Category: Watch Reviews

Sports watches are almost certainly the most popular type of watch on the market today. The genre is typically applied to mechanical timepieces, but as a concept, it’s clear it finds its fulfillment in smartwatches. 

The new cutting edge of watch development, wearable electronics, has led to some absolutely stunning timepieces that do so much more than any mechanical watch ever could. 

What they lack in tradition, they make up for in providing a daily companion on your wrist that can do anything from interface with your phone to take you off the grid into the depths of the Amazon rainforest. And that’s the beauty of a sports watch: it follows you anywhere, your faithful companion from day to day.

But for such an important companion and support throughout your day, your choice of watch becomes all the more important. Whether you’re looking for a Swiss brand and an elegant style or a beater watch that can accompany you on military expeditions, this list has something for everyone. All it takes is to find the one that speaks to you!

What to Look for in Sports Watches

First, let’s dive into some of the criteria you should be analyzing when you’re trying to determine what the best sports watch pick is for you. The two top criteria are design and functionality—in whichever order speaks to you first. 

If you’re wearing a sports watch, chances are high it’ll be making frequent appearances on your wrist, so it should be a style that you enjoy and appreciate and which works well with your clothes. 

Naturally, almost every sports smartwatch also comes with a different built-in suite of functional applications and sensors, so that, too, should be one of the top factors in selecting a watch tailored to your lifestyle.

Other factors are also worth considering. Depending on your worldview, you might be interested in choosing a carbon-neutral watch made from sustainable material. Or perhaps you’ve had a particular brand personally recommended to you by a friend or relative. Regardless of what’s motivating your decisions, there are many sides to this same coin, and it’s worth exploring all of them.

Top 10 Best Sports Watches

Now that you know what to look for, let’s get right into the breakdowns! This list is extremely diverse, with smart sports watches for all tastes and styles. There’s a variety of price ranges and features. Overall, I know there’s something for everyone here. Let’s get started!

Garmin Fenix 7X Pro Sapphire Solar Edition Carbon Gray DLC Titanium with Black Band

The Fenix 7X Pro is an incredibly versatile watch and one of the best all-around picks on this list. For $1,000, it’s not cheap, but also not as expensive as a smartwatch of this quality could be. The case is incredibly versatile in wearability, thanks to its black profile and three available sizes (42, 47, and 51mm).

In terms of functionality, the Fenix 7X Pro is one of the best. The Sapphire Solar Edition refers to its solar charging ability, which is still rather rare even among advanced smartwatches. This means it can run up to a whopping 37 days in smartwatch mode on one charge if you keep it exposed to sunlight. 

It also has a suite of health and fitness features, such as heart rate and real-time stamina. Overall, it’s a rugged beast, tested to US military standards, that can follow you even off the grid for over a month straight.

Casio G-Shock Move DWH5600MB8A9

It’s a mouthful of a name, and a mouthful of a watch. The DWH5600MB8A9 takes up practically an entire quarter of the line of text on your screen right now and will take up quite a large chunk of your wrist too at its 51.1mm x 44.5mm case size. It’s made of bio-based resin, meaning it wears light, can take a beating, and is eco-friendly.

As expected for its retail of $320, it’s not nearly as functional as the Garmin we just covered above, but it does feature some solid specs, like automatic power saving which makes the screen go blank when your watch is in the dark. 

It connects to your phone for easy time setting and has support for a wide variety of physical activities and health features, such as heart rate, sleep measurement, and blood oxygen. For a third of the price of the Garmin, you really could do a lot worse than this G-Shock.

Apple Watch Ultra 2

It’s not for nothing that the Apple Watch has swept markets worldwide, selling millions in the decade that it’s been out now. Its design is among the most iconic the watch world has ever seen, and the aptly named Ultra 2 is now the most advanced evolution of the Apple Watch. 

At $799, its price tag reflects that, but the watch lives up to the cost. In terms of design, you’re looking at a relatively large 49mm titanium case in either sandy beige or black: simple but elegant.

Tapping into the functionality side of things, its display is extremely advanced: an OLED screen with a high brightness of 3000 nits. It has all the health features you could hope for, like sleep tracking, ECG, heart rate, respiratory rate, and skin temperature sensing.

Unfortunately, the battery life is a lot more limited than some of its competitors at just 36 hours between charges. It won’t be following you on extended outdoors trips like some of the other sports watches on this list—which is fine for most of you but might not quite meet the needs of others.

COROS Pace Pro

The Pace Pro is the perfect mixture of stylish and unobtrusive. It’s offered in three color options (black, gray, and blue) and sports a 46mm case, which is a very middle-of-the-road size for smartwatches and should be a good wearable pick for almost anyone. In addition to the small size, it only weighs 37 grams, so you won’t even notice it on your wrist when you’re not using it.

Its battery life is a very considerable 20 days in smartwatch mode, which is stunning when you realize that it doesn’t use solar charging or anything else to stay topped off. You also get personalized workouts and training plans, and interfacing with lots of apps like Strava and Apple Health. All this for just $349!

Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra

Step aside, Apple—Samsung’s contender for the smartwatch market is a great pick that certainly will allow some Android users to one-up their iPhone friends in a few ways. The Galaxy Watch Ultra has a slick cushion-case shape made of titanium, which means it can both take a beating and look good doing it. 

Plus, Samsung has introduced a fascinating system for switching out straps quickly, which honestly leaves me wondering why more watch companies don’t use this, it’s that easy.

In terms of functionality, the headline feature here is the addition of Galaxy AI to enhance all of the health readings that the various sensors will provide you and ultimately break them down into useful wellness insights. 

Most other smartwatches will use simpler computer algorithms to do the same, so the addition of AI provides a pretty serious edge over the competition. At a retail of $530, it also manages to edge out its Apple competitor in price. I’m not picking sides, I’m just saying…

Garmin Tactix 7 AMOLED Edition

Whether you’re in active service or just dream of living life like a tactical agent, the Tactix 7 is easily the right pick for you. It’s not a cheap watch, at $1,400, but the functionality of this watch is insane. 

You get up to 31 days of battery life in smartwatch mode, plus multi-band GPS and preloaded maps. Tack on to this all the best Garmin health features like heart rate, pulse oxygen, hydration, and energy level monitoring. Good mix, right? Now throw in an entire suite of purpose-built tactical features. 

We’re talking a kill switch to wipe data, compatibility with night vision goggles, stealth mode, jumpmaster mode, and even an Applied Ballistics software.

Pretty sure Garmin just dropped the mic on this one.

COROS Vertix 2S

There are some of us who came to this article looking for something extreme. That, like yourself, pushes boundaries. To you, I humbly present the COROS Vertix 2S. It retails for $699 and comes in three colorways: “Earth” (blue), “Moon” (pale gray), and “Space” (black). It was purpose-built for adventuring: climbers, snow sporters, ultra-marathon runners, and mountaineers, this one’s for you.

COROS proudly declares that they’re the only brand with GPS algorithms designed for long climbs, and the watch easily swaps out to be placed on a carabiner if you’d rather have it off your wrist while scaling your latest summit. You also get a ton of key information for adventuring: nutrition alerts, sun movements, storm alerts, altitude mode, and safety alerts. 

The case is very large (50.3mm), so you get a big 1.4” display and oversized tactical buttons that are easy to press even with gloves on. In my opinion, it just barely gets the edge over its competition with a few of those key useful features, and for that reason it’s definitely worth your consideration.

Suunto Race All Black

Perhaps you’ve been scrolling through thus far and find yourself saying, “I’m really just looking for something standard.” Not too expensive, not too advanced. Just a nice wearable sports watch. I think the Suunto Race is just the right option for you. Its “All Black” color is a nice bright eye-catching yellow (kidding, it’ll fly very well under the radar). 

It really just gives you all the standard smartwatch features you could want at a retail of $449. Bright AMOLED screen, 26-day battery life (which is really good for its price!), 1.43” touch screen, digital crown for quickly scrolling through options on the screen, waterproof to 100m, 95+ different sports modes, phone pairing, and personalized training feedback.

It gives you all the smartwatch staples and then takes quite a few of them a step further, all at an entry-level price. It sure isn’t the Porsche 911 of the smartwatch world, but it just might be that cool-looking souped-up Honda Civic you keep seeing down the street.

