47 Best Watches Under $5000 - A Complete Guide for 2023
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47 Best Watches Under $5000 - A Complete Guide for 2023

We are back with another list of recommendations for the best watches you can get for a given amount of money. This time around, we will be looking at the best watches available for under $5,000, a crowded price point where the luxury watchmaking conversation really takes off. As we creep up on $5,000, we’ll be taking a look at luxury watch brands like Oris, Omega, Tudor, and a host of others, some of which may surprise you by their inclusion in this category. $5,000 is, objectively a lot of money, and we know you're looking for a lot of watch for your hard-earned coin. To aid you in your research, we have tried to include some popular, enthusiast-favorite watches as well as a few watches from brands you may be less familiar with.

Before diving in, here are some ground rules:

This list will be, by and large, strictly composed of watches with a retail price at or below $5,000. We'll also throw a few watches in at the end which retail for just a bit above $5,000 but can be found on the secondary market in our target price range. We’ve decided to further narrow our scope to watches with a starting price between $2,000 and $5,000. Again, we can’t possibly put every single watch in this price bracket on this list, but please feel free to refer to other guides on our sites, such as The Best Watches Under $1000, 30 Best Minimalist Watches and 25 Best Tool Watches, as they may have a watch or watches more to your taste, which is really what these lists are all about: to help you widen your scope As we did in 40 Best Automatic Watches under $500, the watches here will be grouped into their respective style categories: Dive, Dress, and Everyday.

Dive Watches:

Omega Seamaster Diver 300M

Specifications: Price: $4,900, Case Size: 42mm, Thickness: 13.7mm, Lug-to-Lug: 50mm, Lug Width: 20mm, Water Resistance: 300m, Movement: Automatic Omega 8800 Co-Axial, Power Reserve: 55 Hours, Crystal: SapphireThe Omega Seamaster is no stranger to anyone even remotely familiar with watches. As the longest-running lineup from Omega, the Seamaster was originally released in 1948 and eventually issued to British Royal Navy Divers in the 1960s and 70s, a testament to the utility of the design. However, the Omega Seamaster is without question best known for its association with James Bond, a relationship which began when Pierce Brosnan wore the quartz Seamaster Professional 300M in GoldenEye. The rest, as they say, is history. The Omega Seamaster Diver 300M, which still features its signature Geneva wave dial, also now makes use of the excellent Co-Axial 8800 movement. This is one heck of a watch if you’re looking for a luxury diver with a rich history and abundance of cool-factor. Omega’s Seamaster Diver 300M is perhaps the best bang for your buck luxury dive watch, and a legitimate rival to the more expensive Rolex Submariner.

Oris Aquis Date

Specifications: Price: $2,200, Case Size: 43.5mm, Thickness: 13mm, Lug-to-Lug: 50mm, Lug Width: Integrated, Water Resistance: 300m, Movement: Automatic Sellita-based Oris 733, Power Reserve: 38 Hours, Crystal: SapphireThe Oris Aquis stands out as an entry-level luxury sports watch that offers the reliability of a tool watch without sacrificing a refined look and feel. Featuring a sunburst blue to black dial reminiscent of the ocean’s depths, the Oris Aquis Date is an instantly recognizable Oris design. The Aquis’ date window placement at six o’clock is a refreshing difference compared to the majority of watches with date windows in the 3'clock position, as it gives the Aquis Date dial a balanced and proportional look. The integrated bracelet, however, limits the Aquis Date’s potential of being a strap change monster, though it complements the look of the watch as a whole.

Oris Divers Sixty-Five

Specifications: Price: $2,150, Case Size: 40mm, Thickness: 13mm, Lug-to-Lug: 48mm, Lug Width: 20mm, Water Resistance: 100m, Movement: Auto Sellita based Oris 733, Power Reserve: 38 Hours, Crystal: SapphireTaking inspiration from mid-sixties diver’s watches from the brand’s own catalog, the Oris Divers Sixty-Five is an absolute value proposition that provides an appealing vintage aesthetic paired with modern Swiss Made watchmaking tech. The Divers Sixty-Five offers a minimal yet impactful look with a well-balanced dial, restrained hour markers and hands, and again, a date window in the six o’clock position. Compared to the Aquis’ higher-rated water resistance of 300 meters, the Diver Sixty-Five is only rated to 100 meters, a figure which makes the watch suitable for scuba diving and, considering the largely collector audience for which the Sixty-Five was intended, is likely more than enough for any desk diver.

