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15 BEST Seiko Pilot Watches for the Aviation Enthusiasts! (2023)

Posted on June 5, 2023June 5, 2023 by Grant McKay

After World War II, when commercial aviation started to take off (pun intended), the pilot was king. Aviation was an exciting new industry. Many wanted to be pilots or date them. The industry even shaped the style of that era, from leather bomber jackets to aviation sunglasses to pilot’s watches.

Today, aviation style and timepieces are still popular with men and women, and Seiko has filled that space in a big way. Seiko is one of the leading watch companies to make pilot watches. Their watches include easy-to-read dials, chronographs, slide rule bezels, GMTs, and tools for making calculations on the fly (again, with the puns).

From the classic black dials and brown leather straps to cutting-edge technology in solar and GPS, Seiko likely has everything one could desire. In this article, we’ll explore 15 of the best aviation timepieces Seiko has on the market.

Some are new, and some have been around for a while, but there’s something for everyone and every budget on this list. If you’re an amateur or commercial pilot or an aviation enthusiast in the market for a fetching, useful pilot’s watch, let’s discover what Seiko has to offer.

About Seiko Pilot Watches

Seiko has produced some fine aviation collections. One of their most popular is the Seiko Prospex Flightmaster, which typically features chronographs, slide rule bezels, and reliable quartz movements. Most of the watches in this line are also water resistant to 200m.

The Seiko Prospex Solar Chronograph is another well-regarded model, which is solar-powered and typically features an alarm, dual time, and chronograph functions. It’s also water resistant to 100m, which is a good baseline for a pilot’s watch, as pilots and travelers often fly over large bodies of water.

Seiko’s Astron collection is also quite unique with its GPS solar-powered features. Of course, Seiko is also known for its Prospex Diver’s Watch, its line of dress watches with stunning enamel dials, and its 5 Sports collection of rugged sports watches.

Seiko takes great pride in their work, and they’re known for making everything that goes into their products, from their in-house movements to the lubricant that keeps the gears turning. This kind of craftsmanship is only typically reserved for higher-end luxury brands, but Seiko provides this across all their collections, not just the Grand Seiko, which is true for their pilot watches.

History of Seiko Pilot’s Watches

Seiko first started in Tokyo in 1881 as a watch repair shop. From those humble beginnings, they’ve risen to be one of the titans in the industry. They’re currently a multi-billion dollar enterprise, competing with the likes of Citizen, Omega, and Rolex.

After World War II, Japan became a major player in the aviation industry. Companies like Mitsubishi and Kawasaki started producing military and civilian aircraft, and Japan became a major aviation exporter of equipment and technology. Commercial airline companies like Japan Airlines would go on to become some of the most successful in the world. Out of this environment, Seiko developed its popular aviation collections.

As air travel became more common in the 1960s, Seiko began selling their first pilot’s watches. One model that quickly rose in popularity was the Navigator Timer, which was released in 1964. The timepiece featured a large, easy-to-read dial and flight tools. In the years since, they’ve only added more technology, and the Navigator has become popular among collectors.

Throughout the 70s and 80s, new tools were added to their aviation collections, including hacking seconds and slide rule bezels for flight planning and quick calculations. In recent years, they’ve also added solar and GSP-linked automatic timekeeping.

Since 2008, Seiko has expanded its partnership with the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency, and this led to the 2019 introduction of the limited edition JAXA-branded pilot’s watch with an automatic movement, a 50-hour power reserve, and a water resistance to 200m, plus the inclusion of the JAXA emblem on the back.

Overall, Seiko’s pilot watches are known for their useful tools, including slide rule bezels, automatic chronographs, vertical clutch and column wheels, compasses, and barometers. They’re also made with high-quality, durable materials such as high-grade titanium and stainless steel that can withstand active environments and the elements.

The Best Seiko Pilot Watches for Aviation Enthusiasts

SEIKO FLIGHTMASTER SNA411

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Though this timepiece has been discontinued by Seiko, a cult following has built up for the Flightmaster. If you’re one of those fans, thankfully, it can be found on some third-party sites (possibly new) and on the pre-owned market.

The dial reminds me of a Breitling Navitimer. However, this model is fortunately far less expensive. It’s a busy dial with a lot going on, but this isn’t just a cluttered design; there’s a lot of usefulness here. This is a true tool watch, and even if you’re not a pilot yourself, you can still appreciate the service it provides.

The case is satin stainless steel and measures 42mm with a pronounced coin edge on the bezel. The watch sits at 13mm on the wrist. The dial is black with silver-lined hands and indices. The primary seconds hand, which has a hacking feature, is a bright yellow.

There are three subdials at 6, 9, and 12 o’clock, providing an alarm, dedicated seconds hand, and tachymeter. There’s a date display at 3 o’clock and a bi-directional rotating black bezel with a slide-rule. The watch is powered by Seiko’s 7T62 quartz movement.

It’s water resistant to 200m. It comes with a basic stainless steel bracelet with a simple stamped clasp, which is common at this price point. It also has a crystal Hardlex, which is regrettable, but overall, this is a nice timepiece for the price and also looks great on a military-style NATO strap.

Price: $254

SEIKO PROSPEX SKY SRPB57

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In contrast to the model reviewed above, the Prospex Sky has a cleaner, simplified dial for those that favor that while still including a slide-rule. The stainless steel case measures 44.7mm and sits at 13.3mm on the wrist. This is a larger wristwatch but is still comfortable on the wrist.

The black dial with large silver-lined numerals and hands is easy to read. The seconds hand is white with a red triangle tip, giving the timepiece a classic pilot’s design. There’s a date window at 3 o’clock.

Under the hood is Seiko’s 4R35 automatic movement, with a 41-hour power reserve and a water resistance of 100m. The curved crystal, like the previously reviewed watch, is Hardlex.

The split-pin bracelet design with a three-fold clasp and push button release is handsome and complements the timepiece well.

Price: $220

SEIKO SOLAR CHRONOGRAPH SSG011P1

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The Seiko Solar Chronograph features a dark blue dial with white, champagne, and black accents. The face displays large numerals and three subdials. One is an indicator of the radio functions. Those signals keep the time automatically up to date with world time functions in 25 timezones.

There’s an adjustable 24-hour hand and a dedicated seconds hand. A date window is displayed between 4 and 5 o’clock. The stainless steel case measures 45mm and sits at 13mm on the wrist. The watch is solar-powered and water-resistant for up to 100m.

The seven-link stainless steel bracelet, with a tri-fold clasp and push button release, has an upscale look. The crystal is a curved Hardlex.

Price: $404

SEIKO PROSPEX SKY SSC611P1

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The Seiko Prospex Sky is a large pilot’s watch with a black and white dial. The stainless steel case measures 45mm and sits at 11.6mm on the wrist. The bezel is black with a gold-tone ribbed edge, matching the crown and push buttons. The rest of the case is a high polished steel.

The dial features three registers with dedicated seconds, 24-hour, and a power reserve indicator. The timepiece is powered by the sun, and that reserve indicator displays how much power reserve the watch has on an empty to full scale.

The movement powering the watch is Seiko’s V192, which is a solar movement. The watch is water resistant to 100m and has a date window between 4 and 5 o’clock. It also features a sapphire crystal.

All this is paired with a black calfskin leather strap with a tang buckle. The watch is a statement piece and is likely to get noticed.

Price: $345

SEIKO PILOT CHRONOGRAPH SNAD05P1

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This timepiece is a favorite among pilots, and it’s loaded with features. The stainless steel case measures 46mm and sits at 11mm on the wrist. It offers a bi-directional slide rule. The bezel is designed in a gear shape.

The dial of the watch is black and white with red accents. The hour and minute hands are white and silver-lined, and the indexes are painted white. The seconds hand is lined in red. The hands and indexes provide a bright lume; even the seconds hand is illuminated, which is distinct.

The dial is full and features an alarm, along with 60-minute and 60-second subdials. It’s topped with a Hardlex crystal. Inside the watch, it’s powered by the 7T62 quartz movement. The watch offers a screw-down crown and is water-resistant to 100m. The stainless steel bracelet has solid end links.

Price: $289

SEIKO 5 SPORTS SRPH31

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Said to be inspired by vintage pilot’s watches, this handsome Seiko 5 Sports timepiece offers a fair bit for the price. The brushed stainless steel case measures 39.4mm.

The dial is blue with white and orange accents. The syringe-style hands are silver-lined, and the seconds hand has an orange tip. There’s a date window at 3 o’clock. For a pilot-style watch, the dial is relatively uncomplicated, with mostly painted numbers and raised round indices.

The timepiece is powered by Seiko’s 4R36 automatic movement. It’s water-resistant to 100m and offers a see-through case back. The watch is fitted with a sporty blue nylon strap with an orange lining.

Price: $295

SEIKO 5 GMT SSK001

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This is another in Seiko’s Sport line of watches. The dial of this watch has a diver-look. To my eye, it looks like Seiko took inspiration from the face of the Rolex Submariner, paired it with the Jubilee bracelet, and threw in a GMT hand for good measure.

Perhaps, the attempt was to create a solid all-rounder that gives off sporty diver vibes but can dress up nicely and be a useful pilot-travel watch. The polished 42.5mm stainless steel case is classically paired with a black dial and white markings.

There’s a large red GMT hand that one can’t miss and a magnified date window at 3 o’clock. The timepiece is powered by Seiko’s 4R34 automatic, which can be seen through the open case back. It’s complemented by an attractive, polished five-link stainless steel bracelet with a tri-fold push button clasp.

The watch is water-resistant to 100m and features a 41-hour power reserve. So, the timepiece may look tougher and more capable than it is, but honestly, it will serve most people’s needs just fine, and it simply looks smart on the wrist at an even more pleasing price point.

Price: $475

SEIKO PROSPEX AVIATION SOLAR CHRONOGRAPH SSC264

Seiko introduces a solid, solar-powered pilot watch with the SSC264. This is a larger timepiece with a gold-coated stainless steel case measuring 46.1mm. The dial is black with three registers and a date window.

The hands are blue, with the seconds hand taking the shape of an airplane moving down the runway. There’s a gold-toned 12 above the Seiko logo, followed by gold-lined indices. The watch is a large statement piece that wants to be noticed.

The bezel is black and thick and sits atop a yellow-gold-colored encasement. The timepiece features split time measurement, a 24-hour hand, and a rotating slide rule. It’s water resistant to 100m and paired with a black leather strap with contrasting white stitching and a tang buckle.

Price: $456

SEIKO FLIGHTMASTER WHITE DIAL SNAB71

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The Seiko Fightmaster is a classic pilot’s watch. The stainless steel case has a satin finish and measures 43mm, which sits at 14mm on the wrist. The black hour and minute hands are set against a white dial with black lettering and silver-lined indices.

The red seconds hand is a nice touch. The crisp white, black, and red manage to keep the dial looking clean and fresh, despite all that’s going on. There are three registers offering 60-second, 60-minute, and 12-hour (alarm) features and a date window between 4 and 5 o’clock.

It offers a fixed bezel with slide rule markings. The watch is powered by a quartz movement. The dial is covered by a crystal Hardlex and is water resistant to 100m. The watch is fitted with a dark brown leather band with white stitching and a tang buckle.

