Category: Watch Reviews

Compasses have helped people for centuries to navigate their way through the world. By using the Earth’s magnetic field, a compass determines the direction in relation to the poles and helps guide the user on their way. 

They are incredibly useful for hikers, adventurers, and outdoor enthusiasts who want to stay on track while exploring new terrain. While wristwatches have not been around quite as long, they, too, help people navigate their daily lives.

A compass watch combines the functionality of a traditional timepiece with the added benefit of a compass. Whether you’re exploring a new city or hiking through the woods, a compass watch can give you the confidence to know exactly where (and when) you are.

Not only are compass watches practical, but they can also be a stylish addition to any watch collection. Many models come in sleek, modern designs perfect for everyday wear. Some even include additional features like altimeters, barometers, and GPS tracking to enhance their functionality.

A compass watch is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a reliable tool watch with a little extra tech. With various styles and prices available, there is a compass watch to suit almost anyone. Keep reading, and you might just find the perfect one for your needs.

History of the Compass

The compass has a rich history that spans centuries and has evolved significantly over time. The modern compass we use has its roots in ancient China. Initially, it was used as a divination tool, but it soon became a crucial navigational aid for travelers and traders.

Over time, new features were added to compasses, such as the ability to compensate for local magnetic variation and the inclusion of illuminated dials for use in low-light conditions. Today, compasses have been integrated into various devices, including watches, smartphones, and GPS systems.

Purpose of a Compass Watch

The purpose of a compass watch is to provide direction and orientation to the wearer, allowing them to easily navigate unfamiliar territory. Time and direction go hand in hand, so why not combine them in a single tool? By using the Earth’s magnetic field, a compass watch can determine the cardinal directions, enabling the wearer to know the time, where they are, where they need to go, and how to get there. 

Types of Compass Watches

Analog compass watches and digital compass watches are both useful tools for navigation and outdoor activities. The main difference between the two is how they display the compass information. Analog compass watches use a physical needle that points towards the magnetic north, while digital compass watches use a digital display to show the direction.

Ultimately, the choice between an analog and a digital compass watch comes down to personal preference and intended use. Those who prioritize simplicity and durability may prefer analog compass watches, while those who value accuracy and convenience may prefer digital compass watches.

Digital Compass Watches

Digital compass watches offer more accurate readings and additional features such as altimeters and barometers. They are also easier to use, with simple push-button controls, and can be calibrated automatically.

Analog Compass Watches

Analog compass watches have the advantage of being easier to read in bright sunlight and don’t require batteries, making them a more reliable option for outdoor activities. However, they require manual calibration and can be affected by nearby magnetic fields.

The Best Compass Watches

Bertucci DX3 Compass

The Bertucci DX3 Compass watch is a high-performance timepiece designed for outdoor enthusiasts who demand reliability, durability, and accuracy. This watch is constructed with a solid titanium case, a solid mineral crystal, and a durable nylon band, making it tough enough to withstand even the most rugged outdoor activities.

One of the standout features of the Bertucci DX3 Compass watch is its precise and accurate Japanese quartz movement, which ensures that the timepiece keeps perfect time. The watch also features a reliable and accurate compass that is easy to read and use, making it an essential tool for navigation in the wilderness.

The watch also includes a date display, a rotating bezel for tracking elapsed time, and a water resistance rating of up to 100 meters. Additionally, the watch’s luminous hands and markers make it easy to read in low-light conditions.

You can find the Bertucci DX3 Compass for around $70.

Seiko Solar Chronograph Compass SSC081

The Seiko Solar Chronograph Compass is a great all-around option, crafted with a stainless steel case and bracelet, making it durable enough to withstand the rigors of outdoor activities.

This beautiful quartz chronograph includes a date window, 100 meters of water resistance, and a comfortable diameter of 41mm. It also uses Seiko’s patented Hardlex crystal and has the accuracy of a Seiko quartz movement. The rotating internal compass bezel ensures you’re always heading the right way. 

If you’re looking for a combination of quality, looks, and value, it’s hard to go wrong with a Seiko, no matter which model you choose. However, if you are looking for a compass watch specifically, then this is the Seiko for you.

This watch is priced at approximately $190.

Timex Intelligent Quartz Tide Temp Compass Watch (ref. T2N720)

The Timex Intelligent Quartz Tide Temp Compass Watch is a fun and useful tool watch that will entice outdoor enthusiasts and gadget geeks alike. Aside from the standard functions like time, this little wrist robot can tell you the current tide conditions in your area. 

It also has a temperature sensor, a compass function, a 24-hour chronograph, and an alarm. It even comes with 100 meters of water resistance, a highly legible diameter of 45mm, and a soft silicone strap. It’s like having a personal assistant on your wrist without the annoying chitchat! 

The best part is it only costs a little under $200.

Suunto Core (ref. SS014279010)

This watch is a sleek and modern option for those who want a no-nonsense tool for the great outdoors. In addition to having a built-in compass, the Suunto Core SS014279010 also has a barometer and altimeter. 

The barometer measures air pressure and can help you predict changes in weather conditions, while the altimeter measures altitude, which is particularly useful for hiking and mountaineering. The watch also has a thermometer, which can help determine the temperature of your surroundings.

As a multi-function digital watch, the Suunto Core also includes a stopwatch, countdown timer, and multiple alarms. It also has a backlit display, making it easy to read in low-light conditions. It’s water-resistant up to 30 meters, while the strap is made of elastomer and is designed to be comfortable and secure on the wrist. At 49.1mm, it’s not a small watch, but that makes it all the more legible.

This excellent tool watch can be yours for around $220.

Casio G-Shock Master of G Mudmaster Twin Sensor (ref. GG1000-1A8)

The Casio G-Shock GG1000-1A8 Master of G Mudmaster Twin Sensor compass is a durable and versatile watch designed to withstand extreme conditions. It includes a mud-resistant shell, water resistance up to 200 meters, and a twin sensor that measures temperature and direction. It also features a countdown timer, a world time display, and a daily alarm.

The watch’s mud-resistant structure is achieved by using a specially designed case and button guards that prevent mud and debris from entering the watch. This feature is handy for outdoor enthusiasts and professionals who work in harsh environments.

It also includes a twin-sensor feature that allows the timepiece to measure both temperature and direction. If you want a watch that’s both rugged and functional, you can never go wrong when you choose a G-Shock. 

Plus, you can find it for approximately $200 if you shop around.

Orient Mechanical Sports Compass (ref. RA-AC0N02Y)

Orient is a part of the Citizen group, meaning that you know you’re getting good quality. The Orient RA-AC0N02Y Sports Compass has a diameter of 44mm, 200 meters of water resistance, and a rotating compass bezel. It also includes a day and date display, automatic movement, and scratch-resistant sapphire crystal. 

The highly legible orange and white dial is functional, fun, and stylish. After all, just because you’re traipsing through the woods doesn’t mean you don’t want to have a little pizazz in your wardrobe.

This unique and functional timepiece will set you back about $300.

Citizen Promaster Altichron (ref. BN5058-07E)

The Citizen Promaster BN5058-07E Altichron includes a sleek black dial, luminous hands and markers, a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, and Citizen’s legendary eco-drive movement. On the tech side, the watch also has an altimeter, barometer, thermometer, and date display.

The altimeter measures altitude up to 10,000 meters, while the barometer measures atmospheric pressure and helps predict weather changes. The thermometer function indicates the temperature in both Celsius and Fahrenheit.

The Citizen Promaster BN5058-07E Altichron compass watch has a diameter of 47mm, a thickness of 16.5mm, and a weight of 221g. Its water resistance rating is 200m, making it a great option for hiking, swimming, and many other outdoor activities.

You can find the Citizen Altichron for a little under $350.

96Zero Field Watch

The 96Zero Field Watch is as rugged as it is attractive. It features a 42mm case,  water resistance up to 100 meters, and a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal that can withstand the toughest of environments.

The watch is powered by a Swiss-made quartz movement that provides precise and accurate timekeeping. The black dial with white Arabic numerals gives great visibility even in low light. It also includes a three o-clock date window, a screw-down crown, and a comfortable canvas strap.

The watch has an approximate retail price of $400.

Seiko Prospex “Land Tortoise” SRPG15K1

Seiko has been a well-respected brand in the world of watches for decades, and their Prospex line is one of their most coveted collections. Among the many timepieces that the Prospex line boasts, the Seiko Prospex “Land Tortoise” SRPG15K1 stands out as a rugged and stylish compass watch that can do almost anything.

The Land Tortoise’s stainless steel case measures 42.7mm in diameter, making it large enough to be easily read and operated but not too big to be cumbersome on the wrist. The dial is protected by a scratch-resistant Hardlex crystal, ensuring the watch looks great even after prolonged use.

It is water-resistant up to 200 meters and features a Lumibrite coating, which makes it easy to read the time in low light conditions.

You can find the Land Tortoise for around $500.

Casio Pro-Trek (ref. PRG600YB-3)

The Casio Pro-Trek PRG600YB-3 boasts a wide range of features, including a compass, altimeter, barometer, thermometer, and world time display. With a durable construction, the watch is water-resistant up to 100 meters, making it perfect for all types of outdoor activities.

Other notable features include a stopwatch, a countdown timer, and five daily alarms. The watch is solar-powered and has a battery life of up to seven months on a single charge. The resin band and case are both tough and comfortable, and the watch’s design is sleek and modern.

This incredible tool watch can be found for around $300, or even less if you shop around.

Luminox ICE-SAR Arctic 1200 (ref. XL.1201)

Designed to withstand the harshest of environments, this watch is a favorite of the Icelandic Association for Search and Rescue (ICE-SAR). It features Luminox’s signature illumination technology. This means the dial is highly visible in low-light conditions, making it easy to read even in the darkest environments.

With a stainless steel case, 200 meters of water resistance, and a sapphire crystal, it’s highly resistant to scratches and can withstand extreme conditions. It also includes a unidirectional rotating bezel, Swiss quartz movement, and a date function. Add in the compass feature, and you’ll be ready to deal with anything the harsh environment can throw at you.

Depending on where you buy it from, you can find this watch for around $600.

Seiko Prospex Field Compass SRPD31K1

One of the most prominent features of the Seiko Prospex Field Compass SRPD31K1 is its compass bezel, which can be used to navigate and orient yourself in unfamiliar surroundings. The watch also features luminous hands and markers, making it easy to read in low-light conditions.

The case is made of durable stainless steel and is water resistant up to 100 meters, allowing for worry-free use while swimming or snorkeling.

The Seiko Prospex Field Compass SRPD31K1 also has a dependable Seiko 4R36 automatic movement, a rugged khaki strap, and a robust, military-inspired design, that adds to its overall durability. It’s a versatile watch that can be worn in various situations, from hiking and camping to everyday wear.

You can get this watch for approximately $500.

BOLDR Expedition II Eiger

BOLDR is a microbrand that’s been making waves in the watchmaking community lately. One of the main benefits of the BOLDR Expedition II Eiger is its durability. The watch is made from high-quality materials, including a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal and a stainless steel case.

It is also water-resistant to 200 meters, making it suitable for diving and other water activities. The watch features a number of useful specifications, including a Swiss-made Ronda 515.24H movement, which provides accurate timekeeping.

It has a 42mm case size and a thickness of 13.5mm, making it easy to wear and comfortable on the wrist. The watch also has a unidirectional rotating bezel, which can be used to measure elapsed time.

The Expedition II Eiger retails for $700.

Chase Durer Fighter Command  (ref. 2361WW3BR04)

With a water resistance of 300 meters, this watch is a great option for any outdoor enthusiast. What’s more, it has a sapphire crystal, a chronograph, a date function, and a compass function. The watch has a rugged but highly legible look.