Garmin Enduro 3

Just as the Vertix 2S was made for extreme athletes of all kinds, the Enduro 3 is targeted specifically for extreme endurance athletes. To this end, Garmin packed in a whopping 36 days of battery life… not including the solar charging, which cranks it all the way up to a continuous 90 days of functionality in smartwatch mode. 

For all the ultra runners out there, you also get an LED flashlight for your trekking late at night, plus preloaded topographic maps to guide your path. For durability, Garmin crafted the bezel from titanium, and you get a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, too, so your off-the-beaten-path trails won’t end up with a beaten watch. 

At $899, its functionality doesn’t come cheap, but it’s one of the very best out there if you’re an adventurous type or just someone who just really dislikes charging their watch.

TAG Heuer Connected Calibre E4 x Oracle Red Bull Racing Edition

What do you get when you cross Swiss watchmaking with a history in sports timing with one of the most renowned Formula One racing teams? This: the special edition TAG Heuer and Oracle Red Bull Racing team collaboration. 

It’s not nearly as functional as the others we’ve covered above, admittedly, but you get just enough built-in tools to make it a solid everyday wear with heart rate sensors and a suite of proprietary TAG Heuer sports applications. 

With this, you get more than enough cool racing design to make it a watch you don’t just strap on in the morning but one you feel racing thrills to wear.

I am, admittedly, a little disappointed after the cutting-edge tech of the above watches to see that this doesn’t have as much to offer, but you do still get enough functionality to make it advantageous to your overall health. But that’s not the point here: the star of the show is the Oracle Red Bull racing team, and practically every element of this watch exudes pride in the team. 

As not much of a racing fan myself, I struggle to connect with the team, but as a watch, it’s still more than cool enough to make it a really good pick, especially if you’re an Oracle Red Bull fan.

At a retail of $1,950, that Swiss brand name and design know-how sure doesn’t come cheap, but it all comes together to make a really solid watch for its price.

Conclusion

The world of sports watches is wide and wonderful, so this list was by no means exhaustive. But whether you’re a high-performing endurance athlete, a racing fan, or just looking for something to interface with your phone, there’s something for you here. I hope you enjoy your next new daily companion!

I remember my first watch as a child. It was a Princess and the Frog-themed quartz on a shiny red faux leather strap. It cost very little, but that didn’t matter. The little green frog would rock back and forth majestically as the seconds hand made its way across the whimsical dial, and I absolutely loved it.

I loved it so much that I hardly ever dared to wear it. I didn’t want to get the glass all scratched up, or the strap scuffed. Luckily, watches for kids are made much better than that these days.

A blend of quality materials and strong glass will protect a quartz movement, whether that child is going in for a scrum on a rugby pitch, scaling a wall at the park, or rock pooling on holiday. Still, there are some parameters to explore before heading into the task of buying your child their first wristwatch.

As well as ensuring you’re opting for a brand name you can trust, selecting the right materials is paramount in ensuring a watch will hold up on the wrist whilst scrapping with a sibling or shooting down a water slide.

You also need to consider factors like style and price. In this guide, I’ll list ten of the best kids’ watches on the market right now. But before we delve in, let’s look at some basic guidelines on how to pick the right kind of wristwatch for your child.

What To Look For in Kids Watches

Whether your child is starting first grade, switching schools, or celebrating a special birthday, their first watch must be special, and in a world where digital technology is never any further than a finger swipe away, it can be tempting to do away with the concept of the wristwatch altogether.

But watches, whether the traditional analog type or the digital, have truly stood the test of time and can make for the ideal gateway into affordable watch collecting.

It’s entirely possible, of course, to miss the boat completely when buying a child their first watch. Christmas and birthday lists often feature at least one techy gadget.

Seldom will it include a watch. So, it doesn’t matter whether you’re late to the party to get your child a solid, robust watch or hoping to start them young on their watch-collecting journey. Here are a few factors to consider.

Quality

Never skimp on quality when buying a children’s watch. Sure, that watch will probably be replaced in a year or two. But you shouldn’t underestimate the sheer number of knocks, bumps, and drops the watch will have to endure in that short time. Invest in materials that won’t let you down after a few weeks, including the strap.

Today, the market is vast, and there are nickel-free alloys and watches with high-quality steel casebacks, not to mention allergen-free strap materials that you can opt for if your child suffers from sensitive skin.

Two great strap materials to shop for when buying kids’ watches are silicone due to its light, quick-drying, and easy-cleaning nature and textile for comfort. Avoiding plastic case fronts and opting for the more scratch-resistant mineral glass is not always possible on a budget, but it’s great if you can.  

Water Resistance

Water resistance is an important one. A child won’t think twice about hopping into the bath while wearing their watch before considering whether it should be submerged.

For swimming lessons, afternoons dipping in the sea, and showers, look for a watch with a water-resistant rating of at least 100 meters.

If you’re not too concerned about buying a sports watch, don’t worry. Most manufacturers offer a basic water resistance of around 30 or 50 meters, but it’s always best to err on the side of caution and go as high as your budget allows.

Size

If you don’t want to risk your child’s watch sitting on the bedside table for the best part of the year, ensure you find a watch size right for his or her wrist. For small children, look to brands like Flik Flak. Flik Flak creates a range of durable plastic watches with thin textile straps that aren’t too clunky.

A plastic glass ensures it won’t smash like a mineral glass if exposed to impact, either. Generally speaking, the smallest watches measure around 23mm in diameter, while larger wrists can carry off a broader 30-35mm diameter.

Price

Only you know what budget you’re working with when buying a watch for your child. The watch’s price should, of course, reflect the materials used and its build quality. Similar to investing in a timepiece as an adult, a reputable name in the industry that you can trust for quality and reliability is best.

The cost of the watch should also reflect the occasion. You may want to spend a little more if you’re marking a graduation.

Likewise, watches designed to last several years and require a simple battery replacement will cost more than a cheap gift shop watch. Either way, setting a budget before you shop for a child’s watch will ensure you don’t get carried away and spend more than you initially intended.

To round up, when choosing a watch, opt for a model built from a selection of robust materials and choose a brand name you can trust.

Consider size and features, ensure your watch has suitable water resistance, and always set a budget. With those factors in mind, let’s look at what we’ve rounded up as some of the best kids’ watches on the market right now.

Top 10 Best Kids Watches

From Japanese giant Casio to household names like Swatch and Timex, this list provides various designs, sizes, materials, and price ranges for you to explore when buying your child his or her first watch. Let’s go!

Casio F-91W

First up is a watch from Casio that comes in various flavors and colorways! It’s the Casio F-91W. It happens to be the world’s best-selling digital watch, with around 3 million manufactured annually. That point alone stands for a lot if you’re looking for a watch and a brand you can trust.

The fact that it’s made from resin makes it incredibly lightweight on a child’s wrist, and its 34mm diameter makes it relatively compact for a small wrist. Its basic strap leaves room for stacks of mods, plus the F-91W would even look good on a NATO strap.

Feature-wise, you get an alarm, an annual calendar, an hourly chime feature, and chronograph functions. You can also choose between a 12-hour or 24-hour display to read the time.

Timex Kids Digital 35mm Double Layer Fabri Strap Watch

Dressed in bright colors, the fabric strap of this Timex digital watch is perfect for kids, adding a pop to the wrist with its blue, green, and black striped band.

Timex is one of the most reputable names within the industry’s affordable watch sector and has made considerable contributions to watch design since its founding in 1854. Above all. Timex is known worldwide for its functionality and affordability.

This Timex Time Machines 35mm Double Layer Fabric Strap Watch measures a diameter of 35mm and is crafted from blue and black resin.

The standout features of this Timex kid’s watch are its 50-meter water resistance and its patented Indiglo night light technology, which enables full-screen illumination in the dark with the simple push of a button. What kids wouldn’t love a light-up watch?

Swatch Once Again

Swatch is known for its funky designs, so finding a fun analog watch should be no problem when checking out this brand.

That said, the Once Again watch by Swatch is probably one of the brand’s more reserved designs, with a plain back and white dial design, and due to its 34mm size, it may be better suited to an older child’s wrist.

The Swatch Once Again watch strap is crafted from bio-sourced material, while the black-colored plastic case is resistant to the odd knock and bump for those prone to the odd stumble or bump. Powered by a quartz movement, the Swatch is a simple, striking design with a legible day-date feature to track the passing days of each month.