Tudor Black Bay 58

Specifications: Price: $3,700, Case Size: 39mm, Thickness: 12mm, Lug-to-Lug: 48mm, Lug Width: 20mm, Water Resistance: 200m, Movement: Auto Tudor MT5402, Power Reserve: 70 Hours, Crystal: SapphireTudor’s Black Bay 58 instantly became a sensation when it was first released in 2018. Of the dozens of Black Bay variations from Tudor, the Black Bay 58 is the first to feature a smaller 39mm case, a dimension which makes the BB58 much more accommodating for smaller-wristed watch enthusiasts, myself included. With a gilt dial and hands and a red triangle on the bezel’s twelve o’clock position, the hearty helping of vintage feels on display on the Black Bay 58 immediately checked a lot of boxes for collectors, and even necessitated a waitlist at many dealers. For the impressively reasonable price of $3,700, you get a COSC certified in-house movement, exceptional build quality, and a heck of a killer looking watch. With Tudor, a sister brand to Rolex, you’re definitely getting the most out of your cash. I also had a Q&A session where I answered questions regarding their latest BB58 release in blue.

Tudor Pelagos

Specifications: Price: $4,575, Case Size: 42mm, Thickness: 14.3mm, Lug-to-Lug: 50mm, Lug Width: 22mm, Water Resistance: 500m, Movement: Auto Tudor MT5612, Power Reserve: 70 Hours, Crystal: SapphireOne of the most overlooked watches from Tudor’s lineup is their tech-forward Pelagos diver’s watch. With a retail price similar to Omega’s Seamaster Diver 300M, the Pelagos has a lot more interesting tech and a more modern feel. Overall, the Pelagos’ look can easily be described as a clean diver’s watch design. However, the Pelagos is subtly equipped with 500 meters of water resistance, an in-house movement with a 70 hour power reserve, an automatic helium escape valve at nine o’clock, an incredible titanium bracelet with Tudor’s own glide-lock clasp mechanism, and a matte ceramic bezel, all for under $5,000, a serious value proposition. The Tudor Pelagos is a serious dive watch that answers to professional divers and enthusiasts alike.

TAG Heuer Aquaracer

Specifications: Price: $2,750, Case Size: 43mm, Thickness: 13mm, Lug-to-Lug: 50mm, Lug Width: 21.5mm, Water Resistance: 300m, Movement: Auto ETA 2824-2 based Calibre 5, Power Reserve: 38 Hours, Crystal: SapphireWhen Jean-Claude Biver took over TAG Heuer as an interim CEO, he applied his decades of knowhow to inject some passion and business savvy into a brand which had become a bit stale and less financially stable. Biver’s strategy focused on the development of experimental avant-garde tech and increased level of perceived value, while still allowing core models like the Aquaracer mentioned here to retain their position as a strong value proposition. As an updated take on previous models, the modern Aquaracer offers a striking look, with its twelve-sided dive bezel, horizontally lined, sunburst brushed dial that beautifully captures changing light, and Calibre 5 movement (ETA 2824-2 base), all combining to create an angular, masculine look and respectable value.

Breitling Superocean Heritage 57

Specifications: Price: $4,380, Case Size: 42mm, Thickness: 10mm, Lug-to-Lug: 46mm, Lug Width: 20mm, Water Resistance: 100m, Movement: Auto ETA 2892 based Breitling Calibre B10, Power Reserve: 42 Hours, Crystal: SapphireBreitling’s SuperOcean Heritage ‘57 surfaced to immediate popularity among collectors, in part thanks to clever digital marketing helmed by Breitling CEO Georges Kern. The SuperOcean Heritage ‘57 is, as the name suggests, inspired by the one of Breitling’s dive watches from way back in 1957, right around the birth of dive watches as a category. While we can argue the Heritage ‘57 it is not a true dive watch (Breitling doesn’t really market these as dive watches), the ‘57 wears its SuperOcean name adequately with 100 meters of water resistance, a concave rotating bezel, a legible, lumed-filled dial and handset, and a highly-wearable 10mm thickness. While the larger 44mm SuperOcean is more of a true tool diver, we’re giving the Breitling Superocean Heritage ‘57 a pass for its value proposition, good design, and restrained, comfortable sizing spec.