The leather strap is durable and comfortable, rounding out the great features of this heavy-duty camping companion. 

Aside from the utilitarian functions of the Fighter Command, it has one of the best-looking tool watch designs you’ll find anywhere. This watch just screams durability, and it’s definitely not a shrinking violet on the wrist.

This watch has an approximate retail price of $850.

Seiko Prospex Alpinist SPB121

This watch is a part of Seiko’s Prospex line, which is designed for those who love adventure and exploration. The Alpinist SPB121 is a perfect example of this, with its rugged and durable construction and impressive features. The watch features a stunning green dial, complemented by a stainless steel case and bracelet.

The dial is protected by a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, which ensures that the watch remains looking great for years to come. 

The Alpinist also has a date function and a power reserve indicator, which are both incredibly useful features for anyone who wants to keep track of their watch’s performance. Add to that 200 meters of water resistance and a compass function, and you’ve got the perfect adventurer’s watch.

Plus, it doesn’t cost a fortune since you can find it for around $750.

Alpina AlpinerX (ref. AL-283LBO5AQ6)

The Alpina AlpinerX is a techie’s dream. With a range of sensors that allow the watch to track steps taken, calories burned, and altitude changes, this watch is more like a computer than a timepiece. In addition to its activity-tracking features, the AlpinerX has a range of smartwatch functions, including notifications for incoming calls and messages.

This means you can stay connected without constantly checking your phone. The watch has a sleek black dial, which is complemented by a black leather strap. Finally, it includes a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, a highly accurate quartz movement, and a bright orange chapter ring for improved visibility.

And all that for a price tag of around $1,000.

Tissot T-Touch Connect Solar (ref. T121.420.47.051.00)

One of the key features of this watch is its solar-powered technology, which allows it to charge using natural or artificial light. This means that the watch can function for an extended period without needing a battery replacement. 

The T-Touch Connect Solar watch also comes with various connectivity features, including Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, allowing it to connect with your smartphone, tablet, or computer. You can receive notifications, control your music, track your fitness goals, and even set reminders using this watch. 

It is an excellent choice for people who want to stay connected without being tied to their phones. The compass function just happens to take it to the next level. 

The T-Touch Connect Solar can be found for approximately $1,000.

Traser P68 Pathfinder (ref. 107718)

The Traser P68 Pathfinder 107718 features a tough, black PVD-coated stainless steel case with a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, making it highly resistant to wear and tear. Its black rubber strap is comfortable to wear and enhances the watch’s overall durability.

The standout feature of the Traser P68 Pathfinder 107718 is its compass bezel, which allows wearers to easily navigate their surroundings. The watch also features a date display, luminous hands and markers, and a highly accurate Swiss quartz movement. With water resistance up to 100 meters, the watch can withstand a variety of water-based activities.

In addition, the Traser P68 Pathfinder 107718 is also equipped with Traser’s innovative trigalight illumination technology, which provides exceptional visibility in low-light conditions. The watch is powered by self-illuminating tritium gas tubes, which require no external light source to function.

The P68 Pathfinder has a retail price of $1,050. 

Longines Christobal C Compass (ref. 5253)

The Longines Christobal C Compass 5253 watch is a stunning timepiece combining form and function. This watch is part of the brand’s Heritage collection and pays homage to the brand’s long-standing commitment to quality and precision.

At the heart of this watch is the L282.2 automatic movement, which provides reliable and accurate timekeeping. The case is made of stainless steel and measures 41mm in diameter. The dial is a beautiful silver color, featuring a unique compass function displayed on the outer rim. 

The compass function is activated by rotating the crown at the 2 o’clock position, and it allows the wearer to find their bearings by aligning the north-south axis on the watch with the actual north-south axis. The watch also features a date display at the 3 o’clock position, and it is water-resistant up to 30 meters. This watch is perfect for anyone who values precision, functionality, and style.

Prices on this watch vary, but you can expect to pay around $2,500 for one.

Sinn 212 KSK

The Sinn 212 KSK watch is a rugged and reliable timepiece specifically designed for use by the German Special Forces Command (KSK). This watch is built to withstand the toughest conditions and is packed with features that make it an essential tool for military operations.

The case is made of high-strength titanium, which is lightweight and extremely durable. It measures 44mm in diameter and features a black PVD coating that adds to the watch’s stealthy look. The dial is also black and is designed for maximum legibility in low-light conditions, thanks to its luminous hands and indices.

The Sinn 212 KSK  is powered by the SW 300-1 automatic movement, and it also features a chronograph function, a countdown timer, and a date display. The watch is water-resistant up to 200 meters, making it suitable for diving and other aquatic activities.

You can find the Sinn 212 KSK for approximately $3,000.

Bremont Special Edition Endurance (ref. 210000036627 – 00366274)

The Bremont Special Edition Endurance 210000036627 – 00366274 is a stunning timepiece that pays tribute to the Shackleton Endurance expedition of 1914-1916. This watch is designed to withstand extreme conditions and is packed with features that make it an ideal companion for adventurers and explorers.

With a diameter of 43mm, the dial is a beautiful blue color and features a date display at the 3 o’clock position. The hands and indices are coated with Super-LumiNova, making them easy to read in low-light conditions. It runs on the BE-93-2AE automatic movement, which features a GMT function.

One of the unique features of this watch is its strap, which is made from material taken from the sail of the Shackleton Endurance expedition. The strap is a reminder of the watch’s heritage and adds to its overall rugged and adventurous look.

The watch has a retail price of $6,395.

Breitling Endurance Pro (ref. X82310D51B1S1)

The Endurance Pro X82310D51B1S1 features a 44mm case made of Breitlight. This patented material is 3.3 times lighter than titanium and 5.8 times lighter than stainless steel, yet significantly harder and more scratch-resistant. The watch is also water-resistant, up to 100 meters.

It has a black dial with a red inner ring, making it highly legible. The dial features bold hour markers and hands coated with Super-LumiNova. The watch also has a unidirectional rotating bezel with engraved numerals that can be used to track elapsed time.

The Endurance Pro X82310D51B1S1 is powered by Breitling’s Caliber 82, a thermo-compensated SuperQuartz movement that is ten times more accurate than a standard quartz movement. The watch has a battery life of approximately three to four years and also features a chronograph function, a countdown timer, and a second time zone display. 

The strap has a Breitlight double-pin buckle, which ensures a secure and comfortable fit. Finally, in addition to all of those features, it includes a pulsometer.

The watch has a retail price of $3,300.

Bremont U-22

The Bremont U-22  is a tribute to the U-2 spy plane, a legendary aircraft used by the United States Air Force for reconnaissance missions. The watch is water-resistant up to 100 meters, has Super-LumiNova on the hands and indices, a date window at 3 o’clock, and a second-time zone display.

The Bremont U-22 is powered by a modified BE-36AE automatic movement, which is COSC-certified and features a 38-hour power reserve. The movement is also protected by an anti-magnetic Faraday cage, which helps to prevent interference from electronic devices and other magnetic fields.

One of the unique features of the Bremont U-22 is the incorporation of aluminum from the U-2 spy plane into the watch’s crown. This adds a touch of authenticity and history to the timepiece, making it a perfect choice for anyone.

You can find the Bremont U-22 for under $5,000 if you shop around.

Montblanc 1858 Geosphere (ref. MB119286)

The Montblanc 1858 Geosphere MB119286 features a unique dial that displays two rotating globes representing the Northern and Southern hemispheres. The globes rotate in opposite directions and provide a unique way of tracking time in two different time zones simultaneously.

The watch is powered by a reliable automatic movement and has a power reserve of up to 42 hours. It’s also water-resistant up to 100 meters, making it suitable for everyday wear. The case is made from stainless steel, and the strap is made from high-quality leather, ensuring both durability and style.

The watch has a retail price of $6,300.

Breitling Emergency (ref. E76325221B1S1)

The Breitling Emergency E76325221B1S1 is designed to withstand the most extreme conditions. It was created with outdoor adventurers, pilots, and other professionals in mind who may find themselves in dangerous situations where they need to call for help quickly. 

It has a robust and rugged design that can withstand harsh environments. It features a black titanium case, a black dial, and a black rubber strap. The watch’s hands and markers are coated with Super-LumiNova, making them easy to read in low-light conditions. 

The watch measures 43mm in diameter and 15.8mm in thickness, making it a substantial timepiece. It has a water resistance rating of 5ATM, which means it can handle some splashing, but not swimming or diving.

The watch is equipped with an electronic chronograph, a timer, a countdown timer, a second timezone, and an alarm. It also has a built-in distress beacon that can be activated by pulling out a specialized antenna. The Emergency is powered by a rechargeable battery that can last up to two months in standby mode.

The Breitling Emergency has a retail price of $15,725.

Conclusion

A compass watch is the definition of a tool watch. It’s perfect for anyone looking for a rugged option that works well for the great outdoors. Whether you are a camper, a runner, or just someone who enjoys the occasional hike, it’s a good idea to have a compass watch in your arsenal of outdoor gear. 

While a compass is nice to have, and a watch is nice to have, combining the two just makes life easier. Hopefully, you’ve found a compass watch that matches your needs in our list, and you can get back to what you really love; enjoying the beauty of nature.

Mechanical watches with alarm functions used to be all the rage in, say, the 1950s. But over the years, they understandably took a back seat to modern gimmicks, such as the smartphone or the digital alarm clock. For this reason, mechanical alarm watches seem to have fallen out of favor with watch enthusiasts and manufacturers alike. 

In my eyes (rose-tinted though they may be), this is a great shame. Not only is the on-wrist alarm feature useful in everyday life, but these watches also grant the wearer an element of style and hold a degree of historical gravitas that the iPhone inherently lacks.

Alarms Before The Snooze Button

The first mechanical wristwatch with an alarm function was introduced by Swiss watchmaker Eterna in 1914, thanks to a patent filed in 1908. Unfortunately, the watch didn’t do very well, and pocket watches remained the preferred timekeepers du jour.

It wasn’t until 1947 that the alarm watch gained popularity with the release of the Vulcain Cricket, a hand-wound timepiece with two barrels that emitted a chirping chime. 

The Cricket’s acclaim was inevitably boosted by its association with several US Presidents, including Eisenhower, Truman, Nixon, and Lyndon Johnson. It was even marketed as ‘The President’s Watch’. From Truman onwards, mechanical alarm watches found their place in the world amongst collectors and casual wearers alike.

Mechanical Alarms in The Age of The Smartphone

If, like me, you’re an analog kid meandering through a digital world, then the simple joy of a physical chime is worth far more than all the smartphone apps money can buy. As bespoke market sectors continue to serve discerning buyers, we’re seeing an interesting trend towards more tangible items (the vinyl resurgence is a strong example of this, as is the revival of interest in classic cars). 

This is no different for watches – as more buyers become aware of the allure of owning something that tells a story, utilitarian traits are no longer the determining factors behind many purchases. 

Enter the mechanical alarm watch. Do you need a mechanical alarm on your wrist? No. Does wearing one tie you into a rich and meaningful network of creators and appreciators spanning generations? Hell yeah, it does.

The Best Watches With a Mechanical Alarm

Patek Philippe Grand Complications (ref. 5520P-001)

The Patek Philippe Grand Complications 5520P is pretty much what it says on the box – a luxury travel watch with some fairly lofty complications, one of which is an alarm that uses a musical hammer-and-gong-style chiming mechanism instead of the typical vibrating, buzzing sound.