Overall, this Swatch Once Again watch is a great first-time buy to introduce any young adult or child into the world of watch collecting.

Flik Flak Your Take Off

If Swatch is the brand most people associate with children’s watches, Flik Flak has to be the gateway to complete childhood wonder.

The designs are quirky and slightly whimsical, and with fun designs that span from dinosaurs to transparent cases, you can never say the watches from this brand lack the fun element. This Flik Flak watch for kids is a children’s version of a pilot’s watch.

The aviation-themed timepiece combines bright blue shades on the dial with legible white Arabic numerals that are easy to read, as are the 60-minute numerals on the bezel. This blue-colored bio-sourced plastic case is fitted on a matching blue-striped recycled PET strap, making it one of this list’s most environmentally friendly watches!

Timex Kids Analogue 32mm Fabric Strap Watch

The Times Machines watch collection is developed exclusively by Timex for children and offers a range of colors and styles for all ages. First and foremost, this model has an easy-to-read dial thanks to a pale blue hour and minute hand and a lilac central seconds hand.

The latter perfectly matches the color of the watch’s purple colored resin case, measuring 32mm in diameter.

No need to worry about the watch falling in a bowl of water or getting caught in a rain shower, either. Timex equips the watch with an acrylic glass with a 30-meter water resistance and a quick-drying purple fabric strap.

Casio G-Shock Baby-G BGD10L-7

If you’re going to get your child a Casio watch, some of the most fun and colorful options come from the brand’s extra robust G-Shock Baby-G collection. This Casio G-Shock Baby-G is the ultimate watch for customization, enabling your child to express their personality through several colored band loops.

Your child can switch up their look in seconds by accessorizing with the six different loops and two translucent shades. In addition to these loop accessories, the white resin Baby-G watch offers a plethora of additional features for kids to have fun with.

These include five daily alarms, a 100-meter water resistance, 1/10th of a second timer, an LED light, and a 1/100th of a second measuring unit.

Flik Flak Lavendology

Another one from Flik Flak, this time the Lavendology watch, and, as you’ll already have guessed, it presents the time in lavender tones. This is a slightly larger watch than many others on this list, measuring a broad 36mm.

But for those who like the funky, chunky, minimalist look, the Flik Flak Lavendology watch packs a whole load of character onto the wrist.

Its purple plastic case is solid and lightweight, while the dial itself features a shimmery purple surface adorned with legible dark purple Arabic numerals and matching sword-shaped hands.

Easy to tell the time, this Flik Flak watch is fun and noticeable and features a plastic strap fashioned in the style of a metal bracelet but without the clunkiness.

Swatch Sir Blue

Arguably one of the most sophisticated designs on this list – the Swatch Sir Blue looks good enough to be an adult watch and oozes class and a modern yet timeless style.

It features a sunray blue dial, the kind you would see in an adult’s watch, along with highly visible white Arabic numerals and green luminous material applied to its central hands for timekeeping during the night.

The deep blue strap is another cool feature. While it’s certainly robust enough to sustain all the kinds of physical activity a child is likely to be involved in.

It also features this really nice debossed pattern on its surface for added texture. This is a 34mm watch made from Swatch’s bio-sourced material. It imparts an original look thanks to its smooth tapering profile, making it a perfect accessory with smart party wear.

Marathon GP Quartz 34mm

A tool for reliability and precision – the Marathon GPQ watch is a 34mm model that sits nicely on a small wrist and is powered by a Swiss quartz movement for unwavering accuracy. For those children who like the army look, this field watch features a military-inspired 24-hour inner ring and a larger outer scale for the 12 Arabic numerals.

This isn’t one of the cheapest options on this list, but if you’re looking to invest in a kid’s watch that will last a few years without them growing out of it, the Marathon GP Quartz watch is great. This model packs in a load of features that you’d expect of an adult watch, including luminosity robustness and even an end-of-life battery indicator on the back to monitor battery life as you go.

The black case, crafted from composite fibreshell, promises 30 meters of water resistance and even features a superior glass front crafted from scratch-resistant sapphire crystal. Perfect for den-building, cave exploring, and everything in between, the watch features superior luminosity thanks to its tritium gas tubes for a constant, rich glow.

Timex Time Machines 29mm Green Gecko Elastic Fabric Kids Watch

The great thing about the Timex Time Machines range is that you can get a good quality wristwatch without spending too much, which is great when you have children who change their minds on what’s cool and not cool overnight.

However, I can’t see a watch like this Green Gecko being uncool anytime soon. The design has a funky green translucent case, which affords a view into the battery, while the strap is super cool, featuring a gecko print.

On the dial, the numerals for the hour track are presented in Comis Sans, with orange and blue detailing that pops against a white background. Ideally suited towards younger children, this kid’s Timex watch measures a 29mm diameter and offers a basic but suitable 30mm water resistance.

Conclusion

You can’t force a child to like watches, but by buying them a decent first watch, you can at least stand a good chance of planting the watch-collecting seed.

That initial watch is more important than you think. It will teach your child what to look for in a quality watch and help them decide what they do and don’t want in their next one.

Hopefully, with the options we’ve shared in this guide to the best watches for kids, you’ll now have plenty of inspiration to go on the hunt and find the right design for him or her. Good luck!

If you’re anything like me, then stepping onto the green, puffing a nice Maduro cigar, and swinging a golf club is the perfect Saturday afternoon. I would wear a dive watch, or something durable—like a GADA watch—for the longest of times when golfing. 

One day, my buddy Mark had this shiny new toy on his wrist. It wasn’t the usual culprit, an Apple watch, but something entirely different. He told me it was a “golf watch.” After seeing his improved play, I decided to invest in a golf watch, and I haven’t looked back since…

A Quick Look Back: The Evolution of Golf Watches

In the olden times, golfers relied on yardage markers and their caddies for information and strategy for a course that they were playing. Initially, “golf watches” often had golf branding or themes, but lacked any golf-functionality whatsoever. 

In the early 2000s, digital quartz watches with golf functionality began to make an appearance, with the Timex Scoremaster Golf 18 being a great example of the intersection of timepieces and golf-related technology. The Scoremaster Golf 18 allowed golfers to track scores, measure distances, and even keep a tally of their strokes during a round. 

By 2009, more sophisticated GPS technology with greater functionality began to flood the market, with Garmin being one of the first companies to release a true smart golf watch with GPS technology—the Garmin Approach G3. 

Fast forward to today, and we’ve got sleek, high-tech watches that provide real-time data, GPS mapping, and performance analytics. The journey from basic timepieces to advanced golf companions has been nothing short of impressive.

Top 10 Best Golf Watches

Sometimes it’s hard to find exactly what you are looking for, but I am happy to share with you today, dear reader, my top 10 golf watches currently on the market. Whether you are trying to keep track of your shots, analyze your swings, or map out and view thousands of different courses, the following watches are worthy of your attention. 

So grab your clubs, strap on your watch, and get ready to tee off with the best of the best—these watches are sure to help you drive your game to new heights!

1. Garmin Approach S70

The Garmin Approach S70 tops this list as it is a premium device designed for the most discerning of golfers who want accurate data and functionality for any course. The watch features a superbright 1.4-inch AMOLED touchscreen display in full color. 

With over 43,000 preloaded CourseView maps worldwide, the Garmin Approach S70 is the ultimate companion for golfers who need detailed hole layouts and precise distance measurements. It also has a Virtual Caddie feature, which suggests club recommendations depending on conditions and course. 

Additionally, the S70 features full smartwatch functionality for working out, sleeping, fitness, and messaging, making it ideal for daily wear. With an impressive battery life of 16 hours, a ceramic bezel, and lightweight construction, the Garmin Approach S70 is a no-brainer, especially at its MSRP of $699.99.

2. TAG Heuer Connected Calibre E4 Golf Edition

If you are like me, then golf might have been your entry point into the luxury Swiss watch game—thanks Tiger Woods. I remember seeing the Tiger Woods ads as a teenager and immediately deciding that I would own a TAG Heuer one day. 

It shouldn’t come as a surprise, then, that I am including the TAG Heuer Connected Calibre E4 Golf Edition on this list. This lightweight golf watch, thanks to a titanium construction, features a 42mm or 45mm case, a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, and an ultra-high resolution OLED touchscreen. 

