William Boyd, Author at Exquisite Timepieces - Page 15 of 18

Author: William Boyd

William has been collecting and exploring luxury watches ever since he was 19. He discovered his passion for timepieces when he received a vintage rolex submariner as a gift from his father on his 18th birthday! And there has been no looking back ever since!

The following article will feature the comparison of the Tissot watch brand with that of Tag Heuer.

Both companies were founded in the mid-1800s in Switzerland and have a rich history of marketing and brand promotion.

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Foundations

Tissot began when the Tissot family, father, and son, established the brand in 1853. They enjoyed great success with the manufacture of pocket watches, which gained popularity worldwide.

As their success gained momentum, more wrist watches were introduced offering swiss craftsmanship at an affordable price. 

As electricity became more a part of everyday life, Tissot developed the first non-magnetic wristwatch in 1930.

Since electricity adversely affected a watch’s timekeeping precision by magnetizing the movement, this was a great and necessary advancement.

Today, Tissot is widely renowned for its quality and affordability. The collection has a retail starting point of approximately $450.00 and offers a wide range of selections for both men and women in straps, bracelets, and even gold and steel/gold models. 

Tag Heuer was founded in 1860 by Edouard Heuer and quickly became synonymous with high-precision instruments for measuring time.

The company’s reputation was forged by the development of high-speed mechanical, and eventually, automatic chronographs. Another milestone for Heuer was the release of the Mikrograph in 2011.

The Mikrograph is a self-winding chronograph with an accuracy of 1/100’s of a second. This was the first of its kind for this degree of accuracy in a stopwatch. 

Tag Heuer has built a strong reputation in the racing world as a durable and accurate wristwatch. Albeit, in comparing the Tissot and Tag Heuer brands, the Heuer watches have a much higher retail entry price point and also offer a much narrower selection for women throughout the collection. 

Tag Heuer Formula 1 Chronograph VS Tissot PRS516 Chronograph

Tag Heuer Formula 1 Chronograph VS Tissot PRS516 Chronograph

With this preliminary background, I will compare one of Tag Heuers’ most popular models, the Formula 1 with a comparable Tissot model to give the reader features to weigh in determining or helping make a decision in purchasing one or the other. 

The Formula 1 quartz chronograph has a 43mm. Brushed steel case with a screw-down crown and water-resistant to 200m. It is outfitted with a brushed steel bracelet and a scratchproof sapphire crystal.

The quartz movement reflects hours, minutes, and seconds, and also displays the date. The chronograph records seconds and 30-minute increments.

It is available in both strap and bracelet models and retails in the $1650.00-$1850.00 range. 

The Formula 1 chronograph is also available with a caliber 16 automatic movement with a 42-hour power reserve.

The case of the automatic measures 44mm and is comprised of brushed and polished stainless steel with a ceramic bezel. It also has a screw-down crown and is water-resistant to 200m. This model is priced at approximately $3250.

If you have no interest in owning a chronograph, an analog Formula 1 with a quartz movement is available.

This watch has a 41mm. Case and is available in both strap and bracelet, and in various colored dials and bezels. These timepieces have an entrance point of $1450.00. TAG Heuer® Official Website – Formula 1 Chronograph Watches | TAG Heuer US.

For comparison, after reviewing the Tissot collection, I have chosen the PRS516 Chronograph. As with the Tag Heuer Formula 1, this model is available in both quartz and automatic movements. 

The quartz model is made of 316L stainless steel and measures a diameter of 45mm and is water-resistant to 100m. It has a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal and a 4 jewel swiss movement with EOL (battery end-of-life indicator).

The chronograph features a central 60 seconds chronograph hand, 30 minutes and 1/10 of a second counter, and ADD and SPLIT functions.

A very reasonable entrance price point of approximately $475.00 rounds out this offering. The automatic version shares many of the same attributes with its quartz counterpart.

Fundamental differences are that the sapphire crystal has a non-reflective coating, a ceramic bezel, and a see-through case back.

The movement is a 27 jewel Swiss Valjoux A05 H31 automatic with a 68-hour power reserve. This model retails for $1895.00. TISSOT PRS Collection | Tissot® official website | Tissot

Conclusion: For affordability, the Tissot wins, but there are many subjective factors to consider. In either case, trying on either piece, aside from price, and determining the fit and finishes, and comfort on your wrist will go a long way in making a decision.

The Heuer will most likely be perceived as a more prestigious choice, but I suggest you make your decision given the price, quality, and features. 

Tag Heuer Carrera Dress Watch Vs Tissot Gentleman

Tag Heuer Carrera Dress Watch Vs Tissot Gentleman

In all fairness, I felt that comparing a more basic watch from each collection would offer a juxtaposition to the sportier chronographs previously compared. My choice here was the Heuer Carrera Dress Watch and the Tissot Gentleman. 

The Heuer Carrera is dressier, may I even say a simpler model, but a very sleek and great-looking wristwatch. The Carrera is available with either a quartz or an automatic movement with the following attributes.

The quartz model is marked by a 36mm. polished steel case. It is water-resistant to 100m. and available with a bracelet or with a strap and retails for $1900. 

The automatic is available in either a date or a day/date model. The date model has a 39mm. Brushed and polished steel case and is water resistant to 100m.

The accompanying bracelet has a steel folding push button clasp and is fitted with a caliber 5 movement with 38 hours of power in reserve.

The date model with a strap retails for approx. $2750. in contrast, the bracelet option carries a retail of $2850. 

The day/date selection has a 41mm. Case and a see-through back to admire the automatic movement. The watch shares the same caliber 5 movement with a 38-hour power reserve as the date model, and both are available in a limited selection of dial and strap colors.

Though limited, each combination is captivating in its elegance, understatedness, and beauty. Luxury Sporty Watches for Men | TAG Heuer® Carrera – Official Site | TAG Heuer US 

The Tissot Gentleman was a model that I felt was comparable in appearance and features to the Heuer Carrera. Here the comparison feels more like comparing apples to oranges when reviewing the quartz Gentleman.

There is an abyss between the price points on each of these watches, to begin with. The strap version retails for $350.00 and the bracelet selection for $375.00.

The quartz movement is a basic swiss movement, and accurate for argument’s sake, but it seems to be a lopsided comparison in examining the two timepieces side by side.

Tissot Gentleman | Tissot. The gap is closed considerably in examining the Gentleman Powermatic 80 Silicium. This offering seems to be a much fairer contest when observing its features with the Carrera.

The watch has a 40mm. 316L stainless steel case and possesses water resistance to 100m. It has a domed scratch-resistant sapphire crystal with an anti-reflective coating and a see-through case back. The 25 jewel movement has an 80-hour power reserve and retails for $775.00.

There is even a steel model available with an 18 kt. gold bezel that retails for approx. $1575.00. 

Conclusion: For my taste, I prefer the Heuer Carrera but the Tissot Gentleman Powermatic 80 Silicium is a worthy consideration and as with all Tissot watches, a quality choice at an affordable price. 

Tag Heuer Ladies Carrera VS Tissot T-My Lady

Tag Heuer Ladies Carrera VS Tissot T-My Lady

Both Tissot and Tag Heuer offer a wide range of women’s watches with a predominance of quartz choices and some automatic alternatives. The entry price point for a lady’s Tissot wristwatch is below $200.00 whereas any Tag Heuer is considerably higher.

A woman can purchase a basic dress watch with a quartz movement for an exceptionally reasonable price and there is a much greater depth of selection than in the Tag Heuer brand. 

In order to make a reasonable comparison between two similar or comparable models from each collection, I have chosen the Tissot T-My Lady and the Tag Heuer Ladies Carrera offerings. The T-My Lady is available in both quartz and an automatic version.

The quartz model has a 3 jewel swiss movement with EOL, and a battery end-of-life indicator. It retails for $425.00. The automatic model has a 29.3mm case and is made of 316L stainless steel.

It is water resistant to 100m. And has a domed scratch-resistant sapphire crystal with a see-through back. It is powered by a 24-jewel swiss made movement with 48 hours of power reserve capacity.

It retails for approximately $850.00. The Tag Heuer Ladies Carrera comprises about 40% of the lady’s collection and ranges within approximate retail of $1700.00-$6300.00.