BR 03-92 Diver Black Matte

Specifications: Price: $3,990, Case Size: 42mm, Thickness: 9.8mm, Lug-to-Lug: 50mm, Lug Width: 24mm, Water Resistance: 300m, Movement: Auto Sellita SW300-1 based BR CAL.302, Power Reserve: Hours, Crystal: SapphireBell & Ross, one of the younger luxury brands in the watch market, started out with a heavy influence from Sinn Watches founder, Helmut Sinn. In 1997, B&R released the Hydromax, an oil-filled diver’s watch which survived a 11,000 meter dip in the open ocean. More recently, in 2017, B&R unveiled a diver’s watch with their signature square instrument-style case, the BR03-92. The design challenges that come with constructing a square-cased, ISO-certified diver makes this an interesting and impressive watch in and of itself, as rounded cases are inherently simpler to make water resistant. Bell & Ross’ BR03-92 features a full matte black ceramic case and uni-directional dive bezel, and while the watch case itself is square and wears large on the wrist, the relatively short lug-to-lug length contributes to making the BR03-92 surprisingly wearable on a variety of wrist sizes.

Sinn U50

Specifications: Price: $2,180, Case Size: 41mm, Thickness: 11.2mm, Lug-to-Lug: 47mm, Lug Width: 20mm, Water Resistance: 500m, Movement: Auto Sellita SW300-1, Power Reserve: 42 Hours, Crystal: SapphireSinn is one of those brands that consistently produces excellent watches while flying a bit under the radar. As I mentioned in my recent video review of my own Sinn 556 I,I am really happy with the watch and consider it to be one of the perfect tool watches out there. However, since we are looking at watches in the $1500-5000 arena, a recently released Sinn that comes to mind is the U50. Like the previously mentioned Tudor Pelagos, the U50 is a serious diver built in a really reasonable size. Even with 500 meters of water resistance, the U50 is only 11.2mm thick and sits really well on the wrist. And while the Sinn U50 is a bit simpler (and a lot less expensive) feature-wise compared to the Tudor Pelagos, it’s still a serious, German-made dive watch with a high-grade Sellita movement inside. If you’re in the market for an affordable tool diver’s watch in a highly wearable size, the U50 should be high on your list.

Rado Captain Cook Automatic

Specifications: Price: $2,000, Case Size: 42mm, Thickness: 12.1mm, Lug-to-Lug: 48mm, Lug Width: 21mm, Water Resistance: 200m, Movement: Auto ETA C07.611, Power Reserve: 80 Hours, Crystal: SapphireThe heritage reissue Captain Cook Automatic from Rado is a major throwback that gives us a taste of great proportional vintage design. Recently, I made a video on the Rado Captain Cook and came away impressed by the design and value of the watch in either of the offered sizes. The 42mm variant offers a more modern feel thanks to the omission of faux patina lume on the dial and hands as we see in more vintage feeling 37mm Captain Cook. And, of course, the 42mm version offers a bit more wrist presence. Available on either a vintage-style leather strap or an excellent beads of rice bracelet, the Rado Captain Cook is a comparatively affordable vintage-inspired diver.

