Category: Watch Reviews

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.

In the great wide world of watchmaking, Switzerland is considered the country that takes the crown – and rightly so. They are well-known for their high levels of craftsmanship, luxury designs, and for setting standards in accuracy thanks to institutions like COSC (Official Swiss Chronometer Testing Institute). However, across the ocean lies another powerhouse in the world of horology: Japan. 

Slowly but surely, this country has gained a reputation for producing watches that match Switzerland in their cutting-edge technology and beautiful design while maintaining a remarkable level of affordability. 

Japanese watch brands like Seiko, Citizen, Casio, and Orient have become some of just a few household names to come out of the nation, carving out a unique niche that caters to both everyday wear and high-end collectors. 

Whether it’s Grand Seiko’s pioneering Spring Drive movement, Citizen’s eco-friendly Eco-Drive technology, or Casio’s rugged G-Shock series for outdoor adventurers, Japanese brands are proving that exceptional quality and functionality are available from somewhere other than the watchmaking capital of the world. Have I piqued the interest of your wrists? Keep reading to discover the 15 best Japanese watch brands…

About Japanese Watches 

Although it feels like Japanese watchmaking is still a fairly youthful entry into the horology world, it actually has a more storied history than you might think. It all started in 1913 when Seiko, a brand that still leads the way in Japanese watchmaking to this day, introduced the country’s first-ever wristwatch. The model was named the Laurel. 

At this point in time, pocket watches were still the most popular form of timekeeping while on the move. In fact, there was a real shortage of wristwatches in Japan altogether, with the rare few examples being imported from other countries. 

Then arrived Kintaro Hattori, the founder of Seiko. He was driven by a desire to always be ‘one step ahead’ and embarked on the task of creating Japan’s first-ever wristwatch. That was how the Laurel was born, a perfectly round watch – copying the shape of a pocket watch – with a crisp white dial and beautiful navy and red numerals. 

It really wasn’t until the 1960s, however, marked by the famous “Quartz Revolution”, that Japanese watchmakers truly began to make waves in the market. Brands left, right, and center introduced high-precision and amazingly affordable quartz watches. 

The first was the Seiko Astron, the world’s first quartz wristwatch. Brands like Citizen and Casio shortly followed suit, leveraging quartz technology to create accurate, low-cost timepieces. They certainly gave Switzerland a run for their money, as many mechanical watchmakers began to lose profit and, in some cases, closed completely. 

Today, Japanese watchmaking continues to thrive, and with a steady balance of both quartz and mechanical watches being offered on all sides of the world, the industry continues to prove that sometimes, a bit of healthy competition can drive innovation and elevate standards.

15 Best Japanese Watchmakers

As you’ve probably guessed from the title of this blog, Japan is home to many watch brands. It’s clear watch collectors have their favorites – including myself – but they’re all different, offering their own flair and level of expertise to the world of horology. Below, we introduce some of the most renowned and influential Japanese watchmakers that we believe have truly shaped the industry for the better.

Grand Seiko

We’re starting off well because Grand Seiko might just be my favorite Japanese watchmaker of all time. Founded in 1960 as the luxury arm of Seiko (more on that powerhouse shortly), Grand Seiko quickly established a reputation for exceptional craftsmanship and precision. The company was created to produce the world’s “perfect” watch, one that had unparalleled levels of accuracy and a design that was both beautiful and functional. 

I can confidently say that Grand Seiko has achieved its mission. Models like the Grand Seiko Spring Drive are an example of their eye-opening technical prowess. It’s a watch that combines the best of mechanical and quartz technologies, using the mainspring of a mechanical movement with the regulation of a quartz crystal. 

The combination achieves almost near-perfect timekeeping. Their dedication to dial craftsmanship is also worth a mention, with Grand Seiko’s dials being known as some of the most intricate and beautiful in the watchmaking world. I urge you to look at their collections more closely to see what I mean.

Seiko

Almost like the baby brother of Grand Seiko, and yet a company that has a longer history, Seiko was founded in 1881 by Kintaro Hattori. As we mentioned earlier, Seiko was the inventor of Japan’s first ever wristwatch as well as the world’s first quartz wristwatch, so already, we know they’re coming from a place of ingenious innovation. 