The quartz model comes in a 36mm. case with a single offering with a 32mm. case. The 32mm. retails for about $2400.00 and is adorned with a tastefully designed diamond dial.

The 36mm. Styles are available in an all-polished stainless steel case with either strap (1900.00) or a steel bracelet ($2150.00). It is water resistant to 100m.

And there is a selection of variations with diamond dials or diamond bezels. The Carrera automatic is designed with a caliber 9 swiss movement and has a 40-hour power reserve capacity.

These cases are 29mm. in diameter and have a starting point of $2500.00 retail. In addition, Tag Heuer has a relatively new selection of sporty women’s watches roughly priced in the $1950.00-$3600.00 range.

These Aquaracers are manufactured with either a 30mm. Or a 36mm. Case with either quartz or automatic movements. They are adorned with rubber straps or stainless steel bracelets and in an array of dial colors. 

Are there better watch brands on the market compared to Tissot or Tag Heuer the definitive answer would be yes. But when making any comparison, one must consider price and an array of factors in agreeing or disagreeing with this point.

For an affordable, quality timepiece, Tissot definitely fills a niche and has a long history of watchmaking to back up the brand.

The Tag Heuer brand is more expensive, and narrower in selection but has built a strong reputation over time within the racing world and with their chronograph models.

If one would have to categorize either brand as a luxury brand, the scales are tilted in Heuer’s favor.

Tag Heuer Vs Longines

The question has been posed as to how Tag Heuer watches stack up against the Longines brand. Here again, subjectivity must come into play in arriving at a conclusion. The Longines brand has a history that dates as far back as 1832, even though its founding date is 1867.

Whether widely known or not by watch enthusiasts, Longines was a major contributor to the development of the chronograph which reflects a common thread between the two brands.

Today, the Longines brand has a reputation for fashionable, high-quality swiss timepieces. There is a much deeper selection of watches to choose from in either gents’ or ladies’ models and most of the collection is priced between $1000.00- $3000.00 retail.

If you would like to compare similar styled and featured watches, then you might do some further research on the Longines Spirit Chronograph and do a side-by-side comparison with the equivalent Tag Heuer Formula 1. 

Tissot for budget-conscious

Tissot is a great stylish choice if budget is a major determining factor in purchasing your first swiss watch. Along with affordability, there is a reasonable depth of selection earmarked by styles that should be attractive to most men and women.

If your budget is less of a consideration, and especially if you are looking for a chronograph with brand recognition and the element of prestige, then the Tag Heuer would and should be a worthy consideration.

Even if you are not in the market for a sport or chronograph watch, the Carrera (mentioned in this article) is a reasonably priced and eye-catching watch that will surely satisfy your hunger for a high-quality swiss made watch and will draw compliments.

The added ability to choose either a quartz or automatic movement, the options of either strap or bracelet models, coupled with dial and strap colors should make finding the perfect timepiece a surety.

I hope this article has provided a starting point in assisting you in choosing either a Tissot or Tag Heuer watch. There are many brands from which to choose your next timepiece but always remember to be subjective.

If you are making a purchase for the sole purpose of status or recognizability, then the list of choices becomes greatly narrower, but if you are willing to be open-minded and patient and do your due diligence, there are many brands worthy of consideration due to their features, quality, etc. for your next purchase. Hoping your search bears fruit and you find the perfect timepiece.

Which brand offers better value for money: Tissot or Tag Heuer?

When you break down all of the specs, I have to say Tissot delivers better value for money. From my point of view, the blend of affordability and product variety is what drives this sentiment. Many would likely argue this viewpoint, but the Tissot approach to luxury watchmaking simply makes more sense in the long term.

Now, Tag Heuer can be much more fashionable and luxurious, but I’m not confident in its long-term value due to looks alone. This sentiment is bound to fluctuate in real-world situations as many factors come into play. Value for money is a very individual consideration, as it will mean something different from one person to the next.

Tissot reigns supreme when it comes to overall value, but Tag Heuer is much more along the lines of a statement piece. For me, I’d rather have a Tissot as an heirlom compared to Tag Heuer. 

You can probably hear my personal viewpoints interjected here, but it’s simply what I’ve gathered from hands-on experience. It’s a balance between your personal preferences and what the market says realistically. This can come with many conflicting points of view, but it’s crucial to know what you’re working with before you invest.

Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, Exquisite Timepieces earns from qualifying purchases made through affiliate links. This helps support our website at no additional cost to you.

Breitling vs Tag Heuer watches

The race has begun to determine which luxury watch is the greatest of the industry. Both Breitling and Tag Heuer timepieces are considered at the top of the class and both well-respected by watch enthusiasts for a myriad of reasons.

It makes sense that these two highly regarded watch companies are in a such intense rivalry with one another and their devoted customers.

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The competition to be the best has been a boon for watch lovers as they reap the benefits of both companies attempting to gain a leg up on the competition with the release of each new series.

Such beautiful design items are rarely available on the market, so whenever they are new pieces releases, consumers are of course intrigued about what is on offer.

Customers want to know their usual considerable investment is toward a useful, stunning, and visually beautiful watch.

Making a selection between the two premium brands might be difficult, but knowing how they differ, a true watch aficionado can pinpoint the attributes they particularly like and made a decision based on those components.

Our Top 3 Picks

Big Bang Unico Green Saxem

Tag Heuer

Formula 1 WAH111B.BA0850

  • Stainless Steel
  • Quartz
  • 41mm
Big Bang Unico Green Saxem

Breitling

Chronomat B01 AB0134101L1A1

  • Stainless Steel
  • Automatic
  • 42mm
Big Bang Unico Green Saxem

Tag Heuer

Formula 1 WAH111B.BA0850

  • Stainless Steel
  • Quartz
  • 41mm

So let’s start:

Which Brand Is More Premium? Tag Heuer VS Breitling

Breitling History

If we talk about premium quality and other features, it’s hard to pick a winner from both rivals. Nevertheless, not every genuine watch enthusiast has a similar opinion.

There is a huge fanbase of both Tag Heuer and Breitling who isn’t ready for the Tag Heuer vs. Breitling debate.

There will always be watch enthusiasts who would vouch for Breitling yet still have Tag Monaco or a Carrera Heuer 01 in their collection.

Many collectors would contend that Tag Heuer has to move upmarket to compete with Breitling. With the release of the Carrera series, Tag Heuer tried to overtake the competition.

It’s undoubtedly a fantastic start, and an interesting journey that has led to new discoveries and assertions in the industry. 

In the future, perhaps they will release even more complicated watches to elevate their standing even further than it is already.

As both of these watch manufacturers belong to the Swiss family, it’s useless to debate which one is more premium.

Every Swiss watch is premium, and anyone that appreciates superb quality understands this as a baseline. 

Which Brand Makes More Popular Watches? Tag Heuer VS Breitling

Tag Heuer watches might seem to be more expensive than the competition, however, it is worth noting that one should also know that their budget watches lineup starts at a very low price tag, making them accessible to a much larger audience.

You’ll find roughly 600 percent more individuals wearing them than Breitling. This is a steep statistic that indicates their mission to introduce more people to their perennial designs as a lifestyle brand. 

They are more popular than the latter, but both companies manufacture a lot of well-known timepieces.

However, if one must choose one over the other, then there should be a slight edge given to Tag Heuer due to their availability. 

Breitling advertises and sells its product mostly in European countries as opposed to stateside. On the other hand, Tag Heuer sells globally across all continents, making it a more easily available brand than Breitling.

This is the type of exclusivity that speaks volumes about the intent and missions of each particular brand and also works as a marketing ploy to pique interest.

Which Brand Makes More Accurate Watches? Tag Heuer vs. Breitling

The ultimate recognition for precision and durability of mechanical watch functions goes to COSC-certified chronometers.

A watch must meet standards of -4/+6 seconds daily to receive the COSC Chronometer certification of accuracy. A few Tag Heuer watch calibers have been certified as chronometers by the COSC.

Tag Heuer timepieces are rigorously tested to achieve very high levels of precision. These are facts that have inevitably led to the brand being such a respected name in the game and a reason that many watch enthusiasts flock to the name. Fewer Breitling watches are not COSC chronometers compared to the small number of TAG Heuer watches.

Most of their quartz timepieces, like the 74 Breitling SuperQuartzTM caliber, are Quartz Chronometers with COSC certification.