Seiko Prospex SLA041

Specifications: Price: $4,500, Case Size: 52.4mm, Thickness: 17.2mm, Lug-to-Lug: 53.5mm, Lug Width: 22mm, Water Resistance: 1000m, Movement: Seiko Auto 8L35, Power Reserve: 50 Hours, Crystal: SapphireWhile not for the faint of wrist at more than 52.4mm across, the Seiko SLA041 is a faithful recreation of the first Seiko “Tuna” watch, the reference 6159-7010, a watch whose design came about as a result of a letter written by a commercial saturation diver unable to find anything in Seiko’s catalog to meet the demands of his profession. By 1975, no less than seven years of engineering and twenty new technology patents later, Seiko proudly unveiled their tuna can shaped diver. The modernized SLA041 is a faithful reissue updated with Seiko’s 8L35, essentially a less-finished Grand Seiko caliber, but still constructed with the signature titanium inner case and ceramic shroud that have made the tuna the icon it is today.

Dress Watches:

Omega De Ville Prestige Co-Axial

Specifications: Price: $3,850, Case Size: 39.5mm, Thickness: 10mm, Lug-to-Lug: 44mm, Lug Width: 19mm, Water Resistance: 30m, Movement: Omega 2500 Co-Axial, Power Reserve: 48 Hours, Crystal: SapphireOmega’s often overlooked De Ville Prestige is the most affordable watch in Omega’s dressier lineup. The De Ville Prestige is reasonably priced for a piece that features a Co-Axial, Chronometer rated movement and a timeless design. With sports watches often dominating the watch scene, it’s only natural for many to overlook the De Ville in favor of Omega’s Seamaster or Speedmaster collections, not to mention it’s a bit challenging to navigate the densely packed, needlessly complicated De Ville product offering. For those looking for a true vintage design and some elevated watchmaking in the form of the Co-Axial 2500 calibre, look no further than the De Ville Prestige. Check out my video of the De Ville Prestige from back in 2019.

Longines Master Collection L2.909.4.92.0

Specifications: Price: $2,350, Case Size: 40mm, Thickness: 11.4mm, Lug-to-Lug: 46.6mm, Lug Width: 21mm, Water Resistance: 30m, Movement: Auto ETA based Longines L889, Power Reserve: 64 Hours, Crystal: SapphireLongines is another heritage brand with a broad collection that can be a bit over-complicated at times. In the Master Collection alone, there are dozens of size and color variations. However, the research is worth the effort, as Longines continues to make some beautiful dress watches at fair prices. The Longines L2.909.4.92.0, in particular, is one of the best-designed and -priced dress watches on the scene today. With a warm blue sunburst dial complimenting a tastefully executed moonphase complication at six o’clock, the Master L2.909.4.92.0 is a worthy option on our list and yours.

Longines Heritage Classic L2.830.4.93.0 (Tuxedo Chronograph)

Specifications: Price: $3,000, Case Size: 40mm, Thickness: 13.5mm, Lug-to-Lug: 50mm, Lug Width: 19mm, Water Resistance: 30m, Movement: Auto ETA based Longines L895, Power Reserve: 54 Hours, Crystal: SapphireComing from Longines’ vast archive collection, the Heritage Classic Tuxedo Chronograph is a timeless chronograph-equipped dress watch. Featuring a vintage bi-compax layout with a blue-painted tachymeter scale set against a white chapter ring, and a black-and-white dial and subdial design, the Tuxedo is a well-proportioned dress watch design which has withstood the test of time. While the 19mm lug width will limit strap options and turn off some connoisseurs, the Heritage Classic Tuxedo Chronograph is one of the best dress options from Longines’ Heritage family of watches.

Cartier Tank Solo XL

Specifications: Price: $3,550, Case Size: 31mm, Thickness: 7.65mm, Lug-to-Lug: 41mm, Lug Width: 23mm, Water Resistance: 30m, Movement: Auto Cartier 1847 MC, Power Reserve: 42 Hours, Crystal: SapphireCartier always seems to come up with intriguing new riffs on their Tank design framework. Case in point: the Cartier Tank Solo XL. Compared to other Cartier Tank models which are equipped with quartz, hand wound, or automatic ETA based calibers, the Solo XL runs on an automatic in-house movement, the 1847 MC. While Cartier’s best selling watches are likely quartz-powered Tank watches marketed to women, the Solo XL deserves special mention thanks to the sophistication and legitimacy provided by an in-house caliber and a classic Roman numeral dial. For me, this might be the classiest watch in this list and a pleasing option for plenty of watch enthusiasts. Somewhat surprisingly, the Tank Solo lineup acts as an entry-level for an in-house caliber equipped Cartier.