The watch comes with cutting-edge software, preloaded with maps of over 40,000 golf courses, automatic shot tracking, scorekeeping, 3D visuals, and a full range of smartwatch functionality.

The TAG Heuer Connected Calibre E4 Golf Edition also includes a unique scorekeeping system that syncs with the TAG Heuer mobile app for post-game reviews. For superior comfort, on and off the links, the watch features a white rubber strap with a built-in ball marker. 

It also has a robust battery life of 24 hours. I know what you’re thinking…okay all of this functionality and the Tag Heuer name. How much are we talking about here? $1,750 for the 42mm and $1,950 for the 45mm—a real value proposition, all things considered. 

3. Garmin Approach S62

The name Garmin is synonymous with technology, GPS systems, and wearable tech; it’s no coincidence that this list features no fewer than 4 Garmin Golf Watches. Again…they make good stuff, people. The Garmin Approach S62 is a notch below the S70 but is still loaded with amazing features and technology. 

It has a large 1.3-inch color touchscreen, able to be seen in any and all lightning conditions. It features 41,000 preloaded golf courses, and the same Virtual Caddie, taking the guesswork out of “which club do I choose?” 

It also has the full spectrum of fitness apps that we’ve come to expect from smartwatches: a heart rate monitor, Pulse Ox sensor, and fitness tracking capabilities. With a battery life of up to 14 days in smartwatch mode and 20 hours in GPS mode, it can easily last through multiple rounds of golf. 

When on blind shots, the PinPointer feature will tell you the direction of the pin so you can make the most of each swing, and coming from someone who often loses sight of the next hole, I really appreciate this feature. With a black silicon strap and black ceramic bezel, the Garmin Approach S62 is the perfect companion to golfing or grilling, and at $499.99, it’s hard to pass on this golf watch. 

4. Bushnell iON Elite Golf GPS Watch

Now featuring a new color touchscreen, the Bushnell iON Elite is both reliable and easy to use; with dynamic green mapping, moveable pin placement, holeview and shot planning, and Bushnell’s patented slope technology, this golf watch packs all the features you could ever need! 

There’s also a dedicated Bushnell mobile app, making connectivity, data analysis, and the user experience all the better. With 12 hours of battery life, the Bushnell iON Elite will last even the longest of golf days. The watch comes preloaded with over 38,000 golf courses and offers dynamic green mapping, which allows you to move the pin placement for more precise approach shots. 

One of its best features is the auto-hole advance, which automatically switches to the next hole as you move through the course. And hey—golf is expensive. Between clubs, course fees, renting carts, and on and on, you shouldn’t have to break the bank to get a piece of wearable technology to keep you on top of your game. 

And at $199.99, this is a very approachable golf watch for the discerning enthusiast.

5. SkyCaddie LX5 Golf GPS Smartwatch

The SkyCaddie LX5 is known for its incredibly detailed and up-to-date course maps. It features a large 1.39-inch full-color touchscreen with HD graphics, making it one of the most visually impressive golf watches on the market. 

Preloaded with 35,000 courses, the SkyCaddie LX5 is loaded with must-have golf features: shot tracking, automatic hole advancement, digital scorekeeping, and a full range of fitness monitoring features. With an extended battery life good for 12 hours in GPS mode, the SkyCaddie LX5 will get you through even the longest day of golfing. 

I have to admit, the first time I saw this golf watch in person, I was very impressed with the build and aesthetics. I really like the under-the-radar all-black design, along with a very comfortable perforated rubber strap. 

Additionally, you can change the face of the watch, with classic wristwatch faces available, making this easily wearable as a daily companion. At $249.99, the SkyCaddie LX5 is a no-brainer for someone looking for both golf and smartwatch functionality at an affordable price.

6. Garmin Approach S12

If you are looking for a budget-friendly golf watch from the big “G,” the Garmin Approach S12 is the watch for you. With a sunlight-readable 1.3-inch screen and 42,000 preloaded golf courses, you’ll never feel outmatched on the links. It’s worth mentioning that navigation is done via tactile buttons along the sides of the case, but they do work really effectively. 

The watch is loaded with necessary features and none of the extra stuff—that’s how they keep the price so approachable. Quickly reference the front, middle, and back of the green, so you have all the data you need for the perfect shot. The course maps give distances to hazards and doglegs so you know exactly where they’re hiding no matter where you stand on the course. 

And Garmin didn’t slack on the battery in their entry-level offering: an unparalleled 30 hours in GPS mode, making it ideal for extended weekends of play. It is lightweight, stylish, and at $199.99, you simply can’t go wrong.

7. Voice Caddie T11 PRO Golf GPS Watch

Is your neck hurting you from constantly looking down at your wrist when you should be focusing on the green—on your swing? Voice Caddie has the solution for you: the T11 PRO Golf GPS Watch. 

With voice-guided distance readings, the watch includes a beautiful Super OLED touch display, wind direction and speed confirmation, shot and putt tracking, undulation data, club recommendation, and so much more. The Voice Caddie T11 PRO is simply loaded with features, including a practice tempo feature where you can work on your game anywhere you can swing a club. 

Also, why not integrate AI technology into a golf watch? Voice Caddie has you covered with a golf AI service that automatically provides essential information based on the player’s location and situation without any extra steps or maneuvers. 

With 10 hours of battery life and a lightweight design, the T11 Pro is a great companion for someone looking for the latest and greatest technology, all at a very reasonable $349.99.

8. Shot Scope X5

The Shot Scope X5 is perfect for golfers who want detailed performance tracking. With automatic shot recording, providing over 100 statistics to analyze your game, the Shot Scope X5 really helps you work on the little things that add up to give you that extra edge! 

It has a full-color touchscreen and over 36,000 preloaded course maps. It also has a really nice integrated and comfortable rubber strap and a really nice low-profile construction. With 10 hours of battery life, you’ll be able to get through a whole day of golfing without needing a charge. 

Additionally, it has all the features you rely on to be at the top of your game: personalized full hole maps, dynamic F/M/B distances to the green, front and carry distances to hazards, green view and pin placement, layup points and dogleg distances, digital in-round scorecard, and so much more. It also tracks your steps outside of golfing so you can stay in tip-top shape! The Shot Scope X5 is currently on sale for $229.99. Grab yours before it’s too late! 

9. Garmin MARQ Golfer (Gen 2)

If you are looking for something that is ultra-premium, exclusive, and built to last, the Garmin MARQ Golfer is an absolute game-changer. Available in two different case materials—fused carbon fiber or grade 5 titanium—the MARQ Golfer is as luxurious as a golf watch I’ve ever seen or heard of. 

With a domed sapphire lens covering an AMOLED touchscreen, you have both durability and functionality. It also features every possible golf-related function, including a virtual caddie, wind speed/direction display, and hazard view. With 41,000 preloaded courses, it offers unparalleled course intelligence. 

The watch also functions as a high-end fitness tracker with Pulse Ox, heart rate, and stress monitoring. Battery life extends up to 16 days in smartwatch mode and 28 hours in GPS mode, making it ideal for frequent golfers. The fused carbon fiber model has an MSRP of $3,100, while the grade 5 titanium model is $2,300. 

10. Samsung Galaxy Watch5 Pro Golf Edition

Samsung Galaxy watches are renowned for their durability, features, and dedicated software. The Samsung Galaxy Watch5 Pro Golf Edition combines Samsung’s advanced smartwatch technology with the full range of golf-specific features. 

It has a titanium construction which keeps the overall weight down, allowing you to swing your club without any hindrance. With 80 hours of battery life and 20 hours in GPS mode, this is a watch that barely needs to be charged. Simply place it on the dock at night and never worry about pesky battery life issues during the day. 

This watch can be worn every day, with countless faces available and a full range of fitness and connectivity functions. At $399.99, the Samsung Galaxy Watch5 Pro Golf Edition is a great piece to consider and certainly worthy of this list.

Final Swing: it’s up to you!

Sometimes it feels like a chore to invest and choose the right equipment. But with so many good options available, you simply can’t go wrong with an established company. All of the watches, and companies, on this list are tried and true, and it really comes down to budget, preference, and comfort. 

So definitely consider trying a few of these on the wrist—maybe even swinging a club with them on before choosing which one to purchase. I’ll see you guys on the links…don’t forget your golf watch!