The Seiko Astron, the first quartz wristwatch, remains a popular model in the Japanese watchmaker’s portfolio but now features solar-powered GPS technology so you can adjust your watch to whatever time zone you’re in with a simple click of a button. 

Another one of Seiko’s popular collections is its Prospex line. Those looking for rugged, high-performance, and affordable dive watches really ought to check this collection out. 

These are super durable watches with legible Lumibrite dials, adventurous water-resistant cases, and in-house automatic winding movements. I will always love the Seiko Prospex ‘Save the Ocean’ collection, which helps raise proceeds for charities working to protect our oceans. 

Casio

Possibly one of the best-known Japanese watch brands out there, Casio was founded in 1946 by Kazuo Kashio. He began by engineering calculators before eventually venturing into watchmaking in 1974. Since then, Casio has become something of an icon in the watch industry, predominantly launching highly robust and affordable digital watches. 

For me, the Casio G-Shock line is the company’s most significant contribution to horology. Launched in 1983, the G-Shock watch was born from Casio engineer Kikuo Ibe’s mission to create “a watch that never breaks”. 

Ever since, G-Shock has become synonymous with durability and shock resistance, attracting the adventurous wrists of outdoor explorers, athletes, and military personnel. They often feature digital displays with backlighting and robust water-resistant cases. 

Citizen

Another well-known Japanese watchmaker is Citizen. Founded in 1918, this brand is best known for the introduction of its Eco-Drive technology in 1976. In fact, it seems the rest of their history gets overshadowed because of how revolutionary this technology is. But it is a game-changer. 

Eco-Drive watches from Citizen are powered entirely by light, including the sun and artificial sources like your bedside table lamp. The battery is rechargeable, which means you never have to take your Citizen watch to your local jewelers for a replacement. 

The Citizen Eco-Drive Promaster series is a favorite for its durability and advanced diving features. It’s a watch I often recommend to those new to watch collecting and looking for something affordable and perfect for an action-worthy everyday timepiece. 

Another Citizen watch I have to mention, purely because I’m a proud owner of one, is the Tsuyosa. This is a standout collection offering automatic winding movements and strikingly colorful dials at insanely affordable prices.

Orient

Another Japanese watch brand I like is Orient. Founded in 1950, this watchmaker is another to prove that quality and craftsmanship can be accessible to everyone. They are best known for their dedication to mechanical watchmaking, consistently delivering stylish and reliable automatic and manual winding watches. 

For me, the Orient Bambino is a beauty. I was lucky enough to have recently reviewed one of the same, and I was pleasantly surprised by the high levels of craftsmanship found in a watch priced under $200. 

The Orient Bambino makes my wish list with vintage-inspired designs, super slim cases, and reliable movements. I should also mention the Orient AR00 Semi Skeleton, another beautiful dress watch with a unique small seconds overlapping a round skeletonized aperture revealing the movement below. A design like this isn’t a common sight in a watch brand working in this price range.

Lorus

If you prefer your watches with more of a modern, minimalistic look, then Lorus might be worth your time. It’s not a Japanese watch brand known by many, but they’ve been making waves in the horology world since its founding in 1982. 

As part of the Seiko family, you can feel confident knowing these watches are not only stylish but reliable and budget-friendly, using a mix of quartz and solar-powered in-house movements to fuel their dials. 

If it were me, I would head first to the Lorus Sport collection. Here, you’ll find a range of masculine sports watches with aggressive case styles, full metal bracelets, and chronograph movements. Alternatively, the Lorus Classic line opts for sleek lines and clean dials for those wanting something with a bit more elegance to it. Lorus is another perfect example of how you don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy a high-quality piece.

Credor 

Credor is something of a hidden gem in the world of luxury watches. This is another one of Seiko’s children, but it focuses largely on high-end watch materials and movements. These watches represent some of the highest levels of artistry and engineering in Japanese watchmaking (alongside Grand Seiko), with every hand-finished dial and complex mechanical movement proving a commitment to excellence. 