Any battery-operated or non-mechanical timepiece will have a quartz movement. In fact, Breitling quartz watches feature an exclusive breed of COSC-certified quartz movements.

These quartz movements are superior to those found in TAG Heuer watches in terms of both quality and precision.

Which Brand Makes More Complicated Watches? Tag Heuer vs. Breitling

Breitling watches are often more likely to be loaded with extra features and are considered superior when it comes to manufacturing. However, both companies commonly produce timepieces with significant mechanical complexity.

Additionally, they offer many exclusive features that are reserved solely for pilots. On the other hand, Tag Heuer watches don’t provide any such features typically, but the brand is known for its exceptional chronographs.

Moreover, the Carrera line is one of the most famous watch lineups ever and one that is heavily followed with each successive release.

A chronograph is an extremely complex mechanism that requires a master watchmaker to build. Although it isn’t as stunning as a tourbillon or perpetual calendar, which are highly complicated.

Which Brand Offers Better Warranty? Tag Heuer vs. Breitling

Compared to TAG Heuer’s 2-year warranty, Breitling watches come with a 5-year warranty. These warranties often cover production flaws and, if necessary, cell changes.

This is a marked difference that true watch enthusiasts make note of and it sometimes comes down as one of the deciding factors on which watch will ultimately be purchased.

Harm to the dial or case back crystals, straps, irrespective of the material they are made of, wear and tear, water damage brought on by immersing the watch lower than the advised depth limit, and bodily shock are some things not protected by the warranty.

All of these potential defects should be taken into consideration before making a purchase that is meant to be a lifelong investment.

However, warranty is generally not a concern of watch enthusiasts looking for amazing watches. Luxury watches are known to last, and people use them with extreme care too, but Breitling offers a longer warranty.

Which Brand Has A Better Resale Value? Tag Heuer vs. Breitling

On average, a Breitling watch will sell for more money at resale than a Tag Heuer watch. Specific models from each brand are regarded as collector items and have a higher than average resale value because of their scarcity and iconic status.

So, this is a component that cannot be generalized. Selling your Breitling watch will often net you a higher profit than selling your Tag Heuer watch in the future.

Which Brand Has An Older History? Tag Heuer vs. Breitling

Léon Breitling established Breitling in 1884 in St. Imier, Switzerland. Chronographs made by the firm have a long history of being used in science, sports, and business.

The company relocated to bigger quarters at La Chaux-de-Fonds in 1892. Breitling introduced a timepiece with a chronograph function in 1915.

The brilliant idea to include a push-piece at 2 o’clock to start, stop, and reset the chronograph operations came from Léon Breitling’s son, Gaston.

The chronograph continued to advance. Léon Breitling’s grandson Willy came up with the idea to include a second push-piece at 4 o’clock for the chronograph functionality. Since then, Breitling has risen to new heights and respect within the industry. 

On the other hand, Tag Heuer’s legacy is undoubtedly one of the most significant Swiss watch companies.

The Swiss firm was originally known as Heuer and renamed Tag Heuer in 1985 when the TAG Group acquired controlling ownership in the business.

It was founded in 1860 and has been a vital contributor to the advancement of watchmaking’s precision and performance. In St-Imier, a Swiss municipality in the canton of Bern, Edouard Heuer (1840–1892) founded Uhrenmanufaktur Heuer AG, where its history began.

At the time, he was barely 20 years old and began his watchmaking training at 14.

In 1887, Heuer developed the “oscillating pinion” for stopwatches, a significant development. 

This device, consisting of a moveable shaft with two gears and variously sized teeth, may be activated to start or stop the chronograph function by pressing the corresponding push buttons.

Just keep in mind that major watch manufacturers of mechanical chronographs still employ the oscillating pinion to understand this discovery’s significance.

To put it in simple words, Tag Heuer is a more historic, older, and classic brand than Breitling. But the legacy of Breitling isn’t far behind either. 

Most Iconic Tag Heuer Watches

Formula 1

Tag Heuer Formula 1

Tag Heuer is the only watch company with permission to refer to its product range as ‘Formula 1’.

Over the decades, it has sponsored McLaren, Ferrari, and Williams. Jack Heuer became involved with motorsports in 1968 when he partnered with Swiss star Jo ‘Seppi’ Siffert.

It continues to serve as the Monaco Grand Prix’s and the Automobile Club of Monaco’s official timekeeper.

Using all the colors and visual elements of the F1 team, the new Red Bull Racing special edition timepiece makes the relationship between the two visible.

Aqua Racer

The new Acquaracer is a fresh addition to Tag Heuer’s iconic watches lineup. Additionally, it is thinner and fits better.

Thanks to these minor upgrades, it is now the best-looking diving watch in the Tag Heuer range. Note the all-blue model, which is offered in various colors and is perfect for a sporty diving watch.

Indie 500

Another iconic piece of motorsport watches. The Carrera Panamericana influenced this one, a five-year-long border-to-border race between Mexico and the United States called The Most Deadly Race on earth. It features the outstanding Calibre 16 automatic movement from Tag Heuer and has a 42-hour power reserve.

Most Iconic Breitling Watches

SuperOcean Heritage

Breitling Superocean Heritage

This 2020 capsule collection paid homage to a vintage Breitling watch from 1957 and the carefree way of life of American west coast surfers at the time.

The original Superocean, created to equip professional and military divers, was quickly embraced by recreational divers and fashion-conscious watch nerds.

The enormous indices evoke geometric patterns from the 1960s, and the tactile ceramic bezel rotates in both directions.

Chronomat

Breitling Chronomat's design

The aggressively heavy sports chronograph from Breitling blends pilot and diver aesthetics. The watch series has 42mm casings and the distinctive Chronomat ‘rider tabs’ at 3, 6, and 9 o’clock that are glove-friendly.

They function as grip aids, visual indicators, and protectors of the domed sapphire crystal, among other things. It is a tribute to its 1980s roots and appears on an integrated stainless steel ‘Rouleaux’ bracelet.

Super Avenger

In recent times, men’s watch sizes have steadily reduced. However, there is still a large proportion of men for whom wearing a watch is an unavoidable chance to make a strong, daring statement, and that is what the 48″ Super Avenger Chronograph does.

The pushers are strong and shockproof, developed with adventurers in mind. Just like its name, the watch itself is too rigid.

Although, rough use might damage the watch’s dial and face. But, if you use it with extreme care, it will last an eternity.

FAQs

Are Breitling watches good?

Yes, Breitling is a luxury watch brand with some iconic series. Due to its long warranty, attractive dials, and premium build quality, it is a favorite brand of watch enthusiasts.

Is Breitling Better Than Tag Heuer?

A straight answer to this question is next to impossible. Breitling offers a better warranty and resale value, but Tag Heuer also outperforms Breitling in several other domains. Therefore, both watches are best in some categories and lack behind in others.

Is Breitling Considered A Luxury Watch?

Breitling is a Swiss watch brand which is enough reason to call it a luxury watch brand. However, there are several other reasons, including premium chronographs, high watch prices, and huge market share, which adds to the fact that Breitling is a luxury watch.

Final Notes

Everyone enjoys adorning themselves with a beautiful timepiece. In particular, everyone enjoys wearing luxury watches. It will be tough if you are a watch enthusiast trying to differentiate between Tag Heuer and Breitling.

Both of these luxury watch brands are good enough to attract even the most demanding watch enthusiast’s attention.

However, there are people with different tastes and likes. So, both of these watch brands are unique in their own league and can be considered.

In terms of resale value and brand warranty, Breitling is superior. But, Tag Heuer steals the show regarding luxury dials, premium quality, and affordability.

IWC vs Omega Brand Comparison

IWC vs. Omega (EVERYTHING to Know From Past to Present)

William Boyd

August 6, 2022

Omega’s Rich History

Louis Brandt founded a timepiece company in La Chaux-de-Fonds in 1848, marking the beginning of OMEGA’s story and a legacy that is still impactful to this day.

At the time, the company was viewed as atypical from most in that it took an unusual approach by splitting the project among many manufacturing groups, each focusing on a different aspect of the motion.

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These measures proved to be a key reason for the success of the brand and a component that other companies have since incorporated into their own standard operating procedure.