Do we need luxury watches? At first, the answer might seem like no. After all, we can just use our phones to check the time or date. We could even get a smartwatch with way more features than a regular luxury watch. 

So, why do we need luxury watches? It’s about the feeling we get when we look at our wrist and think, “Wow, that’s a really nice watch.” That kind of emotion doesn’t come from glancing at a phone or a computer screen. Luxury watches can be a part of who we are—an extension of our style and a way to show what we like.

History of Luxury Watches 

Clocks have been around since the times of the Egyptians, Romans, and Greeks. Beginning with clock towers, people eventually wanted to carry timepieces with them as they traveled. This led to the rise of the pocket watch. However, with the Industrial Revolution came a demand for more precise timekeeping. 

During the world wars, watches became even more essential, and over time, pocket watches faded from common use. Luxury watches were part of this evolution and soon became the preferred choice for celebrities and a symbol of celebrating life’s milestones.

Top 20 Best Luxury Watches

Here’s a list of the top luxury watches you can get today.

Rolex Submariner (ref. 124060)

Arguably the most recognizable watch from the most iconic watch brand, the Rolex Submariner starts this list with a bang—specifically, reference 124060, the current no-date model of the Submariner lineup. The watch features a 41mm case and is often praised for its clean, symmetrical design, making it a favorite among enthusiasts. 

Many consider the no-date variant the most aesthetically balanced option. Despite its size, the watch wears comfortably, even on smaller wrists, and is priced at an MSRP of $9,200. With 300 meters of water resistance, the Submariner easily qualifies as a GADA (go anywhere, do anything) watch. The Glidelock clasp allows for quick and precise adjustments, making it convenient to wear in various settings. 

Whether paired with casual jeans and a T-shirt or dressed up with a suit and tie, the Submariner effortlessly complements any outfit. Powered by the Rolex 3230 movement, this watch boasts a 70-hour power reserve. 

Patek Philippe Nautilus (ref. 5811/1G)

One of Patek Philippe’s most iconic watches is its Nautilus line, and the 5811 is a standout example. This white gold model features a time-and-date function, offering both elegance and practicality. Despite its 41mm diameter, the watch wears comfortably due to its slim 8.2mm thickness. 

It also boasts a respectable 40-hour power reserve. At its heart is Patek’s 26-330 movement, a masterpiece of engineering that can be admired through the open case back. The Nautilus 5811 comes with an integrated bracelet, which enhances its sleek design but can make swapping out the bracelet slightly more challenging compared to other watches. 

However, the attention to detail in every aspect of this timepiece leaves little to be desired. With an MSRP of $72,230, this watch represents the pinnacle of high horology—a timeless piece built to last for generations.

Audemars Piguet Royal Oak (ref. 15510ST.OO.1320ST.08)

We often hear rappers mentioning their APs or boasting about the number of baguette diamonds in their watches. The reference 15510ST.OO.1320ST.08 might be a mouthful to say, but it’s better known as the AP Royal Oak with a silver dial. 

Priced at an MSRP of $28,600, this watch measures 41mm and is one of the cleanest designs in the Royal Oak lineup. While there are several variations of this model, this version stands out for its simplicity and elegance. The watch is powered by the AP Calibre 4302, featuring a time and date function. 

At first glance, it might appear to have a standard silver dial. However, a closer look reveals the intricate Grande Tapisserie pattern—a signature texture that adds depth and unmistakable AP character to the design.

Vacheron Constantin Fifty Six Self-Winding 40mm Pink Gold (ref. 4600E/000R-H101)

For people like me, looking at a watch like this instantly sparks the thought, “Wow, that is a good-looking watch.” The design of the Vacheron Constantin Fifty Six is simple yet utterly mesmerizing. Inside, the watch houses the Caliber 1326, with a case measuring 40mm in diameter and a slim 9.6mm thickness. 

The standout feature is its stunning black sector dial, complete with a date window at 3 o’clock. Although the case is called pink gold, it has more of a warm gold tone that doesn’t come across as overly pink when worn. 

The watch is paired with a black leather strap, making it perfect for black-tie events. However, its versatility means it could just as easily be worn with jeans and a T-shirt. Flip it over, and the transparent case back invites you to linger and admire the intricate movement within. All of this is available for an MSRP of $25,500—a timeless piece that bridges elegance and versatility.

A. Lange & Söhne Lange 1 (ref. 191.062)

When buying this watch, you might want to invest in a camera, too—you’ll be taking plenty of photos of it. With a wearable 38.5mm case and a slim 10mm thickness, this timepiece, crafted in platinum, is both elegant and understated. 

Collectors often talk about paying the “back tax,” referring to pictures of the case back, and for good reason. The movements by A. Lange & Söhne are renowned for their beauty, and this watch is no exception.

Despite being manually wound, the craftsmanship visible through the case back is a work of art in itself. On the front, you’re greeted by a stunning onyx dial featuring time, date, and power reserve functions. 

The watch is paired with a black alligator strap, adding to its sophistication, and offers a water resistance of 30 meters. Limited to just 300 pieces, this watch is as rare as it is exquisite. With an MSRP of $57,400, it’s a true masterpiece—and in my opinion, worth every penny.

Jacob & Co. Bugatti Tourbillon Black Titanium on Strap

Jacob & Co. is renowned for creating some of the most unique and seemingly impossible timepieces, and the Bugatti Tourbillon Black Titanium is no exception. Drawing clear inspiration from Bugatti, this watch is a marvel of design and engineering. 

At first glance, the watch’s three dials immediately catch your attention. The far-right dial resembles a gas gauge, adding a playful automotive touch.

Meanwhile, a V16 engine animation sits next to a 30-second flying tourbillon, perfectly echoing the power and precision of a Bugatti supercar. The central dial displays the time in a dynamic way, designed to mimic the sensation of accelerating from 0 to 60, just like pressing the gas pedal. 

While this watch may not appeal to everyone, it stands as one of the most impressive collaborations between a watchmaker and an automotive brand. Despite its complexity, the case remains surprisingly wearable at 52mm—a bold but fitting size for such a statement piece. 

This extraordinary timepiece can be yours for an MSRP of $340,000 —a true celebration of luxury, innovation, and automotive excellence.

Richard Mille RM 65-01

Every time you glance at this watch, you’re bound to notice something new you haven’t seen before. The Richard Mille RM 65-01 features a skeletonized dial, allowing you to fully appreciate the craftsmanship and complexity you’re paying for. 

As a split-second chronograph, this watch lets you time two different events simultaneously. It also boasts a specially designed rotor that efficiently winds the watch during any activity. The level of innovation in this timepiece is unparalleled within its segment. 

Designed with sports and performance in mind, the RM 65-01 is perfect for those who lead an active lifestyle. It also houses Richard Mille’s most complex movement to date, making it a true marvel of engineering. For the blue quartz version, this exceptional watch comes with an MSRP of $380,000—a testament to cutting-edge design and performance.

Cartier Santos Medium (ref. WSSA0029)

The Cartier Santos Medium has taken the watch world by storm, and I’ve seen it on more wrists than some of the popular Rolex models lately. With a 35mm case, it wears comfortably, especially for those with smaller to medium wrist sizes. 

The watch also offers a practical water resistance of 100 meters. While the high-polished bezel around the dial has earned the Santos a reputation as a scratch magnet, don’t let that discourage you—it remains one of the most elegant watches available. The model comes in a variety of dial and case materials, but the classic white dial in stainless steel is priced at an MSRP of $7,050. 

For those with larger wrists, there’s a larger Santos model available, which also includes a date function. One standout feature across the lineup is the integrated quick strap-change system, allowing you to easily switch between the steel bracelet and the leather strap provided by Cartier.

IWC Big Pilot’s Watch (ref. IW329303)

One of IWC’s iconic timepieces, the Big Pilot, is available with a stunning blue dial and an EasX-change strap system for easy swapping between straps. With a 43mm case and a blue leather strap, this watch wears on the larger side but remains comfortable and stylish. 

The Big Pilot offers everything you need in an everyday watch, including 100-meter water resistance, a 60-hour power reserve, and a transparent case back showcasing the IWC 82100 in-house movement. While it comes with several strap options, the blue leather strap makes that blue dial pop. 

For a period, I was focused on adding blue dial watches to my collection, and this one made the list, especially with an MSRP of $8,700. It’s a versatile watch that’s easy to wear in any situation. The dial is highly legible, and the glass is secured to withstand pressure changes, making it both practical and attractive.

