Category: Watch Reviews

It’s no secret that the spectacular quality of a luxury watch almost never comes for cheap. But what about those watch fans who admire the refinement of watchmaking yet are unable to afford higher-end pieces? Never fear: microbrands provide the solution.

These small, generally affordable brands offer unique designs at accessible prices. Thanks to the many microbrands on the market, any watch enthusiast can easily find any style of watch. But amidst such a dizzying sea of offerings from all sorts of small brands, it can be challenging to find exceptional-quality offerings. 

Thankfully, when you do, they astonish and amaze time and time again. There’s something for everyone, and all it takes is to find that special piece that would be a special addition to your collection or a faithful companion day in and day out.

History of Microbrand Watches

Small brands working steadily away at producing their own designs and quality pieces are as old as watchmaking itself. Often, these were individual watchmakers, producing pieces one by one.

Thanks to recent advancements in technology and global connectedness, watch designers are now able to get their parts produced by private-label companies, allowing individuals to realize complex case patterns and exquisite dial layouts.

The best microbrands are often the passion projects of watch aficionados, who are able to bring their expert collecting eye to bear on creating their own watches.

When you buy a quality microbrand watch, you’re tapping into a tremendous amount of attention, design, and energy, backed by the experience of people who have been immersed in the horological world for years.

Top 20 Best Microbrand Watches

There are a dizzying number of microbrand watches on the market right now, and it can be hard to pan through all these options to find the nuggets of gold. Look no further than this list, where I dive deep into 20 of the best watches out there on the market. I personally guarantee you’ll find at least one that speaks to you. Without further ado, let’s dive right in!

Christopher Ward The Twelve (Ti) Astral Blue

Since the 1970s, there have been very few new steel sports watch designs, while the originals—the Royal Oak, Nautilus, Ingénieur, and 222—continue to enjoy tremendous popularity. They’re iconic designs and were truly game-changing when they first came out. The Twelve is, without a doubt, a worthy successor to these spectacular watches, and it manages to reference the originals in a way that is both unique and refreshing.

The Twelve features a characteristic dodecahedronal bezel (try saying that ten times fast!). This bezel is absolutely stunning, with many facets and three different finishes to boot. These textures and angles pair perfectly with the sharp and elegant case. 

The dial is absolutely fantastic and shows just as much attention to detail as the case, with a rich fumé (smoky) icy blue color over pyramidal engraved patterning. Toss in those sleek, modern hands, and you have a cutting-edge modern design.

At a clean, wearable 40mm in diameter, with a grade 2 titanium case and a slick tapered bracelet, and priced at just $1,895, this watch could easily be the Astral Blue star of any collection.

Monta Atlas GMT Opalin Silver Dial

GMT watches have the unique opportunity of coupling an extremely useful complication (the ability to track another timezone!) with a clean and elegant design, and the Monta Atlas is one of the very best in these regards. 

With its refined silver dial touched with pops of light blue from the GMT hand and text, it transitions from the board room to a refined soirée with ease. Through the exhibition caseback, you can see the MONTA Caliber M-23 with a customized rotor.

At just $2,150, the Monta Atlas GMT Opalin Silver Dial easily meets all the criteria for a worthwhile pick and a beautiful everyday companion.

Lorier Neptune

Almost everyone knows the Rolex Submariner and the Omega Seamaster. They’re some of the most iconic watch designs ever created, full stop. So it took a particular amount of pluck for microbrand Lorier to step up and design the Neptune just as if it had been created in 1957, right alongside these greats. Thankfully, their bravado paid off.

The Neptune has a stunning gilt dial, with gold printing on black and lume that’s 3D printed on to make it extra thick and extra bright. The case is brushed and simple, flowing well into the bracelet. My favorite touch is the bezel, with its oh-so-simple vintage font that, in my eyes, is just right for a vintage-inspired watch like this one.

At 39mm, it’s a wearable companion that can follow you from scuba diving (with 200m of water resistance!) to the office. And at $499, it’s a very palatable choice for your wallet.

Baltic Aquascaphe GMT Orange

Baltic is a new French brand that has been making headlines lately—and with good reason. Their Aquascaphe GMT Orange works with colors in a way that’s incredibly eye-catching and harmonious.

The blue/orange bezel is bidirectional, allowing you to track not just two but three total time zones when you set it. The case has razor-sharp angles and a simplistic brushed surface, emphasizing its tool watch nature.

The dial, for its part, is a readable matte black touched by pops of orange from the GMT hand and dial text. The hands are faceted and polished, powered by the SOPROD C125 GMT, a Swiss automatic movement.

For $938.40, it’s even less expensive than many of its microbrand competitors, let alone some of the larger-brand GMTs. Personally, I recommend tacking on a beads-of-rice bracelet for an additional $97.58, which adds a chef’s kiss of vintage flair.

Formex Essence Leggera Forty One Arctic White

There are sports watches, and then there are sports watches. The Essence Leggera is firmly in the latter category. The case, for one, is made of carbon fiber composite, which makes it durable, gives it a silky feel, and provides a stealthy appearance. Contrast this with the polar white dial, which has engraved horizontal ribbing and bright blue lume on its mirror-polished hands and indices. 

Beating at the heart of this wearable monster is the chronometer-grade Sellita SW-200-1, which has 41 hours of power reserve and is supported by the proprietary Formex case suspension system. This invention acts just like the suspension on a bike to protect the movement from hard knocks and quick motions.

All this extreme functionality and slick design come for just $1,640, including taxes and shipping.

Traska Commuter 38 Adriatic Blue

To pull off a simplistic watch design like this, you really have to nail every single detail. Astonishingly, that’s exactly what Traska has done here with their Commuter 38. It’s an understated everyday watch that can follow you anywhere faithfully. Its case finishing is elegant: brushed lugs and polished bevels emphasize the fluidity of its design and give it a lovely shine.

The bezel and the dial pair splendidly, as each is finished in a sunray pattern. The dial, of course, is rendered in the absolutely stunning blue-green shade that evokes the Adriatic Sea. Both the hands and the indices appear simple but, in reality, have a fascinating triple-faceted structure.

At an impeccable 38mm diameter and a price of just $650, allow me to finish with a brief warning: watch out so you don’t get just as lost in the rich blue-green of that dial as you would in the real Adriatic Sea.

Atelier Wen Millésime 2024 Mù Purple Dial

Full disclosure: this watch is one of my favorites. At once classical and modern, it builds on the integrated sports watches of the past in a stunning new way. Its case structure is stunning and fluid, creating a design that moves your eye around the watch thanks to its compounded curves.

The dial is a work of art. To describe that rich purple guilloché as simply “eye-catching” would be an injustice, but it really does seize your attention and draw your eye in. 

Each dial is hand-crafted by China’s first and only master guillocheur, Cheng Yucai. Another elegant touch is the traditional Chinese pattern known as huí wén on the chapter ring, which is filled with Super-LumiNova.

This $3,588 beauty runs on a special ultra-thin movement made in China, the SL1588A, which was heavily customized for Atelier Wen to feature a strong 41-hour power reserve and some beautiful finishing. 

Its custom purple rotor is visible in part through the caseback, which is engraved with the face of a stone lion whose mouth is transparent sapphire. It’s a watch that punches well above its price point and could easily compete with icons like the Royal Oak at over ten times its retail.

Zelos Aurora Field 38mm Bronze Hammered Blue

Many people are fascinated by the idea of a watch that ages with them, slowly accumulating scratches and scuffs from life’s great journey. A bronze watch can take this idea to the extreme. Over time, bronze slowly acquires a spectacular green patina—think of the Statue of Liberty in a unique and gradually changing pattern. If any of this sounds appealing to you, the Zelos Aurora Field is the perfect pick.

Even beyond its elegant brushed bronze case, the Aurora Field features a stunning hammered dial with a fumé blue gradient. Copious amounts of lume fill the sporty indices and hands, as well as the rehaut minutes scale. With its hammered texture and polished indices, it’s easy to imagine the Aurora Field as the product of a master metalworker’s workshop.

For just $399, this utterly unique everyday wear with 200m of water resistance could, and certainly should, be yours.

HALIOS Seaforth IV Pastel Blue

Looking for something playful and simple but a sturdy companion for wherever life takes you? Canada-based microbrand HALIOS’ Seaforth collection is the perfect answer. Available with or without a clean and nondescript dive bezel, this is a watch that can follow you from sea to land to sky with ease. 