This timepiece lacks some of the features of a true pilot’s watch, but it looks the part, and the price is quite reasonable.

Price: $195

SEIKO SELECTION SOLAR CHRONOGRAPH SBPY163

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The Seiko SBPY163 has some Rolex Daytona vibes in the way the dial is handled, but the all-steel bezel feels more like an Explorer II. The teal blue dial looks sharp against the steel case and offers three subdials with darker blue backgrounds than the rest of the dial.

The timepiece features a dedicated seconds hand, a 60-minute counter, a 24-hour indicator, a date window at 4.30, and a tachymeter. The watch is solar-powered and, on a full charge, will last for six months without the need for a light source recharge. It’s also water-resistant to 100m.

It’s paired with a tapered, oyster-style stainless steel bracelet that all comes together to deliver a striking chronograph for a reasonable price.

Price: $325

SEIKO PROSPEX LX SKYMASTER GMT SBDB031

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The LX Skymaster GMT is a stunning timepiece that was designed by Ken Okuyama, who is known for his auto designs with brands like Porsche and Ferrari. The all-titanium case and bracelet offer a combination of brushed and polished surfaces, a refinement that isn’t commonly seen in titanium watches.

In different lights, half of the black bezel becomes a marvelous blue. The case measures 44.8mm and 14.7m thick, making it a substantial timepiece; however, this is balanced by the lightness of the titanium.

The watch’s dial is a sunburst blue with white hands and indices. The GMT hand is red, and there’s a date window at 3 o’clock. There’s also a power reserve indicator at 8 o’clock, which displays the levels of Seiko’s 5R66 Spring Drive. The watch boasts a screw-down crown and a water resistance of 100m.

This model, which is nearly identical to the limited-edition version previously released, is both eye-catching and a solid performer as a sports and travel timepiece.

Price: $4,085

SEIKO PROSPEX SRPD35K1

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The SRPD35K1 is a cool-looking, all-black pilot’s watch. It offers a rotating inner ring compass. The dial itself is relatively simple, with a matte black and a mix of numbers and indices. The syringe-style hour hand features a red tip, and the printing and accents on the dial are a combination of off-white/yellow, green, and red. There’s a large day and date window at 3 o’clock.

The stainless steel case measures 43mm, is 14.4mm thick, and includes a crown guard. Under the hood, it’s powered by Seiko’s 4R36 automatic movement with a 41-hour power reserve. The dial is protected by a curved Hardlex crystal and is water resistant to 200m. All this is paired with a black calfskin leather strap.

Price: $479.99

SEIKO SOLAR CHRONOGRAPH SSC081P1

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The SSC081P1 not only has classic pilot watch good looks with its black dial and a brown leather strap, but it’s loaded with features. The dial offers a few registers, including a 60-minute, alarm, and power reserve indicator. There’s also a date window, compass, and hacking seconds.

The stainless steel case measures 41mm and sits at 12mm on the wrist. It’s water resistant to 100m, and the sides of the crown are protected. The watch is powered by a Caliber V172 solar movement. This model will not only look and feel great on your wrist, but it offers a lot for the price point.

Price: $210

SEIKO ASTRON SSH003J1

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The Astron by Seiko is a truly remarkable piece of technology. Billed as the world’s first GPS solar watch, this timepiece connects to GPS satellites to adjust to local time zones, and it’s completely powered by the sun. What’s most noteworthy is how Seiko has managed to fit all of this into such a small package. Most solar and radio or satellite-controlled watches are big and bulky, as there’s a lot under the hood. But not so with the Astron.

The titanium case of the Astron measures 42.9mm and sits at 12.2mm on the wrist. The black bezel is a titanium/ ceramic blend. The black dial, with white markings and gray, raised hands and indices, features four registers, one smaller, and a date window. These include day and AM/PM pointers, a dual time function, and a power reserve indicator.

Powered by Seiko’s 5×53 GPS solar movement, the watch can operate for six months when fully charged and is water resistant to 100m. It’s fitted with a 5-link titanium bracelet, with polished links down the center and a three-fold clasp with push button release.

Price: $2,100

SEIKO PROSPEX SKY BEIGE DIAL SRPB59

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The Prospex Sky model from Seiko is a handsome aviator watch with a beige dial and a steel, gear-shaped, bi-directional bezel. The main part of the dial is clean and simple, with numbers and black-lined syringe-style hands. The seconds hand has a red tip, and there’s a date window at 3 o’clock.

Seiko’s 4R35 automatic movement is powering the timepiece with a 41-hour power reserve. It features hacking seconds and a slide rule. The face of the watch is protected by a curved Hardlex and is water resistant to 100m. It’s paired with a brown calfskin leather strap with contrasting white stitching.

Price: $233

Parting Thoughts

Seiko offers a large collection of watches to service nearly every style, interest, and need. Among those are some excellent pilot’s watches from their Prospex collection to their Flightmaster. They also have some other lines, which we explored in this article, that provide useful travel and tech features, such as with their Astron and 5 Sports collections. Lots of great aviation watches to choose from, to suit every budget!

20 BEST Seiko Dress Watches That Are Affordable Yet Classy!

Posted on June 5, 2023June 5, 2023 by Grant McKay

Seiko is widely known for its dive watches and for being the first to use a quartz movement, revolutionizing the industry. Of course, Seiko aficionados will also know them for their high-end luxury watch lines like Grand Seiko and King Seiko.

However, the general public, at least in the West, likely views them as a budget brand. They’re often regarded as the Toyota of the watch world. Solid timepieces that will keep on ticking for years to come, but nothing extraordinary. However, that’s not their whole story.

It’s true Seiko does have budget-conscious collections, which get the job done while cutting a few corners. Conversely, besides their high-end lines, they also have a few middle-grade dress watches that are exceptionally well-made and beautiful.

They’re also a watch company that makes everything that goes into their products, from their own in-house movements to the lubricant that keeps the parts moving; something you might expect from Rolex or Patek Philippe, but Seiko? And yet that’s exactly what they deliver.

Some of the handmade, artisan work on their sub-$2,000 dials could rival a timepiece that’s six or ten times the price. In this article, we’ve identified some of the best Seiko dress watches for your consideration, and only one of them breaks the $3,000 mark.

So, if you’re looking for a refined, elegant wristwatch that will elevate your style at work and for those special occasions without assaulting your pocketbook, let’s dive in or, in this case, button up.

About Seiko Dress Watches

Seiko, the renowned Japanese watchmaker, offers an array of dress watch collections, each with its unique features and designs. Here’s a short guide to some of Seiko’s notable dress watch collections and their standout models:

1. Seiko Presage: The Presage collection is known for its exquisite craftsmanship and traditional Japanese aesthetics. One standout model is the Seiko Presage Cocktail Time SRPB43J1, featuring a captivating blue sunburst dial with a cocktail-inspired pattern, stainless steel case, and a date window at 3 o’clock. The watch is powered by a reliable automatic movement and boasts a power reserve of up to 41 hours.

2. Seiko Premier: The Premier collection embodies modern elegance with its sophisticated designs and advanced functionalities. The Seiko Premier Kinetic Perpetual SNP139P1 is a standout model, featuring a sleek black dial with gold-tone accents, a stainless steel case, and a perpetual calendar that automatically adjusts for leap years until February 2100. The watch also boasts Seiko’s Kinetic technology, which converts kinetic energy into electrical energy to power the watch, making it eco-friendly and hassle-free.

3. King Seiko: Originally introduced in the 1960s, it has been recently re-introduced, keeping some of its vintage ‘60s vibes but with elevated materials, the latest tech, and the features expected of a modern watch. The King line sits somewhere between your standard Seiko and the brand’s flagship, Grand Seiko, which offers high-end luxury watches that compete with the likes of Rolex and Omega.

History of Seiko Dress Watches

Seiko is one of the world’s most recognized watch brands, and they’ve been shaking up the watch industry for over 142 years, most notably when they induced the first quartz-powered wristwatch on Christmas Day in 1969 and sent shockwaves through the industry.

While they’re often known for their budget tool watches, the brand has been making luxury timepieces since the 1920s, and even earlier, when they first introduced the now lionized Laurel wristwatch in 1913. A model that was recently reintroduced under the Presage line. Starting in the 1960s, the Grand Seiko and King Seiko lines were also introduced, designed to rival even the most upmarket brands out of Switzerland.

In particular, some of their dial work is second to none. Both their Urushi dials, with their lacquered, traditional Japanese art designs and their glass-like enamel dials, are true masterpieces on the wrist. You’ll catch yourself and other admirers staring at the details, noticing the way the light plays off each intricate layer.

The Best Seiko Dress Watches

SEIKO PRESAGE LAUREL RE-EDITION SPB359

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The Laurel wristwatch, upon which this re-edition SPB359 is based, is an iconic timepiece that has played a significant role in the history of the Japanese watch industry. Introduced by Seiko in 1913, the Laurel is widely regarded as the first wristwatch produced in Japan.

The man behind the Laurel was Kintaro Hattori, the founder of Seiko. Hattori was a skilled watchmaker who established his own watch repair shop in Tokyo in 1881. He quickly gained a reputation for producing high-quality timepieces and went on to establish the Seikosha factory to produce watches on a larger scale.

This re-edition of the Laurel marks its 110th anniversary and is a limited-edition timepiece with only 2,500 in circulation.

There’s an elegance to the round stainless steel case, measuring 37.5mm. There’s a large onion crown with filigree work. The dial is a white enamel with blue hands and black numerals. There’s a power reserve indicator at 9 o’clock and a subdial date scale at the six o’clock position.

The timepiece is powered by the Caliber 6R27 automatic movement with a 45-hour power reserve. It’s water resistant to 50m and is paired with a thick brown leather strap with a tang buckle.

Price: $1,800

SEIKO PRESAGE PRESTIGE SPB293

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The SPB293 from the Presage Prestige collection features these Arita porcelain dials that are absolutely beguiling. Japanese Arita porcelain is a type of porcelain that originates from the town of Arita in the Saga prefecture of Japan. It is known for its delicate beauty and intricate designs, which have been highly prized for centuries.

These dials are meticulously designed by expert artisans. With this timepiece, they’ve created a 3D effect with the pure white enamel dial. The blue hands are a snappy contrast to the white, and the seconds hand is anchored by a delicately crafted crescent moon.

The time is displayed in blue, raised Roman numerals. The stainless steel case measures 40.5mm and sits at 12.4mm thick on the wrist. The timepiece is powered by the Caliber 6R31 automatic with a 70-hour power reserve.

It’s water resistant to 100m and is paired with a stainless steel bracelet. The bracelet features a three-fold clasp with a push button release.

Price: $1,700

SEIKO PRESAGE PRESTIGE SPB045

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The SPB045 is similar to the SPB293 above, however, with some notable distinctions. This is another timepiece in Seiko’s Presage Prestige collection with a beautiful enamel dial. This watch is entirely made in Japan; it’s not one of these budget deals with mixed Chinese parts.