Now, Omega is ideally attributed with taking the luxury watch market to the level that it is at today, a move that resulted in other brands working diligently to optimize their own methods in order to compete with excellence. 

The final product was then put together and named ‘Louis Brandt’. Later in 1879, the founder gave his two sons – Louis Paul and César Brandt – control of the business.

The firm was renamed ‘Louis Brandt & Fils’ as their first choice and a new way of doing business emerged yet again.

Once the two brother began leading the business, they resolved to introduce their own ideas that could potentially revolutionize the business. 

The two sons had their own ideas about how to recalibrate the business to optimize it across the board, one of the first actions being to relocate the business to Bienne in the canton of Bern as they wanted to turn the company into a respected name in the watchmaking world, and the canton of Bern was more suited to this expansion at that time.

The move was met with some friction in the beginning, but once the dust settled, it was clear that the siblings had made the right decision and the company quickly benefitted from their actions. 

They introduced the first caliber in the line, ‘Le labrador’, in 1880. This caliber went on to become a huge hit, allowing the brand to grow quickly and recruit up to 250 workers over a year.

The increase in workers had a great impact on work production and allowed them to produce more watches that were shipped to other parts of the world.

The company, which now ahd the potential to produce 100,000 watches annually, grew by pleaps and bounds to be the biggest in the Swiss timepiece sector by the decade’s end.

This type of growth capped a tremendous run and demonstrated to those within the industry and outside of it that the brothers were now movers and shakers in the watchmaking business. 

The 19-line caliber was created by the two brothers in 1894, revolutionizing timepieces at the time.

The two brothers chose the name “OMEGA” for their design in honor of the pinnacle of success as each component may be switched out by any watchmaker worldwide.

The name is now iconic and associated with the very best in precision watchmaking and timeless elegance. 

Our Top 3 Picks

Big Bang Unico Green Saxem

Omega

Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional Master Chronograph 310.30.42.50.01.001

  • Stainless Steel
  • Manual
  • 42mm
Big Bang Unico Green Saxem

Omega

Seamaster Diver 300M Co-Axial Master Chronometer on Bracelet

  • Stainless Steel, Blue Bezel
  • Automatic
  • 42mm
Big Bang Unico Green Saxem

Omega

Constellation Globemaster Co-Axial Master Chronometer Annual Calendar 41mm 130.23.41.22.06.001

  • Stainless Steel and Sedna Gold
  • Automatic
  • 41mm

IWC’s Origins and Present

IWC Watch

The American watch enthusiast Aristo Jones moved to Schaffhausen, Switzerland, in 1868, marking the beginning of IWC’s prosperous heritage. 

With the help of advanced technology that his trusted colleague Johann Heinrich Moser created, they began manufacturing automated watches using the hydropower of the Rhine.

Ten thousand watches for the American market could be produced by the Schaffhauser manufacturer a year later.

Buoyed by these improvements, IWC soon capitalized on the measures in a tremendous way. IWC was obliged to hunt for alternative sales markets due to the rise in import taxes to the United States.

Thus, IWC started a jewelry and watch company, specifically in Germany. IWC’s main offerings were wristwatches, as well as increasingly accurate pilot watches that were used over flyer jackets.

Back at the start of the 20th century, the electrical instruments of the day were a challenge for pilots since they did not offer accurate calculations. 

Initially, pocket timepieces were utilized as a guiding tool, but they could not withstand the rigorous operations in airplanes, making it nearly impossible to see them while in flight.

In an attempt to counteract this dilemma, IWC created the ‘special watch for airmen’ to make it easier to view. 

Wearing an iconic wristwatch is a decades-old fashion trend that is still relevant today and shows no signs of letting up. People still view luxury watch brands as status symbols and feel proud of wearing them.

Meanwhile, there are several watch brands in the luxury watches industry, but the Swiss watches sit at the top.

IWC and Omega are two of the most sought-after Swiss luxury watch brands. Both brands are one of a kind, and the buyers often stay confused while choosing between these two.

The one component they both share is that no matter which brand is being worn, there is undeniable quality on the wrist. 

So, we are here to explain the IWC VS Omega rivalry and present a better comparison to help you make a wise decision. 

IWC VS Omega – Quality And Craftsmanship

Omega

Omega Watches Speedmaster

The quality and craftsmanship of Omega watches are exceptional and for many consumers, beyond compare.

The brand is synonymous with class and luxury, both traits that can be seen on each piece in their collections and a trait the prospective buyers expect when investing in one.

The company has paid attention to every little detail and this what has set them apart from the field for generations.

Omega is more than simply a name; it has very high standards for every watch series it makes, breaking records and reaching figures that other companies can’t match. 

Their operational accuracy has only improved over time, demonstrating how these watches retain their worth.

Anyone that is looking to buy an exceptional watch that doubles as a bold style statement knows that the Omega name speaks volumes and comes with a rareified history.

The design of Omega watches is always attractive, and Omega wearers can see it because their products are renowned for their stunning elegance and impecable design.

The company prioritizes graceful curves to remove pain throughout the production process so that customers can use the watch daily. After that, the artistry continues behind the watch face.

The combining of these two principles demonstrates that the brand maintains a fine balance between fashion and functionality in constructing their watches. 

The sophisticated mechanisms of the watch require complicated technical elements to function and only the best in the field of watchmaking are on call to address the small details.

Hence, a master watchmaker’s talent is partly responsible for the high price. Every little screw behind the face announces that it belongs to the prestigious Omega brand.

IWC

IWC watches are made with specific craftsmanship that guarantees buyers will flex and pass on the watches for centuries.

The parts could require routine maintenance to be capable of lasting very long. Only properly qualified IWC watchmakers are authorized to provide service, repair, and maintenance for IWC timepieces.

At the head office, watches are often fixed with care and attention, especially for older models. 

The IWC manufacturing facility creates items of extraordinary quality and distinctive pieces by combining traditional craftsmanship with new equipment.

Because of its excellent craftsmanship and design, IWC watches have long been perceived as having a unique taste. The majority have thought about the wristwatch as an investment.

IWC VS Omega – Warranty

Omega

The five-year club now includes Omega. The company now provides a five-year guarantee on all of its timepieces, three years longer than the industry norm of two years, and is mandated by European law.

This guarantee ensures that those that invest in an Omega watch receive service that goes beyond the standard and respects the amount of money and time given to the watch. 

Because of the significant technical advancements in watch production over the previous 10 years, it is one of few manufacturers that have recently increased their guarantees to three, four, and five years.

While other companies only provide the extended warranty on a select few models, Omega does so for all models.

Premium watches are built to last, which dictates that additional measures be put into place to assure quality that is long-lasting. Motions are now lubricant-free thanks to silicon parts.

Superior materials, such as titanium and ceramic, are resistant to shocks, bullets, salt water, corrosion, and scratches. The effect of all these innovations is now reflected in the warranty of Omega.

Since 2015, Rolex has provided a five-year warranty on all of its timepieces, which feature in-house components.

The following year, Breitling jumped on board by providing a five-year warranty on timepieces powered by its in-house calibers. 

The same thing was done by Omega for watches equipped with premium co-axial calibers, but it is now expanding the five-year guarantee to all Omega timepieces.

IWC

In 2019, IWC announced an eight-year warranty on all of its watches. Furthermore, after completing their order, every new IWC watch customer will have the choice to register in the new program. 

The ‘International Limited Warranty’ for the company will be increased from its regular two years to the extra eight for the bought watch following registration.

The program will also be retrospectively available, allowing customers who bought an IWC within the last two years to sign up for the extension as long as the timepiece is still covered by its original warranty. IWC beats Omega by a huge margin in terms of the warranty. 

3 Best Watches From Omega

Omega Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch

There are several variants of the Omega Speedmaster on the current market, and it is widely acknowledged as Omega’s most popular and well-known watch.

When Buzz Aldrin, an astronaut, wore the Omega Speedmaster on the first human-crewed lunar landing in 1969, it became well known as ‘the moon watch’.

This is the type of marketing that placed the watch in esteemed territory, and one that few others could match. 

With a lovely moon phase complexity, the most recent edition on the market, the Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch, varies differently from the original Moonwatch.

A moon phase, one of the first recorded watch complications, shows the illuminated part of the moon as seen from Earth on the watch’s face.