Its rich blue dial has an extremely creamy and smooth texture, and its prominent crown guards establish it as a durable tool watch. The extreme legibility of such a simple but refined dial set it firmly as one of the very best in this category. Frankly, it’s very difficult to find any fault with this watch—and the movement beating inside, a Sellita SW-200-1 is just as solid as the rest of it.

At $775 with the rotating bezel or $735 with a fixed one instead, the Seaforth IV Pastel Blue is a great value option for almost any budget.

Farer Markham II World Timer

We’ve already featured several GMTs on this list, and while they’re exceptional watches, the Farer Markham II World Timer takes the level of travel functionality a whole step further by tracking not just one or two extra timezones but all of them simultaneously. 

This is a complex design that’s hard to pull off simply or elegantly, but the incredibly cohesive design of the Markham II manages just that. The extra crown at 10:00 allows you to set the 24-hour rotating time zones bezel, aligning them each with the proper hour. The dial is, in my opinion, faultless, from the depth of the white guilloché base to the red and blue accent colors in various shades to the numerals and text shaped in a clean, modern font.

For $1,695, this quality, functionality, and attention to detail do come at a slightly elevated price, but it’s an investment that won’t stop paying dividends.

Nodus Contrail GMT Laguna

The Contrail GMT Laguna captures all of the Hollywood movie-star charm you would hope for from a Los Angeles-based brand like Nodus. I absolutely love the profile of this case and the way it lays on the wrist. I’m a sucker for twisted lugs, and the way Nodus has opted to mirror polish the outside of these lugs and brush the inside just provides some spectacular contrast, especially when seen in the context of that glossy sapphire GMT bezel. 

The dial serves as the epicenter for all that charm, with its clean matte sandy finish that recalls hot California beaches in the summer, and the addition of a color-matched date window is a great touch.

For $825, it’s a solidly priced watch for a product that has clearly seen a significant amount of attention to detail in its design and development. It’s an elegant tool watch that doesn’t just do its job—it does it well.

Studio Underd0g Watermel0n

This mouthwatering chronograph is, first and foremost, fun, to the point where I’m almost tempted to forget that it has some serious watchmaking chops behind it.

That spectacular dial has clearly seen a lot of development, from the carefully balanced layout of the text and the subdials to the fascinating matte finish of the center red section. Just looking at it brings back fond memories of summer picnics! 

A small detail I’d like to mention here as representative of just how much attention has gone into this design: the 3:00 chronograph subdial is actually not just flat green but three separate shades, all faintly distinct, for each 10 minutes of the 30-minute counter. In this way, it ties together all of the separate shades of green used in the watch in an extremely cohesive manner.

For $675, you can get your hands on a serious piece of horological fun. Just don’t take a bite out of it…

 Vaer C5 Dirty Dozen – 40mm Ameriquartz

The Dirty Dozen were some of the most iconic watches ever made: a series of British field watches produced during WWII by 12 different Swiss manufacturers. They exude confidence and military charm—but purchasing one of these original antiques is both expensive and, for the most part, impractical. Enter Vaer, an American brand that has replicated this timeless design with a focus on USA craftsmanship.

Vaer’s design is motivated by practicality above all else, as evidenced by their “Ameriquartz” movement with 40 months of battery life. It’s a watch you can slip on and pair with any outfit, confident that it can easily resist the elements thanks to its 100m depth rating. The marriage of vintage design with modern practicality is nothing if not compelling.

For just $299, you get a watch that is at once infinitely cooler than the ubiquitous Apple Watch and much cheaper. Sounds to me like it has its competition beat!

 Maen Manhattan 39 Ultra-Thin

At first glance, the Manhattan 39 instantly calls to mind horological masterpieces like the Royal Oak and the Gerald Charles Maestro. Yet upon closer examination, it proves itself completely distinct, a refreshingly new design that stands on the shoulders of giants but exudes a charm all its own.

The case flows organically, using contrasting polishing in several different areas to move the eye around the piece and provide incredible depth. The bracelet drops seamlessly from the lugs, with no juncture visible between the two. As for the dial, the traditional Côtes de Genève finish adds a healthy dose of classic style, which makes the avant-garde design of the case much more easily wearable.

For just $1,070, this ultra-thin watch is a worthy competitor of the icons it references, full of simplistic and elegant charm.

 AnOrdain Model 1 Japanese Oxblood

AnOrdain is a brand that I’ve been checking out quite a bit lately, thanks to their gorgeous enamel dials and Scottish roots. I don’t think I’ve ever seen a color quite like this Japanese Oxblood dial, and for me, it inspires a nearly visceral reaction whenever I let my eyes linger on it.

Everything else on the dial is designed to complement that amazing enamel, and it does it perfectly, with thin markers and refined numerals inspired by Scottish cartography.

The case is a bit of a departure from what we’ve been seeing on the rest of this list since it’s mostly mirrored instead of brushed. The hands are a lovely heat-tempered straw color, which complements the dial splendidly as a bit of an accent color.

The opportunity to get your hands on a real in-house enamel dial for just $2,679 if you opt for a La Joux-Perret G101 or $2,284 for a Sellita SW210 is an option that really can’t be passed up. Pair that with the spectacular strap options that AnOrdain offers, with some seriously high-quality leather, and you have yourself a home run.

 Brew Metric Retro Dial

What do coffee and incredible vintage watch design have in common? Go on, I’ll wait.  Here’s the answer: the spectacular Brew Metric Retro Dial.

It’s an incredible vintage-inspired chronograph that uses bright vintage colors to stunning effect, with an overall color palette that pops strongly against its muted steel case and black dial. Plus, the chronograph function turns it into a perfect everyday wearer that can accompany you on any journey.

Where does the coffee come in I hear our dear caffeine-starved readers demanding. Never fear—the brand isn’t called Brew for nothing.

On this watch, the minutes track between 25-35 seconds is highlighted in yellow-green to signify the perfect time of extraction for an espresso shot. You could use your smartphone for this task… or time your fancy homemade espresso with an equally chic watch.

Its retail of $450 is an extremely reasonable price for a watch of this level of elegance and fun, whether you end up making espressos with it or not. Coffeemaker not included.

 Astor + Banks Fortitude Pro Mint Green

I love mint—I always have and always will. So when I researched for this article and found out Astor + Banks had an edition of their Fortitude Pro with a rich mint green dial, it was immediately on my radar. I think it’s a truly fantastic watch. 

That dial is refreshing just to look at, and its structure is so simple and clean that it would be challenging to find fault with it. The rest of the watch is exactly what a tool watch should be: drilled lugs for easy strap changes, a contrasting brushed and polished case, and a lovely brushed bracelet. The dial may be the star of the show, but the rest of it doesn’t disappoint.

At $675, you get a slick tool watch with a powerful automatic Miyota 9015 movement. Frankly, I’d buy it just for that mint dial—but the rest of it just so happens to be spectacular as well.

 Dan Henry 1964 Gran Turismo Chronograph

The 1964 Gran Turismo is simple, elegant, vintage-inspired, and customizable. All four of these highly desirable characteristics together create something truly magical. 

One of the biggest standout attractions of this watch is the wide variety of options you have in customizing your watch. Models are available in either 36mm or 38mm and in a wide variety of colorways. Plus, the 38mm includes a tachymeter, further building on the watch’s racing heritage evoked in the Gran Turismo name.

As a final touch, no matter which of the many sleek dial options you go with, consider adding a beads of rice bracelet for a boost of class and vintage flair. At $250 for the 36mm and $300 for the 38mm, you really can’t go wrong.

 Reservoir Supercharged Classic

The luxury worlds of watches and automobiles often overlap, but rarely do they combine to form such a unique and fascinating product as the Reservoir Supercharged Classic. This watch is deeply inspired by vintage speedometers, and it accomplishes this look with a totally unique dial. 

The minutes hand acts like the speedometer hand, gradually accelerating throughout your day before, at the top of the hour, it snaps back to 0 and begins again. The hour is unobtrusively present in a “digital” display and even the power reserve is presented just like a fuel tank, a useful and charming touch.

In case you’re wondering, all of this vintage driving charm is powered by a custom in-house module. For $4,400, it’s a little more expensive than the others on this list, but for that price you’re getting a specially developed module and a spectacular design. If you’re a car fan, don’t let this one pass you by.