This has a polished stainless steel case measuring 40.5mm, a white dial with blue hands, and Roman numerals. The process of crafting an enamel dial is rather extensive, and there’s a lot that can go wrong along the way, but when it’s done right, you get a brilliant-looking dial that, in this case, looks like it belongs on a far more expensive watch.

One of the areas on an enamel dial that can often show cracking and flaws is around the date window, which is why Seiko uses a pointer date subdial on this, as it did with the watch reviewed above.

The watch is powered by a Caliber 6R27 with a 45-hour power reserve. It’s also water resistant to 100m, which is quite respectable for a dress watch. One could put a non-leather strap on this and swim without any concern.

The timepiece comes with a refined, supple, black alligator leather strap with high gloss. This strap is worth noting, as it’s refreshingly unexpected at this price point. So is the full trigger actuated steel deployant clasp, when one might expect a simple calf leather and a tang buckle in a sub $2,000 watch.

Price: $1,100

SEIKO PRESAGE “COCKTAIL TIME” SRPB41

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The Seiko Presage “Cocktail Time” SRPB41 is a beautifully designed dress watch that combines classic elegance with modern functionality. The watch is inspired by the world-renowned mixologist Hisashi Kishi, who is known for creating cocktails that embody the essence of Japan.

The SRPB41 is part of Seiko’s Presage line, which is known for its high-quality craftsmanship and attention to detail. The watch features a stunning sunburst blue dial reminiscent of a well-crafted cocktail. The dial is adorned with polished silver-tone hour markers and hands, which add a touch of sophistication to the watch.

The date window is located at the 3 o’clock position, and the Seiko logo is prominently displayed just above it. The SRPB41 is powered by Seiko’s 4R35 automatic movement, known for its accuracy and reliability. The watch has a power reserve of approximately 41 hours and is water resistant up to 50 meters.

The case of the watch is made of stainless steel and has a diameter of 40.5mm, which is a great size for a dress watch. The case is finished with a combination of brushed and polished surfaces, which adds to the overall elegance of the watch. The timepiece comes with a stainless steel bracelet that is also finished with a combination of brushed and polished surfaces.

Price: $450

SEIKO PROSPEX 1959 ALPINIST RE-INTERPRETATION SBDC147

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The Seiko Prospex 1959 Alpinist Re-Interpretation SBDC147 is an exceptional timepiece that pays homage to the original Seiko Alpinist from 1959. It is a stunning combination of vintage design and modern technology.

The stainless steel case measures 38mm and sits at 12.9mm on the wrist. This collection comes in gray, cream, or green dials. There’s an option for a brown leather strap or fitted steel bracelet.

The timepiece is powered by Seiko’s 6R35 automatic with hacking, hand-winding, and a 70-hour power reserve. There’s a date window at 3 o’clock. It’s also water resistant to 200m.

The Alpinist is a solid, rugged sports watch that’s built to withstand the elements of the outdoors. Perfect for backing through the mountains or camping with your kids in the backyard.

Price: $590

SEIKO KING SEIKO SPB279

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The Seiko King is an iconic watch model that was first introduced in the early 1960s. The original King model sat somewhere between your standard budget Seiko and the high-end Grand Seiko. The case of the SPB279 is stainless steel and measures 37mm, and sits at 12.1mm thick on the wrist.

This watch really sings on a smaller wrist and gives one that retro feel. The King is a simple three-hand watch with a silver dial, hands, and raised indices. At the 12 o’clock position, there’s a double index featuring a distinctive diamond pattern.

The timepiece is powered by Seiko’s 6R31 with hacking seconds and a 70-hour power reserve. It’s water resistant to 100m. The upmarket seven-link bracelet, with its butterfly deployment clasp, feels like an upgrade from the stand steel bracelet Seiko is known for and further distinguishes the King from the standard Seiko.

Price: $1,700

SEIKO PRESAGE BASIC SRPJ13

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This timepiece is another in the collection of watches inspired by Modern Japanese cocktail lounges. The stainless steel case measures 39.5mm and has a relatively thin profile. The sunburst blue dial with its circular pattern is, of course, the focus point of the watch.

The sharp silver hands and indices add a touch of complexity. There’s a date window at 3 o’clock for functionality. The timepiece is powered by the Caliber 4R35 automatic with a 41-hour power reserve and a water resistance of 50m.

There’s an open case back, revealing the inner workings of the watch. The stainless steel bracelet features a deployment clasp with a push button release and looks commensurate with the price point.

Price: $450

SEIKO PRESAGE SRPF41

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Another cocktail timepiece, this one features a distinctive graded green dial with a rough sandpaper finish. There’s a mix of numbers and indices in silver, matching the silver hands. A date window is displayed at 3 o’clock, and the watch features hacking seconds.

The stainless steel case measures 38.5mm and sits at 11.8mm on the wrist. The watch is paired with a green, calfskin leather strap that includes a three-fold clasp with push button release.

It’s powered by the 4R35 automatic movement with a 41-hour power reserve. It’s water resistant to 50m. This watch seems appropriately paired with casual business attire, as well as jeans or khakis for a night on the town.

Price: $500

SEIKO PRESAGE BASIC SSA449

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This is a unique-looking timepiece with a lot going on, and that’s not usually a good thing, but it all kind of works with this configuration. There’s also a vintage ‘60s vibe to this watch that I dig.

This watch straddles the line between a sports watch and a dress watch, at least in terms of its looks, though I wouldn’t expect this watch to perform in active conditions on land or sea. That’s not a negative since this is in the dress category, just don’t be deceived by the looks.

The stainless steel case measures 40.8mm, which is a nice size. It sits on the wrist at 14.3mm. The dial is a matte black, with silver hands and indices. There’s an off-white lume to the hands and an off-white, almost candlelight subdial, which functions as a pointer date.

There’s also a large power reserve indicator that stretches from 11 o’clock all the way to the 4 o’clock position. The timepiece is powered by the 4R57 automatic movement with a 41-hour power reserve. It’s water resistant to 50m. It features hacking seconds and a solid, stainless steel bracelet.

I normally favor simple watch designs, but while there’s a lot going on with the dial, it’s in balance and just looks sharp.

Price: $650

SEIKO DOLCE GOLD SACM150

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The Seiko Dolce Gold SACM150 is an exquisite timepiece that exudes elegance and sophistication. This watch is part of Seiko’s prestigious Dolce collection. The SACM150 features a stainless steel case measuring 36mm and is coated with a lustrous gold-tone finish, which adds a trace of opulence to its appearance.

It’s razor-thin at 5.3mm on the wrist. The dial of the SACM150 is adorned with a mesmerizing pattern that resembles the texture of fine silk fabric, creating a luxurious and visually-appealing aesthetic. The gold-tone hour markers and hands are meticulously crafted on this simple three-hand watch.

This Dolce timepiece is powered by Seiko’s renowned quartz movement, and it is water-resistant to 30m. All this is paired with a black caiman (alligator-like) leather with a tang buckle. The timepiece appears far more luxurious than the price point would indicate.

Price: $350

SEIKO PRESAGE BASIC SRPD99

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This is another handsome timepiece from the Presage collection. The black dial with silver hands and what looks like diamond-filled indices make for an eye-catching display. There’s also a date window at 3 o’clock. The stainless steel case measures 38.3mm and sits at 11.2mm on the wrist, making this a good unisex model.

The watch is powered by the 4R35 automatic movement, with a 41-hour power reserve. It’s splash-resistant but not a watch meant for swimming, which is perfectly acceptable in the dress watch category, though it does limit the versatility of the watch. It’s paired with an upmarket stainless steel bracelet with a three-fold clasp with a push button release.

Price: $500

SEIKO PRESAGE SHARP EDGE SPB165

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Seiko’s Presage Sharp Edge series is a collection of timepieces that exude a modern and sophisticated style. Inspired by the sharp edges and clean lines of contemporary architecture, these watches are characterized by their sleek and angular designs, making them stand out in Seiko’s esteemed Presage lineup.

This Sharp Edge collection features four dial color options; white, blue, green, and brown. This model is in white with a striking, raised diamond textured pattern. The silver sword-like hour and minute hands are nicely complimented by the pop of blue color on the seconds hand.

There’s also a silver framed date window at 3 o’clock. The stainless steel case measures 39.3mm and sits at 11.1mm on the wrist. The timepiece is powered by Seiko’s 6R35 automatic movement, with a 70-hour power reserve and a solid 100m of water resistance.

The stainless steel bracelet is nicely done, especially the three-fold clasp and push-button. This is a clear step up from a typical stamped Seiko clasp. This watch could easily be mistaken for a much more expensive Grand Seiko. The dial is that good.

Price: $1,000

SEIKO PRESAGE SARX035

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The Presage SARX035 features a sleek stainless steel case with polished and brushed finishes, measuring 40.5mm in diameter and 11.8mm in thickness, providing a refined and substantial presence on the wrist.

The SARX035 boasts a black dial that exudes a sense of depth and sophistication. The dial also showcases applied silver-tone hour markers and a date window at 3 o’clock.

At the heart of the SARX035 beats Seiko’s high-quality 6R15 automatic movement, with a power reserve of approximately 50 hours and a hacking function for precise time-setting.

Completing the SARX035’s sophisticated aesthetic is a brushed stainless steel bracelet with a folding clasp and a push-button release for easy and secure wearing. This is another example of a Presage timepiece that, at first glance, could be mistaken for a Grand Seiko.

Price: $600

SEIKO PRESAGE SPB115

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This is an example of a Seiko with a beautiful enamel dial. This automatic wristwatch features a stainless steel case measuring 39.9mm in diameter and 12.4mm in thickness.

The SPB115 boasts a captivating brown dial with a sunburst pattern that captures the light beautifully, creating an enthralling interplay of colors and textures. The dial showcases white hour markers and hands. The dial also features a white framed date display at the 3 o’clock position.

At the heart of the SPB115 beats Seiko’s high-quality 6R35 automatic movement, with a power reserve of approximately 70 hours and a hacking function. The watch is water resistant, with a water resistance rating of 100 meters, making it suitable for everyday wear.

Completing the SPB115’s sophisticated aesthetic is a brown horse skin leather strap with a three-fold clasp with a push-button release, providing a secure and comfortable fit.

Price: $1,100

SEIKO PRESAGE “URUSHI” SARD011

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The Urushi is a piece of art on your wrist. Seiko is often known for its dive watches, but it’s a dress timepiece like this that I think sets Seiko apart from the pack in terms of quality and value. I can’t think of another major watch brand that delivers this kind of beauty and craftsmanship at these price points.

The lacquered, Urushi dial is, of course, the star of the show. The Urushi lacquer technique is a labor-intensive and time-consuming process that involves multiple layers of hand-applied lacquer and meticulous polishing.

The painted white Roman numerals and the gold-toned hands provide a touch of class. Supposedly, there’s one artisan in Japan who makes these dials by hand, and looking at the finished product, I truly believe that.

The black dial is so deep and layered with a wet finish that it’s hard not to stare at this artwork and forget to check the time. Yet there’s actually a lot of information on the dial, from a pointer date to a pointer day of the week to a power reserve indicator. These features give the watch an antique quality, down to the printed 31 Jewels on the dial, a practice not found on many modern timepieces.