Omega Seamaster Diver 300M

Since 1948, Omega has produced the Seamaster, one of its most enduring product lines. The British Royal Navy’s post-second world war designs were the basis for its initial design.

The Omega Seamaster Diver 300M, which was first made public in 1993, underwent 25 years of development while maintaining the integrity of its original design. It is driven by the Master Chronometer Calibre 8800 and measures 42mm.

Omega Constellation Globemaster

The Omega Constellation, introduced in 1952 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the company’s founding in La Chaux-de-Fonds, has remained one of Omega’s most well-known and well-loved timepieces.

Since 1982, most Constellation designs, which come in male and female forms, have been distinguished by their distinctive ‘Griffes’ or claws at 3 and 9 o’clock. All Constellations also have a star at 6 o’clock.

3 Best Watches from IWC

IWC Portugieser Tourbillon Edition ‘150 Years’

This Tourbillon watch is a limited-edition version from the Portugieser line with an athletic yet adaptable style that goes with everything you wear. It has a big, 45mm 18K pink gold casing characteristic of a high-end Swiss watch.

It is, therefore, a fantastic watch for men that prefer a versatile option that can be worn throughout the day and well into the evening. 

The IW504501 Tourbillon watch also includes an anti-fading black robust strap. When purchasing a levish watch, this is a feature you desire.

IWC Chronograph Worldtimer Pilot’s Watch

Becoming a pilot requires you to often travel across time zones. While it’s essential to set your wristwatch to the correct time, you might not always have the opportunity to correct the time.

In addition, a wristwatch that is large and good enough to be utilized is necessary for the work.

The IWC IW395001 Chronograph Worldtimer watch is top-notch, cutting-edge, and ultimately dependable. It enables you to track your time wherever you are properly.

There are few watches that exude the jetset lifestlye like the IWC IW395001, and it is just the type of wrist action that men of distinction demand.

Its casing is made up of stainless steel and has a time zone indicator with an espresso black dial. It also comes with a superb chronograph with a flyback function.

IWC “Le Petit Prince” Constant-Force Tourbillon Pilot’s Watch

Some people might find the title of this IWC Pilot watch interesting, especially given how it goes against the watch’s powerful appearance.

The IWC Le Petit Prince belongs to a series of famous IWC watches as a high-end Swiss model. It has a 46.2mm pink gold casing and a straightforward yet tasteful dial.

The minutes and hours indications are also located on this dial.

FAQs

Is Omega more prestigious than IWC?

Since Omega is the more well-known name out of the pair, they often retain their value better than IWC timepieces.

Moreover, they produced classic items like the Speedmaster. However, consumers will shell out a lot of cash for watches that are more specific and less common, like IWC. In terms of name recognition, however, Omega is the clear winner.

Are IWC watches worth the money?

IWC watches offer a great chance for investment in addition to looking nice. The watches have a legacy of ramping up in price over time, which makes them a great replacement for more well-known brands.

The durability and versatility of the brand are exceptional, plus the customer service has been a trusted feature of the brand for years and continues to be one of the best in the industry. 

IWC has the edge over its more well-known competitors in that far fewer watches are made of each model, making IWC more exclusive and less prone to depreciation.

Is Omega quality as good as Rolex?

If you ask this question to a person who uses both Rolex and Omega watches, their straight answer would be Yes!

Omega, in terms of quality, is as good as Rolex. However, the higher sales of Rolex are due to the brand popularity and the status symbol factor.

Final Verdict

The Planet Ocean, the Speedmaster Chronograph watch, and the Seamaster Professional 300M are some prime examples of Omega watches. Suppose you’re looking for a diver’s watch and want it to make a big impression.

In that case, Omega’s durable timepieces are not only icons but also more than up to the task of meeting your requirements when you explore the deep and adventurous depths of the ocean. 

Furthermore, the watches made by IWC Schaffhausen are known for their outstanding complexity, including their moon phases and perpetual calendars. 

IWC Schaffhausen’s basic and typical watchmaking style is the finest choice if you have a thing for pilot’s timepieces or traditionally produced watches.

So, the rivalry between Omega VS IWC ends in a draw because both are extremely capable brands.

After having an in-depth understanding of both the brands through this article, you can pick the watch that best fits your needs.

Panerai vs Breitling brand comparison

In this article, I will be providing information to assist in making the best decision on whether to purchase a Panerai or a Breitling wristwatch.

With this being the mission, I believe that any consideration of either watch brand cannot truly be made without knowing the rich histories of both watch houses. 

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Panerai History- Early Years

Panerai was founded in 1860 by Giovanni Panerai in Florence, Italy. From its inception, the shop was both a retail establishment and one of the first watchmaking schools in Italy.

By 1916, Panerai was producing high-precision instruments at the request of the Italian Royal Navy.

As a requirement, the Navy wanted dials that could easily be read in the dark and underwater.

Hence, the patented process of a highly luminous compound (originally a radium paste) was created and patented and the original “Radomir” was produced. This luminescence became a key element of the Panerai collection.

In 1936, the Radiomir prototype was developed for the Italian Royal Navy. These pieces needed to meet the parameters of a high-strength diving timepiece.

This was accomplished by modifying a watch case supplied by Rolex and was referred to as the 2533 prototype. By the 1940s the “Radiomir” had evolved into the instrument that most are familiar with today (ref. 3646). The characteristics of this watch consist of the following:

  1. A large cushion-shaped steel case with a 47mm diameter
  2. Highly luminous dial and markers
  3. Wire lugs that are welded to the watch case
  4. High-quality manual mechanical movement (at that time a Cortebert/Rolex 618 caliber.)
  5. A tan, water-resistant strap long enough to be worn over any protective clothing.

An additional advancement was the addition of a modified dial using overlapping discs, known as sandwich dials.

The upper part was comprised of anodized aluminum with perforated indexes and numbers to make the radium paste more luminescent and legible.

The Luminor

Panerai Luminor

In 1949, the “Luminor” name was issued a separate patent due to the luminescent properties of the dial.

Instead of a radium paste (which carried various risks due to emissions), Panerai developed a tritium-based substance, a hydrogen isotope, that was safer and did not sacrifice luminosity.

Because of these developments, the patent was acquired and became synonymous with the dial qualities.

Another significant engineering feat was achieved in 1956, when Panerai, in developing a diving watch for the Egyptian Navy, introduced the patented crown protecting device which is structurally most identifiable within the Panerai collection today.

Throughout the 1960s the “Luminor” continued to evolve and was improved upon. The crown protection bridge was adapted to the watch case and advancements were also made in its movement. 

The Swiss-made Angelus SF240 mechanical movement was employed which featured an 8-day power reserve. This power reserve feature would become part of the very DNA of the brand.

Another major innovation is that some of the solid and closed-back watches were replaced with a plexiglass window allowing one to view the movement.

At this time, Panerai was one of the first watch houses to outfit a watch accordingly. Today, this is a common feature on high-end brands bearing either mechanical or automatic watch movements.

Panerai Tourbillion in the 21st Century

Panerai Tourbillion

As Panerai entered the 21st century, the first of many in-house created movements were introduced.

In 2005 the P2002, a hand-wound mechanical with GMT  function and an 8-day power reserve was unveiled.

Then, in 2007, the P2003, P2004, and P2005 were introduced. What distinguishes the P2005 is its most elegant tourbillon complication.

A tourbillon is an addition to the mechanics of a watch escapement to increase accuracy. In a tourbillon, the escapement and balance wheel are mounted in a rotating cage aiming to eliminate errors of poise in the balance giving a uniform weight. It was initially developed by the watchmaker Abraham Louis Brequet in 1795.

The unique characteristic of the Panerai tourbillon is that the cage housing the balance wheel and the escapement rotate on an axis that is not parallel to the balance wheel axis but perpendicular to it.

Unlike traditional tourbillons in which the cage completes one rotation per minute, the cage in the Panerai completes one rotation in thirty seconds. Very innovative.

Panerai continued to develop and create more in-house movements and incorporated more and more complicated features into their collection.

In 2010, a commemorative watch and clock were introduced to celebrate the 400th anniversary of Galileo’s first celestial observations.

Incorporating a variety of complications, these models continued to build on the creative and innovative reputation of the brand.