Frederique Constant Slimline Moonphase Manufacture

Specifications: Price: $3,695, Case Size: 42mm, Thickness: 11.3mm, Lug-to-Lug: 47.5mm, Lug Width: 21mm, Water Resistance: 30m, Movement: Auto FC-705, Power Reserve: 42 Hours, Crystal: SapphirePositioned as entry-level luxury under Citizen Watch Co’s umbrella, Frederique Constant continues to make a compelling argument for value for dollar compared to many competitors. Their Slimline Moonphase Manufacture is a dress watch with an in-house movement and a simpler design that evokes the spirit of ultra luxury watches like those from Laurent Ferrier and Patek Philippe. Where Frederique Constant shines is the capability of going with fully in-house calibers at a reasonable price compared to many Swiss luxury houses. While there are a few variations in the Slimline Moonphase collection, the stainless steel version mentioned here is the pro move, as it is likely to wear better over time compared to its rose gold plated counterpart.

Frederique Constant Classic Worldtimer Manufacture

Specifications: Price: $4,195, Case Size: 42mm, Thickness: 12.1mm, Lug-to-Lug: 50mm, Lug Width: 22mm, Water Resistance: 50m, Movement: Auto FC-718, Power Reserve: 42 Hours, Crystal: SapphireAs I mention in my YouTube review of the Frederique Constant Classic Worldtimer, it is a true value proposition for a watch featuring a now-rare worldtimer complication and an in-house caliber. While the Classic Worldtimer does sit a bit large on the wrist, thanks to its larger, more complicated movement and a 50mm lug-to-lug measurement, it still wears well thanks to curved lugs and a modest 12.1mm thickness. For a true dress watch with an interesting complication and a look much more expensive than its price, the Frederique Constant Classic Worldtimer should be near the top of the list for anyone looking for a dressy, complicated watch.

Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Small

Specifications: Price: $4,400, Case Size: 21mm, Thickness: 7.4mm, Lug-to-Lug: 34mm, Lug Width: 14mm, Water Resistance: 30m, Movement: Quartz Jaeger-LeCoultre Calibre 657, Crystal: SapphireThe iconic Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso, initially released in 1931, has an interesting history behind it. In response to a request from polo players, César de Trey, a Swiss businessman, set out to create a wristwatch that can “slide and hide”, essentially pivoting and flipping over to protect the watch crystal and dial. With the help of French designer Rene-Alfred Chauvot, the Reverso was born. I did a video of a Reverso Tribute Duoface that features two different dials. However, the Reverso Small is truer to the original, with a watch on one side and blank stainless steel back on the other. Though marketed as a ladies’ watch, the Reverso Small is a great option for men as well with its modest 21mm width, carrying a vintage vibe into the modern luxury watch landscape.

Grand Seiko SBGW231

Specifications: Price: $4,300, Case Size: 37mm, Thickness: 11.6mm, Lug-to-Lug: 44.3mm, Lug Width: 19mm, Water Resistance: 30m, Movement: Hand-wound Grand Seiko Calibre 9S64, Power Reserve: 72 Hours, Crystal: SapphireLately, Grand Seiko has been making some noise in the luxury watch space, with some enthusiasts saying their watches are superior to more expensive watches from Swiss houses and others calling them overpriced. Whatever side of the fence you’re on, we can agree that Grand Seiko makes some beautiful watches with a totally in-house approach. Case in point: the manually wound SBGW23 mentioned here, which benefits from Grand Seiko’s strengths, specifically their famous Zaratsu finishing combined with a reliable manufacture calibre that focuses on utmost precision. With a fascinating, beautiful dial executed in a shade of ivory, the SBGW231 is a worthy argument for the quality and craftsmanship in high end Japanese watchmaking today.