The polished stainless steel case measures 40.5mm and sits a touch high for a dress watch, in my opinion, at 13.2mm on the wrist. But that’s the only drawback I can see. The timepiece is powered by the 6R24 automatic movement with a power reserve of 45 hours and is water resistant to 100m.

You might expect Seiko to cut corners on the strap, but they don’t disappoint. The black, genuine alligator strap is fitted with a deployment clasp. All around, even in the details, this is a superb watch.

Price: $1,060

SEIKO PRESAGE SARX055

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Some call it the Baby Snowflake for its close resemblance to its big brother, the Grand Seiko Snowflake. Thankfully, the baby can be yours for a fraction of the price.

The titanium case is handsomely brushed and polished and measures 41mm, and sits at 11.5mm on the wrist. The watch looks refined but could also be worn with jeans.

Some have described the sapphire crystal of the timepiece as practically invisible. The white, snowflake pattern dial features raised silver indices and sword hands. The seconds hand contrasts with a nice touch of blue. There’s a silver-lined date window at 3 o’clock.

The watch is powered by the 6R15 automatic movement with a 50-hour power reserve. It’s water resistant to 100m. The bracelet is well executed with brushed and polished links and a deployment clasp.

Price: $900

SEIKO KING SEIKO SJE087

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This is a limited-edition King Seiko with 1,700 of this model in circulation. The watch features a retro ’60s vibe. It boasts a pale champagne dial with gold hands and indices. The case is thin, a graceful, noteworthy feature on a dress watch.

At 12 o’clock, there’s a double textured index. There’s also a date window at 3 o’clock. The stainless steel case with super-hard coating measures 38.1mm and sits at 11.4mm on the wrist. It’s powered by the caliber 6L35 with a 45-hour power reserve and is water resistant to 50m.

The timepiece is paired with a brown crocodile strap with a pin buckle. There’s even a retro styling of the Seiko logo on the buckle.

Price: $3,300

SEIKO PRESAGE OCEAN TRAVELER GMT SARF013

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The Seiko Presage Ocean Traveler GMT captures the spirit of oceanic adventurers. The SARF013 features a sleek titanium case with a polished finish, measuring 40mm in diameter and 24.6mm in thickness. The dial of the watch is a deep, textured blue color reminiscent of the vast and mysterious oceans.

The dial is adorned with white, silver-lined hands and markers, along with a power reserve scale, a pointer date at 6 o’clock, and a GMT hand, adding a functional touch to the timepiece. Powering the SARF013 is Seiko’s Caliber 6R64 automatic movement, which can be admired through the exhibition case back.

The watch also enjoys a water resistance of 100 meters, making it suitable for water-based activities. It’s paired with either a bracelet or a blue alligator leather strap with a deployment clasp and push button release.

Price: $1,280

SEIKO PREMIER KINETIC SNP150

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The Premier Kinetic is a fancy-looking dress timepiece with rose gold-toned stainless steel. The case measures 42.9mm and sits at 12mm on the wrist. The face of the watch features a white dial with alternating black Roman numerals and rose gold-toned indices. The hands are black, and there’s a date window under the XII, lined in a thick rose gold tone.

There are a couple of subdials, including a pointer calendar. Under the hood is the 7D56 automatic. All this is paired with a handsome black calfskin leather band with a three-fold clasp and push-button release. This is a good-looking timepiece, which looks and feels like it would fetch a superior price than it does.

Price:$700

SEIKO PRESAGE SARW021

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This is another timeless selection from the Presage collection. The brushed stainless steel case measures 40.8mm and is 12.7mm thick. The classic white dial has sharp blue hands and raised silver indices and includes three-pointer subdials displaying the day, date, and power reserve level. The watch is powered by Seiko’s 6R21 automatic movement with a 45-hour power reserve and a water resistance of 100m.

All of this is matched with a stainless steel bracelet with a tri-fold push-back clasp and features hacking seconds and a screw-down crown. This timepiece straddles the line between dressy and sporty quite well. I can imagine this worn with a suit or pair of jeans.

Price: $725

Parting Thoughts

Seiko truly has a lot to offer as a watch manufacturer. The sheer number and variety of models can be bewildering. Knowing the difference between Grand, King, Presage, and all the re-introductions can leave the average customer trying to figure out where to begin.

But hopefully, this article has provided clarity and direction on the dress watch front. For expert help with the purchase of your next Seiko or any fine timepiece, the watch experts at Exquisite Timepieces are only a click away.

15 BEST 39mm Dive Watches (Seiko, Tudor, Omega, & More)

Posted on May 16, 2023June 1, 2023 by Grant McKay

Dive watches have been a favorite among watch enthusiasts for decades and for a good reason. These timepieces are not only stylish but also incredibly practical and engineered to withstand the rigors of underwater exploration.

From oversized statement pieces to minimalist timepieces, the watch industry has produced a wide range of styles and sizes to suit every taste. However, the trend in recent years has been away from larger watches. The 39mm size has emerged as a popular choice, striking the perfect balance between functionality and wearability.

In this article, we will explore some of the best 39mm dive watches currently available on the market, analyzing their features, performance, and style. From established brands to emerging players, we will provide a comprehensive overview of the best options for those in the market for a high-quality 39mm dive watch.

Whether you’re an avid diver or simply someone who appreciates a well-made timepiece, read on to discover the top 39mm dive watches on the market.

About Dive Watches

A good dive watch should have a few key features. The most crucial aspect of a dive watch is its water resistance. A dive watch should be able to withstand water pressure up to at least 200 meters, with some models capable of handling depths up to 1000 meters or more.

Another important feature is the unidirectional rotating bezel, which allows divers to track elapsed time while underwater accurately. Dive watches should also be easy to read, with a clear and concise display that offers high contrast and good visibility in low-light conditions.

I favor a clean, uncomplicated dial sans the date window. However, that’s just a personal preference. Finally, a good dive watch should be durable and able to withstand the rigors of underwater environments. Materials such as titanium, high-quality stainless steel (such as 316L and 904L), and ceramic are commonly used for dive watch cases, as they are tough and corrosion-resistant.

History of Dive Watches

Ask a room full of horologists who made the first dive watch, and you might get a few different answers. Some will say Rolex with its 1926 Oyster case. Others will credit Omega’s 1930s Marine. Yet others will praise the Blancpain Fifty-Fathoms, as it was the first to include all the traditional features one would expect in a modern dive watch.

I can’t settle that debate, but I’ll say Rolex started something and clearly finished it when they later built, arguably, the most iconic diver; the Submariner.

In the ‘40s and ‘50s, dive watches continued to evolve, with many new features and advancements being introduced. During World War II, dive watches became increasingly important for military operations, with brands like Rolex and Omega creating specialized watches for the military.

In the 1960s and 1970s, dive watches gained popularity among recreational divers, with many new models being released by various brands. These watches were designed to withstand greater depths and pressure, with some models featuring helium release valves to prevent the watch crystal from popping off during decompression.

Should You Buy a 39mm Dive Watch?

A 39mm dive watch is a perfect combination of form and function. Here are a few reasons why you should consider buying one:

1. Size: The 39mm size is ideal for a dive watch, as it perfectly balances readability and wearability.

2. Style: 39mm dive watches come in a wide range of styles, from classic and timeless to modern and bold. They can be dressed up or down, making them versatile for any occasion.

3. Durability: Dive watches are designed to withstand harsh environments and extreme conditions, making them a reliable tool for underwater activities. With features like water resistance, shock resistance, and scratch-resistant crystals, a 39mm dive watch is a durable investment that will last for years to come.

4. Functionality: Dive watches offer useful features like unidirectional rotating bezels, luminous dials, and depth gauges, making them a reliable tool for divers. Even if you’re not a diver, these features make the watch practical for everyday use.

5. Value: High-quality dive watches hold their value over time, making them a good investment. Many brands offer warranties and after-sales services, ensuring your watch stays in top condition and retains its value.

A 39mm dive watch is a wise choice for anyone looking for a smart-looking and functional timepiece that can withstand rigorous conditions. With its perfect size, durability, and versatility, a 39mm dive watch is a reliable tool that will also elevate your style game.

The Best 39mm Dive Watches for Men

TUDOR BLACK BAY 58 M79030N-0001

The Black Bay 58 is a vintage-inspired diver-style watch. The brown/black bezel insert with rose gold appliqué is warm and reminds one of late ’50s dive watches, complete with a red triangle at the 12 o’clock position. The sword-shaped hands put off a ‘60s vibe.

The black dial features the modern Tudor shield logo, contrasted by their pre-1969 rose logo on the crown. So, there are a couple of eras represented in this timepiece. The watch sits at 12mm thick on the wrist, perhaps slightly thinner than a Rolex Submariner.

It will easily slide under a dress shirt. There’s some nice contrast on the case between polished and satin finishes. The watch is powered by the in-house MT5402 automatic with a 70-hour power reserve. In fact, the movement was specially designed for this timepiece to allow for a smaller case size of 39mm and a slimmer profile.

There’s a hacking seconds feature, and it’s water resistant up to 200m. There’s a Glidelock system to get the perfect micro fit and a secure clasp to keep the timepiece in place.

Price: $3,950

OMEGA SEAMASTER PLANET OCEAN 600M 215.30.40.20.01.001

The Seamaster Planet not only serves as a true professional dive watch, but it looks great doing it. It wears more substantial on the wrist at 14.3mm thick. It’s also heavy. The stainless steel case measures 39mm (technically 39.5mm).

The black dial features a mix of numbers and indices. There’s a date window at 3 o’clock. The broad arrow minute hand pointing to the triangle index are both green-lumed, making it easy to time your dive, even in dark waters. The watch also features hacking seconds for precise timing.

The timepiece is powered by the Calibre 8800 automatic with a 55-hour power reserve. There’s a helium-escape valve, and it’s water-resistant up to 600m. The three-link stainless steel bracelet offers a satin finish, and there’s an extension to fit over a wetsuit.

Price: $6,700

GLASHÜTTE ORIGINAL SEAQ 1-39-11-06-80-70

The Glashütte SEAQ has classic dive watch looks. Its stainless steel case measures 39mm (39.5mm). The bezel and dial are black. The markings on the bezel are white, and the numbers and hands on the dial are a soft yellow.

There’s a date window at 3 o’clock. The timepiece is powered by the 39-11 automatic movement with a 40-hour power reserve. It’s respectably water resistant to 200m.

One of the notable features of the SeaQ is its bracelet, which is made of stainless steel and features a folding clasp with a dive extension. The bracelet is comfortable to wear and complements the watch’s overall aesthetic perfectly.

Price: $9,900

SEIKO PROSPEX SLA043

This Seiko Prospex model was introduced in 2020, marking it the 55th anniversary of the original 1965 Seiko dive watch. The stainless steel case measures 39mm, and the dial is a dark blue with chunky silver-lined indices and hands. There’s a date window at 3 o’clock. The edge of the case is a ribbed coin style.

It’s powered by an automatic movement with a 50-hour power reserve. It has a screw-down crown with 200m water resistance. The patterned silicone black strap features a tang buckle. This limited edition, with 1,700 in circulation, is the timepiece of choice for the Japanese Antarctic Expedition.