Omega Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch (ref. 310.30.42.50.01.002)

The Omega Speedmaster comes in many variations, but the classic design with the black dial and the new 3861 movement remains the most popular. This is a hand-wound watch, and I once read that as you wind it, you should reflect on how you’ll be intentional with your time. 

Priced at an MSRP of $8,000, the Speedmaster features sapphire crystals on both the front and back, giving you a clear view of its intricate design. One standout feature is Omega’s new bracelet, which is a true “chef’s kiss”—its tapered design to 15mm and the on-the-fly adjustment, known as the “comfort setting,” make it a joy to wear. 

The case measures 40mm but wears smaller than expected, with a thickness of 13.2mm. This versatile watch can be paired with a variety of straps, giving you the feeling of owning a new watch each time you switch them out.

Tudor Black Bay (ref. M7941A1A0RU-0003)

Before diving into the details of the watch itself, let’s take a moment to appreciate the bracelet. Tudor has stepped up their game with this one, creating a bracelet that not only looks fantastic but feels great on the wrist. 

This particular version of the Black Bay features a striking red bezel and comes in at 41mm, with an MSRP of $4,700. With the recent refresh, Tudor has introduced a new METAS-certified movement, meaning the watch is not only highly accurate but has also passed rigorous testing to ensure top-notch performance. 

The combination of the red bezel, black dial, beautiful bracelet, and new movement makes this a home run for Tudor. Additionally, the T-fit clasp allows for quick, on-the-fly adjustments, perfect for various activities, all while maintaining a solid 70-hour power reserve.

Grand Seiko Sport Lion’s Mane SBGE307

Grand Seiko is renowned for its stunning dials and intricate movements, particularly the Spring Drive. The Lion’s Mane, with its striking dial, is sure to spark conversations wherever you go. 

With a case size of 44.5mm, this watch is on the larger side, but that extra size allows for a better view of the dial’s exquisite details, highlighted by the sweeping hand of the Spring Drive movement. Additionally, it features a GMT hand for those who need to keep track of multiple time zones. The watch offers a solid 200-meter water resistance, making it versatile for a variety of activities. 

Priced at an MSRP of $11,000, it’s not only visually captivating but also comes with a 72-hour power reserve and one of the most accurate movements available. It’s easy to see why this timepiece is a true showstopper.

Hublot Big Bang Unico Green Saxem

If your favorite color is green or you’re in the market for a bold statement watch, the Hublot Big Bang Unico Green Saxem might be the perfect choice. This timepiece lets everyone know just how much you love the color green. 

The watch comes in at a wearable 42mm and houses the Hublot Unico movement, which consists of 354 intricate parts. Despite the complexity, it achieves an impressive 72-hour power reserve and offers 50 meters of water resistance. 

The case is crafted from Saxem, a material closely related to sapphire, allowing more of the movement to be visible through the transparent case. With its in-house movement and unique case material, this watch is limited to just 100 pieces, making it a rare collector’s item. The MSRP is $121,000.

Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Automatic (ref. 5010 12B30 B52B)

Does the age of a watch brand necessarily mean a longer power reserve? Probably not, but Blancpain, one of the oldest watchmakers in the world, offers an impressive 120-hour power reserve in its Fifty Fathoms Automatic. 

This model features a 42mm titanium case and comes with a sail canvas strap. Inside, you’ll find the Caliber 1315, which provides time and date functions only. There are several variations of this watch, but this particular one boasts a sleek black dial and a beautiful open-case back. It’s priced at an MSRP of $18,400. 

The Fifty Fathoms is versatile enough to be worn with a suit or dressed down with jeans and a shirt. However, it does wear on the larger side, so it may not be the best fit for those with smaller wrists.

Glashütte Original PanoMatic Lunar Blue Dial (ref. 1-90-02-46-32-64)

The last time I talked about moon phases was probably back in high school, but the Glashütte Original PanoMatic Lunar is sure to reignite those conversations. This watch features a stunning radiant blue dial and comes in a 40mm case size with a water resistance of 50 meters. 

Despite the moon phase complication, the watch remains relatively thin at 12.7mm, housing the in-house Glashütte movement with a 42-hour power reserve. The unique dial configuration of this timepiece is sure to set you apart from others, offering a design that’s as distinctive as it is elegant. 

Priced at an MSRP of $11,200, this watch comes on a blue fabric strap that enhances the blue dial, making it even more eye-catching.

Breguet Tradition Tourbillon (ref. 7047 7047PT/1Y/9ZU)

Many watches like to show off their engineering with an open case back, but Breguet takes a different approach by displaying their craftsmanship right on the front of the watch. Made from platinum, this timepiece has a 41mm case size and a thickness of 16mm, making a bold statement on your wrist. 

When it comes to luxury watches, the tourbillon can be considered the epitome of fine watchmaking, and this watch is no exception. The tourbillon features Breguet’s Calibre 569, which houses an astounding 542 pieces and offers a 55-hour power reserve. With an MSRP of $222,200, this watch showcases what the highest level of horology truly looks like.

H. Moser & Cie. Streamliner Centre Seconds Purple Haze (ref. 6201-1201)

No other watch looks quite like the Streamliner, and that’s what truly sets H. Moser apart from the rest of the watch world. This timepiece features an integrated bracelet with a 40mm case size and offers 120 meters of water resistance. The dial is a stunning purple haze fume, as H. Moser describes it, but the real magic lies on the back. 

The transparent case back reveals the HMC 201 movement, which is a simple time-only function but beautifully crafted. The bracelet is made with individually finished links, allowing it to comfortably hug the wrist and wear well in any situation. With a retail price of $24,000, this watch is not just a timepiece—it’s a conversation starter and a head-turner.

Parmigiani Fleurier Tonda PF Sport Chronograph (ref. PFC931-1020002-400182)

Parmigiani is synonymous with high-level watchmaking, and the Tonda PF Sport Chronograph is a prime example of this excellence. Inside the Tonda, you’ll find the PF070-COSC movement, which offers a 65-hour power reserve and features time, date, and chronograph functions. 

The watch comes in a 42mm steel case with a thickness of 12.9mm, combining sportiness with elegance. The dial is beautifully textured with a silver finish, complemented by blue subdials for the chronograph. 

The watch is paired with a blue rubber strap that perfectly matches the subdials, adding to its sporty yet sophisticated aesthetic. With an MSRP of $30,000, this timepiece is an easy addition to any collection, offering a sportier take on high horology.

Laurent Ferrier Grand Sport Tourbillon Pursuit (ref. LCF044.02.T1.RN1.2)

A common trend in luxury watches is the mesmerizing display of movement and engineering, and the Laurent Ferrier Grand Sport Tourbillon Pursuit is no exception. The tourbillon is showcased on the back of the watch, while the front features a stunning salmon-colored dial with a small seconds hand at 6 o’clock. 

Laurent Ferrier has put watch enthusiasts in a difficult position—it’s hard to decide whether to admire the captivating movement on the back or the elegant dial on the front. This timepiece is on the larger side, measuring 44mm in diameter with a 13.5mm thickness. 

However, it is crafted from grade 5 titanium, making it surprisingly light on the wrist. Inside, the watch houses the LF619.01 hand-wound movement, offering an impressive 80-hour power reserve, all for $200,000.

Czapek Antarctique Polar Sky 40.5mm

Living in a big city often means we don’t get to see the stars at night, leaving us to imagine what that view would be like. The Czapek Antarctique Polar Sky brings that night sky to your wrist. 

The watch features a very wearable 40.5mm case with a thickness of 10.5mm, making it comfortable for daily wear. It comes with an integrated brushed and high-polish bracelet, complete with a micro-adjustment for easy, on-the-fly sizing changes. For versatility, it also includes a rubber strap, allowing you to wear the watch with anything from jeans to a suit. 

But the real magic happens on the back. The open case back showcases the Caliber SXH5 with a micro-rotor, offering a clearer view of the movement and a 60-hour power reserve. Limited to just 99 pieces, this watch retails for $30,500, making it a truly exclusive timepiece.

Conclusion

Going back to the original question: do we need luxury watches? These timepieces are crafted with extreme precision, each part serving a unique purpose. The answer remains yes—luxury watches inspire a feeling that can become addicting, making you crave more and more. 

