Luxury Watches You need to know
When it comes to luxury watches, there are some watches you just have to know. Some watches might have had a big influence in the watch world, and some are significant in another way, making them worth knowing.
In this post, we will talk about the most important luxurywatches of the industry. We will give you an overview of the whole industry to make sure you know the basics. Besides the short description of each watch, you will find a dedicated article for each watch we mentioned.
Some of these watches that you have to know are unique because of their design, some had a special influence in the watch community, and some watches on this list have just become absolute icons over the years. Some watches you have to know are the Rolex Daytona, the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak as well as the Patek Philippe Nautilus just to name a few.
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Most Iconic Rolex Watches
When it comes to well-known watches, Rolex must be one of the first names that come to mind. The brand has had a special influence on the whole watch industry. With the hype around Rolex, that has been especially strong in the last couple of years, Rolex has helped to increase the demand for the whole watch industry. So let's take a look at the most hyped watches from Rolex.
Day-Date und Datejust
The most famous models of Rolex must be the Day-Date and the Datejust. Both are classical and elegant luxurywatches that range in size from 36 to 41 millimeters. However, with the Lady-Datejust there are also some smaller watches specially made for women. Nowadays almost all these watches come with a fluted bezel, that became their trademark. Special about the Day-Date is obviously the day-date complication, that displays not only the date but also the day at 12 o'clock. These watches are available with the Oyster bracelet, the Jubilee Bracelet as well as the President Bracelet that is designed only for these watches and not available with any other Rolex.
From a historical standpoint, these luxurywatches are also quite significant, considering that they were the first waterproof wristwatches with a date function and a day-date complication ever. Of course, besides being the most successful watches from Rolex.
We have also written an article about "which Day-Date is the best investment". In case these Rolex watches are too expensive, the article about "10 Alternatives to the Day-Date and Datejust" is perfect for you! : )
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GMT-Master and Submariner
But Rolex wouldn't be the same without their sport watches fitted with a ceramic bezel. We're talking about the legendary GMT Master and the Submariner. The GMT Master, respectively the GMT Master II, have a bezel that can be rotated to show two time zones on one dial. Mostly the bezel of the GMT is divided in two colors, the most popular are the combinations blue and red, called "Pepsi," and the combination black and blue called "Batman." This watch finds its origins in the 1960s. When air travel started to become popular, Rolex equipped pilots from American airlines with these luxurywatches.
The Submariner is, as the name suggests, a true dive watch. This watch is not only watertight and therefore suitable for diving, it has also got a ceramic bezel that rotates in one direction only to measure the dive time safely. When it comes to diver watches, the Submariner is the one watch that is most popular.
In our dedicated article, you can learn more about the "GMT-Master II"; for the Submariner, we currently do not have a specific article, but we've talked about it in depth in the article about "dive watches from Rolex".
Let's say, you like the style of these watches, but you can't really identify yourself with the brand Rolex. No worries, we've got you covered. We published an article about "Alternatives to the GMT Master" and, off course, also "Alternatives to the Rolex Submariner"
Daytona
We're still not done with iconic watches from Rolex; there is one more, of course, we mean the Daytona. It was born in the 1960s during which car races had become very popular. The racing chronographwas designed to be helpful in motorsports. Therefore the Daytona is the symbiosis of speed, elegance, and precision. It is particularly known for its characteristic chronograph dial, with the three central totalizers, as well as the ceramic bezel with tachymeter scale and matching chronograph pushers.
After you heard this description, comment down below, what kind of watch the logo of Gentleman-watches is based on :)
By now the Daytona is the most wanted luxurywatch from Rolex and among the Rolex watches that are a good investment, the Daytona is the one with the best value development. It is more than just a watch; over the years, Rolex has been able to build the reputation that the Daytona is a symbol of racing sports. In the beginning, the Daytona was powered by a modified version of the Zenith El Primero movement. However, later Rolex developed their own in-house movement for the Daytona.
Read more about "chronographs from Rolex" in a dedicated article.
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Audemars Piguet Royal Oak
Another watch that has shaped the watch world like no other is the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak. Designed in 1972 by Gerald Genta, one of the most famous watch designers ever, this watch has set new standards for the design of watches. With its octagonal bezel, that is screwed on the case with visible screws, this watch is not only highly unique, but it has also led to a small rebellion in the traditional watchmaking industry. Another thing that has become a trademark of Gerald Genta is the bracelet, which is seamlessly integrated into the case.
At that time, the Royal Oak set new fashion trends in terms of watch design. In the meantime, it is available with various complications, such as a perpetual calendar.
Here you can find more about the AP Royal Oak.
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Patek Phillipe Nautilus
A couple of years after the Royal Oak, Patek Philippe introduced the Nautilus. Maybe you have already spotted some similarities between the two watches; this is no wonder, considering that they are both designed by Gerald Genta. The Nautilus was inspired by a porthole of a ship, and just like the Royal Oak, the bracelet is almost seamlessly integrated with the case.