Price: $4,500

LONGINES HYDROCONQUEST L3.781.4.96.6

The Longines Hydroconquest 39mm is a beautiful and functional dive watch. This particular model features a stainless steel case and bracelet with a unidirectional rotating bezel.

The dial of the Hydroconquest is a sunburst blue, with appliqued indices and hands. The date window is located at the 3 o’clock position. The watch is water-resistant up to 300 meters.

The movement powering the Hydroconquest is the automatic Calibre L888.2, which has a power reserve of up to 72 hours.

The Hydroconquest three-link bracelet has polished center links and features a double security folding clasp with an integrated diving extension. The bracelet is comfortable to wear and fits securely on the wrist.

Price: $1,800

ORIS AQUIS 01 733 7732 4155-07 8 21 05PEB

The Oris Aquis is a lovely and functional dive watch. The stainless steel case measures 39mm (39.5mm) with a unidirectional rotating bezel.

The dial of the Aquis is a stunning shade of blue, with applique indices and hands. The date window is located at the 6 o’clock position and is easy to read. The watch is water-resistant up to 300 meters.

The movement powering the Aquis is the Oris 733, which is a self-winding movement with a power reserve of up to 41 hours. The three-link bracelet is made of stainless steel and features a folding clasp with an extension. The bracelet is comfortable to wear and fits securely on the wrist.

Price: $2,300

BALTIC AQUASCAPHE CLASSIC BLUE GILT

The Baltic Aquascaphe Classic Blue Gilt is a chic dive watch with vintage vibes and a modern touch. The watch features a 39mm stainless steel case with a unidirectional rotating bezel. The bezel has a dark blue inlay. The dial of the Aquascaphe features a sunray blue that is nearly black at the edges.

The movement powering the Aquascaphe is the automatic Miyota 9039, which has a power reserve of up to 42 hours. The watch is water-resistant up to 200 meters. The tropic diamond patterned black strap gives it a sporty look.

Price: $630

YEMA SUPERMAN 500 YSUP22A39-AMS1

Yema is a French watch company that was founded in 1948 by Henry Louis Belmont. The name “Yema” was derived from the French words “Yachting Timer”. Originally, Yema focused on producing timepieces for yachtsmen and sailors, but it quickly expanded its product line to include watches for other sports and activities.

The Yema Superman is a dive watch that was introduced in 1963. It quickly gained popularity among divers for its durability, reliability, and innovative features. The first version of the Superman, known as the “Skin Diver,” was water-resistant to 300 meters and featured a unidirectional rotating bezel.

Today’s Superman 500 is made of ultra-high quality 316L stainless steel (as expected for a luxury dive watch), which is resistant to corrosion from salt water. Its black glossy dial, cream printed markers, and simple, uncluttered, no-date design make for a highly readable dial, even underwater.

The case measures 39mm and sits high at 13.4mm thick. One drawback some have mentioned is the long lugs. They make it difficult to find other aftermarket straps. However, the steel bracelet that comes with it is a rather handsome design that’s thin and light. It features a glide system and can extend to fit over a wetsuit.

The timepiece has a screw-down crown and is water-resistant to 500m. Making this a serious dive watch. It’s powered by a YEMA2000 in-house movement with a 42-hour power reserve. This is an excellent dive watch, for the price, with solid vintage looks.

Price: $1,250

OMEGA SEAMASTER 300 1957 TRILOGY 234.10.39.20.01.001

The Omega Seamaster 300 1957 Trilogy is an attractive homage to the original Seamaster 300 that was introduced in 1957, but the build quality and features you’d expect from a modern luxury timepiece. The watch is part of Omega’s Trilogy collection, which celebrates the brand’s most iconic models from the past.

The Seamaster 300 1957 Trilogy is powered by Omega’s Caliber 8806 movement, which is certified as a Master Chronometer by METAS. It has a power reserve of up to 55 hours and is resistant to magnetic fields up to 15,000 gauss, ensuring exceptional accuracy and durability.

The watch’s black dial is adorned with vintage-style but highly luminescent hour markers and hands. The unidirectional rotating bezel, made from black aluminum, is true to the watches of the era which it pays tribute to. The case, which has a diameter of 39mm, is made of stainless steel and is water-resistant to a depth of 300 meters.

One of the notable features of the Seamaster 300 1957 Trilogy is the “lollipop” seconds hand, which is a nostalgic tip of the hat to the original model. The bracelet features contrasting satin and polished links. The clasp is substantial with a push button slider.

Price: $7,050

TUDOR PELAGOS 39 M25407N-0001

The Tudor Pelagos is the perfect accessory for adventure seekers and diving enthusiasts who appreciate superior craftsmanship and attention to detail. The Pelagos’ robust 39mm grade 2 titanium case is lightweight, durable, and resistant to corrosion.

The watch also features a unidirectional ceramic bezel with a coin edge. The watch is powered by the in-house Calibre MT5400 automatic with a power reserve of up to 70 hours, providing optimal precision and accuracy. It’s water resistant to 200m.

The Pelagos has a black sunray dial that, in some lights, can appear gray. There’s a bit of an overhang with the bezel, in contrast to the Black Bay 58 model. The Pelagos, however, is slightly thinner, measuring 11.8mm on the wrist.

The stain-finished titanium bracelet has a glide-fit system and a diver’s extension to fit over a wetsuit. The folding clasp is well-done and similar to a Rolex Submariner with the overhang of the Tudor symbol. It also comes with a rubber strap.

This is a truly handsome timepiece that looks and feels well-made at less than half the price of the big brother Submariner.

Price: $4,600

HALIOS FAIRWIND

Halios is a well-respected Canadian-based microbrand watch company that has been making waves in the industry since its inception in 2009. The brand is known for its attention to detail, commitment to quality, and aesthetic appeal, making it a favorite among watch collectors and enthusiasts worldwide.

The Fairwind model has historically sold out quickly, sometimes in 20 minutes or less. This has created demand, driving up the price on the secondhand market. This has led some to call Halios the Rolex of microbrands.

The Fairwind model offers an all-stainless steel construction, with the case measuring 39mm. The watch measures 12.4mm thick, including the domed crystal. The dial has a nice vintage look and comes in two color options, blue and gray. It has thin silver-lined hands, in contrast to its chunky indices. The seconds hand has an orange triangle tip.

The bracelet nicely contrasts between a polished and brushed finish. The 60-stop, bidirectional bezel has a solid feel. The timepiece is powered by SW200-1 self-winding movement with no date. It has a 40-hour power reserve and is water resistant to 200m.

Price: $775

SQUALE SUB-39 SUPERBLUE SUB-39-RD

Squale, French for Shark, is a Swiss company that started as a case maker. They made watch cases for many fine, notable watch companies. Squale started making their own timepieces under the direction of founder Charles von Büren. Büren was a passionate diver, and his own research drove the engineering of their dive watches.

In fact, they’re credited for making the first 1,000m dive watch, without the need for a helium escape valve, back in 1967. The latest Sub-39 is a smart-looking dive watch with a 39mm stainless steel case (real-world measurements might be a touch larger) and bezel.

The dial comes in a beautiful shade of blue that instantly sends one on a mental vacation to somewhere tropical. There’s a date window at the 3 o’clock position, adding a touch of functionality. It’s powered by a Stellita SW 200-1 automatic movement with a 38-hour power reserve.

It’s water-resistant to 300m. The timepiece comes with a blue perforated rubber strap with a tangle buckle. It might just be the perfect dive watch, especially at a steal of a price.

Price: $1,380

LORIER NEPTUNE

Lorier is a young watch brand with a unique approach to watchmaking. Founded by a husband and wife in New York City in 2018, the company’s mission is to create high-quality timepieces inspired by vintage designs from the 60s and 70s. The brand’s watches are known for their sophisticated, minimalist aesthetic and attention to detail.

Lorier’s designers pay meticulous attention to every aspect of the watch, from the typeface on the dial to the shape of the hands. The result is a collection of timeless and contemporary watches with a sense of refinement that belies their affordable price point.

The Neptune model takes you on a trip back in time to 1957 with its classic, vintage looks. Everything feels authentic, from its black dial and gilt details to its acrylic bezel insert. Wearing this watch, one can almost imagine themselves on the swim deck of a yacht, in international waters with James Bond actor Sean Connery.

Ready to embark on an underwater exploration of some supervillain’s sinister underwater lab. But I’m getting a little carried away. Under the hood of the timepiece, you’ll find a Miyota 90S5 automatic movement with no date. It’s respectably water resistant to 200m. Made of marine-grade stainless steel, the 39mm case, and three-link bracelet, with push button clasp and micro-adjustment, round out the timepiece handsomely.

Price: $499

SERICA DIVE WATCH 5303-1

Serica is a small French company headquartered in Paris. They’ve made some noteworthy budget timepieces. The name derives from a distant trading outpost of the silk road. Serica’s diver has unique good looks with early dive watch vibes.

The classic 39mm (perhaps a touch smaller real-world measurement) stainless steel case and its black bezel are well done. The velvety smoothness of the unidirectional bezel is remarkable. The black dial, with painted white hands, features a distinctive inward arrangement of some of its indices.

The Swiss Calibre Newton is a modest automatic movement with a respectable 44-hour power reserve. With a solid screw-down crown, it’s water-resistant to 300m. There’s also a GMT second time-zone feature. The bracelet is made of a thin, foldable shark mesh that further adds to the individuality of this timepiece.

Price: $1,175

STEINHART OCEAN 39 BLUE CERAMIC 103-0724

Founded in 2001 by watchmaker Gunther Steinhart, the company is based in Augsburg, Germany. They’re known for producing homage watches, and it seems they’re especially inspired by Rolex. All of their watches are powered by solid Swiss moments.

They’re also known to only sell their watches online. The Ocean 39 Blue Ceramic features a 39mm stainless steel case. The dial is a mother-of-pearl blue with silver-lined hands and indices. At the 3 o’clock position is a magnified date window.

The watch sits at about 13mm on the wrist. The timepiece is powered by an ETA 2824-2/SW 200 automatic movement. It’s water resistant to 300m. The watch comes with a respectable stainless steel three-link bracelet with a safety deployment clasp.

Price: $535

Parting Thoughts

If you’re in the market for a dive watch that offers a perfect blend of style, functionality, and wearability, then any of the top 39mm dive watches explored in this article would be an excellent choice. With their durable construction, versatile design, and top-notch features, these watches are sure to impress. Even if you’re not a diver, these tool watches offer many useful features and make for a good daily watch or a special addition to your collection.

15 BEST Tag Heuer Dive Watches For All Budgets (2023)

Posted on May 15, 2023June 1, 2023 by Grant McKay

TAG Heuer dive watches are popular. Often given as a graduation present or to celebrate a major milestone, many consider them to be their first “real” luxury watch. Seen on the wrists of American Presidents like Barack Obama and worn by movie star characters like James Bond, they’re spotted everywhere in pop culture. It’s easy to see why. Their popularity stems, at least partly, from their affordable prices, broad list of features, striking styles, and models with both quartz and automatic options.