Montblanc 1858 Automatic

Specifications: Price: $2,565, Case Size: 40mm, Thickness: 1mm, Lug-to-Lug: mm, Lug Width: 20mm, Water Resistance: 100m, Movement: Auto Sellita based MB24.15, Power Reserve: 38 Hours, Crystal: SapphireAs is the case with many of Montblanc’s recent releases, the vintage-inspired 1858 Automatic is a nod to Minerva’s past glory. While Montblanc’s 1858 collection is perhaps more focused on the higher-end Geosphere models (not included in this list because they’re well over our $5,000 price cutoff), Montblanc also manufactures this elegant time only model with a reliable, Sellita-based calibre inside. With a vintage vibe and a reasonable 40mm width, the 1858 is an inexpensive but classy option for those seeking the vintage Minerva design language Montblanc has been so capably implementing in recent years.

Maurice Lacroix Masterpiece Moonphase Retrograde

Specifications: Price: $5,000, Case Size: 43mm, Thickness: 15mm, Lug-to-Lug: 51mm, Lug Width: 21mm, Water Resistance: 100m, Movement: Auto Manufacture ML292, Power Reserve: 36 Hours, Crystal: SapphireMaurice Lacroix is an often overlooked watch brand under Asian-based conglomerate DKSH’s umbrella, which also includes Bovet. Recently, Maurice Lacroix has been creating some remarkable watches with in-house calibres, one of which is the Masterpiece Moonphase Retrograde with its ML292. The watch features day and date complications interestingly placed in the 10 o’clock and 2 o’clock positions, which take up more than half of the dial’s real estate, as well as a moonphase with a running seconds hand at 6 o’clock. A bit of a statement piece, the Masterpiece Moonphase Retrograde sits a bit large on the wrist, thanks in part to the more complicated movement. Surprisingly, this piece also features 100 meters of water resistance, making it fairly stout for a complicated dress watch.

Junghans Max Bill Chronoscope

Specifications: Price: $2,095, Case Size: 40mm, Thickness: 14.4mm, Lug-to-Lug: 42.5mm, Lug Width: 20mm, Water Resistance: 30m, Movement: Auto ETA based J880.2, Power Reserve: 48 Hours, Crystal: Plexiglass with SICRALAN coatingJunghans’ partnership with the renowned Bauhaus designer Max Bill gave birth to the Junghans Max Bill collection, of which the Chronoscope is likely the most popular watch. I personally own this watch, and I know I’ve been saying this a lot, but it is the most complimented watch in my collection. The Chronoscope features a clean yet functional dial design imbued with all that minimal, efficient Bauhaus flavor Max Bill is known for, built into a highly wearable 40mm wide by 42.5mm long case. At this price, the Max Bill Chronoscope is perhaps the best dressy chronograph you can buy. Check out my complete review of the Max Bill Chronoscope here.

Nomos Orion Neomatik 41 Date

Specifications: Price: $4,500, Case Size: 40.5mm, Thickness: 9.4mm, Lug-to-Lug: 48mm, Lug Width: 20mm, Water Resistance: 50m, Movement: Auto in-house DUW 6101, Power Reserve: 42 Hours, Crystal: SapphireKeeping it ‘Made in Germany’ for a moment, the Nomos Orion Neomatik 41 Date is another standout dress watch with a minimal design scheme. With a signature Nomos look, blued steel hands, an added date complication, and an automatic in-house movement, the Orion Neomatik 41 Date makes a strong argument for a dress watch to wear every day. Despite the automatic caliber within, the Orion Neomatik 41 date only measures 9.4mm in thickness, which is really thin for a 41mm case, making it an easy watch to wear under shirt cuffs.

Nomos Metro Date Power Reserve

Specifications: Price: $3,780, Case Size: 37mm, Thickness: 7.7mm, Lug-to-Lug: 43mm, Lug Width: 18mm, Water Resistance: 30m, Movement: Hand-wound in-house DUW 4401, Power Reserve: 42 Hours, Crystal: SapphireIf you haven’t picked up on the trend, Germany is producing some really great dress watch designs. Nomos’ Metro Date Power Reserve, designed by Mark Braun, has a carefully thought-out dial layout maximizing functionality while maintaining a clean, minimal look, a hallmark of Bauhaus design. With a big date function cleverly placed at six and a subtle but useful power reserve indicator near the dial’s center, the Metro Date Power Reserve is highly legible. At 37mm, it’s also a watch to suit virtually any wrist. Though this should be an everyday watch, its water resistance puts this watch squarely under the dress watch category, with only a splash resistance rating compared to the previously mentioned Orion Neomatik 41 Date with 50 meters of water resistance.

