousands, that are either proven to be great aviator watches or have the potential to be excellent companions by professionals. Regardless, the curated list above does include some of the best pieces that the industry has to offer. Given the diversity in terms of specifications, designs, and prices, you are bound to find the right aviator watch just for you! If you want a more in depth look at pilot watches, check out our article on the Sinn 356 Pilot Chronograph. Photo Credits: Official Watch Websites
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As technology continues to advance and humans get busier, we all want to have something that gives us the greatest conveniences possible. This is the main reason why smartwatches have become some of the best-selling gadgets on the market today. These technological marvels do not just provide accurate time telling, but they can also work as a fitness tracker, GPS, and so much more. With so many excellent smartwatches out there, it is hard to know which ones are really worth your money. However, do not fret, because we have curated a list of the 15 Best Smartwatches For Men in 2021. 15 Best Smartwatches for Men 1. Apple Watch Series 4 Gold Stainless Steel Case with Stone Sport Band – Best Style and Function Photo by Apple Size: 40mm & 44mmCase Material: Stainless Steel CaseBattery Life: 18 hoursGPS: Yes Water Resistance: 50 metersCompatibility: iOSIt would be hard to talk about smartwatches for men without mentioning the Apple Watch. Two things make the Apple Watch Series 4 Gold Stainless Steel Case with Stone Sport Band perfect for smartwatch purists. First, when it comes to style, the Series 4 models retain the iconic Apple square faces that make them instantly recognizable, although they are slightly larger than earlier versions of the Apple Watch. Second, in terms of technology, the Apple Watch Series 4 continues to prove itself at the forefront of smartwatch technology as it comes with new and enhanced features. Unlike its predecessors, the Apple Watch 4 has a more extensive and brighter display, with a screen that extends almost to the case edge. Another technological advancement this watch has is its ECG app, which takes electrocardiograms of its wearer and alerts them if it finds an irregular heart rhythm. Furthermore, where past Apple Watches had you summon Siri with a crown press, the latest version is instead voice-activated. With new online syncing functions and the ability to save your audio locally, you also no longer need constant connectivity to listen to Apple Music and podcasts. The best part is all these new, high-tech features are available for an affordable price of approximately $399 USD. 2. TAG Heuer Connected Modular 45 Ref. SBG8A11.BT6220 – Best Luxurious Smartwatch Photo by WatchShopping Size: 45 mmCase Material: Stainless SteelBattery Life: 25 hoursGPS: YesWater Resistance: 50 metersCompatibility: iOS and AndroidThis one is all about the looks. Tech-savvy detractors will mention that the TAG Heuer Connected Modular 45 Ref. SBG8A11.BT6220 does not do much more than a lower-end smartwatch in terms of technical capabilities and, maybe, they have a point. But watch enthusiasts will quickly point out that, with this model, you are getting a TAG Heuer smartwatch for men with a sophisticated look and versatile functions for just $1,690 USD. The “45” in its name refers to its 45mm diameter, making it a hefty watch that feels quite substantial on the wrist. While this kind of bulk may not suit other smartwatches, the Connected Modular’s bold presentation fits its size well. The solid stainless steel case also makes it stand out compared to less expensive smartwatches. The metallic blue non-rotating bezel adds a degree of masculine suaveness to this timepiece and serves as a nod to the design of traditional TAG Heuer watches. With regards to its technical specifications, it has everything you would expect from a smartwatch— 4GB storage capacity, NFC for Android Pay, GPS, WiFi, and more. If you want a model with a sportier look, it is hard to beat the Blue Matte Ceramic edition, with its rugged blue-and-black rubber strap. 3. Montblanc Summit 2 Blue Dial – Best Classic Smartwatch Photo by Montblanc Size: 24mmCase Material: Stainless Steel Battery Life: 120 hoursGPS: YesWater Resistance: 5 ATMCompatibility: iOS and AndroidWhy would anyone shell out a thousand bucks for a mid-range-pl (okay, mid-range-plus) smartwatch? Montblanc answers this question nicely with its Summit 2 Smartwatch which is a sleek, minimalistic 42mm stainless steel piece with a calfskin strap. Perfect for office and dress occasions, this versatile $995 USDwatch is also a great casual everyday companion. As for its technical specifications, it does an excellent job of providing top-notch features which give you many conveniences. The screen is sharp with a resolution of 390 x 390. Moreover, it runs on the Wear OS operating system, which can nicely handle all the latest apps. These range from fitness tracking to the handy World Timer that lets you see time zones across the world by rotating the crown. It is also perfect for travelers as it includes a Travel Info app that tells you about the currency exchange, weather, and helpful phrases for countries across the globe. So, if the price does not put you off, the Summit 2 is a nice luxe-adjacent option. 