TAG Heuer’s dive watches have gained a reputation for their exceptional quality and durability, making them a favorite among divers and water sports enthusiasts. With a wide range of models to choose from, each with its unique features and capabilities, it can be challenging to decide which TAG Heuer dive watch best fits your needs.

This article aims to examine some of the top TAG dive watches on the market today. We’ll explore their specs, features, style, and price points. So, if you’re in the market for a dive watch, especially a TAG, we’ve done the homework for you.

About TAG Heuer Dive Watches

TAG is probably most known for its dive watch collection – a close second might be their popular Formula 1 collection, which offers unique styles celebrating motorsports and useful features and tools, like 200 meters of water resistance and tachymeters that can track a car’s speed. In this article, we’ll focus on their Aquaracer 200 collection and their 300 and 1000 series.

TAG Heuer dive watches are a stylish and functional option for those looking for a timepiece that can withstand the rigors of diving. With its roots in the late 70s and early 2000s, the current line of Aquaracer Professional collections is more refined than its predecessors.

TAG has designed the new Aquaracers around 6 must-have features for a dive watch:

Water resistance of 200 meters or more

A screw-down crown

A double-folding clasp

Sapphire crystal

A unidirectional bezel that sounds and looks well made

Luminous hands and indices

History of TAG Heuer Dive Watches

TAG’s history with dive watches dates back to the 1970s. This is when the brand first introduced its Professional line of dive watches, which were water resistant to 200 meters. Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, TAG Heuer continued to innovate in the realm of dive watches.

In 1985, the brand introduced the TAG Heuer 2000, which was water-resistant up to 300 meters and featured a helium release valve for use during saturation diving. This watch became popular among professional divers and was worn by Jacques Mayol, a world champion free diver.

By 2003 TAG released their Aquaracer collection, which has become one of their most desired lines. These dive watches offered deeper water depth ratings of 300 plus meters. Today, they have timepieces rated to 1,000 feet with some impressive dive features.

Celebrities Known to Wear TAG Heuer Watches

TAG Heuer has been a luxury timepiece of choice for decades, with many famous celebrities and professional divers choosing their dive watches as their preferred choice. Here are just a few of the notable names who have been spotted wearing TAG Heuer dive watches:

1. Tom Brady – The legendary NFL quarterback has been known to sport a TAG Heuer Aquaracer during his downtime.

2. Leonardo DiCaprio – The Oscar-winning actor and environmental activist has been seen wearing a TAG Heuer Aquaracer Chronograph.

3. Cameron Diaz – The Hollywood actress and former model has been spotted wearing a TAG Heuer Aquaracer Lady.

4. Jeremy Lin – The NBA star has been seen wearing a TAG Heuer Aquaracer 500M.

5. Jean-Michel Cousteau – The son of legendary oceanographer Jacques Cousteau has been a TAG Heuer ambassador for many years and has even helped to design a limited-edition TAG Heuer Aquaracer.
6. David Guetta – The French DJ and producer has been spotted wearing a TAG Heuer Aquaracer during his performances.

The Best TAG Heuer Dive Watches

1. TAG HEUER AQUARACER PROFESSIONAL 300 (REF. WBP201A.BA0632)

This series of Aquaracer watches dates back to the 1980s. The Aquaracer Professional 300 features a classic dive watch design with a ribbed black dial and white hands and indicators, making it easy to read. The seconds hand features a mustard tip. There’s a date window at the 6 o’clock position.

The watch case is sized at 43mm, making it suitable for medium to larger wrists. The timepiece is powered by Calibre 5 Automatic with a 38-hour power reserve. The watch comes with a stainless-steel bracelet giving it a brawny and sporty appeal.

The back of the case includes an etched, raised diver’s helmet emblem. Of course, as a professional dive watch, it has a water resistance of up to 300m. This is an excellent entry-level luxury dive watch.

Price: $3,400

2. TAG HEUER AQUARACER PROFESSIONAL 200 AUTOMATIC (REF. WBP2111.BA0627)

The Aquaracer Professional 200 sports a ribbed blue sunray brushed dial with silver-lined hands and trapezoid indicators, in contrast to the dots on the 300 series. There’s also a date window at the 6 o’clock position.

The case size is 40mm, and the bezel is brushed steel, in divergence from the ceramic bezel of the 300. Under the hood, it’s powered by the same movement as the 300. On the back of the case is a raised compass symbol.

As the model number implies, it’s water resistant to 200m. All of this is paired with a stainless-steel bracelet.

Price: $2,850

3. TAG HEUER AQUARACER PROFESSIONAL 300 GMT (REF. WBP2010.BA0632)

The 300 GMT is a striking, high-performance diving watch that combines style and functionality equally. This timepiece features a 43mm stainless steel case with a unidirectional rotating bezel that allows for accurate timing of diving sessions.

This model matches the style and features of the 300 series with a few notable distinctions. The eye-catching blue dial is ribbed, featuring a GMT function and a Cyclops date window at 6 o’clock. The ceramic bezel is half blue and white.

The timepiece is powered by the Calibre 7 automatic with a 50-hour power reserve. The watch is fitted with a handsome brushed stainless-steel bracelet.

Price: $3,800

4. TAG HEUER AQUARACER PROFESSIONAL 200 QUARTZ (REF. WBP1110.BA0627)

This model, with its black ribbed dial, is virtually identical to the 200 automatic reviewed above; however, it’s powered by a quartz movement. Quartz movements offer exceptional accuracy and a lower price point, as they’re a product that can be mass-produced on an assembly line, in contrast to the meticulous, handmade process required for an automatic movement.

There’s no date window, just a clean dial with hours, minutes, and seconds. The bracelet of the Aquaracer Professional 200 is made of stainless steel and features a double safety clasp and extension system that allows for easy adjustment, even when wearing diving gear.

The three-link bracelet style has polished center links and brushed outer links. The watch also comes with a black rubber strap that can be easily swapped out for a more casual look. It gives you the same look at a better price point if you can live with a quartz.

Price: $2,150

5. TAG HEUER AQUARACER PROFESSIONAL 300 BLUE DIAL (REF. WBP201B.FT6198)

This model 300 is paired with a ribbed blue rubber strap to match the blue ribbed dial, creating a head-turning, sporty look. The case size is 43mm. The strap features a steel, folding clasp secured by push buttons. There’s also an option for a NATO strap.

TAG Heuer Aquaracer Professional 300 Blue Dial 43mm is a bold diving watch that is both practical and stylish. It combines TAG Heuer’s commitment to precision timekeeping with a rugged design perfect for outdoor activities, making it an excellent choice for those who demand the best in form and function.

Price: $3,200

6. TAG HEUER AQUARACER PROFESSIONAL 200 SOLARGRAPH (REF. WBP1180.BF0000)

The 40mm case, bezel, and bracelet are all made of brushed titanium and this pairs quite nicely with a black ribbed dial. There’s a date window at 3 o’clock, unlike the model WBP2111.BA0627, where it’s in the 6 o’clock position.

The indices, hour, and minute hands are silver lined, and the seconds hand and outer accents are turquoise, offering a pop of color. The timepiece features a solargraph, which means the quartz movement is powered by the sun and, therefore, never requires a battery replacement.

The watch is light and wears comfortably on the wrist. The timepiece is sporty but is thin enough to slip under a dress shirt and can be worn with business casual or even a suit.

Price: $3,050

7. TAG HEUER AQUARACER PROFESSIONAL 300 ORANGE DIVER (REF. WBP201F.BA0632)

The Professional 300 Orange Diver is a bold and rugged diving watch that is as functional as it is unique. This timepiece features a 43mm stainless steel case with a unidirectional rotating bezel that allows for accurate timing of diving sessions.

Inspired by the 1979 version, which proved to be popular with collectors, this sporty model boasts an orange ribbed dial with a cyclops date at 6 o’clock. It’s noticeably more refined than the original model it pays homage to.

The 43mm dodecagon-shaped case and ceramic black bezel pair nicely with the orange dial for a standout look. This timepiece makes a statement on the wrist and will surely get noticed.

Price: $3,400

8. TAG HEUER AQUARACER PROFESSIONAL 1000 SUPERDIVER (REF. WBP5A8A.BF0619)

The Aquaracer Professional 1000 is one cool dive watch with so much to offer. It has a large 45mm case and a black ceramic dodecagon bezel. The feel and sound of the turning bezel exude quality. The black and orange bezel is a steel and ceramic blend.

The dial is ribbed black, and the minute and seconds hands are orange lined. There’s a date window at 6 o’clock. The watch sits high on the wrist and is a touch heavier than one might expect from a case made of titanium. However, many find it to be comfortable.

On the side of the case, at 9 o’clock, there’s a helium release valve. On the opposite side, there’s a screw-down crown and crown guard. The timepiece is powered by an automatic movement with a 70-hour power reserve and is water resistant up to 1,000m. It also offers a hacking seconds feature for precise timing.

The bracelet is made of grade 5 titanium with folding claps and push buttons, keeping everything secure, even under active conditions. The bracelet also includes an extension to fit over a diving suit. You won’t find these same features and quality craftsmanship offered anywhere near this price point from Omega or Rolex. Included in the box is a handy diver’s flashlight at no extra cost!

Price: $6,650

9. TAG HEUER AQUARACER PROFESSIONAL 300 (REF. WBP201C.BA0632)

This model offers an understated but refined silver sunray brushed dial, unlike the previously reviewed, sporty orange dial. This model has large black gold-plated hands, a magnified date window at 6 o’clock, and a black ceramic bezel.

The bracelet of the Aquaracer Professional 300 is made of stainless steel and features a folding clasp with a double safety push-button system that allows for easy adjustment, even when wearing diving gear.

This timepiece features a 43mm stainless steel case with a unidirectional rotating bezel. This model comes in seven different configurations with various dial colors and strap options. The watches come with a black leather travel pouch with contrasting red stitching and the official TAG Heuer logo.

Price: $3,400

10. TAG HEUER AQUARACER PROFESSIONAL 300 TITANIUM GREEN DIAL (REF. WBP208B.BF0631)

Something about this version of the Professional 300 reminds me of British race cars. Maybe it’s the light titanium case, sized at 43mm. Perhaps it’s the color. The green sunray brushed dial and silver-lined white indices are sharp and easy to read.

The ceramic bezel is also green. A magnified date window at 6 o’clock adds functionality to the timepiece’s good looks. The case and bracelet are made of grade 2 titanium with an attractive and unique sandpaper finish, making the watch light and comfortable on the wrist.

It’s powered by a Calibre 5 automatic with a 38-hour power reserve and is water resistant to 300m, which gets the job done. To my eye, the timepiece would look great over a wetsuit when exploring the ocean depths and would look equally as bright paired with khakis and a field shirt on a hike.

Price: $4,200

11. TAG HEUER AQUARACER PROFESSIONAL 300 NIGHT DIVER (REF. WBP201D.FT6197)

This is a nice pairing of a bright white ribbed dial with black and white indices and black-lined hands. This model tip’s its hat to Heuer’s luminous dials from the 1980s. There’s a magnified date window at 6 o’clock. The bezel and rubber strap are black, giving the watch a sleek appearance, and when paired with the bright white, there’s a noticeable arctic flair.