One of Credor’s best-known collections is the Credor Eichi. It is celebrated for its minimalistic aesthetics, exceptional movement accuracy, and use of premium materials, including platinum and 18-carat gold. Another model worth mentioning is the Credor Spring Drive, which features the Japanese brand’s famous Spring Drive movement, which merges both mechanical and quartz technology for insane levels of accuracy.

Kuoe Kyoto

Compared to those mentioned previously, Kuoe Kyoto is a young Japanese watchmaker, having only left the womb in 2000. And yet, despite being a new contender to the luxury watch world, they’ve already distinguished themselves worldwide for their commitment to blending traditional Japanese craftsmanship with the needs of a modern audience. 

To put it into perspective, most of Kuoe Kyoto’s watches use Japanese stainless steel and enamel work that has been handmade in Japan. One of my personal favorite collections is the Kyoto Collection, which features delicate dial patterns that evoke traditional Japanese motifs.

Hajime Asaoka

It’s not often I come across a watch brand I’ve never heard of, but when it came to researching this article, the name Hajime Asaoka kept cropping up. And so, of course, I had to learn more. Established in 2005, it seems this watch brand – although not widely known – has mastered the art of handcrafted timepieces. 

Each model is thoughtfully designed by master watchmaker Hajime Asaoka, who has a clear appreciation for the balance of aesthetics and mechanical engineering. He cleverly combines traditional techniques with modern design to launch models like the Tsunami and Tourbillon Pura.

Kurono Tokyo

Another watch brand I’m not overly familiar with, although I have heard their name mentioned before, is Kurono Tokyo. After looking into the brand a little more deeply, I feel that their philosophy revolves around extremely well-made watches with top-notch construction and attention to detail but at an accessible price. Their collections are exactly that: accessible but exceptionally constructed, offering masterful complications and, in some cases, rare Urushi dials.

Minase

A Japanese watchmaker with a penchant for modern aesthetics blended with Japanese precision is Minase. Founded in 2005 in the heart of Japan’s watchmaking district, the company has become best known for its bold geometric stylings and titanium cases, which are lightweight and incredibly durable. 

Models like the Horizon and Windows are two of my favorites since they boast unique rectangular cases with captivating dial construction that’s both sleek and mesmerizing. The Uruga is another popular reference with a sporty five-row link bracelet and unusual claw-like tongs on the bezel.

Mirco

It’s not easy to make timepieces stand out in today’s market since there are so many watch brands. But somehow, Mirco managed to do it, creating a range of watches that can only be Mirco. By placing their logo untraditionally at the 6 o’clock spot and leaving the 12 o’clock area completely bare, it’s not difficult to spot one of their designs in a crowd. 

It’s still a new brand, having been founded in 2015, but they’ve already created some standout models, including the Type-02, which is undeniably retro, and the Type-03, a colorful diver’s watch.

Naoya Hida & Co.

A Japanese watch brand that has really surprised me, opting for the traditional fonts, colors, and stylings of Swiss-made timepieces, is Naoya Hida & Co. It makes perfect sense, though; since their founding in 2013, they have dedicated their history to traditional techniques, combining them with intricate dials and finely crafted cases. 

The NH Type 5A is an absolutely beautiful timepiece, marking the brand’s first dress watch with a rectangular case. It’s compactly sized with three-dimensional sapphire crystal and beautiful concave dolphin hands. It’s a must-have for those with a love of Japanese-made dress watches.

Future Funk

I love a watch brand that does things differently, and Japanese watchmaker Future Funk says it all in the name. They boast an exciting range of retro-inspired timepieces that bring the groovy vibes of the 1970s into the modern day. The unusual dial layouts and disco-esque cases capture the essence of the era’s bold fashion and funky beats. 

They are most definitely designed for those of us who love both nostalgia and unconventional watch design. The Future Funk Roller takes the number one spot for me, inspired by the space-age design of 1970s digital clocks with numbers that rotate vertically.