It’s a continuation of the Calatrava Pilot Travel Time collection with the definitive addition of the alarm complication. On the face lie two 12-hour-format time zones and a date dial, all presented in a fairly modest manner, despite the watch’s somewhat exuberant name. With an ergonomic and logical design, the alarm time is set in five-minute increments using a couple of digital windows under 12 o’clock.

A small circular window indicates AM or PM, and a bell-shaped window shows if the alarm function is on or off. The watch also has two more distinct AM/PM indicators on the dial, one for each time zone – a subtly nifty feature for the frequent travelers among us.

Driven by an automatic movement that includes high-performance proprietary components, it’s safe to say you’re getting exactly the quality you’d expect from Patek. The case is 42.2mm-wide and 11.6mm-thick, made of solid 950 platinum. In other words, it’s as sturdy as they come.

The alarm chimes are impressively loud, thanks to the gongs being attached directly to the case to create an overall audio reverberation system. This work of sheer genius from Patek will set you back a cool $226,800.

Jaeger-LeCoultre Polaris Memovox (Q9038670)

Jaeger-LeCoultre celebrates the 50th anniversary of its iconic Polaris watch with the release of 1000 units that is a modern take on the original 1968 design, a watch that I would do almost anything to own. The limited edition Polaris Memovox’s defining characteristic is its pointed circularity – a design that is somehow sharp and rounded at the same time, thanks to elongated baton hands and an inner-dial indicator for the alarm function. 

The black face has a vintage feel with vanilla-colored markers, which are filled with faux-aged lume that makes this whole thing look extra yummy. Retaining the classic three-crown set-up, the inner rotating bezel, and the original Polaris alarm function (duh), this edition features new elements such as a three-finish black dial and a mix of complications.

The alarm has a classic report – what I would refer to as the ‘old school bedside alarm’ sound and is the ideal balance between charming and, well, alarming. With a 42mm stainless steel case and a thickness of 15.9mm, this isn’t the smallest watch, so if you’re a stickler for size, bear that in mind. With that being said, though, it’s not nearly as thick as its predecessors, and a very minimal case and bezel serve to lessen this issue even further.

The in-house Caliber 956 movement is specially assembled in Jaeger-LeCoultre’s complications workshop to ensure the highest standards of distinction. All-in-all, this Polaris Memovox release proves that this iconic line just gets better with time.

Vulcain Nautical Trophy (100107.024VT)

The Vulcain Nautical Cricket is a legendary watch introduced in 1961 as a true diver’s instrument. Designed with the help of diver Hannes Keller, who held the record for the deepest dive at the time, the watch had an alarm complication and decompression tables built right into the dial, features that may be a tad busy for some while absolutely essential for others. 

Today’s Nautical Trophy was released as a special edition watch in 2011 and exudes a slightly-updated 60’s charm; a clous-de-Paris bezel visibly differentiates this piece from the original at face value. The dial’s outer ring is dedicated to conventional time-telling duties, with a simple 3, 6, and 9 configuration, while on the interior of the dial, the decompression table takes precedence. Legibility is a bit of an issue at first, but once you get used to the details, it’s a breeze. 

The 42mm steel case is slightly elevated on the wrist thanks to the triple-caseback, but it’s worth the extra height. The Nautical Cricket is a great piece of mechanical tech to behold, and although I long for an open caseback through which to view Vulcain’s impressive caliber V-10 movement, I’ll take the working alarm function as a handsome trade-off.

Oris Big Crown ProPilot Alarm Limited Edition (01 910 7745 4084-Set LS)

Oris is a company known for its robust and functional watches, and their limited-edition Big Crown ProPilot Alarm is no exception. This model features a mechanical 12-hour alarm function, indicated by a vibrant, yellow-tipped central hand that points at an inner ring to show when the alarm will go off, similar to the Memovox mentioned above. 

The alarm can be set in 10-minute increments via the crown that lies between 3 and 4 o’clock, while the watch also includes a rotating date function displayed through a circular aperture in the dial. At 44mm and boasting 2 oversized crowns and a knurled bezel, this is certainly the most masculine watch on the list thus far.

With that being said, there’s nothing particularly confrontational about the ProPilot. Limited to just 250 pieces, this big boy comes on a dark brown crocodile leather strap with Oris’ signature airplane seatbelt-style clasp and has a sapphire crystal on the dial side.

Oris’s own Calibre 910 movement powers the watch and includes automatic winding, central hours, minutes, and seconds, as well as the aforementioned ring-date function, which is a very satisfying addition by any measure.

Tudor Heritage Advisor (79620T)

The Tudor Heritage Advisor pays homage to its 1957 predecessor while incorporating tastefully modern design elements that are very… Tudor. The 42mm satin-brushed and polished titanium case sits on either a cognac-colored alligator leather strap or a steel bracelet with a folding clasp.

It can also be put on an additional black silk jacquard strap (made by a 150-year-old Swiss family business, no less). The case metal was chosen and treated specifically to enhance the sound of the alarm, a detail that is beautifully fitting for a mechanical alarm watch. A cognac brown dial boasts a variety of textures, including opaline, circular-grained, sunburst satin finishes, and sandblasted elements.

Dauphine hands, beveled hour indices, and a central red hand for the alarm function are inspired by the vintage aesthetic and, indeed, grant this watch a certain haughtiness that is altogether fitting of the style. Tudor’s Caliber 2892 movement powers the Heritage Advisor and incorporates an in-house-developed module with an ETA base movement.

The alarm function can be activated and turned off with the pusher at 8 o’clock, while the crown at 2 o’clock sets the alarm time via the red hand and the outer minute track. The other crown at 4 o’clock sets the time and date. Retailing for $6,000 on leather and $6,225 on steel, it’s a fairly-priced watch by any measure. Despite being overshadowed by other members of the Heritage series, the Heritage Advisor is one of the most attractive timepieces in the range.

Breguet Marine Alarme Musicale 5547 (5547TI/Y1/9ZU)

Breguet’s Marine Alarme Musicale 5547 offers a sophisticated alarm function within a maritime-themed design that pays tribute to the brand’s founder, Abraham-Louis Breguet. Introduced in 2019, the watch comes in a 40mm titanium case and possesses a sunburst slate grey dial with an array of displays.

Some might even say too many displays – an alarm subdial at 3 o’clock, a 24-hour subdial at 9 o’clock, an alarm activation aperture at 12 o’clock, and a power reserve indicator for the alarm between the IX and XII Roman numerals. It’s a lot, frankly. 

However, if a complex dial excites you, as it does many, then this is right up your street. The watch gets its juice from the self-winding 519F/1 caliber, which features two separate barrels to provide energy to the main movement and the alarm mechanism, respectively.

The alarm function is easily activated using a pushbutton and has a high-pitched tone. Priced at $28,600, the Alarme Musicale 5547 represents great value for money in terms of technicality and build quality if you find this kind of facade appealing.

Richard Mille RM 62-01

Hold on to your wallets; this one is pricey. Richard Mille and Airbus Corporate Jets (ACJ) launched the RM 62-01 Tourbillon Vibrating Alarm watch in 2019. In true Mille fashion, it was the most complex watch the firm had ever created at the time – one designed with a focus on the traveler, with an alarm function intended to be discreet and exclusive, transmitted purely by vibrations that only the wearer could perceive.

This makes the watch uniquely intriguing, as to benefit from the complex alarm function, the wearer has to be wearing the watch. Perhaps more interestingly, the vibrating alarm was designed not to affect the movement, which was obviously a significant concern. Thus, a solid gold offset weight was used to transmit the vibration, inspired by the vibrating function of earlier mobile phones, which is a strange dichotomy in its own right.

It took extensive research and development to fit 816 parts, 2 barrels, 7 hands, 11 displays, and a tourbillon cage into the limited volume of the watch case; a watch constructor needed five years to create the timepiece. Patience truly is a virtue.

Being a Richard Mille watch, after all, the RM 62-01 is limited to 30 pieces, each one going for $1,225,000. It embodies the paradox of being supremely easy to use while being a complicated watch, an accomplishment that evidently commands a hefty sum.

Hublot Big Bang Alarm Repeater Titanium (403.NM.0123.RX)

Hublot’s limited edition Big Bang Alarm Repeater watch came out in 2015 and notably combines the functionality of a mechanical alarm with a minute repeater, resulting in a more elegant sound than traditional alarm watches.

The timepiece features a gong and hammer system and a semi-transparent dial made from several colored layers of sapphire crystal, which is very representative of the Hublot vibe – proudly complex and stylistically bold. Furthermore, the off-center dial places this piece in its own camp among Hublot’s releases, adding an extra element of individuality to the watch.

The manually-wound movement was designed and produced by Chronode and is almost exclusive to Hublot, with only a small number of Cyrus watches also able to use the movement. It features a silicon escapement system, 72-hour power reserve, time with a 24-hour indicator, a 24-hour dial to set the alarm time, and an on/off switch for the alarm complication.

The case is that of the Big Bang 45 (which is no stranger to those familiar with Hublot), which has a unique pusher design and a matte black ceramic bezel. Limited to 250 pieces, the Big Bang Alarm Repeater is priced at $56,300.

Vulcain 50s Presidents (210150.276LF)

Vulcain’s first alarm complication on a wristwatch in 1947, and the models that followed, have been worn by almost every US president since Truman. But, these paradigmatic watches have also spurred many horological innovations over the years.

The movements for these are still almost entirely in-house and beautifully finished, enclosed in resplendently branded vintage-style cases. The company’s newest take on the Cricket exhibits a striking silver dial with beveled hour markers and classic dauphine hands.

A polished stainless steel case sits at 42mm, slightly larger than what one would expect from a watch inspired by the mid-century style. However, the purposeful addition of a cambered sapphire crystal maintains the vintage look perfectly.

Inside the Cricket is the V-11, a manual movement manufactured by Vulcain, which has two barrels, a 42-hour power reserve, and a new ‘Exactomatic’ system that improves regulation of amplitude and reduces wear, resulting in increased accuracy.

The movement is expertly finished, with beveling and dressage throughout, and the crown and ratchet wheels have an exotic, almost Aztec-like design. With this immutable wearability and timeless design for $5,200, can you really afford not to buy it?

Panerai Radiomir GMT/Alarm (PAM00098)

This Panerai is a suave timepiece that just oozes style and functionality. That is, a very specific style and a very reliable set of functions. Produced in 2008, this watch features a robust steel case with a diameter of 42mm, paired with a handsome brown leather strap; it’s perfect for everyday wear.

Like many on this list, the watch has no better use than keeping frequent travelers on schedule. And boy, does it do that in style, with its soft square case and stark black face. If there’s one thing Panerai knows, it’s how to turn a head. Legibility was clearly a priority when designing the watch, as the dial remains uncluttered despite having a date window and GMT window.

That’s right – GMT window, not dial. Bold Arabic numerals and luminous hands further add to this dynamic. The Radiomir is equipped with an automatic movement with a generous power reserve of 47 hours and 31 sparkling jewels, ensuring optimal performance.

The buckle clasp adds an extra layer of security and style to the already stunning leather strap. And with a water resistance of 30 meters, this watch is well suited for everyday wear, marrying both style and functionality in a way that only Panerai knows how.

Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Compressor Diving Alarm (Q183T770)

As with a few other watches on the list, this JLC is a limited edition. Specifically, it’s a run of 1500 units, made in partnership with the United States Navy Seals, and you can bet that it lives up to the label granted to it by the special forces.

A 44mm titanium case and a ridiculously scratch-resistant ceramic bezel provide ample framework for a deafeningly black face with contrasting white indices and Arabic numerals at 6, 9, and 12. There’s a double-sealed date window at 3 o’clock, and of course, the center of the dial represents the alarm function, with a rotating arrow marker indicating the current alarm time setting.