Everyday:

Longines Aviation Big Eye

Specifications: Price: $2,625, Case Size: 41mm, Thickness: 14.45mm, Lug-to-Lug: 48.5mm, Lug Width: 20mm, Water Resistance: 30m, Movement: Auto ETA based L688, Power Reserve: 54 Hours, Crystal: SapphireAn everyday chronograph, the Longines Aviation Big Eye features, you guessed it, a big eye ( a large running seconds sub-dial). It’s also perhaps the most affordable column-wheel chronograph watch on the market, providing precise functionality and more positive operation that you can feel upon engaging the pushers. Column wheel calibers require a high level of expertise to finish, and are for that reason commonly utilized by master watchmakers at A. Lange & Sohne, Patek Philippe, & Audemars Piguet. In addition, the casual, military-inspired look and comfortable dimensions of the Longine Aviation Big Eye makes it super wearable on the majority of the wrists out there for day to day use.

Omega Railmaster

Specifications: Price: $4,900, Case Size: 40mm, Thickness: 12.5mm, Lug-to-Lug: 46.6mm, Lug Width: 20mm, Water Resistance: 150m, Movement: Auto Omega 8806, Power Reserve: 55 Hours, Crystal: SapphireLike the previously mentioned De Ville Prestige, Omega’s Railmaster also falls under the category of underrated watches in Omega’s lineup. Handsomely priced at just under $5,000, the Railmaster sports a high level of magnetic resistance, Omega’s 8806 calibre, and a very wearable set of dimensions for almost everyone. For a GADA (Go Anywhere, Do Anything) watch for daily wear, the Railmaster is ready to go, especially given its 150 meters of water resistance. The Omega Railmaster is a handsome everyday watch which gives you absolutely nothing to worry about. Check out my video review of the Railmaster here.

Tudor Black Bay Chrono

Specifications: Price: $4,900, Case Size: 41mm, Thickness: 14.9mm, Lug-to-Lug: 50mm, Lug Width: 22mm, Water Resistance: 200m, Movement: Auto Breitling B01 based Manufacture Calibre MT5813, Power Reserve: 70 Hours, Crystal: SapphireThough the Tudor Black Bay Chrono is technically more of a sport watch, it really shines as a functional everyday watch, with a useful chronograph complication that just sneaks in under $5000 on the leather strap. Like some other Tudor Black Bay watches, the Black Bay Chrono does the trick where it measures big on paper but fits surprisingly well on many average-sized wrists. Still, the smaller wristed will likely prefer the dimensions of the Black Bay 58. The main selling point of the Black Bay Chrono is its reliable Breitling B01 calibre-based column-wheel chronograph for under $5,000. Compared to some watches on this list, the Black Bay Chrono is more of a luxury with a higher calibre. With 200 meters of water resistance to compliment the watchmaking on display, the Tudor Black Chrono is a statement piece of an everyday wearer.

Tudor Black Bay GMT

Specifications: Price: $4,050, Case Size: 41mm, Thickness: 15mm, Lug-to-Lug: 50mm, Lug Width: 22mm, Water Resistance: 200m, Movement: Auto in-house Manufacture Calibre MT5652, Power Reserve: 70 Hours, Crystal: SapphireIn the same case dimension as the Black Bay Chrono, the Black Bay GMT houses a manufacture calibre MT5652 with a date and GMT complication. When this model initially arrived in consumer’s hands, there were some mixed feelings due to a fault with the date wheel function in some watches. While Tudor has claimed that it has solved the issue in newer stock, some find the issue persists. However, if you’re in the market for an everyday GMT watch to track a second timezone as life and work go international, you’ve got to keep the Black Bay GMT in mind, especially for the price. The Tudor Black Bay GMT takes some of the special sauce from sister brand Rolex’s GMT Master II and translates it into Tudor’s design language. Frankly, it works really well and the price is more than fair.