Kikuchi Nakagawa

Last but certainly not least, we have Kikuchi Nakagawa, a fairly unknown microbrand founded by duo Kikuchi and Nakagawa. The pair wanted to bring together the beauty of traditional Japanese aesthetics with the precision of Swiss watchmaking, and in doing so, they created a selection of timeless dress watches. 

These watches cater to connoisseurs who appreciate the finer things in life and those of you who value quality, artistry, and a touch of understated luxury. 

As it stands, Kikuchi Nakagawa only has two collections in their portfolio: Murakumo and Ichimonji. Both are fairly simple in their execution but surprise with handcrafted dials and cases and Vaucher Manufacture Fleurier movements (a movement maker known for supplying some of the world’s most prestigious watchmakers).

Conclusion

It’s clear there’s no shortage of incredible Japanese watch brands to choose from. Whether you’re after a durable diver’s watch, a shockproof digital timepiece for hiking, a classy dress watch, or something wholly unique and different, Japan has got you covered. 

With such a variety of designs and innovations, you’re bound to find the perfect watch to suit your style and needs. While Switzerland may officially be home to some of the biggest watchmakers in the world, I think Japanese watch brands give them a good run for their money.

The world of watches can be a confusing place. There’s a whole bunch of terminology that can be puzzling even to the most experienced watch collector, let alone those of us completely new to timepieces. From tourbillons to tachymeters, perpetual calendars to power reserves and bezels to balance bridges, know that it’s okay to feel overwhelmed by all these different terms. 

I guarantee all of us, at some point in our watch collecting journey, have had to Google what these words mean. And I’d bet my money that one of the most frequently asked questions is: “what is a chronometer?”

Think of a chronometer watch as an overachiever, the clever one in school. It’s a watch that has passed a super strict set of accuracy tests, typically by an official body known as COSC in Switzerland (although there are other bodies we’ll get to shortly). 

The watch has basically been to a boot camp to ensure it is super precise; the movement is tested in different positions and temperatures to ensure it keeps near-perfect time. People choose chronometer watches when they want undeniable reliability, whether that’s an essential lifestyle requirement or just a cool thing to boast about with their friends.

History of Chronometers

Like most inventions, the chronometer was created out of need. During the 18th century, a serious issue faced by sailors traveling out at sea was their inability to accurately determine their longitude, making navigation tricky and often dangerous. 

Enter John Harrison, a British clockmaker who, in 1735, created the first marine chronometer. His invention was a game changer, allowing sea-dwellers to navigate the ocean with incredible levels of accuracy. It was kind of like giving sailors a GPS long before satellites were even a thing. 

Over the years, chronometers got smaller and more precise, eventually moving from ship decks to wrists. Chronometer watches became popular during the early 20th century as the demand for accurate timekeeping skyrocketed. It was here when organizations like COSC were founded, created with the aim of certifying chronometer watches under a strict set of standards. Now, only the most precise timepieces earn the title “chronometer”.

Now, with GPS systems aboard, we don’t need chronometers to set sail, but the precision of a chronometer wristwatch is still necessary and impressive. They have become symbols of reliability and craftsmanship, with typically only the finest watchmakers in the world able to create chronometer-certified watches.

Chronometer Certification Standards

There are various chronometer certifications, each with its own testing method. So, if you’re looking for a chronometer watch for yourself, it’s good to know which certification your watch has passed. Even some watch brands, known for crafting their own in-house movements, have developed their own chronometer certifications to show their dedication to precision and craftsmanship. Let’s look at some of the best-known chronometer certifications and what is involved in each…

COSC Chronometer

The Contrôle Officiel Suisse des Chronomètres, abbreviated to COSC, is the most common standard of chronometer certification. The Swiss establishment was the first institution to certify watches as chronometers, demanding the best in accuracy and craftsmanship. Following its founding in 1973, it still demands a very specific set of specifications from a watch to earn its prestigious certification. Those that do pass receive a coveted COSC certificate. 

Watches that are assessed under COSC undergo a series of tests over 15 days. These assess a movement’s precision under different conditions, including temperature variations (8°C, 23°C, and 38°C) and positional changes (like crown up, down, and horizontal). The watch must maintain a daily rate within a tight range of -4 to +6 seconds to pass.