2013 saw the launch of the P9100 caliber, an automatic movement with chronograph flyback function, the  P9100/R with a regatta countdown feature, and the P5000 caliber hand-wound movement with an eight-hour power reserve.

A pocket watch with both GMT and a tourbillon with a ceramic case were also introduced to the watch world.

2014 saw Panerai open a brand new watchmaking facility in Neuchatel, Switzerland. The innovation continued with the P4000 caliber, an automatic movement distinguished by an off-centered oscillating weight.

Panerai Radiomir and Luminor Due

Over the past eight years, Panerai launched the Radiomir 1940-minute repeater carillon tourbillon and the new Luminor Due case.

The Radiomir is the most complicated watch Panerai has ever produced. It incorporates the exclusive tourbillon regulator and the remarkable double repeater mechanism that chimes either local time or a second-time zone with the ability to sound every hour, every ten minutes, and every single minute using 3 hammers striking three different sounds.

A low sound for hours, an intermediate one for 10-minute periods, and a higher tone for minutes.

The Luminor Due reflects the thinnest automatic movements ever created by Panerai and is faithfully inspired by the classic 1950s model.

Panerai Latest Innovations

Strides in using various materials such as carbon and the development of BMG-TECH which is a bulk metallic glass with a disordered atomic structure obtained through a high-pressure injection process at a high temperature further advanced the Panerai collection.

2018 was marked by the unveiling of two remarkable innovations, the first being the Lo Scienziato-Luminor tourbillon GMT with a 3D printed titanium case coupled with the P2005/T skeletonized movement with a tourbillon regulator.

The second complication was the L’Astronomo-Luminor 1950 tourbillon moon phases equation of time GMT.

This is the first Panerai creation to have a moon phase indication and an innovative system using a polarized crystal to indicate the day.

To celebrate the 70th anniversary of the patented Luminor name, the company created a brilliant innovative model with a greater luminosity that is guaranteed for seventy-plus years.

Breitling History

Breitling was founded in 1884 by Leon Breitling. By 1892, he moved his watchmaking operations to La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland and the following year patented his first movement that had a power reserve of eight days.

Breitling also introduced the pulsometer which measured a patient’s pulse using a logarithmic caliber and led to great popularity among physicians.

He followed this up by creating a chronograph with two-fifths of a second accuracy which became a benchmark at the time.

Within ten years Breitling had sold upwards of 100,000 chronographs and stopwatches. 1905 saw the development of a patented pocket watch tachymeter, which would be the precursor to the speedometer found on automobiles today.

He slowed the second hand down to make one revolution around the dial in four minutes, thus allowing the user to measure any speed between 15 and 150 km/h.

As the second generation of Breitlings joined the business, the development of a wrist-worn chronograph ensued that employed an independent pusher at the two o’clock position.

This separated the function of the Chrono features from the crown on the watch simplifying use and minimizing errors.

By 1923, the “reset to zero” function was moved back to the crown position while keeping the “start/stop” functions at the two o’clock position.

This enabled the user to add successive times without having to reset the hands to zero. 1934 saw the addition of a second pusher at the four o’clock position which was a breakthrough and provided the blueprint for the present-day chronograph. This pusher was used exclusively to zero the chronograph.

Breitling’s Chronomat Design

Breitling Chronomat's design

By the end of the decade, Breitling was providing chronographs for the Royal Air Force at the request of the British Air Ministry.

From this time on, Breitling would be renowned for its aviation watches. This led to the original Chronomat design. The Chronomat had a patented circular logarithmic slide rule applied to the chronograph.

The system was capable of easily handling a wide range of mathematical caliber operations with tachymeter, telemeter, and pulsometer functions; multiplication, division, and rule-of-three problems; production calculations, and more.

As an innovator, Breitling founded the “HUIT Aviation” department in 1938. This specialized department used the latest technology to test the quality and reliability of the collection.

This included a micro-oscillograph for radioelectric inspection of the movements, test simulators for temperatures ranging from -40℃ to +100℃, and “vibration tables” for stress testing the instruments in various positions.

The Duograph, introduced in 1944, employed a highly complicated split-second chronograph that would allow the user to time two separate events at once.

The other characteristic to note is that Breitling began to refine the style and appeal of their watches.

The perception of the collection, to this point, was of highly refined instruments, but Breitling wanted the brand to be more accessible and fashionable and therefore more desired by non-professionals. The Premier collection was unveiled featuring watches available in both stainless steel and gold.

1952, the Navitimer (a combination of the terms navigation and timer) was birthed out of the Chronomat watch. Breitling adapted the logarithmic slide rule feature for aviation purposes and integrated it into a rotating bezel, capped with small beads which made it easy to manipulate with a pilot’s gloved hand.

Two years later, the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association announced that the Navitimer would be their official timepiece.

Breitling’s reputation as the premier aviator’s instrument was cemented and achieved a huge milestone.

Originally, the Navitimer was unavailable to the public, but Breitling saw the potential for the watch and added it to the collection for the masses.

In 1957, Breitling focused their sights on developing a watch for diving and aquatic enthusiasts.

The Superocean watch was born and featured water resistance to a depth of 200 meters or approximately 660 feet.

As space exploration became popular in the early 1960’s Lt. Commander Scott Carpenter, an astronaut and a fan of the Navitimer from his training days, approached Breitling about creating an astronaut’s version of the iconic pilot’s watch.

To satisfy the request, an enlarged rotating bezel was created for use with spacesuit gloves, and a 24-hour dial to differentiate day and night in the darkness of space was incorporated.

This led to the Cosmonaute timepiece…the first swiss made chronograph to have traveled to space.

The decade also saw the launch of the Top Time collection, a series of modern fashionable chronographs. This watch was worn by Sean Connery in the movie Thunderball.

1969 also saw the debut of the caliber Chrono-Matic self-winding chronograph movement. This groundbreaking achievement was developed in cooperation with Dubois Depraz, Heuer- Leonidas, and Hamilton Buren.

This early model had a crown on the left-hand side of the case with the pushers on the right side. 1985 saw the release of the Aerospace watch outfitted with a quartz movement and combining both analog and digital displays.

This unique timepiece was characterized by its ease of use and advanced technology. By 1999, Breitling determined that all of its movements would be certified by the COSC, and in 2001, opened the Breitling Chronmetrie in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland with the sole mission to produce all of its movements without outsourcing.

They were now part of an elite handful of watchmakers manufacturing their own movements.

Now that I have provided a historical overview of the innovations that both of these fine watch manufacturers have contributed, I will attempt to answer or offer commentary on some of the questions most often asked about each brand.

Are Panerai and Breitling good quality watches?

 In looking at the evolution, creativity, and characteristics of each of these brands, I believe that the answer is a resounding yes.

The Breitling collection is not as expensive as the Panerai models but if you are interested in a watch so deeply aligned with aviation history or as a functional pilot’s instrument, the collection offers great depth and selection.

Panerai timepieces lean toward their diving history, but also offer a selection of fine complicated movements.

Are Panerai watches overpriced?

Here, I believe one needs to be very subjective. When weighing limited edition models and very complicated movements, value is truly in the eye of the beholder.

The collectible market and the daily watch-wearing individual are oft two completely different motivations in acquiring a watch.

If you are not factoring precious metals or gemstones into the price tag, it is the watch company’s choice of how they will price and market a particular model, and the buyers’ responsibility to weigh all the features and appearance of the watch to make the best decision.

Now that both companies produce their very own movements, they have both values added to each brand. I would not make the statement that Panerai watches are overpriced but are very unique timepieces.

Do Panerai or Breitling watches hold their value?

Once again, this relies on several factors. The most desired models are the watches that are the most sought after.

Servicing your timepiece regularly and not abusing your watch are important guidelines as you wear your watch. 

Another factor is if you are buying a particular model as an investment, know that many watches do not have an unlimited value trajectory. There are periods where certain models are more valuable than others, as, in real estate, timing is often everything.

Who wears a Panerai watch?

Some of the individuals wearing Panerai watches are Mike Horn, the world’s greatest modern-day explorer, Gregorio Paltrinier, a world champion Olympic swimmer, and  Sylvester Stallone who chose to wear a Panerai in the 1996 film Daylight. The timepieces are treasured for their accuracy and ruggedness among these types of elites.