It almost goes without saying that this is a hefty watch – its 300-meter water resistance requires only as much; therefore, the Master Compressor isn’t recommended for those with a more slender disposition.

The inner workings are impressively detailed, though; laser-welded hairspring, 45-hour power reserve, and ceramic winding rotor bearings are a few of the components wrapped up in the automatic JLC caliber 956. This is a serious watch, for serious people, with serious wrists.

Ulysse Nardin Sonata Cathedral Dual Time (670-88/213)

The Ulysse Nardin Sonata Cathedral Dual Time stands out due to its advanced execution of multiple impressive features, all represented on a very ‘Jetson-esque’ dial. That’s right – I just referenced a cartoon. A big date complication is accessed through the left-hand crown, which can wind both forwards and backward.

It also allows the user to access a second time zone with the push of a button without even taking the watch off. As if that’s not impressive enough, a 24-hour alarm function can be set once and forgotten, much like its digital counterparts, and the countdown timer display helps the user to know whether the alarm is set for AM or PM. 

Finally, the watch has a cathedral gong that sounds for its alarm, providing a rich, clean sound that is undeniably unique to this model. The Ulysse Nardin calibre UN-67, which has over 400 parts, ensures that the watch is intuitive to use, so, despite any initial trepidation regarding its complex dial, you can rest assured that you won’t need an instruction manual for this one.

Fortis B-42 Flieger Chronograph Alarm (657.10.170)

Introducing the Fortis B-42 Flieger (Flyer) Chronograph Alarm, the perfect combination of sporty and elegant, or at least, the military representation of these things. The dial is minimalistic and impressive, embossed and blued with hour numerals that stand out and are provided with index bars and tritium.

Steel skeleton hands with small luminous elements add to the watch’s ultra-functional design. Brushed stainless steel makes up most of the case, which is waterproof up to 200m, while the rest consists of sapphire crystal with anti-glare treatment (on both sides). 

The transparent caseback provides a clear view of the decorated movement and rotor parts, which are made according to historical style. The watch is equipped with a self-winding chronograph movement with an alarm function, developed by the renowned watch artist Paul Gerber and based on the ETA movement Valjoux 7750.

With a COSC-certified chronometer, 32 jewels, and precision regulation, this watch is as accurate as it gets for the money. The B-42 Flieger Chronograph Alarm comes with a reptile leather strap or stainless steel bracelet, both with a tang-type buckle or folding clasp, respectively.

Oris Artelier Alarm (01 908 7607 4091-Set LS)

What I love most about this timepiece is the subtlety of its immodesty – a well-polished stainless steel case, well-machined index hour markers, a silver and grey guilloche dial, luminous hands, and detailed Arabic numerals ringing the central alarm dial.

To the layman, this is a basic timepiece, but to someone who knows what it takes to make a watch like this, it’s a gem. At 42.5mm in diameter, it’s an easy-wearing piece on most wrists and, in fact, wears rather small despite being just over 14mm thick.

The caseback is transparent, and the dial lies underneath anti-reflective sapphire. It’s about as easy to read as a watch gets, and with the Oris Caliber 908 humming along at 28,800 vph, it’s also about as accurate as a watch in this price bracket can be.

Although there’s little to write home about in terms of complications (unless your parents are horologists), the alarm is audibly pleasant, and the movement is reliable. Slap it on a brown crocodile leather strap with a push-button deployment buckle, and you’ve got just about all you need, replete with class and decorum.

Omega Seamaster Memomatic (166.071)

Released in 1971, this Omega is every bit as weird as it is intriguing. At the time of its debut, it was the only watch with an alarm that could be set to the minute, which is a feat deserving of your respect, at the very least.

It’s got a slight ‘racing’ quality to it, which it earns as a result of the very red seconds hand and the alarm arrow, but the main sense one gets from this design is that it’s rather artsy. The brushing of the stainless steel on this wide-bezel case (let alone its unique oval shape) is far from your average stylistic choice.

Coupled with the varying colors of the dial, this makes for a very unique Omega, a Swiss watch that looks more similar to Seiko’s Bell-Matic than any other. The automatic caliber 960 runs the show here, offering an alarm function and a quick-set date – a simple but effective movement that, as you might expect from the brand, is as accurate as you’d ever need it to be for daily wear.

There’s nothing outwardly special about the Seamaster Memomatic. It’s simply a watch so particular in how it looks that it will surely catch the eye of those who love its aesthetic.

Wake Up to The Mechanical Alarm Watch

Looking at the watches on this list, I see one distinct through-line. No, it’s not the fact that they all have an alarm. I see that these watches represent a unique and storied period of innovation and creativity that gave rise to an entire paradigm of interest in the horological world.

These are pieces so specific in their function that they demand attention, regardless of where or not they’re the pinnacle of technological advancement. They’re worth your time because they’ve taken up so much of our predecessors’ time; it’s that simple. 

With that being said, if I’m pushing for any sub-set of watches to make a strong comeback, it’s undoubtedly the mechanical alarm.

The romantic gesture of an automatic watch is just that; a romantic idea that you and the machine are one, reliant on the other. Unfortunately, unlike your motor vehicle or favorite appliance, you’re not really able to tell how much life is left within the movement.

That is unless you have a Power Reserve Indicator. Some find this complication essential as it tells the wearer just how much life is left, whereas others feel this is a tad polarizing. Unnecessary, and all it does is spoil the lines of the design.

The reality is this used to be an essential part of a working man’s pocket watch, and unsurprisingly the complication has stood the test of time. Let’s look at the 15 Best Watches with a Power Reserve Indicator.

About the Power Reserve Indicator

You’ll often see that watches or calibers have a listed “power reserve”, such as the Seiko caliber NH36 which has a power reserve of 41 hours, or the IWC Portugieser Annual Calendar Limited Edition IW5035-10 which has a 7-day power reserve. 

Remember, unlike a quartz watch, an automatic movement works with the power built up by the rotor (or by the manually wound crown). This energy is then stored or coiled into the mainspring and slowly released to make the watch work. 

It is often explained in relation to the little cars we played with as kids. You pull them back to wind them up and release them, and they shoot forward as the energy is released. A watch is meant to keep time, so, the energy release isn’t as aggressive as the little car.

Though, given the option, I’m sure any 4-year-old would prefer a bright red sports car over an A. Lange & Söhne. A power reserve is a display on the dial that relays to the wearer how much power reserve is left in the movement at any given time.

Originally used in the marine and railroad sectors (on pocket watches), the Swiss-French watch company Breguet created the first wristwatch with this complication, but it was merely a prototype. The first brand to offer this technology to the general public was Jaeger-LeCoultre in 1948 (obviously), with a line of watches called the Powermatic. 

What Is The Purpose of a Power Reserve Indicator in Watches?

Simply put, to tell you how much power is left! This might seem like a simple answer, but it goes a little bit deeper than that. Watches were originally worn as tools. These were tools humanity wore on our greatest missions and adventures, and they had to work. 

The Speedmaster helped put man on the moon, the Deepsea helped numerous divers, and the G-Shock has been used by more military personnel than you, or I could possibly fathom. These timepieces need to work, and part of that means it needs to have power… 

Having an idea of how much power is left can help you in many tight spaces or places. If you’re diving and your watch is about to run out of power but need it to time your dive, you best get out quickly. If you’re timing intervals as an engineer and suddenly lose your timing tool, your measurements afterward won’t be worth much. 

15 Best Watches With Power Reserve Indicators

Patek Philippe Nautilus Moon Phase (ref. 5712/1A)

The first Nautilus was launched in 1976 with the ref. 3700, and has since become one of the most sought-after watches on the planet. The ref. 5712 was launched in 2006 and elevates the steel Nautilus by integrating several popular complications, a moon phase, radial date, and a power reserve. 

The 40mm steel case houses the caliber 240 PS IRM C LU, which is equipped with a 48-hour power reserve. If you turn the watch, this movement presents itself thanks to a sapphire caseback, allowing you to view the Cotes de Geneve across the bridges and the 22K gold micro-rotor.

Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Dual Time Power Reserve (ref. 26120ST.OO.1220ST.01)

The original Royal Oak was designed by the legend Gerald Genta, who also designed the Nautilus, IWC Ingenieur, and various other big hitters. This Royal Oak features the same angular shape and integrated bracelet. The white tapisserie dial features various complications, such as a radial date, a second time zone with day and night indication at 6 o’clock, and a power reserve indication at 9 o’clock.

Despite the high complications, the watch remains incredibly wearable with a 39mm case. This case houses the caliber 2329/2846, which has a power reserve of 38 hours. This particular reference was discontinued in 2015. 

Vacheron Constantin FiftySix Day Date (ref. 4400E/000A-B437)

Completing the Holy Trinity, we have the Vacheron Constantin FiftySix Day Date, which honors the original model from 1956. A timeless case design matched with a silver dial featuring subdials that are finished with concentric circles. 

The polished 40mm case is matched with a leather strap to make a particularly useful dress watch. Complications include a day-date function and the power reserve indicator, which shows how much of the 40-hour power reserve the caliber 2475 SC/2 has. 

A. Lange & Söhne 1815 Up/Down (ref. 234.026)

Perhaps one of the most iconic design languages belongs to A. Lange & Söhne as presented with the 1815 Up/Down. Finished in 18K white gold, the 39mm case has a thickness of merely 8.7mm, meaning it can slide under any cuff. 

As far as complications go, this reference may not be as inspiring as other models in the range. But, the watch still features the quintessential blued hands, Arabic numerals, and an exceptional hand-wound movement.

Caliber L051.2 offers the wearer a 72-hour power reserve which they can track courtesy of Patent No. 9349. This patent was granted to A. Lange & Söhne on 18 May 1879, allowing the Maison to indicate the power reserve on their pocket watches. 

Omega De Ville Trésor (ref. 435.53.40.22.03.001)

Omega is certainly known for its sports models, but they have an extremely well-executed dress range as well, such as the De Ville Trésor. A thin and elegant rose gold case (or Sedna^TM Gold) is matched with a blue dial and blue strap. 

The dial is relatively simple, focusing on a clean aesthetic. You’ll find a power reserve indicator at 12 o’clock, indicating the power left in the Co-Axial Master Chronometer caliber 8935. This movement is equipped with a 72-hour power reserve. 

Grand Seiko “Snowflake” SBGA211

Grand Seiko is known both for exquisite finishing as well as some impressive technological advancements—the ref. SBGA211 or otherwise known as the ‘Snowflake’ embodies this duality perfectly. Released in 2017, the 41mm case is constructed from Grand Seiko’s “high intensity” titanium, an alloy stronger but significantly lighter than stainless steel.

The finish on the case is something to behold, a high gloss with Grand Seiko’s Zaratsu polishing method done by hand. The razor hands are powered by the Spring Drive Caliber 9R65, which also indicates its power reserve on the dial. Of course, this complication is also an aesthetic event and features guilloche patterns. 

Glashütte Original PanoReserve (ref. 1-65-01-26-12-61)

Glashütte Original is a German watch company based in Glashütte – obviously. Their design language is in line with other Germanic brands and makes itself known with the PanoReserve. A 40mm polished and satin-brushed stainless steel case is matched with an asymmetrical galvanic deep blue dial. 

The dial features various sub-registers and complications, such as a time indicator, small seconds, power reserve, and a large date function. When the 42 hours of power reserve is fully loaded, the power reserve indicator will display “AUF”, which means up in German. Conversely, if your watch is running low on energy, it will display “AB”, which means down. 

Turning the case over reveals the caliber 65-01, which is expertly finished as you would expect from one of the leading Germanic manufacturers. A nice touch to the movement’s finish is the addition of blued screws, truly combining utility with art. 