4. Samsung Galaxy Gear S Ref. SM-R750PZKASPR – Best Android Smartwatch Photo by Samsung Size: 42mm & 46mmCase Material: Stainless SteelBattery Life: 48 hoursGPS: YesWater Resistance: IP67 levelCompatibility: AndroidSamsung has retooled its Gear S smartwatch Ref. SM-R750PZKASPR with stunning results, offering a better-looking, longer-lasting, and more app-packed model. You can pick one up for under $400, USD with the cost varying per model and features. The Gear S has a 42-mm or 46-mm case, in either silver, midnight black, or rose gold. Its case takes the shape of a curved square, and has a super AMOLED® display and traditional finishing. This makes the watch quite versatile and able to pair well with almost any ensemble. When it comes to technical details, the Samsung Galaxy is all about the interface. It is compatible with both Android (5.0 and above) and Apple (iOS 9 and later). The Galaxy is also nipping at its competitors’ heels when it comes to health apps. Notably, they have installed a Samsung Health package which offers dozens of workouts you can scroll through with the rotating bezel. The 4G version of the Gear S allows you to use the watch essentially as a smartphone, without the need for WiFi connectivity. Considering its affordable price and all the advanced technology it comes with, this smartwatch is hard to match. 5. Breitling Exospace B55 Connected – Best Aviation Smartwatch Photo by Breitling Size: 46mmCase Material: TitaniumBattery Life: 15 daysGPS: YesWater Resistance: 100 metersCompatibility: iOS and AndroidThe Breitling Exospace B55 Connected has been on the scene for a few years. Recently, Breitling even rolled out a Yachting edition for sailing enthusiasts. Whichever version you choose, the Exospace is a good, sporty smartwatch which boasts great functionality. First, we have to address the price. Remember that you are buying a Breitling watch, so prepare to pay the usual luxury prices. An earlier Exospace B55 model can set you back by around $4,000 USD. For newer versions, you have to shell out around $6,000 USD or more. That said, once you get past the sticker shock, you will definitely be satisfied by what you are paying for. The Exospace B55’s titanium case, unidirectional rotating bezel, and water resistance rating of 100 meters are all pure Breitling quality. Swiss luxury is evident in every detail of this watch, from the twin LCD screens on an otherwise traditional face to the high-end crowns and pushers. This smartwatch also comes with Bluetooth connectivity to smartphones, which gives you a wide array of apps to work with. 6. Apple Watch Series 6 Blue – Best Apple Smartwatch Photo by Apple Size: 40mm & 44mmCase Material: Titanium, Stainless Steel, Recycled AluminumBattery Life: 18 hoursGPS: YesWater Resistance: 50 metersCompatibility: iOSThe Apple Watch Series 6 Blue is one of the most recent models from the brand. At a price of $529 USD, you get more advanced features and a more impressive performance. It has two colors available: blue or red, both of which come with a silicone thread bracelet. One of its new and popular features is the blood oxygen (SpO2) reader, which works via LED clusters and photodiodes. This watch is also compatible with an electrocardiogram (ECG) app, which tracks your heart rhythm through the electrodes in the digital crown. Aside from all the fitness and health features, this Apple Watch also enables you to listen to podcasts, audiobooks, and music through Apple Music. Plus, you can use this smartwatch to connect with your entire family, by pairing with the watches of your siblings, parents, or children. 7. Fitbit Sense Lunar White – Best Fitness Tracker Photo by Fitbit Size: 40mmCase Material: Stainless SteelBattery Life: 6 daysGPS: YesWater Resistance: 50 metersCompatibility: iOS and AndroidThe Fitbit Sense Lunar White smartwatch is excellent for health and fitness enthusiasts. Aside from having an ECG sensor and a blood oxygen (spO2) reader, it also features an electrodermal and skin temperature tracker. These functions are essential in keeping tabs on your physical and mental health. In addition, you can also customize the screen depending on your needs during exercise. You can modify it into the Always-on, Run Detect, or Auto-pause modes. For $290 USD, this Fitbit Sense smartwatch for men can keep you company during circuit