Unimatic U1 Classic

Unimatic is an Italian-based brand that is known first and foremost for their hardcore, tool-built designs. The U1 Classic continues that trend but with a healthy touch of refinement and class. It’s simple, minimalistic, and elegant, following timeless design codes with its matte black bezel and dial and pale green luminous markers.

 A brushed case and crown guards cement this watch as a tool watch beauty whose 300m of water resistance means it would be only too happy to follow you on your latest diving expedition. Do note, however, that the single dot on the dive bezel does sacrifice practicality for design, as timing events will now be more difficult.

For $550, you’ll have a deep-diving watch that can follow you from the ocean to anywhere as soon as the water’s done streaming off of it. Or just take it for a few laps in the pool. Whatever floats your boat.

Conclusion

Microbrands are some of the brightest stars of the watchmaking community, producing watches that push the boundaries of both affordability and design. It can be hard to sift through the thousands of options out there, but this list is a fantastic starting point. 

Whether you found a specific piece on here that called to you or simply a new brand to explore, I have no doubts that there is something for everyone who appreciates quality watchmaking and elegant design.

As a British watch collector, I’ve always had a soft spot for homegrown horological talent. There’s just something special about rooting for brands that are close to home, especially when the global watchmaking heavyweights from Switzerland and Germany tend to dominate the scene.

Don’t get me wrong, I love a good Swiss watch as much as the next collector, but there’s a unique thrill in seeing a British brand carve out its place in a saturated industry.

That’s exactly why Christopher Ward has been on my radar for years. Back in the day, they were the definition of a microbrand.

They started as a relatively small team that was just excited to be making watches on British soil. But that did mean very few of my international watch-collecting friends had ever heard of them.

But it’s safe to say that’s now all changed. Today, Christopher Ward is no longer a secret, especially since winning the 2023 Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève (GPHG) with their stunning C1 Bel Canto and releasing affordable designs like The Twelve and Sealander.

They’ve gone global in a big way. But, if you’re still unfamiliar with the name or just curious to know more, I’m excited to take you through everything there is to know about Christopher Ward.

I’ll be looking back at their humble beginnings to the current collections and discussing whether a Christopher Ward watch is right for your wrist.

History of Christopher Ward Watches 

Back in 2004, three friends—Mike France, Peter Ellis, and Chris Ward—were floating down the Thames, brainstorming ideas for their next venture.

They’d just left their previous gigs and decided it was time to create something new. Watches, it turns out, was a shared passion and was a world they believed they could actually break into, despite the mass of popular brands already out there. 

At the time, Swiss luxury brands dominated the market with astronomical markups and heavily marketed prestige. So Mike, Peter, and Chris saw an opportunity to shake things up. 

They envisioned a watch brand that skipped the glitzy marketing and sold directly to customers online, making high-quality timepieces that didn’t break the bank. And so, from a humble chicken shed in Berkshire, the Christopher Ward brand was born.

Their first two watches, the C5 Malvern Automatic and the C3 Malvern Chronograph, were launched in 2005. The startup had no physical storefront and instead relied on a single ad in The Independent newspaper and their fledgling website.

Sales were slow at first, but after a review mentioned their C5 and described it as the “best-value mechanical watch in the world”, all of a sudden, the little British watch brand was on the map. 

By 2008, Christopher Ward had partnered with Swiss watchmakers Synergies Horlogères, giving them access to bespoke craftsmanship and expertise. 

This collaboration led to innovations like the JJ Calibres and, in 2014, the game-changing Calibre SH21, a 5-day power reserve movement. It was the first commercially viable in-house movement from a British watch brand in over 50 years, cementing Christopher Ward as a real disruptor. 

Fast forward to today, and Christopher Ward has transformed into a global name in watchmaking. Their headquarters in Maidenhead, UK, and manufacture in Biel, Switzerland, ensure the perfect blend of British design and Swiss precision. 

The brand has grown its catalog to include collections like the C60 Trident, Aquitaine, and Sealander, appealing to everyone from first-time buyers to seasoned collectors. 

They’ve also evolved their branding, ditching the full “Christopher Ward” text on dials in favor of the sleek twin-flags logo. This change wasn’t just cosmetic but was also designed to represent the dual British-Swiss heritage. 

The real tipping point for Christopher Ward, though, at least in my eyes, was when they won the 2023 Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève (GPHG) award for their C1 Bel Canto.

This innovative chiming watch is remarkably affordable, considering it houses a chiming complication and remains one of the British watchmaker’s most coveted designs. 

And with other models like The Twelve and C1 Moonphase more recently hitting virtual shelves, Christopher Ward has made it clear they’ve outgrown their microbrand roots.

Popular Christopher Ward Collections

Bel Canto 

As I hopefully made clear in the introduction, the Christopher Ward Bel Canto remains the brand’s most transformative piece that catapulted the British watchmaker into the limelight. 

Powered by the innovative FS01 module atop the reliable Sellita SW200-1 movement, it produces an hourly chime. This alone is a rare sight in watches, but especially at a price point of $4,000. 

Housed in lightweight Grade 5 titanium, the watch is both durable and elegant, with a 41mm case that’s been masterfully sculpted to reduce visual heft.

This balance of design ensures a comfortable, unobtrusive wrist presence. Its centrepiece, though is the vibrant sunburst dial that rivals even those on high-end luxury timepieces.

It’s visually captivating without being overly complicated, with a symmetrical dial-side chime mechanism and polished, chamfered details. 

The Twelve

Christopher Ward’s The Twelve collection is a personal favorite of mine and a watch I’ve owned for a little over a year now. It’s one of the few affordable integrated sports watches on the market available in both 40mm and 36mm and in steel or titanium. 

Its most defining feature, and the very thing it’s named after, is the bezel. It has twelve sides and is meticulously triple-finished for depth and dimension. 

Dial textures vary across models, from glacier blue to nebula purple, each adorned with Christopher Ward’s signature cross-flag pattern.

The steel models house the Sellita SW200 movement, while the titanium models feature a thinner, chronometer-certified SW300, reflecting thoughtful tiered offerings. 

With a starting price of $995, The Twelve bridges the gap between haute horology and everyday luxury, making it a formidable contender for anyone wanting an integrated sports watch that doesn’t have the price tag of a Royal Oak or Nautilus. 

Trident

The Trident is Christopher Ward’s flagship dive watch, offering a balance of performance, style, and value. Among the standout models is the C60 Trident Pro 300, a reimagined classic designed for everyday versatility. 

Slimmer and lighter than previous iterations, it features a two-part unidirectional ceramic bezel that delivers a precise, satisfying click. It’s also available in a range of sizes, including 38mm, 40mm, and 42mm, and four dynamic color options. 

Another highlight is the C60 Trident Lumière, a more recent release that takes luminosity to the next level. Constructed from Grade 2 titanium, the case and bracelet exhibit a darker, more refined finish than traditional stainless steel, while the gradient dial features a new patented material Christopher Ward calls Globolight on the hour markers. These are ceramic blocks infused with Super-LumiNova that create a striking 3D effect, perfect for underwater legibility. 

C1 Moonphase 

Another Christopher Ward watch many of you will likely be familiar with is their C1 Moonphase. This collection is inspired by the night sky’s celestial beauty, showcasing an aventurine dial crafted from aventurine glass infused with copper oxide. 

The result is a display that sparkles like a starry night sky. The most notable part of the dial, though is the moon. Fashioned from Globolight, a ceramic and Super-LumiNova blend, the moon offers a breathtakingly accurate three-dimensional representation of the moon’s surface. 

The C1 Moonphase is powered by Calibre JJ04, an in-house modular movement that links the moonphase to the hour hand for a seamless, perpetually moving display of lunar phases. 

Remarkably accurate, it promises to track the moon’s journey for 128 years as long as you keep it wound. The rest of the watch has a beautiful minimalist approach, with the aventurine dial stripped of markers, indexes, and even the logo, allowing the moon and starry backdrop to take centre stage. 

C63 Sealander

The C63 Sealander Collection is Christopher Ward’s answer to the call for a versatile, go-anywhere, do-everything sports watch.

With a sleek design rooted in English aesthetics and Swiss engineering, these watches are crafted from marine-grade stainless steel and feature shimmering sunray dials at the center. 

With options in 36mm and 39mm, the ergonomically designed Light-catcher case fits snugly on the wrist, combining brushed and polished surfaces that play beautifully with the light (hence the name). 