With this watch on the wrist, one can almost imagine themselves retracing the steps of Shackleton’s arctic expedition, though perhaps from the comfort of a warm cruise ship. The stainless steel case, made of DLC steel, measures 43mm. It’s powered by a Calibre 5 automatic with a 38-hour power reserve.

The good looks of this timepiece are matched with solid performance. This watch can also be fitted with a light and dark blue strap or a black and gray strap.

Price: $3,750

12. TAG HEUER AQUARACER PROFESSIONAL 200 SOLARGRAPH BLACK (REF. WBP1112.FT6199)

This is an all-black watch from the dial to the bezel and rubber strap. The case is made of steel and measures 40mm, which is suitable for a wrist of 15 cm or more. The hour and minute hands are white and lined in silver, as are the indices. The seconds hand is light blue, offering a pop of color. There’s a date window at 3 o’clock.

The bezel design features a unique luminous patterned insert that reminds me of a stormy ocean. The DLC black coated steel and rubber strap make this a rugged timepiece, ready for any conditions. As noted on previous models, the solargraph allows the watch to be powered by the sun or artificial light without the need for a battery replacement.

Price: $3,050

13. TAG HEUER AQUARACER PROFESSIONAL 300 PINK DIAL (REF. WBP231J.BA0618)

This is a fun and feminine model, sized perfectly for women at 36mm. The dial is a cotton candy pink with a wave pattern, which looks bright against the polished ceramic black bezel. The hours are marked with genuine diamonds. There’s a magnified date window at 6 o’clock.

The watch is powered by a Calibre 5 automatic with a 38-hour power reserve. But don’t let the pink and diamonds fool you. This is a true diver’s watch, with water resistance up to 300m.

The bracelet is stainless steel with a folding clasp. This model comes in five different colors and strap configurations.

Price: $3,600

14. TAG HEUER AQUARACER PROFESSIONAL 300 GOLD (REF. WBD2321.BB0320)

The Professional 300 in two-tone gold and brushed steel is a classy women’s timepiece. It’s sized perfectly for ladies’ wrists at 32mm and features a yellow-gold bezel and a gray, wave pattern dial. The hands are gold, and the hours are marked with gold-lined diamonds.

There’s a magnified date at 3 o’clock. The movement is a Calibre 9 automatic with a 40-hour reserve. It has a balance frequency of 28800 vibrations per hour (VPH). The balance frequency of a wristwatch refers to the number of oscillations or vibrations that the watch’s balance wheel makes per hour.

A balance wheel is a key component of a mechanical watch’s movement, and it swings back and forth at a constant rate to regulate the watch’s timekeeping. The three-link bracelet has polished gold center links flanked by brushed steel links.

Price: $3,600

15. TAG HEUER AQUARACER PROFESSIONAL 200 QUARTZ MOTHER OF PEARL DIAL (REF. WBP1416.BA0622)

The timepiece has a mother-of-pearl dial with silver-lined hands and diamonds marking the hours. The diamonds are a brilliant-cut 1.4mm VS. The dial face is clean and simple, with no date. The bracelet and bezel are stainless steel, and it’s powered by a quartz movement.

The bracelet comes with a comfort extension link and double safety push buttons. This version of the TAG Heuer Aquaracer has a screw-down crown and is water-resistant to 200m, which makes it suitable for swimming and light snorkeling. This watch comes in five different colors and strap/bracelet combinations.

Price: $2,650

Parting Thoughts

TAG Heuer’s commitment to design, rigorous engineering, and useful tool watch collections in diving have propelled the brand to great heights. If you’re in the market for a dive watch, you can’t go wrong with their Aquaracer collection, with price points and styles to suit the needs of the everyday buyer, as well as models that meet the needs of the military and dive professional. All this is offered at prices far below other luxury brands like Rolex and Omega.

Here’s The FULL List of Top Swatch Group Brands (+Their Origins)

Posted on April 26, 2023April 29, 2023 by Grant McKay

The Swatch Group has come a long way from the two nearly bankrupt companies that founded it in the ‘80s. Today it’s one of the world’s largest watchmaking conglomerates, with a diverse range of brands under its umbrella.

From the luxury watch brands like Breguet and Omega to the affordable fashion watches of Swatch, the group has something for everyone. It is not too dissimilar to major automotive companies like Toyota, Ford, and Volkswagen, which have their budget, mid-level, and premium brands.

However, with so many brands, it can be challenging to know which ones stand out above the rest. In this article, we’ll explore some of the top Swatch Group brands and consider what makes them unique. We’ll delve into the history and heritage of each brand, their most popular models, and what sets them apart from their competitors.

We’ll start with the budget brand Swatch, followed by the iconic Omega brand, with its rich history in space exploration and sport. We’ll further consider brands like Blancpain, a brand known for its innovative complications and elegant designs. We’ll also explore Tissot and Hamilton’s more affordable yet stylish watches, among others.

About Swatch Group

Swatch Group is a Swiss conglomerate that is one of the world’s largest watchmaking companies. Founded in 1983, the company is headquartered in Biel/Bienne, Switzerland, and owns a diverse range of watch brands that cater to various price points and styles. Today they have over 30,000 employees in 40 countries.

The company’s purpose is to provide quality watches to a global market. The Swatch Group is also committed to innovation and research, and development, with a focus on creating cutting-edge timepieces that push the boundaries of traditional watchmaking.

One of the most significant assets of the Swatch Group is ETA SA, one of the largest movement manufacturers in the world. ETA produces high-quality movements for many of the group’s brands and other watchmakers worldwide. With over 8,000 employees, ETA is a critical component of the Swiss watchmaking industry, and its movements are renowned for their precision and reliability.

History of the Swatch Group

The Swatch Group’s rich and fascinating history began in the early 1980s. In 1983, the Swiss watch industry was facing a crisis due to the influx of inexpensive quartz watches from Japan, which put traditional Swiss watchmakers out of business.

Nicolas G. Hayek, a Swiss engineer and businessman saw an opportunity to revive the industry by creating a new type of watch that would be affordable, stylish, and made with high-quality Swiss craftsmanship. Hayek founded Swatch Group in 1983, and the company’s first product was the Swatch watch, a colorful, plastic timepiece that was both affordable and fashionable.

The Swatch watch became an instant sensation and helped to revitalize the Swiss watch industry. In the following years, Swatch Group continued to innovate and acquire other watch brands, including Omega in 1985 and Blancpain in 1992.

In 1998, Swatch Group acquired Breguet, one of the oldest and most prestigious watch brands in the world. Breguet was founded in 1775 by Abraham-Louis Breguet, and it has a rich history of innovation and elegance.

The brand’s watches are highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts alike. Another notable acquisition by Swatch Group was Tissot, joining the group in 1983. Tissot is known for its high-quality watches at affordable prices, making it a popular choice for both casual and serious watch enthusiasts.

Hamilton is another brand that joined Swatch Group in 1974. Hamilton was founded in the United States in 1892 and had a long history of producing high-quality watches for pilots, soldiers, and adventurers. Today, Hamilton continues to create stylish and durable watches that are popular among watch enthusiasts and adventurers alike.

The history of the Swatch Group is one of innovation, craftsmanship, and a commitment to revitalizing the Swiss watch industry. The group’s diverse range of brands and its focus on quality and affordability have made it a leader in the watchmaking world.

Best Brands of Swatch Group

Let’s delve into the history, features, and popular models of each brand.

1. Swatch

The Swatch brand is one of the most well-known and recognizable watch brands in the world. Founded in 1983 by Nicolas G. Hayek as part of the Swatch Group, the brand’s name is a combination of “second” and “watch,” reflecting its focus on creating affordable yet high-quality watches.

One of the brand’s most significant achievements was its role in reviving the Swiss watch industry in the 1980s, which had been struggling due to the rise of Japanese quartz watches. The Swatch watch, which was colorful, affordable, and made with Swiss craftsmanship, became an instant success and helped to restore confidence in the industry.

Over the years, Swatch has created many iconic collections, including the Originals, which featured bold, colorful designs, and the Skin collection, known for its ultra-thin and lightweight watches. The brand has also collaborated with numerous artists and designers, resulting in unique and creative collections such as the Swatch X You and the Swatch Art Special series.

Today, Swatch continues to offer a wide range of watches, from classic designs to playful and quirky styles. Its commitment to affordability and quality has made it a popular choice for casual wear and a collectible item for watch enthusiasts. With its unique designs and rich history, the Swatch brand remains an important part of the watchmaking world.

2. Omega

Omega is a luxury watch brand that has been at the forefront of the watchmaking industry for over 170 years. Founded in Switzerland in 1848, Omega has a rich history of innovation, precision, and durability. The brand’s watches have been used in many important events, including space exploration and the Olympics.

One of the brand’s most notable achievements was its involvement in the space race of the 1960s. Omega was chosen by NASA as the official watch for its astronauts, and the Omega Speedmaster became the first watch to be worn on the moon during the Apollo 11 mission in 1969.

Throughout its history, Omega has released many iconic collections, including the Seamaster, first introduced in 1948 and a symbol of the brand’s commitment to water-resistant watches. The Constellation collection, first released in 1952, is known for its refined elegance and timeless design.

In recent years, Omega has also introduced innovative new collections, such as the Planet Ocean, which features watches with advanced dive features, and the Globemaster, which boasts a unique design and a high level of accuracy.

Overall, Omega’s commitment to quality, precision, and innovation has made it one of the most respected and sought-after watch brands in the world. Its iconic collections and historic achievements have cemented its place in watchmaking history.

3. Longines

Longines is a luxury watch brand that was founded in Switzerland in 1832. The brand has a long and rich history of producing high-quality, elegant timepieces. Longines is known for its classic and timeless designs, which have made it a favorite among watch enthusiasts for over 180 years.

One of the brand’s most notable achievements was the development of the first chronograph movement in 1878, which many other watchmakers quickly adopted. Longines has also been involved in many important sporting events, including the Olympic Games and Formula One racing, and has been the official timekeeper for numerous events over the years.

Longines has released many iconic collections throughout its history, including the Conquest, first introduced in 1954 and a symbol of the brand’s commitment to precision and durability. The Master collection, first released in 2005, is known for its elegant and sophisticated design, while the HydroConquest collection, first introduced in 2007, is a modern and sporty line of watches.

Overall, Longines is a brand known for its timeless design, precision, and durability. Its commitment to quality has made it a favorite among watch enthusiasts for over 180 years. Its iconic collections and historic achievements have cemented its place in the world of luxury watchmaking.

4. Tissot

Tissot is a Swiss watch brand that has been producing high-quality timepieces for over 160 years. Founded in 1853, Tissot has a rich history of innovation and precision, making it one of the most respected brands in the watchmaking industry.

One of the brand’s most notable achievements was the production of the first mass-produced pocket watch with two time zones in 1853. Tissot was also the first watch brand to produce watches made of plastic, stone, and wood.

Tissot has released many iconic collections throughout its history, including the T-Touch, first introduced in 1999 and one of the first touchscreen watches in the world. The T-Classic collection, first introduced in 1996, is known for its elegant and classic designs, while the T-Sport collection offers a range of sporty watches with advanced features.