training, Pilates, yoga, golf, hiking, interval workouts, swimming, and more. It can also be your virtual assistant during your busy days by controlling your home devices, making phone calls, paying bills, and connecting to third-party applications such as Google, Amazon, Strava, Spotify, United Airlines, etc. 8. Garmin Vivoactive 4 Ref. 010-02172-32 – Best Smartwatch for Sports Photo by WatchShopping Size: 40mm & 45mmCase Material: Stainless steelBattery Life: 7 daysGPS: YesWater Resistance: 50 meters Compatibility: iOS and AndroidGarmin has always been consistent in producing quality sports watches. Today, the brand has upgraded into delivering sports smartwatches for men, with excellent features at affordable prices. The Vivoactive 4S Ref. 010-02172-32 is available at just $369 USD only. It allows you to be phone-free while going outdoors, enjoying adventures with friends, or focusing on your fitness goals. This men’s smartwatch offers animated on-screen workouts for activities such as Pilates, yoga, and cardio. You can also have your own personal coach for your training sessions with the Garmin Coach function. In addition, the Vivoactive 4S has built-in GPS and indoor sports apps, for if you ever plan to go golfing, running, swimming, etc. Customized workouts are also possible with the Garmin Connect application. 9. Fossil Gen 5 Carlyle Black Silicone – Most Affordable Smartwatch Photo by Fossil Size: 44mmCase Material: Stainless SteelBattery Life: 24 hoursGPS: GPSWater Resistance: 30 metersCompatibility: Google WearOS, iOS, AndroidThe Fossil Gen 5 Carlyle Black Silicone is the most affordable smartwatch for men on our list. For $174 USD, it offers incredibly valuable functions for your daily needs. This Fossil watch comes with a fitness tracker, mobile phone connectivity, GPS, pedometer, and heart rate monitor applications to keep you well-informed about your health. Moreover, its display screen can be customized into Alert Mode for notifications, vibrations, and system sounds. It also has a screen walking mode, which gives you easier control during your workouts, a tracking mode to help you count the steps you have taken, and lots more handy features. Lastly, you can also use this smartwatch to make contactless payments through its Google Pay app. 10. Skagen Connected Falster 2 Ref. SKT5109 – Best Smartwatch for Minimalist Photo from Skagen Size: 40mmCase Material: Stainless SteelBattery Life: 24 hoursGPS: YesWater Resistance: 50 metersCompatibility: Google WearOS, iOS, AndroidWhile most smartwatches have rugged and stylish designs, the Skagen Connected Falster 2 Ref. SKT5109 goes for a more straightforward and minimalistic look. So, if you are looking for a versatile everyday smartwatch that can match any style, this is the one for you. You can opt to pair this Skagen smartwatch for men with a silicone band or a mesh strap, depending on your preferences. For $200 USD, you get the essential functions of a touchscreen smartwatch, such as smartphone notifications, a heart rate monitor, and activity tracking. It also has many other built-in features like an LED flashlight, multiple time zones, music storage, a microphone, and more. 11. Timex Metropolitan R AMOLED Ref. TW5M43100IQ – Best Entry Level Smartwatch Photo from Timex Size: 42mmCase Material: Stainless SteelBattery Life: 14 daysGPS: YesWater Resistance: 30 metersCompatibility: iOS, AndroidThe $163 USD Timex Metropolitan R AMOLED Ref. TW5M43100IQ contains almost everything a smartwatch has to offer. First, it provides a high-resolution AMOLED display with up to 14 days of battery life. Apart from having a customizable watch face, it also comes with an easy-to-use navigation home screen. This Timex smartwatch for men is a good option for those seeking a budget-friendly yet very functional piece. The 20 display screen options, multiple workout modes, and on-wrist optical heart rate with HR zone training are just a few of its useful functions and features. It has a rugged design, featuring a 42mm aluminum alloy case with a Gorilla Glass screen and a brown leather strap. 12. Emporio Armani Men’s Smartwatch Ref. ART5017 – Best Wear OS Smartwatch Photo by WatchShopping Size: 43mmCase Material: Stainless SteelBattery Life: 24 hoursGPS: YesWater Resistance: 30 metersCompatibility: Google WearOS, iOS, AndroidOne of the most highly-rated smartwatches for men today is the Emporio Armani’s Smartwatch Ref. ART5017, which retails at $329 USD. This 43mm timepiece runs on Google’s WearOS. As such, it is compatible with apps like Google Fit, Google Pay, and Google Assistance, which can really help you get through a busy day. It can also be connected to your smartphone, to keep you updated on notifications and messages. This is a sleek and masculine touchscreen smartwatch with a digital display of your activity and health tracker. 