Turn the watch over, and the exhibition case back reveals the intricate workings of the Sellita SW200-1 automatic movement.

And for those who travel regularly, you’ll likely appreciate the C63 Sealander GMT, which adds an additional time zone hopping complication so you can stay connected to multiple time zones at once. 

Super Compressor

Finally, a Christopher Ward watch that doesn’t get mentioned enough is the C65 Super Compressor. As a genuine super compressor watch, it features a unique mechanism that uses water pressure to enhance its seal, a hallmark of Ervin Piquerez SA (EPSA) cases from the 1950s. T

heir latest design in the series is their “Elite” version, which reimages their original with even better functionality. 

At the heart of the C65 Super Compressor Elite is a COSC-certified version of the Sellita SW300-1 automatic caliber, placing it among the top six percent of Swiss mechanical movements for accuracy. 

This precision is complemented by the decompression scale on the dial, box-shaped sapphire crystal glass and a sturdy 41mm cushion-shaped Light-catcher.

There are also twin crowns, one for controlling the internal rotating bezel and another for changing the time, both screwed in to ensure the 150-meter water resistance.

What Makes Christopher Ward Watches Stand Out? 

When it comes to finding a watch that truly stands out, Christopher Ward has carved a niche that’s hard to ignore. As a fellow British watch enthusiast, I’ve always admired their approach to watchmaking.

They’re not just another brand in the sea of options but a small, independent British watchmaker that genuinely cares about quality and innovation. This makes their timepieces especially appealing to those of us who appreciate the finer details of horology. 

One of the biggest things that set Christopher Ward apart is their use of in-house movements and materials.

While many of their movements are based on tried-and-true Swiss workhorses, Christopher Ward takes it a step further by integrating their own patented technologies like that seen in the Bel Canto or the C1 Moonphase.

Their Light Catcher case is another example and having worn several Christopher Ward watches with this design feature, I can confirm it has a beautiful, flowing architecture that enhances aesthetic appeal and wearability.

Quality is another cornerstone of Christopher Ward’s philosophy. They don’t compromise when it comes to materials or craftsmanship.

Whether it’s the Grade 5 titanium in the Bel Canto or the aventurine glass in the Moonphase collection, every component is meticulously chosen and expertly crafted.

And speaking of complications, their Bel Canto and Moonphase models are perfect examples of how they bring high-end features to insanely affordable prices. 

To put it into perspective, the Bel Canto retails for just over $4,000, while a similar chiming watch from a brand like A. Lange & Söhne, such as the Zeitwerk Minute Repeater, can set you back over $450,000. That’s more than 100 times the price. But Christopher Ward isn’t cutting corners, they’re instead reimagining accessibility without sacrificing quality. 

Christopher Ward is also known for their direct-to-consumer approach. They choose to bypass traditional retail models so they can bring high-quality timepieces available to a wider audience.

It’s a clever way to challenge the status quo and bring back transparency in watchmaking. In an industry often shrouded in mystery, Christopher Ward pulls back the curtain and instead shares insights into their manufacturing processes, material sourcing, and the true costs involved in creating each watch. This level of openness builds trust and makes you feel like you are part of their journey, not just a customer.

Should you get a Christopher Ward Watch?

Deciding whether to invest in a Christopher Ward watch depends on what you’re looking for in a timepiece and where your priorities lie. As I’ve hopefully explained, this British watchmaker has done a great job at balancing quality, innovation, and affordability so honestly, there’s a good chance you’ll find something to suit your needs.

In particular, Christopher Ward caters to those who appreciate independent brands and value both design and function.

If you’re someone who admires the craftsmanship of luxury timepieces but finds their prices daunting, Christopher Ward offers an excellent alternative. They’re perfect for enthusiasts who want high-quality materials, innovative features, and Swiss-made movements without paying a luxury premium. 

Their appeal also extends to people who enjoy technical ingenuity. The brand is renowned for creating affordable watches with complications that would typically come with astronomical price tags. Not to bring up their Bel Canto again, but a chiming watch that retails for just over $4,000 is unheard of. It delivers a complication so rare that its closest competitors cost thousands more. 

Of course, while Christopher Ward offers a lot, they may not be the right fit for everyone. Traditionalists who seek a storied heritage or brand prestige might lean toward household names like Rolex, Omega, or Patek Philippe.

Christopher Ward, being a relatively new and independent British brand, doesn’t carry the same legacy or cultural cachet. If owning a watch from a brand with centuries of history is important to you, this might be a dealbreaker. 

But if it was me, I wouldn’t hesitate to choose a Christopher Ward for my collection. In fact, I have several, and I’m currently wearing my The Twelve 36 while writing this article.

Their watches have yet to let me down, and I’ve found them to be an excellent choice if you want that luxury feel without the luxury price tag. They also have a wide range of styles, case sizes, complications, and dial colors to choose from, so you’re guaranteed to find something to suit your taste. 

Conclusion 

It might have taken twenty or so years to have heard of their name, but I truly believe Christopher Ward to be a watchmaker worth keeping an eye on. From their humble beginnings in a chicken shed to winning international acclaim, they’ve proven that luxury doesn’t have to come with a six-figure price tag. 

This is a brand for those who value quality and innovation over flashy logos, who appreciate transparency in a traditionally secretive industry, and who want a watch that tells a story as much as it tells the time. Their ability to combine cutting-edge complications with affordable pricing is difficult to compete with and they are a watchmaker I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend to you, or anyone else. 

So, should you get a Christopher Ward watch? If you’re ready to embrace independent and affordable watchmaking at its finest, the answer is a resounding yes.

The Apple Watch is, without a doubt, the single most popular and recognizable watch in the world today. Its many models are present on wrists all around the world. As a category, they’re one of the best-selling products ever created. Their iconic rectangular shape can be spotted a mile away, adding style to powerful functionality. 

Its near-ubiquity, however, does not detract from its simple attractiveness. For iPhone owners and even those without Apple products, the Apple Watch is a fantastic daily companion that can aid you with daily tasks, making life more streamlined and fun, just as the very best technology should.

Whether you’re a hardcore watch nerd wondering about the mysterious world of smartwatches, an Apple fanatic looking to upgrade to the latest watch model, or just a beginner looking for a good entry point into the confusing array of Apple Watch models, look no further than this guide. I guarantee you’ll find just the right watch for your style, interests, and budget here.

Iconic Development: The History of Apple Watches

Before we dive into the specific breakdown of the watches you might be interested in, let’s examine how this line has evolved and become the icon that it is today. Learning about where these watches have been and what they’re becoming helps any informed buyer determine what the best choice is for their budget and for the market as it currently stands, and even just a brief overview can make a big difference in helping you to make the right decision.

The more than 100 million Apple Watches sold to date span 15 generations since their introduction in April 2015. (I did the math—that’s over 11 million watches sold per year on average and close to 7 million per generation!) These dizzying numbers are a clear testament to the quality and appeal of the world’s most iconic watch. 

The first Apple Watch may have been a little slow in processing speed, but it utterly redefined what a smartwatch could be. Step tracking, heart rate sensors, even Apple Pay—not even 10 years ago, many of the functions that we now take for granted in a smartwatch were absolutely groundbreaking, all thanks to the Apple Watch.

With later editions, the processing speed was greatly increased (almost doubled from the Series 0 to the Series 1!), and a bevy of new functions were introduced. GPS, waterproofing, mindfulness, independent cellular connection, Fall Detection, emergency sirens, and so much more all found their way into later editions of this smartwatch which is always at the very cutting edge of technology.

Throughout their history, Apple Watches have been pushing limits and driving the entire smartwatch market forward through their new advancements and technological features. The latest editions are a strong continuation of this trend, especially considering the powerful tech in the Ultra 2. 

When considering purchasing a new Apple Watch, look for the technology it features and how it’s pushed the market forward, as well as for its price, which usually is remarkably low for the advancements the watch holds.

Top 5 Best Apple Watches

Without further ado, let’s get right into the breakdowns! Each watch fills its own particular niche in Apple’s portfolio of offerings, and there’s something for everyone, from avant-garde technological beasts to subdued affordable options. I guarantee you’ll easily find the right watch for your budget and interests on this list!

Apple Watch Ultra 2

Honestly, where else could we start except with this ultra-advanced stunner? (I make no apologies for my puns—watch out since there may be a few more ahead!) For $799, it won’t come cheap, but you’ll get every dollar of your money back in the form of a titanium-enshrouded, 49mm hulk. 