METAS Chronometer

METAS Chronometer certification is another respected standard, but one set by the Swiss Federal Institute of Metrology (METAS) in collaboration with Omega. It goes beyond traditional chronometer testing to ensure even higher levels of precision and durability. To achieve this certification, a watch must pass COSC certification before undergoing additional tests conducted by METAS.

These tests include exposure to magnetic fields up to 15,000 gauss, different temperatures, and even different water pressure levels to verify its robustness. Additionally, the watch’s accuracy is assessed in six different positions and at two different power levels—fully wound and with a 33% reserve. METAS-certified chronometers guarantee a daily precision of 0 to +5 seconds.

Superlative Chronometer

Superlative Chronometer certification is exclusively awarded by Rolex to its own timepieces. Like METAS, it goes beyond the standard of COSC chronometer testing, ensuring that every movement meets Rolex’s own stringent standard. Again, every movement must first pass COSC certification before then being handled by Rolex’s professional watchmakers, who take the fully assembled watch – not just movement – in-house for further testing.

These tests include placing the watch in multiple positions and in varying conditions such as freezing, hot and magnetic environments. They also test for waterproofness, power reserve, and automatic winding proficiency. To receive Superlative Chronometer certification, the watch must maintain a daily rate of -2 to +2 seconds, making Rolex Superlative Chronometers some of the most accurate in the world.

Grand Seiko Special Standard

As its name suggests, the Grand Seiko Special Standard is a certification exclusive to Japanese watchmaker Grand Seiko. Hoping to prove Japanese watchmaking can be just as precise and reliable as Swiss, the brand has created their own certification even stricter than COSC. 

To receive the Grand Seiko Special Standard certification, a movement must undergo rigorous testing for 17 days across six different positions and at three temperature settings. The movements are also tested in both horizontal and vertical orientations. The daily deviation allowed is between -3 to +5 seconds, exceeding the standards set by COSC.

German Chronometer Standard

The German Chronometer Standard is a certification similar to Switzerland’s COSC but one that is dedicated to testing the accuracy of German-made watches like those from Glashutte Original. The standard is found under certification DIN 8319, with specifications equivalent to those of the ISO 3159. 

It values a series of tests over 15 days, with the movement tested in five positions and at two different temperatures. Like COSC, it must also maintain a daily rate of accuracy within -4 to +6 seconds. However, unlike its Swiss counterpart, the German Chronometer Standard involves testing the fully cased watch, not just the movement.

Patek Philippe Seal

Patek Philippe also has its own chronometer certification unique to them. In 2009, they established a seal that represents the rigorous standards of their movement manufacture, once again going above and beyond the standards set out by COSC. 

To earn the Patek Philippe Seal, a watch must maintain a daily accuracy of -3 to +2 seconds in several positions and at different temperatures. Additionally, the watch’s durability, finishing, and overall craftsmanship are examined, so you’re guaranteed some of the finest levels of watchmaking in the world.

Qualité Fleurier Standard

The Qualité Fleurier Standard, also sometimes known as the FQF Quality seal, is a certification process for mechanical watches made entirely in Switzerland. This means every part of the watch must be 100% Swiss-made. 

Then, the movement must pass the tests of the COSC, followed by the FQF’s additional tests, including accuracy checks in different positions and temperatures, ensuring it maintains a daily deviation of -0 to +5 seconds.

Chronometers vs Chronographs

Chronometer and chronograph are two watch terms that are often confused with each other – understandably so since both begin with “chrono”. But in fact, chronometers and chronographs are totally different. 

As we now know, a chronometer is all about precision; it’s a watch that has been officially certified to keep time super accurate, passing rigorous tests. A chronograph, however, is a watch built with a stopwatch function, allowing you to measure elapsed time with separate sub-dials.

Fun fact: you can have a chronometer chronograph, a watch awarded chronometer certification equipped with a handy stopwatch complication.