The Nautilus has become a symbol for Patek Philippe. It has even become so popular that Patek decided to stop the production of the most popular model, the 5711, because the brand did not want to be defined only by the Nautilus and was afraid that their other watches might get forgotten. But of course, the 5711 was not the only version of the Nautilus; there are countless different watches with various complications.
To learn more about the history of the Nautilus and how it's a great "Luxurywatch as an investment", check out "Patek Philippe Nautilus, a Blunt Copy?"
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Cartier Tank and Santos
When it comes to luxury watches, Cartier also has some watches that speak for themselves. The luxury jeweler from Paris not only offers excellent jewelry but also has some iconic wristwatches in its repertoire.
Tank
The first watch we have to mention is the Cartier Tank. Released in 1918, its design is very much in the spirit of the Art Deco style and inspired by British war tanks from the First World War.
The Cartier Tank was revolutionary, as pocket watches enjoyed dominance at the time, while a rectangular square wristwatch was considered extremely unusual. In the meantime, there are numerous versions, and the Tank has managed to remain a popular model to this day, thanks to its iconic history.
Read more on "How the Cartier Tank managed to stand the test of time for over 100 Years"
The Cartier Santos
Cartier Santos was born a few years earlier, in 1904, as an icon of aviation. As the story goes, Louis Cartier created this watch for aviation pioneer Alberto Santos Dumont.
Meanwhile, the Santos has grown into a watch classic, bearing the name of a forgotten but pioneering pilot.
The Santos combines functionality and elegance with a touch of adventure. It has a square case, which was unique for the time, again reminding us of the pioneering spirit. Considering that the watch was released at the beginning of the 20th century, it was definitely ahead of its time, because even today, some die-hard watch fans find the design of the Santos too daring.
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Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso
Since we're already talking about rectangular watches, have you heard about the Reverso from Jaeger-LeCoultre? Unlike any other watch, you can turn the case around 180 degrees, so that the backside of the case is on the front of the watch.
This watch is a symbol of innovation and timelessness, which makes it one of the most famous luxury watches. First introduced in 1931, the Reverso was Jaeger-LeCoultre's solution for polo players, who often destroyed their watches while playing. The rotatable case was the solution to protect the dial.
After many years, the Reverso has become one of the most iconic luxury watches ever. This watch is not only a beautiful piece of craftsmanship but also a piece of watchmaking history.
To learn what's hiding on the backside of this watch, check out the article "A watch with 2 faces - the Reverso".
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Omega Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch
It has not been often that a watch has made it to the Moon. To be fair, the Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch is not only the first but also the only watch that was ever on the Moon. It was specially modified for the Apollo mission, where US astronauts took it to the Moon.
Of course, Omega is very proud of this historical event. To celebrate it, they have released numerous special editions of the Omega Moonwatch, such as the famous Snoopy edition. The watch is basically a normal chronograph that was chosen by NASA and later modified with acrylic glass instead of a sapphire crystal, to safely work in space.
The Moonwatch even saved the crew on one particular Apollo mission, but more on this in the post about the Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional.
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Breitling Navitimer
From the first watch on the Moon on to the first watch in space. However, the Breitling Navitimer is more known for its aviation history here on Earth. Introduced in 1952 as a tool for pilots and explorers, the Navitimer was meant to become the queen of the sky. The characteristic slide rule bezel and the Breitling chronograph give the watch a unique look that you're not going to find anywhere else.
The slide rule and the small sub-dials for the chronograph are reminiscent of the instruments of an old airplane, rounded off nicely by a robust stainless steel case. In the earlier years, the Navitimer was fitted with the Chrono-matic movement, that was made in collaboration with JLC, Tag Heuer, ETA, and Breitling. Since 2009 Breitling uses their in-house Caliber B01.
The Navitimer is a masterpiece that combines functionality and good design; you can learn more about this watch in the article "the queen of the sky - Breitling Navitimer".
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Vacheron Constantin Fiftysix
The Fiftysix is a relic of the past with a glimpse of the future. Its design is characterized by timeless elegance, which is combined with modern sophistication. The watch is born from the tradition of Vacheron Constantin, and this creates a classic, timeless appeal. Vacheron Constantin is not only known for its timeless design but especially for their remarkable in-house calibers.
You can find all the details, including a great pricechart, in our Article: "Vacheron Constantin Fiftysix."
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A. Lange und Söhne Zeitwerk
The Zeitwerk may not have a long story to tell, but it shines with a completely newly designed complication. A. Lange & Söhne developed the first-ever mechanism that allows a mechanical movement to display the time digitally by switching digits.
Thus, the Zeitwerk is a symbol of a tireless spirit of innovation at A. Lange & Söhne. It shows that even today it is possible to push through new inventions in the world of mechanical watchmaking, making it not only one of the most special watches at A. Lange & Söhne but also in the whole watch industry.