The blazing fast S9 chip powers a dizzying array of functions: dual-band GPS, dual integrated speakers, emergency siren (audible up to 600 feet, two football fields away!), LTE cellular capability without even being connected to your phone, and a battery life that blows its competitors out of the water at up to 72 hours straight in Low Power Mode.

Sure, the price isn’t easy to swallow for most people looking to get into the market. While I can’t guarantee that your wallet will be happy with you, I can assure you that you’ll find many everyday moments becoming smoother. 

You can quickly dash off text messages from your watch, your phone left behind; you can fire up that dual-band GPS and go for a run anywhere from the mountains to the streets of Barcelona; you can even pick out a particularly chic watch face from the store and stride calmly into a board room meeting or an important conference with your Swiss army knife of tech at your side. You couldn’t ask for anything more from a tool that’s not merely a watch—it’s a daily companion.

Apple Watch Series 10

At $399, the Series 10 is a much more palatable offering from Apple than the Ultra 2 which still manages to offer a wide variety of technological advancements. At either 42mm or 46mm, you can pick the size that best suits your wrist, knowing that regardless of which option you settle for, you’ll have a bright wide-angle OLED display to proudly show each of your Series 10’s functions.

It surpasses its predecessors in a few key notable ways, although, for the most part, it’s a very similar watch. It’s thinner, 10% lighter than the Series 9, and has fast charging—which usually takes just 20-30 minutes to get your watch charged the majority of the way. 

For most, that means simply popping the watch onto the charger while you shower and slipping it on for the rest of the day! I find that these are things that seem like little details on paper (or on ETP’s exquisite blog, I suppose) but really improve the watch’s performance every single day throughout every function that you use. 

Finally, the Series 10 offers the Breathing Disturbances function, which can detect sleep apnea. This is honestly a huge advancement in diagnosing and preventing this condition and is definitely worth checking out if you’re worried you may suffer from it.

One drawback to note, however, is the absence of any sort of blood oxygen sensing feature which could be used to measure your respiratory system and fitness performance. Previous Apple Watches have featured this powerful tool, but it unfortunately had to be removed due to a lawsuit filed against Apple over the blood oxygen function. 

As such, this advancement has been removed in most new Series 9, 10, and Ultra 2 watches, leaving them at a slight disadvantage compared to other smartwatches on the market that still offer blood oxygen measurement. If you’re looking for any sort of respiratory system analysis, you can opt for an older Apple Watch made before the lawsuit. 

An easy way to identify a watch that still has this function active is if it does not have the letters LW/A at the end of its part number. It’s an unfortunate loss but one that can be circumvented if the need arises.

Apple Watch SE 2nd Generation

The original Apple Watch SE was, from the start, an exceptional budget-friendly option, and the 2nd Generation has only improved on the original while keeping a strong entry-level price. At $250, it’s much more affordable than even the Series 10, and still has quite the heavyweight lineup of features.

With an S8 chip, it’s not exactly as cutting-edge as the Ultra 2, but it sure does pack a punch (especially compared to some of those predecessors we were talking about in the History section!). The Vitals app is probably the biggest headline feature: at a quick glance, it shows heart rate, respiration, and other health-related features. Whether you’re working out or just going about your daily life, the Vitals app helps you stay on top of your well-being.

Another sweet budget-friendly option (which really just feels like dessert at this point—it’s almost impossible to resist!) is that independent cellular connectivity, which is a separate fee for each watch, is cheaper for the SE 2 than any other Apple Watch. 

This makes the SE 2nd Generation a great pick for people who don’t actually have an Apple iPhone or who don’t want to be reliant on their phones. With cellular connectivity, the Apple Watch SE can do most of what an iPhone could, with a smaller, more unassuming presence on your wrist as opposed to the weight in your pocket.

Apple Watch Series 9

The Series 9 isn’t currently offered by Apple for retail sale, but it is still a strong option for anyone looking to get into the market of Apple Watches. With an S9 chip and Breathing Disturbances, it edges out the SE 2nd Gen in functionality while still remaining at a relatively affordable price of around $300. Thanks to the fast new S9 chip, it has quicker processing for intensive functions like Siri as well as better battery life.

What’s more, many Series 9 models still have a fantastic array of sensors: ECG, skin temperature (which can help you see if you could be getting sick), and some even feature that rare blood oxygen sensor (again, look for a part number without LW/A).

With 41mm and 45mm case options, you can get a size that fits perfectly with your wrist and lifestyle. Speaking of lifestyle, as if the Apple Watch couldn’t get any easier or more convenient, the Series 9 uses a newer function called Double Tap, which activates the primary button on your home screen (which can be whatever you map it to) by just tapping your index finger and thumb on your watch hand. As in, no need to even touch the screen. 

The Series 9 is all about functionality, ease of access, and making your lifestyle easier, and it hits a home run in every possible way.

Apple Watch Series 7

The Series 7 may be an older model, but it sure has some kick left in it. You can find them for as low as $150 refurbished, which even surpasses the SE 2. Best of all, they still have that oh-so-precious blood oxygen sensor. No need to check part numbers in this case—every single Series 7 you can get your hands on will have it. For those who are in need of a good analysis of their respiratory activity, the Series 7 is a strongly compelling choice.

That said, one drawback of the Series 7 is that it usually goes for around the same price as a Series 8, both models being discontinued. For the most part, the Series 7 has one advantage beyond all others: its colors.

It comes in bright blue and green, colors that aren’t offered for any of the other models. If you’re looking for something a little more fun or fashionable than the austere titanium of an Ultra 2, the Series 7 might be exactly the watch you need.

Conclusion

Hundreds of millions of Apple Watches certainly haven’t been sold for nothing! As a collection, they span 15 generations of advancements that push the boundaries of what’s possible in smartwatches and wearable technology. They’re a true cultural icon in a way that few watches ever have been before, even surpassing the famous Swatches of the ’90s. 

From the ultra-rugged Ultra 2 to the powerful but entry-level SE, there’s an option for everyone in Apple’s catalog. Whether you’re a hard-bitten mechanical watch collector or just someone looking to buy an everyday wrist companion, Apple has just the right watch for you.

Much in contrast to mechanical watches, which have remained the same in principle for centuries, smartwatches are evolving constantly. Brand-new cutting-edge sensors and programs are constantly being added to the latest models, and this has made today’s fitness watches extremely powerful tools for tracking your overall health and wellness.

Whether you’re a dedicated athlete or just focused on living a healthy lifestyle, any good fitness watch provides countless ways to stay on top of your game. From simple functions like heart rate tracking to advanced training programs offered by trained computer algorithms, the dozens of fitness watches on the market provide a wide variety of options for any budget and any goal. 

Among all these options, however, it can seem overwhelming and nearly impossible to narrow your focus down to the very best one. As such, the experts at Exquisite Timepieces have put together a list of the 10 very best fitness watches that you can find, from budget-friendly to top-of-the-line.

History of Fitness Watches

Before we dive into the specific picks, I’d like to take a moment to break down the history of fitness watches and where their technology has come from. The past has shaped the future in ways that we can hardly begin to discern, and taking a moment to look at how this technology has grown allows for a better appreciation of the technology we have today and an understanding of how it will continue to develop.

As I discussed in my previous article on running watches, the first step tracker, or pedometer, was invented back in the 1700s, which is quite a formidable history for something that seems like such a recent invention! 

However, pedometers never saw anywhere near the everyday usage of fitness watches today—they primarily served a military purpose in tracking the marching rates of companies of troops.

The invention of the first true fitness device as it exists today is usually cited as the Manpo-kei (10,000 Steps Meter), developed in Japan in 1965 to combat rising levels of obesity. It was a much more modernized pedometer that was worn around the waist. 

As such, it was one of the very first accessible fitness devices, and I believe it was the beginning of a trend of wearable fitness technology that developed into the modern smartwatch.

Today, smartwatches have absolutely exploded in technological advancements, as if they’re trying to make up for their 200-ish years of relatively little progress from the first pedometer to the Manpo-kei. 

Smartwatches can connect to your phone, come with built-in AI and voice assistants, can download applications, and even provide dedicated fitness training plans, much like a professional coach! As a genre, there’s truly nothing on the market quite like a smartwatch, and I’m certain anyone dedicated to their health would benefit highly from one.