Panerai Luminor Marina vs. Breitling Superocean

The Luminor Marina is available in different sizes and ranges from $8100-$13,900 with a top-of-the-line model offered at approx. $24,300 (available in a Goldtech case which is comprised of gold, 24% copper, and titanium).

The basic 44mm case models range from the strap version for $8100 or the all-steel version for approx. $8900.

These models have a Panerai caliber P9001 31 jewel automatic movement. A Glucydor balance and the incabloc anti-shock mechanism as well as two barrels and a total of 200 components and a power reserve of three days complete the movement.

There is also a carbotech model available which has a carbon ceramic case and bezel and brushed titanium back.

These models are water resistant to 300 meters. These 44mm models are available in either blue, olive green, or dark gray with complimenting straps.

There is also a limited edition Luminor Marina which has a 47mm case and retails for $10,100. This model has a Panerai P3001 caliber movement and is available with a dark brown dial and a brown strap.

Lastly, within the Marina collection, there are the ESteel models. They retail for $8700. And have polished steel bezels.

What differentiates these watches is that the cases are constructed of recycled materials comprising 58.4% of the weight of the case.

The Breitling Superocean has the benefits of being available in both men’s and women’s models.

The entrance price points range from $3700 to $6700 and are marketed as the ultimate sea watch. The base models offer a 42mm case with a 25 jewel movement and are water resistant to 500 m. (1650 ft).

The women’s models have a 36mm case with a 26 jewel movement and are available in eye-catching colors perfect for the beach or any aquatic activities.

The Superocean Automatic 42 has both a stainless steel and a 18kt.  model with a Breitling caliber17 self-winding mechanical 26 jewel movement.

The case is 42mm and water resistant to 300m. A screw-locked 2 gasket crown and a cambered sapphire glare-proof front and rear crystal complete the presentation. 

The  Superocean Heritage is inspired by the original 1950s watch. These models range from $4500 to $19,600 at retail.

The base watch carries a Breitling caliber 10 self-winding 25 jewel movement with a 42-hour power reserve and is water resistant up to 100m. (330 ft,).

The special feature of these watches is that they are available with straps made up of ECONYL yarn.

These single-piece straps are made of repurposed nylon waste pulled out from the ocean ala fishing nets for instance.

The upper-end Heritage timepiece is the B20 Automatic 42. The case is comprised of 18kt. red gold.

Characteristics include a 26 jewel self-winding automatic movement with a 70-hour power reserve. It is water resistant to 200 m. and is completed with a rubber strap.

For comparability to perhaps a Panerai 183, I refer you to the following weblink that presents this model brilliantly. 

Conclusion

In closing this article, I hope that I have provided ample information to help you in deciding whether a Panerai or a Breitling watch is the choice for you.

There are many prestigious brands such as the aforementioned and Rolex or Omega for instance.

Each has its stand-out features and something that differentiates each one from the other. In making your personal choice, I believe the greatest determiner of choice is “Do you want to wear a timepiece that everyone recognizes or one with a unique story and therefore a conversation piece?”

Do Rolex Watches Hold Their Value

Rolex has built a reputation of being one of the most reliable watch brands to invest in. From their inception in 1905, Rolex has consistently crafted high quality timepieces for all occasions.

We’ve seen the Rolex crown on the wrist of many influential leaders throughout history from famous athletes like Tiger Woods and Roger Federer to various US Presidents who influenced the coining of the Day-Date’s nickname, the “President.”

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We can all agree that Rolex has done an outstanding job at building and maintaining such a highly revered presence in the watch market, which in turn has made them a great brand to invest in.

Do Rolexes Appreciate in Value as They Age?

In general, Rolexes are great investment pieces but that doesn’t mean yours will automatically increase in value as soon as you unbox it.

The strongest indicator of value with a Rolex is rarity. Throughout the rich history of Rolex, there have been many references that have experienced major appreciation due to their limited number or elusiveness in the market.

A great example of this would be the rising popularity of vintage Submariners. We have seen a noticeable increase in desire for various vintage Submariner references as they become harder to find in better conditions.

The principle of scarcity increases the value of certain Rolexes. Some of these references sell in the gray market online or through dealers for 3x their retail value and some of them make it to the auction block of Sothebys or Phillips and sell for millions of dollars. 

Today, modern Rolexes are in just as high demand. The demand is so high that Rolex has had to create waitlists for brand new Rolex models.

Those on the waitlist may have to wait a couple of years before receiving a brand new watch. Because of this, the preowned Rolex market is booming.

Many sought after models are circulating the market and trading at amounts a lot higher than their retail price.

Whether you acquire a vintage Rolex or opt for a modern timepiece, what matters is the quality of the watch, inside and out.

Rolexes that achieve investment status are those that are serviced regularly and kept in good condition. These two factors will improve the longevity of your watch and quite possibly increase the value as well. 

Why do Rolex’s hold their value?

The Rolex name has become a prestigious symbol. One that carries the entire legacy of the world of luxury timepieces on its back. The superior craftsmanship and materials used to deliver a flawless look that is unrivaled by any other are one of the key reasons why the name holds so much power. On top of that, the cultivated reputation, combined with innovative designs, has enabled the brand to carve out its own slice of the growing market.

The simple fact is that a properly cared-for Rolex that has been well-maintained over time will remain one of the finest timepieces in your collection. The brand name is just too strong, and no matter what piece you have, it will be instantly recognizable at a single glance. This is because of the very limited production that Rolex sticks to.

You see, each year Rolex sets out the number of pieces that they will manufacture, to ensure there is not an influx of pieces going around on the market. This is in order to uphold the quality and precision, and to also drive up the prices of previously manufactured pieces. When it comes to this market, rarity sells, and with certain models being made purposely hard to acquire, the models that have been acquired will only grow in value. 

Top 5 Rolexes That Hold Their Value

Paul Newman Daytona

This Daytona made its way to fame on the wrist of Paul Newman the actor, director, and race car driver. Whether he was shooting for a movie or racing around the track, the Daytona he wore on his wrist gained a lot of attention.

Over time collectors and enthusiasts of Rolex sport models have given this watch more attention, making it become more sought after.

There are only about 2,000-3,000 of these vintage models from the 1960’s-1970’s circulating the world and a couple of them have made it to auction selling for millions of dollars.

Paul Newman’s actual Daytona (Ref. 6239) sold at Phillips Auction house for $17.8 million in 2017 and earned the title of the most expensive watch ever sold.

Cosmograph Daytona

The Daytona gained a ton of popularity from Paul Newman and Rolex decided to run with it. Created in honor of one of America’s racing capitals, the Daytona is a prime example of the unparalleled performance, design, and luxury that Rolex offers with their sport models.

The Cosmograph Daytona has been produced with a wide variety of dials, case materials, and colors, making each of them exciting watches to collect and invest in.

More accessible than the Paul Newman Daytona, there are many Cosmopgraphs circulating the market.

Although there are plenty of these Daytonas in the market, they are in high demand and are still trading between 2 and 3 times retail value. The Cosmograph Daytona is a great Rolex to invest in

Milgauss

The Milgauss is somewhat of an elusive Rolex. Launched in 1956, this watch was built with the scientist in mind.

The Milgauss has a really strong resistance to magnetic fields, made for someone who may be working in a lab or in the field around areas of high magnetism.

Although this was an incredible feat of innovation for Rolex, the main attraction to this watch is the orange lightning bolt seconds hand.

The Milgauss was discontinued in 1988 and wasn’t seen for almost 20 years. In 2007 Rolex picked up production on the new and improved Milgauss.

This one features the same orange lightning bolt but now also features a green tinted sapphire crystal which helps legibility.

With the large gap in production, the pre 2007 models are becoming more rare and coveted amongst the many new models hitting the market. 

GMT Master II

One of the most popular models from Rolex, the GMT Master II is a fantastic example of a watch that holds value.

Originally made for pilots and travelers, the GMT featured a separate hand on the dial to display another time zone.

Those traveling across time zones would be able to simultaneously track the time of where they’re coming from and where they’re going.

This watch became an instant classic. The most noticeable characteristic of the GMT is the multicolored 24 hour bezel.

The terms “Pepsi”, “Coke”, and “Batman” became nicknames for these models based on the two colors on the GMT bezel.