Breguet Classique 5277 (ref. 5277BR/12/9V6)

Despite what the second-hand market would make you believe, Breguet is one of the most important and definitive watchmakers on the planet. The Classique 5277 lives up to this moniker by combining extraordinary finishing with technological prowess. 

A 38mm rose gold case houses the caliber 515DR, a hand-wound movement with a staggering 96-hour power reserve. On the silvered gold dial, you’ll find hand finishing matched with their namesake blued Breguet hands. The watch is also offered in a white gold case, but the rose gold gives you a greater contrast. 

Hublot Big Bang Tourbillon Power Reserve 5 Days (ref. 405.NX.0137.LR)

Hublot is known for its avant-garde design paired with some of the most precious metals you can come by. Paired with a black leather strap, the polished and satin-finished titanium case offers extremely great contrast.

Even though the size is a hefty 45mm, thanks to the lightweight titanium the watch feels quite versatile on the wrist. But, of course, the main attraction is the dial with the tourbillon, a feature that essentially plays no role in a wristwatch other than being eye candy.

And when in the familiar case of the Big Bang, it’s quite the attraction. Behind the skeletonized dial beats the caliber HUB6016, a manually wound movement with a staggering 115 hours of power, which you can track thanks to the addition of a power reserve function on the dial. 

Blancpain Ultraplate (ref. 6606A 1127 55B)

Blancpain is the world’s oldest watch company, founded in 1735. They are known for relying heavily on their heritage diving models as they used to be up there with Submariners and Superoceans. The Ultraplate referenced here is not a dive watch but a dress piece with an elegant feel matched with a sleek dial.

The timepiece forms part of their ‘Villeret collection’, which is based on tradition and prime aesthetics. The 40mm steel case measures only 8.55mm in thickness, making it perfect for any dress cuff. The ultrathin watch houses the caliber 11C5.4, a hand-winding movement displaying a small seconds hand as well as a power reserve, which is rated at 72 hours. 

Longines Master Collection Power Reserve (ref. L2.908.4.92.6)

Longines is widely known as being one of the best value-for-money Swiss watches you can get your hand on, especially the Master Collection, where Longines displays elegance combined with high complications. The ref. L2.908.4.92.6 does just that, as it presents itself as a slightly more dressy daily watch. 

The 40mm case can be fitted with a steel bracelet or a leather strap and can come with a ‘Sunray Blue’ or ‘Silver “barleycorn”’ dial. The latter of which is matched with blued steel hands creating a beautiful contrast.

At the 6 o’clock position sits the power reserve indicator, and a date aperture is located at the 3 o’clock position. Internally, the watch is powered by the caliber L602 based on the ETA 2892. This self-winding movement is equipped with a 42-hour power reserve.

Seiko Presage Cocktail Time “Sky Diving” SSA343J1

The Presage line is the dress watch line from the popular Seiko brand. Based in Japan, Seiko is more known for its sports and dive models; however, these dress watches have proven to be quite versatile. 

The ‘Sky Diving’ is the light blue version in the Presage line and offers a dial finish you will not get anywhere else at this price point. The 40.5mm case is matched with a leather strap and houses the caliber 4R57.

This caliber is automatic but has hand-winding abilities and a power reserve rated at 41 hours. The power reserve is indicated in a rather unique way that has not been seen on this list so far.

It is located within the hour markers, and the hand stems from the center, where the hour and minute hands also stem. This unique attribute perfectly fits the watch’s overall aesthetic and is a welcome change to regular power reserve indicators.

Oris Big Crown ProPilot Calibre 111 (ref. 01 111 7711 4163-Set 1 22 72FC)

Oris is one of the last independent Swiss watch companies today and is certainly not afraid to push the envelope of design and technology. The Big Crown line has been a mainstay for the last couple of years, and with the introduction of the caliber 111, the watch has been elevated to a new status.

The 44mm case features various other pilot watch characteristics, such as a highly legible dial, a large crown (as the name suggests), and various complications. The anthracite dial features a small seconds sub-register and a date aperture at 9 o’clock, something you don’t see every day. 

On the 3 o’clock position sits the power reserve indicator, which displays how much of the 10-day power reserve is left. If 10 days sound like a lot, that’s because it is. The movement features various technical anomalies, like a 1.8m (5′ 11″) mainspring, to allow for the extended power reserve. 

IWC Portuguese Automatic 7 Day Reserve (ref. IW500710)

The ‘Portuguese’ was originally developed for two Portuguese clients, and throughout its long history, the name has been changed to Portugieser. The Portugieser has remained a mainstay of the dress lineup in the IWC catalog, and this contemporary version is no different. 

The deep blue dial features three complications, a date function at the 6 o’clock position and two subregisters displaying small seconds and the power reserve. At 42.3mm, the watch stays true to being large but not quite as large as the other offerings in the IWC catalog. 

The movement powering the watch is the caliber 52010, which is part of IWC’s 52000 family. First launched in 2015, this is widely known as IWC’s 7-day automatic movements, in reference to the staggering 7-day power reserve. 

Panerai Luminor GMT 10 Days (ref. PAM00986)

To round off the extreme power reserve timepieces, we have the ref. PAM00986, a Luminor Marina, presents a beautiful deep blue dial that contrasts greatly with the classic stainless steel case. Legibility is fantastic, as you might expect from Panerai, with the use of large hands and hour markers, the former of which is filled with luminescent material. 

The 44m Panerai doesn’t just display the power reserve but also features an AM/PM indicator as well as a GMT function. This is all thanks to the caliber P.2003, which, as the name suggests, has a 10-day power reserve. The case also features the trademarked crown bridge guard, which solidifies the tool watch moniker of the watch. 

Conclusion

To some, the power reserve indicator may seem moot in this day and age. But when you think about it, isn’t the idea of an automatic watch a romantic one? If you look at it like that, a power reserve indicator is functional and has a connection to your watch. You can see time pass in more ways than one; now that’s something a smartphone won’t be able to do.

With the advancement in technology, watches have become more than just a timepiece. They now come equipped with various features that cater to different needs and requirements. One such feature is the pulsometer, a specialized scale that allows the wearer to measure their heart rate. 

A pulsometer is a must-have feature for medical professionals, athletes, and fitness enthusiasts who need to monitor their heart rates regularly. 

In this article, we will explore some of the top watches with a pulsometer currently on the market. We will look at the different styles, features, and prices of these watches to help you make an informed decision when choosing the perfect watch for your needs.

We will cover a range of brands and models, including luxury watches from high-end brands, as well as more affordable options, such as microbrands, that offer great value for money. From classic designs to more modern and futuristic styles, there is a pulsometer watch for everyone.

About the Pulsometer Complication

In the early 19th century, physicians began using a pulsometer to measure a patient’s heart rate. This device consisted of a small clock with a second hand that would be started when the physician began counting the patient’s pulse.

The physician would then stop the clock after a predetermined number of seconds had elapsed, and the number of ticks on the clock’s second hand would indicate the patient’s heart rate. Watchmakers soon realized that they could incorporate this function into their timepieces by adding a pulsometer scale to the watch’s dial.

The scale typically consists of markings that indicate the number of heartbeats per minute, along with a chronograph function that can be used to time the pulse. Patek Philippe made one of the earliest examples of a watch with a pulsometer scale in the late 1800s.

This watch featured a white enamel dial with black Arabic numerals and a red pulsometer scale. Other watchmakers soon followed suit, and by the early 20th century, pulsometer watches were popular among doctors and other medical professionals.

In addition to their medical applications, pulsometer watches were also prized for their aesthetic appeal. The combination of a sleek, elegant watch with a useful medical function made these timepieces highly desirable among collectors.

Today, several high-end watchmakers still produce pulsometer watches, including Patek Philippe, Vacheron Constantin, and Jaeger-LeCoultre. These watches typically feature a chronograph function with a pulsometer scale on the dial and other advanced features, such as a tachymeter scale for measuring speed or a moon phase indicator. 

What Is The Purpose of Watches With a Pulsometer?

Watches with pulsometers serve a very specific purpose: measuring a person’s heart rate. This is a useful feature for athletes, doctors, and anyone who needs to keep track of their heart rate for health or fitness reasons. For athletes, a pulsometer watch can help them monitor their heart rate during exercise.

By timing their pulse using the watch’s chronograph function and pulsometer scale, they can ensure they stay within their target heart rate zone for optimal training results. This can help them avoid overexertion or under-exertion and ensure they get the most out of their workouts.

For doctors and other medical professionals, a pulsometer watch can be a valuable tool for diagnosing and treating patients. By measuring a patient’s heart rate with the watch’s chronograph and pulsometer scale, they can quickly and easily determine if the patient’s heart rate is too high or too low.

This can help them identify potential health problems and take appropriate action to treat them. Watches with pulsometers can also be useful for people monitoring their heart health for medical reasons.

For example, someone with a heart condition may need to monitor their heart rate regularly to ensure it stays within a specific range. A pulsometer watch can make this process much easier and more convenient than using a separate pulse measurement device.

The Best Watches With a Pulsometer

1. OMEGA SPEEDMASTER CK2998 PULSOMETER 311.32.40.30.02.001

The Omega Speedmaster CK2998 Pulsometer is a limited-edition timepiece that pays homage to the original Speedmaster CK2998 model, which was introduced in 1959 and became one of the most popular and iconic models in the Speedmaster collection.

The CK2998 Pulsometer features a 39.7mm stainless steel case with a polished finish and a black ceramic bezel with a pulsometer scale. 

The lightly sandblasted silver dial of the CK2998 Pulsometer is adorned with three subdials: a 30-minute counter at 3 o’clock, a 12-hour counter at 6 o’clock, and a small seconds subdial at 9 o’clock. The hour and minute hands are gray, and the seconds hand is red, offering a pop of color. 

The movement powering the CK2998 Pulsometer is the Omega Caliber 1861, a hand-wound chronograph movement known for its reliability and precision. The watch has a power reserve of 48 hours and is water resistant up to 50 meters. The CK2998 Pulsometer is limited to 2,998 pieces and comes with a black leather strap.

Price: $10,700 

2. LONGINES PULSOMETER CHRONOGRAPH L2.801.4.23.2

The Longines Pulsometer Chronograph is a classic timepiece that combines elegance and functionality. Inspired by vintage medical watches, this watch features a pulsometer scale that allows the wearer to measure their heart rate quickly and accurately.

The timepiece features a 40mm stainless steel case with a polished finish. The white dial is adorned with a pulsometer scale on the outer rim and two subdials: a 30-minute counter at 3 o’clock, a small seconds subdial at 9 o’clock, and a date window at 6 o’clock.

The hour markers and hands are made of blue steel, adding a touch of sophistication to the watch. The movement powering the watch is the Longines Caliber L788.2, a self-winding mechanical movement that boasts a power reserve of 54 hours.

The timepiece is water resistant up to 30 meters, making it suitable for everyday wear. The watch comes with a brown leather strap with a buckle clasp that complements the vintage-inspired design of the watch. 

Price: $2,150

3. BLANCPAIN VILLERET CHRONOGRAPHE FLYBACK PULSOMÈTRE 6680F 3631 55B

The Blancpain Villeret Chronographe Flyback Pulsomètre is a stunning timepiece that seamlessly blends traditional design with modern functionality. Named after the brand’s birthplace, the Villeret collection is known for its understated elegance and high watchmaking standards.

The watch features a 43.7mm rose gold case with a polished finish. The white dial is adorned with a pulsometer scale on the outer rim, two sundials, and a date window. The hour markers and hands are made of rose gold.