Top 10 Watches for Fitness Enthusiasts

Without further ado, let’s dive into the 10 best fitness watches! Each watch is at a different price point and fills a different niche in the market, so I’m sure that anyone can find their perfect match on this list. From military-grade tactical watches to off-the-trail adventure pieces, you’ll find an option here.

Garmin Fenix 7X Pro Sapphire Solar

At a retail price of $1,000, this Garmin offering is a top-of-the-line fitness beast. Even setting aside the rest of its features, its battery life alone immediately sets it apart from the crowd: a whopping 37 days between charges, using its built-in solar charging. Coupled with a precision multi-band GPS and Satiq map technology, the Fenix 7X Pro is ready to go anywhere your fitness journey calls you.

Yet Garmin didn’t stop there. This watch comes with all the stunning features we’ve come to expect from Garmin, from customized Garmin Coach training programs to stats like Real-Time Stamina and Body Battery Energy Monitoring. It’s built for any sport at all, and even has Multisport Auto Transition for triathlon athletes who are quickly switching between different activities.

At three different case size options—42, 47, and 51mm—I find the Fenix 7X Pro Sapphire Solar to be a powerful option for anyone who’s seriously dedicated to staying on top of their health and challenging themselves.

Apple Watch Ultra 2

When the Apple Watch first took the world by storm in 2015, there was nothing like it. Apple has sought ever since to continue that trend and keep striving for watches that push the boundaries of what’s possible—in many cases blowing other brands’ offerings out of the water.

The Ultra 2 is a monster of health and fitness monitoring, with a dizzying array of sensors to track everything from depth underwater to height in the air. It sets itself apart with options for athletes that most other fitness watches don’t offer—most notably, divers, with 100m of water resistance and gauges to measure depth and water temperature. 

The third-party app Oceanic+, supported by Apple, even turns your watch into a full dive computer! Other athletes aren’t left out at all, though—there’s built-in tracking for so many different sport and workout types that Apple could not list all of them on their website.

At a retail of $800 to $900, depending on the strap options you get for it, it’s not a watch for the faint of heart, but it will immensely reward those who are seeking a higher level of dedication to their sport.

Casio G-Shock GBD-H2000-1A Move

For its price of around half the price of an Apple Watch—a retail of $400—the GBD-H200-1A Move is insanely advanced. It doesn’t have quite the same level of sensor-based functionality that some of its competitors do, but what it does supply is more than enough for almost all athletes: GPS, heart rate monitor, step and swimming stroke counters, and the opportunity to sync with Strava.

Like the Garmin 7X Pro, this watch also provides solar charging—but unlike the Garmin, it’s able to run almost exclusively off solar power, a stunning feat that very few other advanced smartwatches are able to pull off. Of course, if you’re continually running the GPS or other functions, you’ll run out eventually, but the opportunity to keep the battery continually topped off on solar power alone is easily the biggest advantage to this watch.

Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra

Don’t worry, dear Android owners—we didn’t forget about you. The Galaxy Watch Ultra is a great alternative to the Apple Watch that even surpasses its competitor in many ways. The key highlight of this watch is the built-in Galaxy AI that provides insights into your stats and advanced personalized training programs that help you improve.

With the standard features you’d hope for from a fitness watch, like an advanced dual-band GPS and powerful BioActive sensor, the Galaxy Watch Ultra is a great pick even if you don’t opt for the AI advantages. 

At $650, it beats out many of its top competitors in price while offering novel features that set it apart from the crowd. It’s easy to say that you could do much worse than a smartwatch like this one if you’re set on improving your health.

Amazfit GTR 4

Okay, I’ll be honest—this is easily one of my favorite picks on the list. At a stunningly low price of $200, you’d expect to have to make many concessions with this one in terms of its features. Ready for the breakdown? The GTR 4 comes built-in with over 150 different sport modes, a large brilliant AMOLED display, Amazon Alexa, a BioTracker 4.0 sensor, and a market-leading GPS that connects to 6 different satellite positioning systems.

And that’s just scratching the tip of the iceberg with this watch. The only faults that you could point out are a lack of third-party music app support—only local playback—and the operating system that powers it, which is a lesser-known Zepp OS and which almost certainly has not had quite the level of development that systems like the Polar algorithms that many other watches use enjoy.

Coros Vertix 2

If your weekly fitness regimen is full of hikes in the mountains and if your bucket list is full of adventures to far-away, unmapped places, then the Coros Vertix 2 should be high on your list of much-needed accessories. It’s built to go where few other watches can, using features like its long battery life, durable reinforced bezel and screen, and offline features like maps and music storage.

Need to find your way through a winding mountain trail? No worries—the Vertix 2 comes with an altimeter and compass. Worried about that incoming storm? Use the built-in barometer to keep an eye on local weather no matter where you are.

At $600, it’s a middle-of-the-road price for a strong specialty pick that can accompany you anywhere.

Garmin Forerunner 265

Look no further than the Forerunner 265 if you’re on the hunt for a lower-priced generalized option to support all sorts of fitness programs. At a retail of $450, it’s cheaper than others at its level of functionality, since it opens up almost the entire suite of advanced Garmin functions.

Like the Fenix 7X Pro, one of the major highlights is the Garmin Coach training plan, which is tailored just to you. It’s smaller than many of the massive adventurous watches out there, making it a much easier everyday wear that couples smartwatch functionalities with advanced insights into your exercise.

Sure, it may not be making any headlines with novel features—but it’s a wonderful everyday wear that provides more than enough athletic support for even dedicated athletes. I guarantee it’s a rock-solid pick that won’t disappoint.

Casio G-Shock GPRH1000-1 Rangeman

The GPRH1000-1 Rangeman has, well, a rather proficient range of versatility. Like the Vertix 2, it’s designed to go anywhere and do anything. A gigantic case, offered in either black or eye-catching yellow-orange, it’s built with extreme mud and dirt resistance thanks to the gaskets and steel casing around each button. Oh, and it also has 200m of water resistance. Fancy a dive?

With solar charging just like the GBD-H2000-1A Move, you’d be hard-pressed to wear this one down to an empty battery. An altimeter, thermometer, barometer, and compass accompany you on any adventure, as well as a GPS, heart rate measurement, multi-sport support, and many other advanced features.

Retailing for $500, this Rangeman is certainly not nearly as expensive as it could be, and I believe the price is more than reasonable for the advanced technology you get within. Personally, I recommend the yellow-orange option—with a watch that big, you’re hardly going to be trying to fly under the radar with the black version!

Garmin Tactix 7 Pro

I’ve never seen anything quite like this watch, to be honest. It’s purpose-built as a tool watch for special forces, which means it comes with a host of features like a mode where the screen can be seen while wearing night vision goggles, a stealth mode that shuts off all GPS and internet connectivity, and even a kill switch that wipes the watch clear of all logged data. 

While most of us won’t be tapping into those functions on a regular basis except as a neat party trick, the same level of design and technological development has gone into every other feature of the watch as well.

Solar charging, weather reports, a tracker for hunting, public land boundary maps, and so much more are what sets this watch far apart from the crowd. To be clear, the Tactix 7 Pro doesn’t skimp on any of the fitness features either: it has the same Garmin Coach suggestions, along with a powerful suite of sensors and training status indicators.

For $1,300, it’s not a cheap watch, but you get every bit what you pay for, and it’s a watch that will never disappoint!

Withings ScanWatch 2

The ScanWatch 2 perfectly fills a very specific niche in the smartwatch market thanks to its significant variety of health features. At a retail of $350, it won’t break the bank, and who knows? It just might save your life! It features a medical-grade ECG to detect cardiac variations, along with body temperature tracking to indicate when an illness may be coming on. 

Blood oxygen level tracking keeps an eye on your respiratory system as well. In terms of strictly fitness features, it’s a little limited except for a variety of different sport modes, so it’s mainly focused on overall wellness.

The major highlight of this watch for me is its elegant, under-the-radar presentation. It looks, for the most part, like a sleek time-only watch, with a more subdued screen. It provides information when you need it, and the rest of the time is a watch you won’t feel self-conscious about wearing to a fancy gala. What more could you ask for?

Conclusion

It’s truly staggering to me just how far fitness watches have come from the days when they were first getting started. From pedometers you couldn’t even wear on your wrist to now fitness watches that provide an overall picture of your health coupled with tactical features, solar charging, or AI, it’s truly unbelievable just how much technology you can wear on your wrist for a few hundred dollars.