This complication actually contradicts the nature of a mechanical movement, but more on this in "Zeitwerk from A. Lange & Söhne explained".
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IWC Portugieser
Of course, a classic dress watch should not be missing from this list. Here the IWC Portugieser immediately comes to mind, a symbol of timeless elegance. This is because it features a characteristic slim case and a tidy dial. The Portugieser was developed in 1930 for the Portuguese merchant fleet and has ever since become a symbol of elegance.
Why the Portugieser once had a hard time and why it took so long for it to establish itself is explained in "Why the Portugieser was ahead of its time".
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Zenith El Primero
Another watch that had a significant impact on the watch world was the Zenith El Primero. It's less the watch that had a big impact and more the movement with the same name. The El Primero movement was the first automatic chronograph movement, winning the race for the first automatic chronograph movement against the Chrono-Matic, which can be found in Breitling and TAG Heuer watches. This movement was so groundbreaking that even other companies like TAG Heuer or Rolex first used this caliber for their chronograph watches (TAG Heuer used it besides their own Chrono-Matic that was introduced a couple of months later). The thing that makes this watch special is that the chronograph movement moves at 36,000 vibrations per hour, which allows for more precise timekeeping. However, the appearance of the Zenith El Primero watch is just as unique, with its red second hand and the three slightly overlapping totalizers.
The research for the first automatic chronograph movement was quite a big contest among watchmakers. Find out how Zenith won this contest in detail in "Zenith El Primero – the Fastest Chronograph."
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Hublot Big Bang
Last but not least, let's take a look at the newer watches in the luxury watch world. First, there is the Hublot Big Bang, a polarizing watch which has more to offer than one might think.
The Big Bang has an unusual design that also reminds one of a porthole, just like some other watches on this list. On the other hand, this Hublot is mostly made of innovative materials, such as carbon or colored ceramics.
The Big Bang embodies the fusion of innovation and new style, with the goal of combining elegance with versatility. Therefore, Hublot is known for the combination of rubber bracelets and precious metals.
With its new style and image, the Big Bang saved the Hublot brand from an economic downward spiral. Hublot suffers under a very bad image, which is why they needed this watch to be a game changer. Learn more about "How the Big Bang Saved Hublot from Bankruptcy."
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Richard Mille RM001
Onto a watchmaker that cannot be missed on a list of the most popular luxury watches, Richard Mille.
When they released their first watch in 2001, they were gifted with a lot of interest in the watch industry. Not only did the RM001 have a new, unprecedented case, but their first watch was also on a rubber strap and featured a tourbillon.
In front of potential investors, Richard Mille himself smashed this watch on the floor at the Baselworld watch fair to prove how sturdy the watch was. And indeed, it remained intact thanks to their innovative materials.
It's insane how the Richard Mille brand was able to achieve so much status in the watch world in such a short time.
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Honorable Mentions
You are still hungry for luxurywatches ou neet to know? Amazing! As are we. So lets dive in. We'll present a couple honorable mentions!
Frank Muller
Do you have to know the watches from the Franck Muller Collection? Not at all, but let me tell you, it is absolutely worth it!
Franck Muller builds watches that question time itself. There are watches where time goes backwards, allegedly randomly mixed numbers or watches that only show time if you tell her to. These luxurywatches raise more questions than they answer.
If you want to know more about these timepieces you have to have a look at our article "Franck Muller - time unconventional."
The Tag Heuer Monaco
Fans of motorsports pay attention! The Monaco, created in honor of the Grand Prix, can do more than catch everyone's attention.
A square classic with the highest precision chronograph and fancy special editions. For all the details, check out our article, "Tag Heuer Monaco, Formula 1 on your wrist."
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Breguet’s Marie Antoinette
A pocket watch for a change. But not just any, the Marie Antoinette No. 160 from Breguet is something very special. It took 44 years to build and the watch has various complications that were never seen at the time of its release.
You can read this and much more in our article "the complicated Marie Antoinette".
Glashütte Original Senator
Yes, I know, we talked about Galhütte before. Specifically in relation to the Zeitwerk from A. Lange & Söhne.
Glashütte is, as far as watchmaking is concerned, the Geneva of Germany. A significant part of Germany's luxury watch production takes place in this sleepy village in the Erzgebirge (engl. Ore Mountains). The Glashütte Original manufactory has immediately made the name of the village its own.
By far the most outstanding model of the brand is the Senator. The symbol of a dress watch that is characterized by excellent workmanship.
Jaeger-LeCoultre Atmos
The Atmos is a table watch. But not just any.
This watch is powered by the temperature fluctuations in the room. With the help of a gas inside the glass dome, which contracts or expands, a membrane is moved, which in turn winds the mainspring.
One could almost say that "the Atmos is a perpetual motion machine".
About the author
Alexander Weinberger
For me, the most fascinating thing about watches is the interplay between precise craftsmanship and artistic development. In a watch movement, hundreds of small parts have to be put together precisely so that they form a large whole.