The movement powering the Blancpain Villeret Chronographe Flyback Pulsomètre is the in-house Caliber F385, a self-winding mechanical movement that boasts a power reserve of 50 hours. The flyback function allows the wearer to reset and restart the chronograph with a single push of a button, making it ideal for timing events with multiple phases.

The watch is water resistant up to 30 meters. The timepiece comes with a brown leather strap with a folding clasp that complements the watch’s sophisticated design. 

Price: $33,000

4. ORIS BIG CROWN ROYAL FLYING DOCTOR SERVICE LIMITED EDITION II 01 735 7728 4084-Set LS

The Oris Big Crown Royal Flying Doctor Service is a distinctive and rugged timepiece that pays tribute to the Royal Flying Doctor Service of Australia. The watch is designed to be both functional and stylish, with a unique blend of aviation and medical themes.

The watch features a 45mm stainless steel case with a coin-edge bezel. The black dial is easily readable with white numbers and markers. There’s a pulsometer in dark orange on the outer rim. There’s also a day and date display window at the 3 o’clock position.

The timepiece is powered by the Oris Caliber 735, a self-winding mechanical movement that boasts a power reserve of 38 hours. The watch is water resistant up to 50 meters, making it suitable for everyday wear.

The watch comes with a brown leather strap with a folding clasp that complements the vintage-inspired design of the watch. Limited to 2,000 pieces.

Price: $2,000

5. PATEK PHILIPPE CHRONOGRAPH 5170J-001

The Patek Philippe Chronograph is a classic and elegant timepiece that is a masterpiece of Swiss watchmaking. This watch is part of the company’s flagship collection, the Calatrava line, and is renowned for its precision, reliability, and sophistication.

The watch features a 39mm case made of 18k yellow gold, giving it a luxurious and timeless appeal. The silver dial is adorned with Arabic numerals and gold hour markers, and the two subdials at 3 o’clock and 9 o’clock display the 30-minute counter and the small seconds, respectively.

The watch also features a pulsometer scale on the outer rim. The movement powering the 5170J-001 is the Patek Philippe Caliber CH 29-535 PS, a hand-wound mechanical movement that boasts a power reserve of 65 hours.

The watch is water-resistant up to 30 meters, making it suitable for occasional splashes and rain. The 5170J-001 comes with a brown alligator strap with a folding clasp that complements the watch’s elegant design. 

Price: $52,566

6. A. LANGE & SÖHNE 1815 PULSOMETER CHRONOGRAPH 414.028

The A. Lange & Söhne 1815 is a stunning example of the German brand’s uncompromising dedication to traditional watchmaking techniques and exceptional craftsmanship. This watch is part of the 1815 collection, which pays tribute to the birth year of Ferdinand A. Lange, the company’s founder.

The timepiece features a 39.5mm case made of 18k white gold, with a sapphire crystal case back that allows a view of the beautifully decorated hand-wound mechanical movement. The black dial is adorned with silver Arabic numerals and hands, giving it a classic and timeless appearance. The dial also features a pulsometer scale.

The movement powering the 1815 Pulsometer Chronograph is the A. Lange & Söhne Caliber L951.5, a hand-wound mechanical movement that boasts a power reserve of 60 hours. The movement is beautifully finished with traditional techniques such as hand-engraving, chamfering, and polishing and is visible through the sapphire crystal case back.

The watch comes with a black alligator leather strap with a white gold buckle, completing the understated and elegant design. The 1815 Pulsometer Chronograph is water resistant up to 30 meters, making it suitable for everyday wear.

Price: $50,522 

7. VACHERON CONSTANTIN HARMONY CHRONOGRAPH CALIBER 3300 5100S/000R-B623

The Vacheron Constantin Harmony is a beautiful and sophisticated timepiece. The timepiece features a 42mm case made of 18k rose gold. The silver-tone dial is adorned with rose gold hands and markers, and the two subdials at 3 o’clock and 9 o’clock display the 30-minute counter and the small seconds, respectively.

The watch also features a pulsometer on the outer rim of the dial. The movement powering the Harmony Chronograph is the Vacheron Constantin Caliber 3300, a self-winding mechanical movement that boasts a power reserve of 65 hours.

The movement is beautifully finished with traditional techniques such as Côtes de Genève and perlage and is visible through the sapphire crystal case back. The watch comes with a brown alligator strap with a rose gold folding clasp that complements the watch’s elegant design.

The Harmony Chronograph is water resistant up to 30 meters, making it suitable for occasional splashes and rain.

Price: $65,800 

8. OMEGA SPEEDMASTER CHRONOSCOPE 329.30.43.51.03.00

This timepiece combines the iconic Speedmaster design with a 40s vintage vibe. The stainless-steel case features a blue dial with silver numerals, markers, two subdials, a pulsometer, and small seconds. 

The timepiece is powered by the in-house 9908 with a 60-hour power reserve and is water resistant to 50M. All this is paired with a stainless-steel bracelet. 

Price: $6,000

9. JAEGER-LECOULTRE MASTER COMPRESSOR DIVING CHRONOGRAPH WITH PULSOMETER Q1862640

The Jaeger-LeCoultre Master is a robust and versatile watch designed for the needs of professional divers and athletes. This timepiece is part of the prestigious Master Compressor series, renowned for its precision, durability, and functionality.

The watch features a 44mm stainless steel case that is water resistant up to 1000 meters, making it suitable for deep-sea diving. The black dial features luminescent hands and index hour markers. The dial also features a date display at the 4 o’clock position and subdials that include a pulsometer.

The chronograph function is powered by Jaeger-LeCoultre’s Caliber 757 movement, which is a self-winding mechanical movement with a power reserve of up to 65 hours.

The watch comes with a black rubber strap that is comfortable to wear and complements the watch’s sporty yet elegant design. The strap features a double folding clasp with a safety release, which ensures a secure and comfortable fit.

Price: $17,995 

10. GRAHAM CHRONOFIGHTER VINTAGE PULSOMETER 2CVCS.U14A

The Graham Chronofighter Vintage Pulsometer 2CVCS.U14A is a stunning timepiece that combines vintage aesthetics with modern functionality. The watch is part of Graham’s Chronofighter collection, which is renowned for its precise timing and rugged construction.

The watch features a 44mm stainless steel case with a polished finish that gives it a classic and timeless appearance. The blue dial features gold ring hands. There’s a day and date window at 9 o’clock. The dial also features a pulsometer scale.

The watch’s chronograph function is powered by Graham’s Caliber G1718 movement, which is a self-winding mechanical movement with a power reserve of up to 48 hours. The movement is visible through the sapphire crystal case back, showcasing the movement’s beautiful finishing and precision engineering.

The watch comes with a blue leather strap that is comfortable to wear and complements the watch’s vintage aesthetic. The strap features a stainless-steel buckle with Graham’s signature logo, adding elegance to the overall design.

Price: $5,450 

11. MONTBLANC MEISTERSTÜCK HERITAGE PULSOGRAPH 111626

The Montblanc Meisterstück is a luxurious timepiece combining classic design and modern features. This watch is part of the Montblanc Meisterstück Heritage collection, celebrating the brand’s 90-year history of crafting fine writing instruments and accessories.

The watch features a sleek 41mm rose gold case with a polished finish paired with a black alligator strap that provides both comfort and sophistication. The silver dial is elegantly designed with mixed pink-tone gold Roman numeral and markers, rose gold sword-shaped hour and minute hands, a blue seconds hand, and a pulsometer scale.

The watch is powered by the Montblanc MB M13.21 automatic movement, which provides accurate timekeeping and a power reserve of up to 55 hours. The movement can be viewed through the sapphire crystal case back, which also displays the iconic Montblanc star emblem.

In addition to its classic design, the Montblanc Meisterstück Heritage Pulsograph 111626 also includes modern features such as a date display at 6 o’clock and a chronograph function that measures elapsed time up to 30 minutes.

These features are operated by pushers located on either side of the crown, which is adorned with the Montblanc emblem.

Price: $32,400 

12. TAG HEUER MONZA CR2080.FC6375

TAG Heuer Monza is a sleek timepiece that combines classic design with modern technology. The watch features a striking 42mm black titanium carbide-coated steel case paired with a black perforated leather strap that provides both comfort and style.

The black dial is elegantly designed with two chronograph subdials, a sporty red seconds hand, and the TAG Heuer logo in white. The watch is powered by the TAG Heuer Calibre17 automatic movement and a power reserve of up to 42 hours. This model includes a date display at 6 o’clock, a pulsometer, and is water resistant to 100m.

Price: $5,950 

13. BELL & ROSS BR V2-94 GARDE-CÔTES CHRONOGRAPH BRV294-ORA-ST/SST

This Bell & Ross timepiece is inspired by the Garde-Côtes, which is the French Coast Guard. This watch is designed to be durable and reliable, making it ideal for professionals who require a watch that can withstand the demands of their job.

The case is made from stainless steel, which is durable and corrosion-resistant. The case measures 41mm in diameter. The case is also water resistant to a depth of 100 meters, making it suitable for swimming and snorkeling.

The watch’s dial is gray with white and orange accents, giving it a sporty look. The hour and minute hands and indices markers are white. The seconds hand is orange.  The watch is powered by the BR-CAL.301 automatic movement.

The movement has a power reserve of 42 hours and beats at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour. The watch features a chronograph, date, and pulsometer. The timepiece is paired with a stainless steel bracelet. 

Price: $3,350 

14. LONGINES ASTHMOMETER-PULSOMETER CHRONOGRAPH L2.787.4.16.2

This watch is inspired by the medical chronographs that were popular in the early 20th century and are designed to measure the respiratory rate and pulse of the wearer.

The case of the Asthmometer-Pulsometer Chronograph is made from stainless steel and measures 38.5mm in diameter. The case is also water resistant to a depth of 30 meters, making it suitable for everyday wear.

The dial of the watch is white with a gold 12 and gold markers and hands. The dial is easy to read and has a classic and elegant look. The dial also features three subdials, one for the 30-minute counter, one for the small seconds, and one for the column wheel. 

The watch is powered by the L688 automatic movement. The movement has a power reserve of 54 hours and beats at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour. This particular timepiece features a pulsometer and asthmometer scale around the outer edge of the dial. 

The strap of the Asthmometer-Pulsometer Chronograph is made from black alligator leather and has a stainless-steel buckle. The strap is comfortable to wear and adds to the classic and elegant look of the watch.

Price: $1,866 

15. ETERNA PULSOMETER LIMITED EDITION 1942 1942.41.64.1177

This timepiece is designed to measure the wearer’s pulse rate and is inspired by the medical chronographs that were popular in the 1940s.

The case of the Pulsometer Limited Edition is made from stainless steel and measures 42mm in diameter. The case is also water resistant to a depth of 50 meters, making it suitable for swimming and snorkeling.

The dial of the watch is silver with blue hands and green numerals. The dial has two subdials and a date window at the 6 o’clock position. The dial also features a pulsometer scale around the outer edge.

The watch is powered by the caliber ETA 2894-2. The movement has a power reserve of 42 hours and beats at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour.

The strap of the Pulsometer Limited Edition is made from black leather with a stainless-steel buckle. The Pulsometer Limited Edition is a numbered limited edition of only 1,942 pieces, which makes it a highly collectible timepiece. 

Price: $794 

16. BOLDR FIELD MEDIC II

This is a COVID-19-inspired timepiece designed to celebrate the healthcare community at the frontlines of the pandemic. 

The case is made of titanium, and the size is 38mm. The “panda dial” is white with two black sundials. The indices are black, the hour and minute hands are gray, and the seconds hand is red, as are the subdial hands. The entire dial is luminous in the dark.  

The timepiece is powered by the VK64 Mecha-Quartz movement by Seiko and features a date window at the 6 o’clock position and a pulsometer. The watch is paired with a nylon NATO strap. 