Whether you’re looking for a holistic overview of your health, an advanced training program to become the very best athlete you can be, or a watch to accompany you from mountain heights to ocean lows, you’ll find your smartwatch soul mate here on this list.

Everyone loves a good “best” list, and I originally intended to include my top 10 watches here, but then after mulling it over in my head, I realized that 10 just didn’t cut it. In the dynamic age of social media and fashion forward trends, I think that offering a greater variety—from the perspective of price, style, and purpose—will best meet the demands of our esteemed readers. After all, there are so many good watches out there, so if we left one of your favorites off of this list, don’t take offense! 

History of Men’s Watches

As many may know, the first watches were essentially miniature versions of clocks, so they were still too large to be worn on the wrist. In the 16th century, these “miniature clocks” were known as pocket watches, and while they were small enough to be carried, they were typically attached onto chains and worn in pockets (hence the name) or pinned onto clothing.

The prominence of wrist worn watches didn’t begin until the early 20th century. In 1904, Cartier designed a watch for Alberto Santos-Dumont, an aviator with a “functional” need for accessible timekeeping while flying. And then the start of The Great War (World War I) required a more practical timekeeping solution for combat. Soldiers began strapping watches to their wrists, using makeshift leather straps or fabric brands to secure their pocket watches onto their wrists.

The rest is history—literally!

Top 15 Best Watches for Men

Tudor Black Bay Fifty-Eight (ref. M79030N-0001) 

Ah–Tudor. The little sister of Rolex has sure as heck been making a lot of noise these days. Established in Geneva in 1926, Tudor has a rich history of watchmaking. But it wasn’t really until 2013 that Tudor started hitting its contemporary stride, triumphantly returning to the U.S. market with the Heritage Black Bay—a vintage inspired dive watch with an iconic burgundy bezel. The watch was well-received, but as smaller watches became trendy, some complained that the original Black Bay was a bit too large. 

Tudor listened, releasing the Black Bay Fifty-Eight at Baselworld in 2018. With a screw-down crown, a rotatable bezel, and robust construction, this is a purpose-built dive watch. This timepiece offers a Goldilocks sizing of 39mm with a lug-to-lug of 47.8mm and a case thickness of 11.9mm. Juuuust Riiight. It also features an in-house caliber (MT5402) with COSC accuracy and 70 hours of power reserve. With an MSRP of $4,175, Tudor has set the bar high with the Black Bay 58.

Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional Master Chronograph (ref. 310.30.42.50.01.002) 

Omega watches have adorned the wrists of astronauts, secret agents, celebrities, professional athletes, and even yours truly. They are one of the most globally recognizable brands, with a rich history of horological innovation and superb craftsmanship. When people think of Omega, they usually think of the Speedmaster Moonwatch. 

The Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional Master Chronograph is the “souped-up” version of Omega’s legendary offering, featuring OMEGA’s extraordinary Co-Axial Calibre 3861, which has METAS certification and an exhibition caseback showing off pristine finishing. This version of the watch also has a domed sapphire crystal for extra durability. With a 42mm case diameter, this is a very wearable watch; moreover, with an MSRP of $8,000, I truly believe that you’d be hard pressed to find a better value in terms of history, craftsmanship, and brand recognition.

Rolex Submariner (ref. 124060) 

You’ve seen it before: a green backdrop, the iconic crown, the gold embossed lettering. Rolex is arguably the most recognizable brand in the world. It’s certainly the most recognizable watch brand. Amongst its legendary offerings, one watch stands head and shoulders above the rest: the Submariner. First released in 1954, the watch has evolved through the decades, maintaining its vintage inspired design language while adopting new case and movement technologies. 

The latest iteration, reference 124060, has a 41mm case diameter, a sapphire crystal, 300m of water resistance, and a Superlative Chronometer accurate movement with 70 hours of power reserve. It has all the trimmings expected of a modern luxury dive watch: a ceramic rotating bezel, long-lasting lume, and a robust bracelet with micro adjustment clasp for precise fitting. You could own the watch Sean Connery famously wore as Bond, all for a very reasonable $9,200.

Grand Seiko SLGA009 

Grand Seiko, from a horological standpoint, is the pride of Japan. And yet, for decades, people have scrunched their nose at the prospect of spending “Swiss watch money” for a fancy Seiko. Fools—all of them. To see a Grand Seiko in person is to witness the perfect amalgamation of art, design, and engineering. In recent years, Grand Seiko has pushed hard to gain ground in the United States, and they are doing so with great success. 

Arguably, they have entered a new era with the release of their Evolution 9 styling, The bold hands and distinctive, grooved markers offer exceptional readability, while the case’s Zaratsu-polished mirror finish—free from distortion—and the subtle alternating hairline finish create a soft, harmonious radiance. With its wide lugs and low center of gravity, the case rests comfortably and securely on the wrist. The SLGA009, or “White Birch,” is my favorite offering in the Evolution 9 series. 

The dial is absolutely gorgeous, with long vertical grooves that resemble the bark of a white birch tree. And yes—you are getting the 9RA2 Spring Drive Caliber with 5 days of power reserve and +/- 10 seconds per month of accuracy (yes, you read that correctly). With a 40mm diameter and a lug-to-lug of under 48mm, this watch fits all wrists and all occasions. At $9,300, this is quite a value proposition, too! 

Patek Philippe Nautilus (ref. 5811/1G) 

Founded in 1839 in Geneva, Patek Philippe has established itself as a leader in high horology, pioneering many complications and design elements that are now widely adopted across the watch industry. Included in its numerous horological achievements are the creation of the first annual calendar watch and the introduction of wristwatches featuring perpetual calendars and split-seconds chronographs. Patek Philippe enjoys popularity across its collections, but their Nautilus sports models are some of their most recognizable pieces. 

The Nautilus (ref. 5811/1G) is my favorite Patek—let’s call it a grail of mine. It features a case and bracelet in white gold as well as a blue sunburst dial with a black gradation to the periphery. At 41mm, though with a lugless design, the watch wears more like a 38 or 39mm. At a mind-boggling 8.9mm thin, it will fit under any cuff. The party continues on the back, of course, with a movement worthy of a jeweler’s loupe. A date at 3 o’clock keeps the dial uncluttered. An MSRP of $72,230 is certainly a big ask, but this is no mere timepiece; it’s a Patek Phillippe.

Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Automatic 42mm Black Dial (ref. 5010 12B30 B52B) 

Many believe that Rolex was the first commercial dive watch to market, but Blancpain released their Fifty Fathoms a full year before the crown did. Blancpain released the Fifty Fathoms in 1953, and it quickly became one of the first modern dive watches, setting the standard for timekeeping in underwater conditions. Its design, including a rotating bezel and high water resistance, made it a key tool for both military divers and professional explorers. 

The 5010 12B30 B52B Fifty Fathoms features a 42mm titanium case and high quality canvas strap. There is a date complication at the 4:30 and a beautiful exhibition caseback, showcasing the self-winding Calibre 1315, known for its impressive 120-hour power reserve. If you are looking for a high-end dive watch that is lightweight and purpose-built, you simply can’t go wrong with the Fifty Fathoms. Its MSRP is $18,400.

Audemars Piguet Royal Oak (ref. 15510ST.OO.1320ST.06) 

Audemars Piguet has been crafting watches since 1875, when founders Jules Louis Audemars and Edward Auguste Piguet registered the brand in Switzerland’s Vallée de Joux. Today, the company is headquartered in Le Brassus and remains one of the few watchmaking firms still privately owned, with the Audemars family at the helm. I have to admit, if I were to close my eyes and envision a luxury sports watch, it would be the Royal Oak every time. 

Designed by Gérald Genta and released in 1972, the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak was the first true luxury sports watch. At 41mm, the stainless steel Royal Oak with blue dial is the pinnacle of stainless steel sports watches. The integrated bracelet has an almost ethereal quality to it, and color matching date wheel compliments the overall symmetry of the timepiece. With an MSRP of $24,900, the AP Royal Oak is a sound investment that can be enjoyed for centuries to come! 

Glashütte Original PanoMaticLunar Silver (ref. 1-90-02-42-32-64) 

This legendary Maison’s name comes from a small town in Saxony called Glashütte, where German watchmaking was born hundreds of years ago. This town has a legacy of producing some of the finest timepieces in the world, each bearing the mark of German excellence and craftsmanship. 