I own some of the timepieces listed here, and I can tell you that it’s a great feeling to go about my day only to glance at my wrist and smile. There’s a special connection that comes from the research, the countless photos, and the careful thought put into selecting a luxury watch that truly reflects your persona.

The Swiss have had hundreds of years to perfect their craft, producing elite timepieces for as long as people have worn watches, often being revered as the beating heart of the watch industry. 

Pristine materials, flawless, innovative movements, and unique designs are a few characteristics the Swiss implement into their pieces, with each dripping with life and intricacy that cause them to come alive on your wrist. 

The details of the pieces vary, but these watches are technical innovations that allow the wearer to find a variant of any kind to suit their desires.

There are countless specimens to choose from, but before we take a closer look at the pieces themselves, let’s study the rich history of how the Swiss came to produce so many electrifying pieces.

History of Swiss Watches 

To understand the history of Swiss watches, we have to take a look at the Reformation (you know, when Martin Luther nailed the 95 Theses on the wall?) The Reformation ignited intense, violent religious revolutions and wars with Germany at the center. But why is Germany so important? 

The uncertainty of the war dampened the productivity of French and German watchmaking, which, at the time, was the primary supplier of watches around Europe since they were the original creators. Switzerland already had a long history of watchmaking, and it also had a reputation for remaining neutral during times of war. 

Some of the French Huguenot watchmakers fled their country and settled in Switzerland, where they continued to work and perfect their craft in peace.

As more influential watchmakers came pouring in, they began to settle in Geneva, eventually transforming the Swiss watchmaking methods and blending different ideas and different materials to give us the unique aesthetic of Swiss watches as we know them today. 

Top 20 Best Swiss Watches

There have been a lot of Swiss watches over the years, and some look very similar, making it quite confusing to decide what best suits your style. When you make the financial commitment to purchase high-quality watches such as these, you want to be sure you’re getting the most out of your piece. 

Thankfully, we’ve narrowed down 20 of the best Swiss watches so that you know exactly what to look for and how to find a brand that suits you.

Rolex Datejust 36 (ref. 126234)

When Rolex first introduced its 36mm Oystersteel beauty, it was the first automatic wristwatch with a jumping date complication displayed in the dial. It set the standard for how a date display should function, inspiring countless other pieces to follow the same design. The bracelet is made of the same material, using jubilee, five-piece links, and a folding oyster clasp to maximize comfort. 

The Bezel is fluted and smooth with exquisite polishing, complementing the stainless steel case perfectly. Multiple movements have been used to power the Datejust 36, but it has always featured a self-winding caliber. The frequency reaches 28,800 vph with a balance bridge and Rolex’s Parachrom hairspring. It also has a water resistance of 100m. 

The Rolex Datejust 36 comes with a retail price of $9,250.

Omega Seamaster Diver 300M (ref. 210.30.42.20.01.010)

The Seamaster Diver 300m has embraced a heritage that it has created, undergoing countless updates to ensure it maintains its reputation as one of the most influential pieces on the market. This 42mm model is crafted with stainless steel with a deep black aluminum bezel, which matches the wave-pattern dial beautifully.

It features a self-winding movement with a power reserve of 55 hours, and the water resistance comes in at 300m, living up to that Seamaster title. The milanese-style bracelet is forged from the same steel as the case with a foldover clasp, keeping the same aesthetic across every feature, giving the wearer a dark, minimalist, and utilitarian look. 

The Omega Seamaster Diver 300M costs $6,500.

Tudor Black Bay 58 (ref. M79030n-0001)

The Black Bay is one of Tudor’s most iconic pieces, often being the first one to come to mind when you see the brand’s logo. It is a beautiful, stainless steel powerhouse whose aesthetical prowess is only rivaled by its detailed intricacy. The case measures 39mm with a polished and satin finish, with a thickness of 11.9mm and a lug-to-lug of around 48mm. 

Powered by a Calibre MT5402 COSC, the self-winding mechanical movement features a bidirectional rotor system and has a power reserve of approximately 70 hours. The Black Bay bezel is arguably the highlight of the piece as it is unidirectional, meaning that you can rotate it in any direction you wish. It’s colored in matte black and is domed, adding more curves to the already curvy watch.

The Tudor Black Bay 58 costs $4,175.

Patek Philippe Calatrava (ref. 5227J)

Dubbed by Patek as “the very essence of the round wristwatch,” the Calatrava is truly elegant. It has a subtle charm, with each curve complementing the other and a color that implements its sly hand, even if it’s not the boldest piece on the market. The case is yellow gold measuring in at 39mm.

The strap comes in shiny alligator leather with square scales colored chocolate brown, and the dial is lacquered with ivory, with gold applied to the hour markers to reinforce the elegant aesthetic. The Calatrava from Patek Philippe comes with a retail price of $41,710.

Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Selfwinding Tourbillon Chronograph (ref. 26622CE.OO.D002CA.01)

The case, bezel, push-pieces, and crown on the Royal Oak Offshore by Audemars Piguet are all made of black ceramic giving it a sleek, smooth texture. The case measures 43mm across with a thickness of 15.5mm and a water resistance of 100m. The dial has a luminescent coating and compliments the rest of the aesthetic. The iconic Royal Oak Offshore hands are made of white gold. 

The rubber strap comes with a titanium AP folding clasp. This piece also comes with an additional black alligator strap. It is a self-winding flying tourbillon with a power reserve of 65 hours, which beats at 21,600 vph. 

The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Selfwinding Tourbillon Chronograph is a limited edition watch requiring an appointment to determine the price.

Vacheron Constantin Overseas Dual Time (ref. 7920V/210A-B546)

This 18k pink gold watch features a dual time zone with a day and night indicator and a date hand, which is quite a notable feature when comparing it to other watches on this list. Its diameter measures 41mm with a thickness of 12mm, making it a little bit larger than watches we have seen before. The transparent sapphire crystal case-back allows you to view the in-house caliber 5110 DT that powers the watch.

The dial is a rich green with a sunburst-finished base. The internal minute track is circular, and the external track is velvet-finished.

The date window is at the 6 o’clock, and the red 18k dual-time hands fit perfectly with this elegant aesthetic. The Overseas Dual Time is truly a visual masterpiece that radiates a luxurious energy, which justifies its $75,500 retail price.

Breitling Navitimer B01 Chronograph 41 (ref. AB0139631C1P1)

The Navitimer was originally developed to help pilots perform all necessary flight calculations while in the air. Now, it has become a staple of the Breitling brand as one of their most desired and aesthetically pleasing pieces. It is a stainless steel watch measuring 41mm with a thickness of 13.6 mm, making it ever so larger than the Vacheron watch from earlier. The bezel is bidirectional with a slide rule. The crystal is a cambered sapphire, and it is anti reflective on both sides. 

The self-winding mechanical Breitling 01 movement powers the piece, providing it with a power reserve of 70 hours. It beats at 28,800 vph with a whopping 47 jewels. The strap is made from alligator leather, and it is a striking blue, which pairs nicely with the rest of the design. 

The Breitling Navitimer B01 Chronograph 41 costs $16,200.

Cartier Tank Must Large

The Cartier tank is a slick, subtle, shiny piece made of stainless steel that measures 41mm. Like most Cartier pieces, it is a square watch with square glass. While it measures fairly large, it has a sleek design with elegant curves that comfortably fit your wrist. 

It is a self-winding mechanical watch with blue, sword-shaped hands. The dial has an off-white tone, and the signature Cartier Roman numerals are bold, black, and brilliant. 

The Cartier Tank Must costs $5,000.

IWC Mark XX (ref. IW328201)

The Mark XX comes in a 40mm stainless steel case. The case back is closed, displaying the IWC logo on the back of the watch. The date window sits at 3 o’clock, and the dial is a bold navy blue. The white minute indices look nice on the backdrop and the elegant hands are finely polished and work wonders on the aesthetic. 

The IWC 32111 Calibre powers the watch, giving it a power reserve of 120 hours. It beats at 28,800 vph and is made up of 21 jewels. It comes with a wide variety of straps. In my opinion, the best one is a nice black calfskin leather that fits well with the other features of the piece.

The IWC Mark XX costs $5,250.

Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe Automatic (ref. 5000A 0140 O52A)

Made from a smooth ceramic, the Bathyscaphe case is 43.6mm in diameter. The strap and dial are both a rich navy blue, which gives the piece a subtle flare and highlights the beautiful ceramic. The gradient sunburst dials are quite large, displaying Super-LumiNova black indexes that light up in dark places. 

The open case-back features a sapphire crystal, allowing a full view of the movement. The Caliber 1315 automatically powers the watch, giving it a 120-hour power reserve and a smooth 4Hz frequency. This movement comes equipped with an antimagnetic silicon balance spring and a black 18k gold oscillating weight. I love the dark beauty of this watch; it pairs nicely with any formal attire.

The Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Bathyscaphe Automatic costs $13,700.

 Zenith Chronomaster Original El Primero 38mm (ref. 03.3200.3600/69.M3200)

The casing is crafted from 38mm of bright, stainless steel with the same measurements and proportions as another Zenith piece, the A386. The dial is a beautiful white matte, featuring three different colored counters, all in their own unique shade, contrasting each other quite elegantly and rounding out the indices quite nicely. 

El Primero movement powers this piece, operating at a very comfortable frequency of 36,000 vph and a power reserve of 60 hours. This high-frequency chronograph movement is the culmination of over 50 years of dedication to mastering the intricacies of the El Primero Calibre.

The Zenith Chronomaster Original El Primero 38mm costs $10,300.

 Breguet Type 20 Flyback Chronograph (ref. 2067ST/92/3WU)

The Type XX from Breguet is a 42mm timepiece that follows the footsteps of similar watches from the 1950s and 60s. It is made of stainless steel with a sapphire case back, and the dial is jet-black with numerous time indicators and indices with Arabic numerals coated with ivory luminescence. 

The strap is made of calf textile leather with an ardillon, stainless steel buckle. The Calibre 728 powers the piece with a power reserve of 60 hours and a frequency of 5 Hz. It is a bidirectional automatic watch with a flat silicon spiral and inverted silicon anchor. 

The Breguet Type 20 Flyback Chronograph costs $19,100.

 Chronoswiss Strike Two Terra Limited Edition (ref. CH-5023-BRSI)

The Two Terra Limited is a very unique-looking watch. The first thing you’ll notice is that the dial mimics the rugged beauty of the earth’s terrain. It’s a rough, light brown color, with extremely detailed texturing to give it a grainy feel. The case is sleek and silver, measuring 40mm, and it aims to deliver a tactile experience on the wrist. 

Chronoswiss’ newly manufactured C.6000 powers the piece, distinguished by its ruthenium plating. It delivers 15 hours of power reserve to the watch, and the primary aim of Chronoswiss, at the moment, is to implement this complex moveset into more timepieces. 

The Chronoswiss Strike Two Terra Limited Edition (ref. CH-5023-BRSI) costs $10,800.

Glashütte Original SeaQ Blue Dial 39.5mm on Bracelet (ref. 1-39-11-09-81-70)

The Glashütte Original Sea Q was designed to adapt to changes in water pressure during a deep dive. The water resistance measures 200m and the watch is fitted with a unidirectional rotating bezel with scratch-resistant inlay.

The case is made of 39.5mm of stainless steel, with an intense blue dial to give it a striking look and match the feel of the deep seas it will traverse. The case features vertically brushed finishing and can come with either a sapphire crystal case back or a stainless steel case back. 

It has an automatic movement, coming directly from Glashütte Original. Its power reserve totals 40 hours, and its frequency reaches 28,800 vph. There is a fine adjustment of the swan neck with beveled edges and polished steel parts, and it also comes with a skeletonized rotor with a double-G symbol. 

The Glashütte Original SeaQ costs $10,600.

 Hublot Big Bang Unico King Gold Ceramic 44mm (ref. 421.OM.1180.RX)

The Big Bang Unico King Gold Ceramic, as the name suggests, is made with polished and satin-finished 18k king gold. The case measures 44mm and is striking, with the bezel complimenting the gold with its black ceramic and titanium screws. It has a sapphire crystal with anti-reflective treatment and features 100m of water resistance. 

Unico has developed its own automatic chronograph movement with the aim of being different and unique. The “open heart style” reveals the design, featuring a double coupling system and column wheel, as well as a 72-hour power reserve. It has a whopping 354 components that have been simplified as much as possible to give the wearer a smooth movement. 

The Hublot Big Bang King Gold Ceramic costs $41,600.

Frederique Constant Classic Moonphase Date 40mm (ref. FC-716S3H6)

This watch is designed for everyday wear. It features a 40mm stainless steel case that has been polished to perfection. The dial is a sleek silver that compliments the shape of the case, as well as the color. It has a sunray finish with diamond cut indexes, and it is a stunner. The case effortlessly bleeds into the dial, which gives it a very simple look but one that is elegant and subtle in its own right. 

It is an automatic watch with an FC-716 powering the movement. The power reserve lasts up to 72 hours, and it beats at a frequency of 28,800 vph. It also comes equipped with 26 jewels to ensure flawless precision. 

The Frederique Constant Classic Moonphase costs $3,895.

Oris ProPilot X Kermit Edition (ref. 01 400 7778 7157-Set)

Made of titanium, the Oris ProPilot X Kermit measures 39mm in diameter. The dial is bright green, and on the date window—as the name suggests—Kermit the frog can be seen on every first day of the month. The purpose of this is to encourage everyone to slow down and focus on the joyful things in life. A simple reminder, one that can be hard to remember at times. 

The Kermit is powered by the Calibre 400. This automatic movement has a five-day power reserve with very high accuracy. It is tremendously reliable with anti-magnetism to deliver flawless timekeeping. 

The Oris ProPilot X Kermit costs $5,900.

 Longines Spirit Zulu Time Titanium (ref. L3.802.1.53.6)

The Spirit Zulu time was made to capture Longines century-old expertise in multiple time zones. It is a round, 39mm titanium watch with a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal and an anti-reflective coating. It has a bi-directional rotating bezel, and the dial is stark black with gold numerals and indices that pair nicely with the flawless titanium. 

It is an automatic watch with a Caliber L844.4 powering the self-winding movement. It beats at 25,200 vibrations an hour with a monocrystalline silicon balance spring, which delivers a power reserve of 72 hours. 

The Longines Zulu Time costs $4,275.

Hamilton American Classic Intra-Matic Chronograph (ref. H38429730)

The American Classic Intra-Matic features a mechanical chronograph movement with a 60-hour power reserve. It measures time with modern precision while keeping the charm of the old-style Hamilton watches that their core audience is so familiar with. 

The case is made of stainless steel, and the dial is sharp black with two different time indicators that give a precise level of detail to the piece.

The indices are small, and the hands are elegant, mimicking the classic feel of original Hamiltons while incorporating that modern touch.

The strap is a smooth, black cow leather with a pin buckle that fits flawlessly around the wrist, optimizing comfort. This is a very traditional piece that doesn’t lean too heavily into an elegant aesthetic but still manages to look quite luxurious while staying true to its own style. 

The Intra-Matic Chronograph costs $2,145. 

 Tissot PRX Automatic Chronograph (ref. T137.427.11.041.00)

Rounding out the list is the Tissot PRX Chronograph. It measures 42mm of stainless steel and features a satin finish.

It has a sleek, angular form mimicking the sports watch style of the 70s while also keeping true to the modern era of watchmaking. The dial is a simple yet beautiful blue that gives the appearance of calm waves amidst the ocean. Quite the peaceful aesthetic. 

Inside, the ETA/Valjoux caliber A05.H31 automatic movement offers a power reserve of 60 hours, with 12-hour, 30-minute, and 60-second counters that assist in keeping the most accurate time possible while moving smoothly and efficiently. 

The PRX Chronograph costs $1,895.

Conclusion

So there you have it. Swiss watches come in many shapes and sizes, making it hard to distinguish one specific shape that sets Swiss making apart from any run-of-the-mill designers. All of these pieces do have one thing in common. 

However, they are crafted with an unmistakable amount of detail, with each one telling its own story and flawlessly embodying the brand it derives from.

Swiss watches are some of my favorites in the market. I find that they are the most powerful and the most elegant, and, in some cases, they are much more affordable than opposing designs, which will always earn you a few extra points in my book. 

I hope I have helped you narrow down what best fits your style. The differences in these pieces can be overwhelming at first, but I promise, as you become more accustomed to the watch world, you will find a piece, Swiss-made or not, to suit your every need