Vintage models that have a “patina” or faded dial have become highly sought after due to their rare condition.

Vintage GMT’s are in high demand but the modern GMT’s are also a hot commodity on today’s market.

A combination of updated designs and even a “left handed” model with the crown on the left side of the watch, keeps the GMT high on the list of Rolexes worth investing in. 

Oyster Perpetual

Usually poised as Rolexes entry level watch, the Oyster Perpetual has always been slightly overlooked.

The simple design has proven to be a Rolex classic but had never garnered much attention compared to the popular Submariners and Datejusts.

2020 was a monumental year for the Oyster Perpetual as Rolex released new models that immediately hit the spotlight.

Rolex introduced a new movement and larger case size with the new OP’s but the crowd pleaser was the variety of dial colors that were released.

Oyster Perpetuals are now available in vibrant colors like teal, light pink, yellow, and green. These new models are now trading well over retail price.

Do Submariners Hold Their Value?

Rolex Submariner

Within the variety of sport models Rolex offers, there are a couple that have been known to steadily hold or increase their value over time.

The Submariner is one of Rolexes most iconic watches and has been placed on a pedestal of inspiration with many other watch brands riffing off the unmistakable dive watch design.

Its durability, water resistance, in-house movement, and impeccable design make it a fantastic tool watch worth investing in.

The Submariner was first introduced in 1953 as a dive watch water resistant to 100 meters. The rotating 60-minute bezel is to aid divers in timing their dives.

With plenty of lume throughout the dial, these watches were made to be highly legible. Over time, enthusiasts have started cult followings over specific models.

Two green submariners known as the “Hulk” and “Kermit” are popular models that have become increasingly hard to find.

Aside from their sleek colorways, they’re also both discontinued making them even more rare. Vintage Submariner enthusiasts love to compare the details from reference to reference in order to identify the most rare references.

The critical details on these vintage Rolexes ranged from the font, size of logo, and colors used for the words on the dial.

In 1959 and 2020 Rolex increased the case size of the Submariner. In 1969 the first gold Sub was introduced and in 1984 the first two-tone was launched.

As collectors began to pay attention to the little changes from reference to reference, the excitement began. All of these factors can come into play and dramatically increase the value of the watch. 

Submariners are great watches and have a lot of potential in today’s market. Historically they have done a fantastic job at holding their value over time and in many cases becoming more valuable.

Submariners can be great opportunities for investment and a chance to be a part of Rolex history.

Do Datejusts Hold Their Value?

Rolex Datejust 36

The Datejust is one of Rolexes most timeless models. First developed in 1945 this watch was featured for Rolexes’ 40th anniversary. It grew in popularity because of its Oyster case which was a waterproof design first introduced in 1926.

The Datejust, a 36mm sized watch made it versatile for both men and women. It wasn’t until 2009 Rolex introduced a 41mm Datejust for those who wanted the same design in a larger case.

With each new release from Rolex, the Datejust continues to evolve and modernize both aesthetically and mechanically. Modern Datejusts also come with a COSC-certified chronometer movement that has 50 hours of power reserve. 

The Datejust 36 is also a highly customizable watch. There are plenty of options for different bracelets, dial colors, bezels, and metals to choose from.

If you’re looking at your Datejust as an investment piece it will be important to consider the quality and originality of your watch before making any aftermarket customizations.

When it comes to the preowned or vintage markets, a custom Rolex does not guarantee an increase in value as much as originality might. The value of a Datejust can also range based on the materials used, the reference number, and age.

In today’s market, the value of a Datejust can vary from under to over retail price depending on the factors above.

Unlike a vintage Sub or rare GMT, this watch most likely won’t see any drastic price changes in the near future but that doesn’t exclude the opportunity for it to gain value over time.

Although a Datejust may not seem like the most sure fire investment piece compared to other Rolex models, they have still followed the same trajectory of Rolex pricing over the last 100 years and have incrementally increased in value. 

Best Rolex to Buy for Investment

When it comes to investing in Rolex, the stainless steel sports models are a no brainer. They are known for holding their value very well and on many occasions, increasing in value tremendously.

The GMT Master II, Cosmograph Daytona, and Submariner are splendid options for investment. The models that come in a variety of colors tend to have potential to gain value depending on how the market shifts.

As Rolex continues to gain popularity around the world it has become easier for various models to gain a cult following and quickly become rare.

The Submariner “Hulk” and GMT “Batman” are examples of watches that have gained a cult following and are now worth a lot more than they were just a couple years ago.  

The GMT Master II is another solid option for a Rolex investment piece. The GMT has been in demand since its inception and will most likely remain a sought after design as long as they are being made.

The ability to display multiple time zones simultaneously makes it a valuable tool for those who travel or work internationally.

The GMT is also equipped with a Rolex in house movement, ensuring precision and durability backed by Rolex.

Although created to be a tool watch for pilots, the uniquely bold design has attracted many enthusiasts outside of the aviation community.

Lovers of design appreciate the bi-colored bezels that pop with color and the high contrast dials that draw the eye inwards.

The GMT has since shifted to more of a statement watch, adorning the wrist ofs sartorialists and rakish enthusiasts. 

The Day Date is another Rolex well worth investing in. The Day Date was designed with luxury and status in mind.

It was the first waterproof, self-winding watch to display a date and day window, a window spelling out the day of the week near the top of the dial.

This new layout became a favorite to many and instantly became a coveted watch.

Rolex refers to the Day Date as “the ultimate status watch.” They are made with 18k gold or platinum which is usually reflected strongly in the retail price but also promises for great resale value as well.

The timeless design of the Day Date will allow you to wear it for years on end without having concern about depreciating value. 

A Rolex we haven’t mentioned in this article yet but shouldn’t go unrecognized is the Explorer II. The Explorer II is known for the cyclops above the date window, a 24 hour bezel, and 100 meter water resistance.

Built with Rolexes most expensive and rugged stainless steel and featuring a bright lume on the indices, the Explorer II is truly built to be put to the test.

The new “Polar Dial” Explorers feature a large orange GMT hand standing out amongst the crisp black or white dial adding both an intriguing aesthetic and multiple timezone tracking capabilities.

The Explorer, hence the name, was built for the modern adventurer who might find themselves in challenging or extreme conditions.

Today the Explorer holds its value at a consistent rate. Don’t expect the value of your watch to randomly spike but instead slowly appreciate over time just as Rolexes do. 

The watches listed above cover some of Rolexes most sought after models in today’s market. Rolex has many other models like the Sea-Dweller, Yacht-Master, and Air-King that all have their own value props as great investment pieces.

As we discussed earlier, the value of your Rolex will always depend on a combination of the condition, features, and materials but also the market and what Rolex enthusiasts are demanding at the moment.

It seems there will always be the Rolex “classics” which we as collectors and enthusiasts can rely on when navigating the market and collecting Rolexes of our own but we also have no way of telling which models will have their moment in the future.

As we’ve seen in the last few years, models like the Submariner “Hulk”, GMT “Batman”, or Oyster Perpetual “Turquoise” dial, have all dramatically increased in value due to market demand. 

When investing in a Rolex it is highly important to learn about the history of the Rolex catalog and what models will be wise investment pieces.

By understanding the brand’s history and catalog of models you’ll be able to make a better decision around which model will be best for you.

We encourage you to empower yourself and do your own research into Rolex based on your values, taste, and priorities.

The history of Rolex is rich and has many facets that will undoubtedly capture the attention of any budding enthusiast.  

Do Rolexes Ever Depreciate?

Rolex has built such a strong brand and reputation in the market that it’s rare for a Rolex to drastically decrease in value over time.

If your Rolex is kept in great condition over the course of time it’s on your wrist, it will most likely maintain its value fairly well and sometimes noticeably increase in value.

Your Datejust might dip slightly below retail value overtime or you might see your GMT increase in value as ages, it will always depend on the model and condition of your watch.

In the vintage Rolex market, a well kept and rare Submariner or GMT reference is worth a tremendous amount compared to how much it was sold for at retail price.

A worn in unserviced Datejust might not be as desired as a pristine vintage model from the same year in great condition.

There are no guarantees on which Rolex will give you the highest ROI but we can guarantee that you won’t regret taking care of your watch to ensure the longevity and durability the Rolex is known for. 

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