Price: $299

17. NERO SABBIA 1072-A

Nero Sabbia is a Swiss watch brand that specializes in creating luxury timepieces that are both elegant and unique. The brand was founded in 2016 by a group of passionate watchmakers who wanted to create watches that combined traditional Swiss craftsmanship with modern design elements.

The name “Nero Sabbia” translates to “black sand” in Italian and reflects the brand’s philosophy of creating timeless and innovative timepieces. The brand’s watches are designed to be worn by both men and women and feature bold, distinctive designs that stand out from other luxury watch brands.

One of the defining features of Nero Sabbia watches is the use of unconventional materials in their construction. The brand uses materials such as ceramic, carbon fiber, and titanium to create watches that are both lightweight and durable.

The brand’s watches are also known for their distinctive case shapes, which range from sleek and minimalist to bold and angular. The case of this timepiece is made of 316L stainless steel and measures 38mm.

The striking sand colors of the roman numerals, subdial and outer pulsometer against the black dial give the timepiece a distinctive look. It features a Seiko VK64 Mecha-Quartz movement and is paired with a tanned Italian beige leather strap with a stainless-steel buckle. 

Price: $607

18. HAVEN CHILTON MK1

The Haven Watch Company was founded by Weston Cutter, an English professor, along with his father, Wes, a watchmaker, and his lifelong best friend, Steve Reidell, an art director. 

Founded on a love for luxury, well-made timepieces, and midwestern practicality, they birth a line of watches that seek to deliver the quality of the watchmaking elites, for a modest price. 

The MK1 offers a vintage, rugged, and colorful design. The case is made of 316L stainless steel with a titanium caseback. The silver dial features three subdials and a pulsometer. 

The timepiece is powered by an automatic Sellita SW510 M b movement with a power reserve of 50 hours. The bracelet is stainless steel with a handmade clasp. 

Price: $1,799 

19. ZEPPELIN LZ126 LOS ANGELES 8644-1

This is a stylish and sophisticated men’s timepiece that pays homage to the era of airships and aviation. The watch features a classic design that blends vintage elements with modern technology, making it a unique and eye-catching timepiece.

The watch has a stainless-steel case with a diameter of 42mm. The case is polished to a high shine and features a sleek, minimalist design that is both elegant and understated. The case is also water-resistant up to 50 meters, making it suitable for everyday wear.

The dial of the watch is white with contrasting black indices and hands. The timepiece features a date window at the 12 o’clock position, a second time zone subdial at the 6 o’clock position, and a pulsometer. 

The watch is powered by a Swiss quartz Ronda 6203.B movement. The black leather strap features contrasting white stitching. 

Price: $263

20. KOBOLD PULSOMETER CHRONOGRAPH WATCH KD 942161

This is a high-end timepiece designed for medical professionals and enthusiasts who value precision and accuracy in their work. The watch has a stainless-steel case with a diameter of 39.5mm.

The case is brushed to a satin finish, giving it a sleek and understated look. The case is also water resistant up to 100 meters. The dial of the watch is blue (there’s also a copper dial version) with contrasting silver-gray hour markers and hands.

There’s a date window at the 9 o’clock position and a subdial at the 3 o’clock position. The bezel is brushed steel. The watch is thick and sits high on the wrist. There’s a pulsometer scale on the outer edge of the dial.

Conclusion

Timepieces with pulsometers have a rich history and serve a specific purpose – measuring heart rate. From their practical uses in sports and medicine to their aesthetic appeal, these watches are a testament to the ingenuity and creativity of watchmakers. Whether for function or fashion, a pulsometer watch is a unique and valuable timepiece.

There are fewer hotly debated topics amongst watch enthusiasts than the highly useful and most elementary of calendar complications, the date complication. Does it belong? And where, 3, 6, 9, 4:30! Where?

While some believe that, from a complication standpoint, there is none more useful for your day-to-day than a date complication, others see it as a mar on a dial, breaking its symmetry and ultimately being the reason for not purchasing a timepiece. 

Strangely enough, as complications get more complicated (e.g. day-date, annual calendar, perpetual calendar), enthusiasts and collectors seemingly change their tune. They look at these complications as must-haves for a well-rounded collection and the most sought-after in all of Haute Horology. 

With that said, strap in and thank the Romans for the development of the calendar because we are going to dive into the world of annual calendar timepieces, discuss a bit about its history and origins, compare it to its older brother (Perpetual Calendar), and showcase the 20 best annual calendar watches.

History of Annual Calendar Watches

As far as watch complications are concerned, the annual calendar is a relatively new complication. It was the mid-nineties, we were a few years out of the Cold War, Seinfeld and F.R.I.E.N.D.S. were on everyone’s TV, and the watch world was slowly recovering from the quartz crisis.

Because of the efforts of watch brands like Patek Philippe and its President, Philippe Stern, watch enthusiasts’ interest in mechanical complications was on the rise. 

The story goes that the idea for the annual calendar was developed as a graduate project of an engineering student at the Geneva School of Engineering after Patek challenged the school to invent a new movement that would invite a new sector of the market to purchase more mechanically complicated timepieces at a more financially accessible price point. 

This is Patek we are talking about, so the “accessible price point” is subjective at best. Patek loved what they saw, awarded the young engineer with a prize, and he went to work with Patek immediately. Patek brought the first annual calendar watch to market with the release and debut of the Patek Philippe ref. 5035 at the Basel Fair 1996.

In the fall of the same year, this watch was awarded “Watch of the Year”. With its incredibly legible and well-balanced three-register dial and, more often than not, gold case, the 5035 appealed to many perpetual calendar lovers because of its luxurious design and less expensive price tag.

Annual Calendar Watches vs Perpetual Calendar Watches

So what is an annual calendar timepiece, and how does it compare to its older brother, the perpetual calendar? Well, to begin, let’s discuss the functionality of both and see the differences between the two complications.

Annual Calendar

An annual calendar timepiece displays and correctly advances the day, date, and month taking into account and differentiating between 30 and 31-day months. With that said, the only manual change that needs to be made by the owner is once a year for the month of February.

Perpetual Calendar

A perpetual calendar timepiece was created to correctly advance the day, date, month, and year until the year 2100, taking into account the month of February and leap years without any manual adjustments by the owner. 

The first perpetual calendar wristwatch, notice I said wristwatch, was brought to market in 1925 by Patek Philippe (shocker!) with the ref. 97975. With that said, the earliest known example of a perpetual calendar was in a pocket watch made by Thomas Mudge in 1762. 

Verdict

So after comparing the functionality of both the annual and perpetual calendars, it is pretty evident that the difference is minimal. Aside from the manual adjustments that must be made once a year and the overall cost, these two siblings are very similar.

Annual Calendar Watches Purpose

So you might be asking yourself, what purpose does an annual calendar watch serve in today’s world? That is a question that anyone with a mechanical timepiece on their wrist should be asking themselves every day. 

In a day and age when we have an infinite amount of knowledge and information at the tips of our fingers, the last thing we are ever in need of is an incredibly complicated mechanical timepiece to tell us where we are in a calendar year. But the annual calendar is a reminder of what it means to be a skilled artist. 

A reminder that even though a smartwatch is more practical and efficient, there is something romantic about a mechanical timepiece that harkens back to a time when the accuracy and innovation that you wore on your wrist helped you keep track of your day-to-day life as it slowly moved under the arrow of time.

Best Annual Calendar Watches

Now that we have had the opportunity to learn a little more about annual calendar watches and how they work let’s dive into our list of the 20 best annual calendar watches. These are ranked from the most affordable to some that might require taking out a second mortgage on your home. 

It is worth noting that due to some of these timepieces being out of production, the pricing is as close to MSRP as we could find through authorized dealers, not gray market, etc.

Longines 1832 Annual Calendar (ref. L4.827.4.92.2) Case Diameter- 40mm | Case Thickness- 12.3mm | Price $2,359

The Longines 1832 Annual Calendar comes in as the most affordable annual calendar on our list. But don’t mistake its price point as a fault or assume that it means it is lacking in quality. Those who have had the opportunity to handle the flagship 1832 line in the metal know that this aptly named line (1832 being the year it was founded) is an amazing point of entry to the annual calendar complication at an amazing price point without compromising on quality and finishing. 

At 40mm, the Longines Annual Calendar sits right in the sweet spot for most average wristed enthusiasts. Its steel case and beige dial are subdued and incredibly clean. The applied indices and framed month/date window give this piece a bit of depth, character, and light play that would have been otherwise missing with a printed dial.

Carl F. Bucherer Heritage Bicompax Annual Calendar (ref. 00.10803.08.32.01) Case Diameter- 41mm | Case Thickness-14.15mm | Price $7,800

For those who are fans of the John Wick films, Carl F. Bucherer is a name that will sound relatively familiar. The titular character of the series, John Wick, played by the nicest guy in Hollywood, Keanu Reeves, can be seen wearing a Carl F. Bucherer Manero AutoDate throughout the series. 

While the John Wick franchise has definitely made an impact on the cultural zeitgeist of the modern action film, it is the Carl F. Bucherer Heritage Bicompax Annual Calendar that has made an impact on myself and those looking for a beautiful panda or reverse panda dialed chronograph with an annual calendar and a big date! 

This is such an insanely neat piece that offers so much from one of the oldest family and independently-owned Swiss watch manufacturers in the world.

Omega Globemaster Annual Calendar (ref. 130.33.41.22.06.001) Case Diameter- 41mm | Case Thickness- 14.1mm | Price $8,700

What can be said about Omega that hasn’t already been said? A Swiss watch giant that has, since its founding in 1848 by Louis Brandt, created one of the most iconic timepieces in history, the Speedmaster. Oh, and if you haven’t been paying attention or happen to be a hermit living in a cave, it was this watch that went to the Moon. 

At 41mm in diameter and with a case thickness of 14.1mm, the Globemaster works on a wrist like mine, a little over seven inches, but might be pushing the limits in size for some enthusiasts. With that said, I think the Globemaster more than makes up for its size with its highly stylized design, which includes a “Pie Pan” dial, a hallmark, and a callback to the original line of Constellation timepieces from 1952. 

The Globemaster also comes with a Tungsten Carbide bezel, the most scratch-resistant metal known to man. So, if you are one of those enthusiasts who is a little rough on things, the Globemaster might just be the piece for you.

Zenith El Primero Winsor Annual Calendar (ref. 03.2070.4054/02.C711) Case Diameter- 42mm | Case Thickness-13.85mm | Price $10,183

Depending on who you ask, the Zenith El Primero, which literally means “the first”, was one of the first manufacturers to develop and bring the automatic chronograph movement to market. I say “one of” because there is quite a debate in the watch world about whose automatic movement was actually the first one.

Was it Zenith, Seiko, or the Chonomatic Group (a joint venture between Heuer-Léonidas, Breitling, Hamilton-Büren, and Dubois-Dépraz)?  Regardless, Zenith has a very storied history in the watch world, and the Zenith El Primero Winsor Annual Calendar is another timepiece that, as far as annual calendars go, has something we have not yet seen on our list, a day function.

Like the Globemaster, the 41mm case diameter and 14mm case thickness might be a deciding factor for some when purchasing this watch; I believe that some of the extra added features and Zenith’s rich history can make up for some of its shortcomings.

Montblanc Heritage Chronometerie Annual Calendar (ref. 112535) Case Diameter- 40mm | Case Thickness- 9.55mm | Price $11,400

Listen, I know that the name Montblanc doesn’t always bring to mind a rich and storied history of watchmaking. But, since the company’s entrance into the world of horology in 1997, Montblanc strived to have their watches reflect what they were best known for; luxury writing instruments.