In recent years, Tissot has continued to innovate, releasing new collections such as the T-Complication collection, which features watches with intricate complications, and the T-Lady collection, which offers a range of elegant watches for women.

Overall, Tissot’s commitment to quality, precision, and innovation has made it one of the world’s most respected and sought-after watch brands. Its iconic collections and historic achievements have cemented its place in luxury watchmaking.

5. Hamilton

Hamilton is a Swiss-American watch brand that has been producing high-quality timepieces for over 100 years. Founded in 1892 in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, Hamilton has a rich history of producing watches for aviation, military, and cinema.

During World War II, Hamilton became the primary supplier of timepieces for the U.S. military, producing watches that pilots and navigators used. In the 1950s, Hamilton began to produce watches for Hollywood films, which further cemented its reputation as a brand associated with aviation and adventure.

Hamilton has released many iconic collections throughout its history, including the Khaki Field collection, which offers a range of durable and functional watches inspired by military timepieces. The Ventura collection, first introduced in 1957, featured a unique triangular case and was famously worn by Elvis Presley in the film “Blue Hawaii.”

In recent years, Hamilton has continued to innovate, releasing new collections such as the Intra-Matic collection, which offers a range of vintage-inspired watches with a modern twist, and the Jazzmaster collection, which features elegant and sophisticated timepieces.

Overall, Hamilton’s commitment to quality, innovation, and adventure has made it a favorite among watch enthusiasts for over a century. Its iconic collections and historic achievements have cemented its place in the world of luxury watchmaking.

6. Breguet

Breguet is a Swiss luxury watch brand founded by Abraham-Louis Breguet in Paris in 1775. Breguet’s legacy as a watchmaker has been upheld by the company for over two centuries, and it is known for producing technologically advanced and aesthetically beautiful timepieces.

Abraham-Louis Breguet is credited with inventing many horological complications still used in watches today, including the tourbillon, the gong spring, and the Breguet overcoil. Breguet watches were favored by European royalty and aristocrats, and the brand’s list of notable clients includes Napoleon Bonaparte, Marie Antoinette, and Queen Victoria.

Breguet has released many iconic collections throughout its history, including the Classique collection, which offers a range of elegant and traditional timepieces, and the Marine collection, which features watches inspired by the brand’s connections to the maritime world. The Reine de Naples collection, first introduced in 2002, pays tribute to the world’s first wristwatch, commissioned by Caroline Murat, Queen of Naples, in 1810.

Overall, Breguet’s commitment to innovation and elegance has made it one of the most respected and sought-after watch brands in the world. It’s historic achievements and iconic collections have cemented its place in the world of luxury watchmaking.

7. Blancpain

Blancpain is a Swiss luxury watch brand founded in 1735 by Jehan-Jacques Blancpain. It is known for its expertise in mechanical watchmaking, including developing the world’s smallest movement and creating the first automatic wristwatch.

Blancpain has released many iconic collections throughout its history, including the Fifty Fathoms collection developed in 1953 for the French Navy’s elite diving unit. The Villeret collection, named after the village where Blancpain was founded, features classic and elegant timepieces that showcase the brand’s traditional craftsmanship.

Blancpain has also made significant contributions to the world of watchmaking, including the development of the first moon phase watch in 1983, which displayed the phases of the moon with a high degree of accuracy. The brand has also been at the forefront of the revival of traditional artisanal crafts such as enamel painting, engraving, and skeletonization.

Overall, Blancpain’s commitment to technical innovation and traditional craftsmanship has made it one of the most respected and sought-after watch brands in the world. Its iconic collections and historic achievements have cemented its place in the world of luxury watchmaking.

8. Gllashütte Original

Glashütte Original is a luxury watch brand based in the German town of Glashütte, known for its precision and high-quality craftsmanship. The brand traces its roots back to the 19th century when watchmaking began to flourish in the region.

It was founded in 1994 as part of the revitalization of the German watchmaking industry after the fall of the Berlin Wall. Glashütte Original’s watchmaking expertise is based on the long-standing tradition of precision engineering and craftsmanship in Glashütte.

The brand is known for its high-quality mechanical movements, which are developed and manufactured in-house. One of Glashütte Original’s most iconic collections is the Senator line, which includes both simple and complicated timepieces.

The Pano collection features watches with asymmetrical dials, and the Vintage collection pays homage to the brand’s heritage with classic designs and details. In recent years, Glashütte Original has also established itself as a leader in the development of innovative technologies, including a silicon balance spring and a new, high-performance escapement system.

Overall, Glashütte Original’s commitment to quality and innovation has made it a respected and sought-after watch brand among collectors and enthusiasts alike.

9. Harry Winston

Harry Winston is a luxury watch and jewelry brand named after its founder, who was known as the “King of Diamonds.” Established in 1932 in New York City, Harry Winston quickly gained a reputation for its exquisite and unique diamond designs.

The brand entered the world of watchmaking in the 1980s and has since become known for its high-end, complex timepieces. Harry Winston’s watch collections are crafted with the same level of precision and attention to detail as its jewelry.

One of Harry Winston’s most iconic collections is the Ocean line, which includes sporty and dressy timepieces. The Midnight collection features elegant dress watches with intricate complications, while the Histoire de Tourbillon line showcases the brand’s expertise in creating complex movements.

In recent years, Harry Winston has also focused on creating timepieces with innovative materials, such as Zalium, a zirconium-based alloy used in some of its sportier models. Overall, Harry Winston’s dedication to both craftsmanship and design has made it a sought-after brand among collectors and those seeking unique, high-end watches.

10. Jaquet Droz

Jaquet Droz is a luxury watch brand known for its artistic, intricate timepieces. The brand was founded by Pierre Jaquet-Droz in 1738 in Switzerland and quickly gained a reputation for its exceptional craftsmanship and innovative designs.

One of Jaquet Droz’s most notable achievements was the creation of the automaton, a mechanical device that simulates human or animal movements. The brand’s founder was particularly famous for his automata, designed to perform complex movements and even write messages.

Jaquet Droz’s watch collections often incorporate elements of this automaton heritage, such as intricate and detailed dials with unique animations. The brand’s iconic collections include the Grande Seconde, which features a large subdial for the seconds hand, and the Lady 8, which incorporates a figure-eight shape into the design.

Jaquet Droz also offers timepieces with complex complications, such as perpetual calendars and minute repeaters, as well as unique materials like ivory and enamel. Overall, Jaquet Droz’s dedication to craftsmanship and creativity has made it a respected and sought-after brand in the world of luxury watches.

11. Mido

Mido is a Swiss watch brand known for its combination of classic and contemporary designs. Founded in 1918 by Georges Schaeren, Mido has been producing timepieces for over a century, with a focus on high-quality craftsmanship and functionality.

Mido’s watch collections often feature sleek, minimalist designs with simple dials and clean lines. The brand’s iconic collections include the Baroncelli, inspired by Italian neoclassical architecture, and the Commander, a vintage-inspired collection that pays homage to Mido’s past while incorporating modern technology.

In recent years, Mido has also developed timepieces with features such as chronographs and GMT functions, further expanding its range of offerings. Overall, Mido’s dedication to both style and functionality has made it a respected and reliable brand in the world of watches.

12. Rado

Rado is a Swiss luxury watchmaker founded in 1917. The brand is known for its innovative use of materials, including ceramic, which has become one of its signature materials. In 1962, Rado introduced the world’s first scratch-resistant watch, the DiaStar, made from hard metal and sapphire crystal.

The brand has since continued to push boundaries in terms of materials and technology, earning a reputation for being one of the most innovative watch brands in the industry. One of Rado’s most iconic collections is the Ceramica, which features watches made entirely from high-tech ceramic.

Another notable collection is the True Thinline, which is ultra-thin and lightweight, thanks to its use of high-tech ceramic. In recent years, Rado has also introduced the Captain Cook collection, which pays tribute to a vintage Rado diving watch from the 1960s.

This collection has been updated with modern materials and technology while retaining the classic design elements that made the original such a hit. Overall, Rado’s commitment to innovation and high-quality materials has made it a favorite among watch enthusiasts and collectors.

13. Certina

Certina is a Swiss watch brand that has been producing timepieces for over 130 years. Established in 1888, Certina quickly gained a reputation for its high-quality watches with exceptional accuracy and durability. Over the years, Certina has continued to innovate, making a name for itself as a brand that produces robust and reliable watches for sport and adventure enthusiasts.

One of Certina’s most notable achievements is its incorporation of the DS (Double Security) concept into its watches in the 1960s. This innovative design involved the use of various shock-absorbing materials and construction techniques to enhance the durability and water resistance of the watches.

Certina has several iconic collections that have contributed to the brand’s reputation for producing high-quality watches. The DS Action collection is a series of watches designed for diving and other water-based activities.

In contrast, the DS Podium collection offers timepieces with a sporty and elegant design suitable for everyday wear. The Heritage collection is also a popular series featuring vintage-inspired designs that pay homage to the brand’s history.

14. Union Glashütte

Union Glashütte is a Swiss-German luxury watch brand known for its elegant designs and precise timekeeping. Founded in 1893 in the town of Glashütte, Germany, Union Glashütte has been a part of the Swatch Group since 1983.

The brand prides itself on its technical expertise and attention to detail, as well as its commitment to creating beautiful and functional timepieces. Over the years, Union Glashütte has released several iconic collections, including the Belisar, the Noramis, and the Viro Date.

These collections feature a range of styles, from classic dress watches to sporty chronographs, and are known for their high-quality materials, meticulous craftsmanship, and excellent performance. Union Glashütte is also known for its use of in-house movements, designed and manufactured in the brand’s facilities in Switzerland and Germany.

In recent years, Union Glashütte has continued to innovate and push the boundaries of watchmaking while staying true to its heritage and tradition of excellence. With its combination of style, precision, and technical expertise, Union Glashütte is a brand that appeals to watch enthusiasts and collectors alike.

15. Léon Hatot

Léon Hatot is a Swiss watch brand that was founded in 1924 by Léon Hatot, who was a famous jeweler, watchmaker, and inventor. The brand’s philosophy is to blend technology and design to create watches that embody elegance and precision.

The brand’s early focus was on producing high-quality pocket watches, but it quickly expanded into wristwatches. Over the years, the brand has won numerous awards for its exceptional designs and technological innovations.

Léon Hatot has had several iconic collections throughout the years, including the La Déesse collection, which was inspired by the famous French sculpture “Winged Victory of Samothrace.” Another iconic collection is the Nanette collection, which was designed for women and featured elegant and delicate timepieces. Léon Hatot’s watches are highly sought after by collectors and are known for their exquisite craftsmanship and timeless design.

Parting Thoughts

The Swatch Group encompasses a wide variety of watch brands with distinct styles and histories. From budget brands like Swatch to the luxury timepieces of Breguet and Blancpain and the iconic Omega, there’s a watch for every taste, budget, and need. If one of these Swatch Group brands has tickled your fancy, consider contacting the watch experts at Exquisite Timepieces for help researching and purchasing your next timepiece.