13. Alpina Seastrong Horological Ref. AL-282LBGR4V6 – Best Midrange Smartwatch Photo from WatchShopping Size: 44mmCase Material: Fibre GlassBattery Life: 4 yearsGPS: NoWater Resistance: 100 metersCompatibility: iOS, AndroidAre you looking for a dive-friendly smartwatch? Then check out the Alpina Seastrong Horological Ref. AL-282LBGR4V6, which was heavily inspired by the popular Alpina’s Diver 300 Automatic collection. It is available in a variety of different colors: black, green, and navy blue. All are equipped with high water resistance capacities and 60-minute uni-directional bezels to help you on your water adventures. As far as smart features are concerned, you can enjoy fitness tracking, sleep tracking, and smartphone connectivity, all at once, with this Alpina smartwatch on your wrist. Purchase this watch at $379 USD and enjoy an active lifestyle with your friends. 14. Suunto 7 Ref. SS050379000 – Most Versatile Smartwatch Photo from WatchShopping Size: 50mmCase Material: Glass-fiber Reinforced PolyamideBattery Life: 40 daysGPS: YesWater Resistance: 50 metersCompatibility: iOS, AndroidFor those who prefer a bigger watch with a versatile design, the Suunto 7 Ref. SS050379000 would be a great pick for you. This smartwatch for men can be a companion in the office, or a sports watch for your exercises and workouts. Retailing at around $470 USD, this Suunto smartwatch is worth every penny. The Suunto 7 has over 70 sports modes and offline maps with navigation to assist you during your outdoor activities. Moreover, it features a body resources tracker that keeps you updated on your stress level, workout recovery, and activity throughout the day. Above all, this is the only smartwatch on the list with offline maps that are equipped with terrain details, contour lines, heatmaps, and trails. This makes it the perfect companion for all your sporty adventures. 15. Garmin fēnix® 6X Pro Solar Edition Ref. 010-02157-24 – Best Smartwatch for Active Lifestyle Photo from Watchshopping Size: 47mmCase Material: Fiber-reinforced Polymer with Metal Rear CoverBattery Life: 80 daysGPS: YesWater Resistance: 100 metersCompatibility: AndroidThe Garmin fēnix® 6X Pro Solar Edition Ref. 010-02157-24 is a good survival watch and smartwatch for men. For $1,049 USD, you can create your own music playlist, have mapping, and intelligent pace planning for your adventures. Furthermore, this watch comes with military-grade thermal, shock, and water resistance, which makes it an outstandingly durable timepiece. to give you outstanding functions for your needs. Plus, this is also a great watch if you are into skiing and surfing. This Garmin smartwatch is equipped with Surfline sessions that provide surfing videos for your practices. Its XC Ski Dynamics feature is also present to help you measure the exercise load for your next ski activity. All in all, this is a hardy smartwatch for men that is ready and able to tackle any challenges and activities to come. Frequently Asked Questions What are some things to consider when buying smartwatches for men? To help you choose the best smartwatch that works as an essential tool for your daily needs, make sure to consider these factors: The smartwatch must have a durable, high-quality case and strap that can withstand extreme conditions, and will not break or crack easily. Choose a smartwatch with GPS and a fitness tracker to help you keep up with your fitness goals. The smartwatch should be compatible with your smartphone, so you can quickly and conveniently check your notifications and messages. The smartwatch should have a long battery life to prevent any hassle in charging. Solar-powered smartwatches are the best!The smartwatch should be within your budget. Do not go into debt just to have a piece of your own. Is a smartwatch a good investment? Yes! A smartwatch can provide you with a lot of conveniences in your daily life. For instance, two main reasons why people use smartwatches are to reduce the distractions from smartphones and to remind them to get active. What is the best smartwatch for Android? The best smartwatch for Android is the Samsung Galaxy Gear S. It is one of the most updated and reliable smartwatches for men available. Plus, it is very affordable! What is the best smartwatch for Apple? It is definitely the Apple Watch Series 6. So far, this model has gotten the best reviews from iOS users. Wrap UP The 15 best smartwatches for men we have listed above are guaranteed to be reliable, durable, and user-friendly. If you are a beginner in smartwatches, you will not have a hard time using any of the watches above, since all are designed to be easy-to-use, for any type of wearer. On the whole, they have plenty of features that you can enjoy every day. Are you looking for more list of watches? Check out the top 25 best automatic watches. They might be the answers to your needs! The featured image is from Watchshopping.com.