With a rich history spanning over a hundred years, Glashütte Original became part of Swatch Group—the world’s largest watch group—in 2000, affording the brand unprecedented global reach. With availability in over 40 countries, Glashütte Original is a true “in-house” watchmaker, creating nearly 100% of the components that go into their watches. The Glashütte Original PanoMaticLunar Silver is a watch that screams Germany—in the best possible way! It has two subdials, one for the actual watch, and the other as a small seconds, overlapping each other.

It has a silver galvanized dial, which is so pretty to look at, a big date complication, and a gorgeous moonphase at 2 o’clock. The watch is just as nice to look at through the sapphire crystal caseback, showcasing a hand-finished movement with all the bells and whistles. At 40mm, this stainless steel watch can be dressed up or down. With an MSRP of $11,200, I don’t think you can find a timepiece that packs quite as much of a punch as the PanoMaticLunar Silver! 

Hublot Spirit of Big Bang King Gold (ref. 642.OX.0180.RX) 

The Hublot Big Bang collection is deeply rooted in the brand’s history. Drawing inspiration from the inaugural Hublot timepiece of 1980, it seamlessly incorporates iconic design elements such as the round bezel reminiscent of a porthole, visible screws, and integrated straps. Officially unveiled at Basel in 2005, Hublot’s Big Bang watches have become a mainstay within the luxury watch industry. 

The Spirit of Big Bang King Gold is the perfect fusion between tradition and innovation—in an entirely skeletonized design. The 42mm watch is constructed from 18K “King” gold, featuring 100m of water resistance, 50 hours of power reserve, and a super comfortable rubber strap. This timepiece offers chronograph functionality and eye-catching looks. If you want something that is both loud and elegant at the same time, the Hublot Spirit of Big Bang King Gold can be yours for $44,900.

H. Moser & Cie. Streamliner Centre Seconds Matrix Green 

I have always loved the idea of stainless steel sports watches, made famous by Gerald Genta. My favorite color is green, so I guess having the H. Moser & Cie. Streamliner Centre Seconds Matrix Green on this list was a no brainer. Founded by Heinrich Moser in 1828, the company was relaunched in 2005 to great critical acclaim. 

When I first laid eyes on this watch, I realized that this was not just a homage. This was something entirely new. It looked almost “alien-like” in person—as if some advanced civilization had crafted it with laser beams. The bracelet articulates wonderfully. You catch your breath when looking at the sunburst green dial. 

At 40mm in diameter, this watch is as wearable as it gets, especially when considering it has an integrated bracelet. The in-house movement is finished to the highest of standards, offering superb accuracy and 72 hours of power reserve. With an MSRP of $24,000, this is one of the best value propositions in all of high-horology.

Parmigiani Fleurier Tonda PF Sport Chronograph Steel (ref. PFC931-1020001-400182)

Parmigiani Fleurier is a Swiss watchmaking brand that was founded in 1996 by master watchmaker Michel Parmigiani. Known for its dedication to craftsmanship and understated luxury, the brand combines traditional horological artistry with modern innovation. The first time I held a Parmigiani Tonda in my hand, I was blown away by the finishing and quality. 

Pictures truly don’t do these watches justice. Powered by Calibre PF070, a COSC-certified chronograph movement with a 65-hour power reserve, the Parmigiani Fleurier Tonda PF Sport Chronograph Steel is a true work or artistry, with a hand-guilloché dial with a Clou Triangulaire pattern, a coin-edged bezel, and a movement showcasing anglage and hand beveled bridges, showcasing true horology. 

An integrated bracelet design makes the 42mm stainless steel case very comfortable on the wrist. Beyond chronograph functionality, the watch also has a date at the 4:30 and 100m of water resistance. The Parmigiani Fleurier Tonda PF Sport Chronograph Steel has an MSRP of $30,000.

Breguet Marine Tourbillon (ref. 5577PT/Y2/9WV) 

As one of the oldest surviving watchmakers, founded in 1775, Breguet’s popularity can be attributed to heritage, quality, and brand resources. Having been acquired by Swatch Group in 1999, Breguet’s position as the flagship brand within the Swatch Group affords the brand the financial resources and creative freedom to continue to innovate. Imagine a watch that blends so many distinct styles and horological innovation into one sleek package? 

Imagine the Breguet Marine Tourbillon. Integrated sports watch—check. Purpose-built marine watch with 100m of water resistance—check. Roman numeral indices for a dressier appearance—check. Tourbillon, an ode to Abraham-Louis Breguet along with “Breguet” style hands—check. At 42.5mm, with only 9.5mm of thickness—yes, you read that correctly—this is a very approachable timepiece, regardless of your wrist size. With an MSRP of $185,800, the Breguet Marine Tourbillon isn’t just a watch, it’s an heirloom artifact that can be handed down for generations to come.

Oris ProPilot X Kermit Edition

Founded in 1904, the nascency of Oris parallels the fledgling aviation industry of the time period.  By 1911, Oris developed their first pocket watch for pilots, and by 1917 they developed their first wrist-worn pilot’s watch. Their Big Crown watches—so that the watch could be wound with gloves that pilots wore—often had pointer dates, and are still offered today, with vintage styling for the contemporary consumer. It wasn’t until 2014, however, that Oris decided to create an amalgamation of vintage and modern, which ultimately gave birth to the Oris Big Crown ProPilot line of watches.

Being well received, Oris continued to innovate and invest in its own identity with the release of the Big Crown ProPilot X, which first debuted in 2019. The Oris ProPilot X Kermit Edition was first released in 2021. It has a “lime” green dial with Kermit the Frog appearing on the first day of every month. While it might be loud for some collectors, the Oris Pro Pilot X Kermit Edition is actually a watch with a splash of color that can be worn with casual or formal attire. 

The watch is constructed in lightweight and durable titanium, and has a very wearable 39mm size. The in-house caliber Oris 400 is also featured through the exhibition caseback, and offers a 5-day power reserve and an unheard of 10 year warranty! All of this is available for $4,900.

Longines L3.802.1.53.6 Spirit Zulu Time Anthracite Dial on Bracelet (ref. L3.802.1.53.6) 

The Spirit Zulu Time 39mm, from Longines, is the impetus for Longines’ resurgence within the watch community. Not only is this watch absolutely gorgeous—I dream about the green bezel version—but it is also built to a high standard of finishing. Offered in a variety of materials and sizes, the L3.802.1.53.6 Spirit Zulu Time is made from titanium and is 13.5mm thick, with a 46.8mm lug-to-lug. This is as wearable as a watch can be, folks, offering superb legibility and the ability to easily slip under a cuff. 

What’s more, unlike most of its competition, the Longines Spirit Zulu Time 39mm is a true GMT, allowing the hour hand to be independently adjusted. The movement within also parallels the excellence of the case. It offers a COSC certified ETA movement, exclusive to the brand, with 72 hours of power reserve. If you are looking for one of the best bargains in the industry, the Longines Spirit Zulu Time 39mm retails at $4,275. I love this watch so much that I just couldn’t keep it off this list! 

Seiko Prospex Alpinist SPB121 

Some watches are so iconic that you can close your eyes and picture them vividly in your head. I feel this way about the Seiko Prospex Alpinist. The Seiko Alpinist story dates back to the 1960s, when Seiko released a rugged watch for Japanese mountaineers. The 2006 version was more closely related to the SPB121, with the iconic green dial and rotating inner compass. And Seiko’s latest iteration, the SPB121 is the perfect amalgamation of form and function. 

This is a unique and timeless watch, and I’ve always felt that it has the ability to be worn for outdoor activities as well as dressed up for formal wear. A 39.5mm case with a 46mm lug to lug makes for a very wearable watch, and the heart of the watch is powered by Seiko’s in-house 6R35, good for 70 hours of power reserve. Did I mention that it has a sapphire crystal, screw down crown, and 200m of water resistance? 

Okay—I know what you are thinking. So how much for all of this? With an MSRP of $725, the SRB121 is a testament that you can still buy a quality timepiece for under $1000.

Conclusion

And just like that, you have 15 of the best watches for men, curated by Exquisite Timepieces for your enjoyment. At the end of the day, the best watch is the one that scratches your horological itch, and from a price point that makes sense for you. 

Here at Exquisite Timepieces, you can feel free to contact us to help you find your next timepiece. Or feel free to explore our curated collection online or experience the exclusive range available at our boutique in Naples, Florida.