Since then, Montblanc has really pushed the envelope when it comes to investing in more complex complications. This is where our number five entry on the list, Montblanc Heritage Chronometerie Annual Calendar, enters. This 40mm, 18kt gold-cased annual calendar has so much to offer.

With its silver sunburst dial and four-register layout, the Montblanc Heritage has something new to offer that we have yet to see on this list; a moonphase. The addition of a moonphase gives the owner a true sense of luxury and refinement that will always be a great conversation piece.

Ulysse Nardin Torpilleur Annual Chronograph (ref. 1533-320le-0a-175-1a) Case Diameter- 44mm | Case Thickness- 13.6mm | Price $12,700

In its 177-year history, Ulysse Nardin has been at the forefront of technological advancement in the old-world art form of watchmaking. They were the first company to use a silicon hairspring with their release of the 2001 edition of the Ulysse Nardin Freak.

This watch straddled the line between insanity and genius and is still seeing constant innovation. With that said, Ulysses Nardin is no stranger to doing things differently, and in the case of the Torpilleur Annual Chronograph, different is big and bold. The Torpilleur comes in as the third largest timepiece on our list.

At 44mm, the individually numbered Torpilleur has a dual register chronograph layout on a stunningly white varnished dial classically accented by Roman numerals, a mainstay in the Marine Collection. 

Rolex Sky-Dweller (ref. 326934) -0006 Variant Case Diameter- 42mm | Case Thickness- 14mm | Price $15,900

Like the rest of the Rolex catalog, the Rolex Sky-Dweller is a watch that is synonymous with excellence and reliability. Oh, and an insanely growing price tag and inability to walk into an AD and purchase. Since its release over a decade ago (2012), the Rolex Sky-Dweller is a timepiece aimed at frequent, refined, and cultured world travelers. 

What made the Sky-Dweller such a neat piece with its release was that it was a completely new design without any ties to historical Rolex pieces. The Sky-Dweller has come in a multitude of variants. But, the one I would like to discuss today is the -0006 variant which comes in a 42mm Oystersteel case with white gold fluted bezel, a bright black dial that can simultaneously track two time zones, and of course, the annual calendar. 

So, if you have a great relationship with your AD and consistently travel to Europe for long weekends, I think the Sky-Dweller is the piece for you. 

IWC Big Pilot Annual Calendar (ref. IW502710) Case Diameter- 46.2mm | Case Thickness- 15.8mm | Price $21,413

The IWC Big Pilot Annual Calendar is just that. BIG. Coming in as the biggest watch on our list, the Big Pilot Annual Calendar is a whopping 46mm and has a thickness of 15.8mm, which is actually not too bad for its size. The Big Pilot certainly has a wrist presence best suited for my tree-trunked armed readers. 

The Big Pilot is the first watch on our list to have a power display that helps you monitor the impressive seven-day power reserve. Though the Big Pilot Annual Calendar is not a watch for everyone, I believe it is a great entry on our list from a manufacturer that has always made an impact in the world of horology.

Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra Annual Calendar (ref. 231.53.43.22.06.001) Case Diameter- 43mm | Case Thickness- 14.6mm | Price $23,300

The Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra Annual Calendar is only the second gold-cased watch on our list. The 43mm elegant AT is cased in Omega’s Red Gold, which is darker with more red/orange hues and is much different from Omega’s newest Sedna and Moonshine golds. 

The beautiful case is accented by a “Teak Concept” patterned gray dial that makes the case vividly shine. While I might be a bit of an Omega fanboy, I do think that the two Omega entries on our list are great options for someone looking to purchase an amazing precious timepiece with a useful complication.

Vacheron Constantin FiftySix Annual Calendar (ref. 4000E/000A-B439) Case Diameter- 40mm | Case Thickness- 11.6mm | Price $26,400

The Vacheron Constantin FiftySix Annual Calendar is the second entry on our list to utilize a moonphase. While I earlier described a moonphase as a great conversation piece, it is worth mentioning that there is something romantic and poetic to a complication that can sometimes be underutilized. 

While the moonphase is not the focus of this article, I do believe it was very well-executed and helps to tie an incredibly well-balanced dial together. The FiftySix has a brilliantly silver-toned dial that is accented by a blue date hand, which helps distinguish the date functionality from the hours, minutes, and running seconds hands. I think that the FiftySix Annual Calendar is a great addition to an already stellar line by VC. 

Glashütte Original PanoMaticCalendar (ref. 1-92-09-02-05-62) Case Diameter- 42mm | Case Thickness- 12.4mm | Price $26,600

The Glashutte Original PanoMaticCalender is a watch that needs to be seen to understand its true beauty. To anyone who isn’t a watch enthusiast, the dial of the PanoMaticCalender might be considered a little strange, bizarre, and difficult to read. But the dial is exactly what makes this annual calendar beautiful and unique. 

The opaline silver dial gives the watch an almost iridescent shine while the applied red gold indices and date window surround tie everything together with the beautiful red gold case. The blued seconds hand and moonphase give the PanoMaticCalender a pop of color that helps provide a cool tone to the warm reddish hue that dominates this precious metal timepiece.

Blancpain Quantième Annuel GMT (ref. 6670 1127 MMB) Case Diameter- 40mm | Case Thickness- 11.1mm | Price $31,000

Blancpain is a name that is synonymous with innovation within the watch world and one that cannot be easily categorized. There is a dichotomous relationship within the brand that signifies a separation between the complex: complete mastery of complications and their impact during the earliest days of dive watches. Take the former, for example, and Blancpain’s entry on today’s list. 

At 40mm, the Blancpain Quantième Annual GMT, which is part of the Villeret line, is the perfect example of a luxurious and classic timepiece by a company that also produces some of the finest dive watches in the industry. There are always two sides to a coin, and the Quantième is a watch that shows the complication-driven side of Blancpain, which has made them such masters of their craft.

Parmigiani Fleurier Tonda PF Annual Calendar Stainless Steel (ref. pfc907-1020001-100182) Case Diameter- 42mm | Case Thickness- 11.1 | Price $39,475

The Parmigiani Fleurier Tonda PF Annual Calendar is, for me, the standout timepiece on this list. The 42mm sleek and modern stainless steel case is adorned with a platinum hand-knurled bezel and comes in at a slim 11.1mm. For those thinking that it is all show and substance, you’d be wrong. 

Atop a gray guilloche dial is the obvious, what we’ve come to expect from an annual calendar watch, day, month, moonphase, but here’s the kicker, the date is a strategically placed retrograde date at the top end of the dial. This ultra cool date function means there isn’t an awkwardly placed date window on the dial breaking the Tonda’s beautiful symmetry. If money were no issue, this would be the watch for me.

Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Annual Calendar (ref. 25920ST) Case Diameter- 36mm | Case Thickness- 8mm | Price $40,100

The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Annual Calendar is an outlier on our list due to its size. Coming in at 36mm, the Royal Oak is the smallest watch on the list, but this feature-packed mid-sized watch definitely punches up with the big boys.

With its DNA firmly rooted in the 70s Genta design, the Royal Oak utilizes its minimal dial space for the best. With its tapisserie dial, applied indices, and lowered chapter ring acting as the date indicator, the Royal Oak has a great depth to the dial that is missing with some timepieces.

The only issue I see with this timepiece is its off-center month sub-dial. Definitely not for those with OCD. But one cool feature of the month sub-dial is the months printed in red, which correlates to the 31 printed in red, indicating those months are months with 31 days.

Cartier Rotonde de Cartier Annual Calendar (ref. W1580002) Case Diameter- 45mm | Case Thickness-14.05 | Price $44,283

Coming in as the second largest watch on our list, the Cartier Rotonde de Cartier Annual Calendar is a watch that uses its large dial and the space given to its advantage. Cased in white gold and working inward with concentric circles, the Rotonde uses the outer ring to denote the months, while the inner ring denotes the days of the week. 

These circles are broken up by the always present and always classic Roman numeral hour markers. One incredibly neat design aspect of this timepiece is the use of a guilloche lower dial, acting as a beautiful background to the wonderfully symmetric dial. The Rotonde also features a well-placed big date at the top center of the dial, right above the Cartier name.

Patek Philippe Nautilus Annual Calendar Moonphase (ref. 5726/1A) Case Diameter- 40.5mm | Case Thickness- 11.3mm | Price $56,180

Patek Phillipe is the reason that this list exists. So there was never an instance when their watches would not make it. The Nautilus, next to the Royal Oak, is one of the most popular and sought-after timepieces on today’s market. 

So how do you make an already incredible watch just a bit better? Add an annual calendar and perfectly execute the layout of the date, day, month, moon phase, and, just for good measure, a 24-hour indicator.

The horizontally embossed dial on the Nautilus is a beautiful touch that graduates from blue to black at the very edges of the dial. While it has no equal, the Nautilus knows how to take an already proven design and stand out from the rest that has come before.

A. Lange & Söhne Saxonia Annual Calendar (ref. 330.025) Case Diameter- 38.5mm | Case Thickness- 9.8mm | Price $58,436

Like the Glashutte Original, the A. Lange & Söhne Saxonia Annual Calendar is a German-made timepiece that is a true work of art. The level of finishing of any A. Lange & Söhne is always a sight to behold, and that has never been more true than it is with Saxonia. 

Launched in 2010 and coming in at 38.5mm cased in platinum, the Saxonia is a harmonizing design that combines the calendar features, including big date, and perfectly sews them in with the timekeeping and moonphase capabilities. The solid silver dial combined with the platinum case and solid gold moonphase disc makes this timepiece a statement piece with a lot of heft.

Patek Philippe Annual Calendar Chronograph (ref. 5905/1A) Case Diameter- 42mm | Case Thickness- 14.3mm | Price $63,870 

Making its second entry on our list is the Patek Philippe Annual Calendar Chronograph, a 2021 release with a flyback chronograph and an annual calendar, making this Patek a true work of art. With its all-steel construction and coming in at 42mm, this curvaceous timepiece offers the sizing of a modern watch with the wrist presence of a more luxurious timepiece. 

Its concave bezel makes this piece a joy to wear, much less intimidating than the 14.3mm case thickness might indicate. The sunburst olive green dial helps keep this Patek a little more playful and casual.

Patek Philippe Annual Calendar Travel Time (ref. 5326G) Case Diameter- 41mm | Case Thickness- 11.07mm | Price $78,660

Making a third and final entry on our list, the Patek Philippe Annual Calendar Travel time, like the Parmagiani Fleurier, is a stand-out piece for me. The 41mm white gold case gives the timepiece a heft that reminds you it is on your wrist. 

What makes this piece so incredibly useful and over cool is the Annual Calendar Day, which shows the date and month in two windows centered near the top of the watch, the ability to track two time zones (both local and home time), but also local and home day/night indicators within the local and home time apertures! This is just a magnificent piece that needs to be seen.

F.P. Journe Octa Calendrier Calibre 1300.3 Case Diameter- 38 or 40 mm | Case Thickness- 10.6mm | Price $175,802 (Est.)

F.P. Journe only produces about 900 timepieces per year, so the likelihood that you see them in the wild or up for sale is rare. That said, I think that is what makes the F.P. Journe Octa Calendrier Calibre 1300.3 such a great piece. 

Not only is it an amazingly beautiful design with a platinum case, white gold dial and guilloche silver sub-dial, and retrograde date function, but it is a true Unicorn that, for the lucky individual who owns one, will likely always hold a spot in their heart.

Conclusion

I hope you all had a great time reading this article. In my research, I learned a lot on the topic of annual calendar timepieces, and I hope you did too. Until next time, thank you.