Popular Chronometer Watches on Exquisite Timepieces

If you’re into precision timepieces, chronometers are where it’s at. At Exquisite Timepieces, we have a number of exceptional chronometer watches for you to enjoy. Here are some of the most popular, as rated by our customers:

Omega Constellation Globemaster Omega Co-Axial Master Chronometer 39mm (ref. 130.33.39.21.03.001)

Known as one of Omega’s Master Chronometer watches, a family of timepieces certified by METAS, this Omega Constellation Globemaster Omega Co-Axial Master Chronometer 39mm promises incredible levels of accuracy and reliability. The movement, with its co-axial escapement, is highly anti-magnetic and promises a healthy power reserve of 60 hours. 

It’s also a beautiful watch externally, featuring a 39mm stainless steel case with a scratch-proof fluted bezel and 100 meter water resistance. The dial is the star of the show for me, though, colored in blue with an unusual star-shaped dome finish set with Super-LumiNova infilled hands and indexes.

Frederique Constant Highlife Automatic COSC Silver Dial (ref.  FC-303S3NH26B) 

Possibly one of the most affordable manufacturers of chronometer watches, Frederique Constant has truly reached their goal of making luxury watchmaking accessible to everyone. For less than $2,500, they offer a COSC-certified full-metal sports watch with their Frederique Constant Highlife Automatic COSC Silver Dial model, powered by the Caliber FC-303 with a 38-hour power reserve. 

It, too, has a 39mm stainless steel case, but one with a sporty, integrated architecture that flows into the brushed and polished H-link bracelet. The dial is crisp white and uniquely embossed with a globe motif across the center.

Grand Seiko SLGH021

Grand Seiko has a number of impressive in-house movements worth mentioning, but their Caliber 9SA5, found inside the Grand Seiko SLGH021 Limited Edition, is one of their Grand Seiko Special Standard movements. With a daily rate of +5 to -3 seconds per day, a power reserve of 80 hours, and a frequency of 36,000 vibrations per hour, it becomes one of the most impressive chronometer movements on the market. 

The watch is also absolutely breathtaking, featuring an intricately detailed, mosaic-like mint green dial inspired by the colors of the Genbi Valley landscape and a 40mm wide Ever-Brilliant steel case polished using the brand’s famous Zaratsu technique.

Glashütte Original Senator Chronometer (ref. 1-58-01-02-05-30)

Offering a more traditional aesthetic, one that harks back to some of the world’s first chronometers, the Glashütte Original Senator Chronometer watch is powered by the in-house Caliber 58-01, a manual winding movement with a 44-hour power reserve and chronometer certification. 

The movement is housed within a luxurious 18ct rose gold case, measuring to 42mm wide and just 12.6mm tall, strapped to the wrist by a dark brown alligator leather strap. The dial is silver-grainé and decorated with blued hands, a black railroad chapter ring, an oversized date window and timeless Roman numerals.

Parmigiani Fleurier Tonda PF GMT Rattrapante (ref. PFC905-1020001-100182)

Finally, the Parmigiani Fleurier Tonda PF GMT Rattrapante is an exceptional chronometer watch with an opulent integrated case and bracelet, guilloche dial, and GMT complication. The soft lines of the case are engineered from stainless steel, while the bezel, with its detailed knurled finish, is machined from 950 platinum. 

It sits on the wrist at 40mm wide and 10.7mm thick, secured by a three-row link bracelet with brushed and polished finishing. The blue grain d’Orge hand-guilloché dial presents two skeletonised hands for the hours and minutes and a rose gold hand for the GMT, all powered by the chronometer certified Caliber PF051.

Conclusion

We hope you now have a solid understanding of what a chronometer watch is and why these timepieces are so highly coveted. If precision and accuracy aren’t high on your list of priorities, a chronometer might be a little wasted on you. 

However, if you value precision and reliability, especially if you have a job or lifestyle that requires high levels of timekeeping accuracy, then a chronometer watch would be a worthy investment. Or maybe you’re just like me, and you simply appreciate the intricate technology that goes on inside these watches. If so, a chronometer watch will no doubt enhance your daily life too.