Tudor North Flag

Specifications: Price: $3,850, Case Size: 40mm, Thickness: 13.4mm, Lug-to-Lug: 50mm, Lug Width: Integrated, Water Resistance: 100m, Movement: Auto in-house Manufacture Calibre MT5621, Power Reserve: 70 Hours, Crystal: SapphireMany are speculating on Tudor discontinuing the North Flag in the near future, which is a shame because the North Flag has never received the credit it deserves. Marketed as a mountaineering sports watch, the North Flag was designed with rugged specifications and legibility in mind, sort of as a modern answer to the Tudor Prince Oysterdate Ranger II. Admittedly, the North Flag’s design is a bit out there compared to more restrained releases from Tudor and especially Rolex. Still, the watch is a great value proposition from the brand with integrated lugs, a power reserve indicator, an in-house movement, and an arrow hour hand that give the North Flag a unique identity in a sea of vintage-inspired reissue watches. I did a video of the Tudor North Flag back in 2019.

Baume & Mercier Clifton Baumatic Chronometer

Specifications: Price: $3,190, Case Size: 40mm, Thickness: 11.1mm, Lug-to-Lug: 46mm, Lug Width: 20mm, Water Resistance: 30m, Movement: Auto Baumatic BM13-1975A, Power Reserve: 120 Hours (5 days), Crystal: SapphireBaume & Mercier is one of the most overlooked entry-to-luxury brands under the Richemont Group’s impressive umbrella. However, even though they are perhaps less popular than storied Richemont houses like Jaeger-LeCoultre, IWC, or A. Lange & Söhne, Baume & Mercier is still privy to Richemont’s immense resources in research and development, a leg up which led to the Clifton Baumatic Chronometer. Visually, the Clifton has a straightforward look ideally suited for daily wear, but what’s impressive is the calibre under the proverbial hood. Developed by ValFleurier, a specialist movement company under Richemont, the Clifton Baumatic Chronometer’s BM13-1975A has a whopping 120 hours (5 days) of power reserve, is chronometer rated, and also ISO 764 rated anti-magnetism at 60 gauss, making it something of a sleeper watch of an enthusiast piece, with a relatively restrained aesthetic but plenty going on behind the scenes.

TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph CBM2110.BA0651

Specifications: Price: $4,600, Case Size: 41mm, Thickness: 16mm, Lug-to-Lug: 49.5mm, Lug Width: 22mm, Water Resistance: 100m, Movement: Auto Sellita based Calibre 16, Power Reserve: 41 Hours, Crystal: SapphireThe birth of the longstanding TAG Heuer Carrera series is interesting. Inspired by the Carrera Panamericana, then considered the world’s most dangerous race that ran on the open roads of Mexico, the Carrera aims to be the ultimate tool watch for drivers with an emphasis on practicality and legibility. The Carrera featured here presents a no-nonsense, modern appearance in the lineup, while carrying many major elements from the original design. Today’s Carrera is equipped with a ceramic bezel with a tachymeter scale and 100 meters of water resistance, easily making this an everyday watch with enough durability to time even the most extreme commutes.

IWC Spitfire

Specifications: Price: $4,450, Case Size: 39mm, Thickness: 10.8mm, Lug-to-Lug: 50mm, Lug Width: 20mm, Water Resistance: 60m, Movement: Auto in-house IWC 32110 calibre, Power Reserve: 72 Hours, Crystal: SapphireWith a background rich in aviation history and a WWII-era affiliation with the British Royal Air Force (who flew the Supermarine Spitfire), IWC has recently moved from using supplied movements to implementing more in-house calibres like the IWC 32110 powering the new Spitfire. Although the Spitfire measures only 39mm across, its substantial 50mm lug-to-lug might put off some smaller wristed enthusiasts. With faux-patina color on the lumed hands and dial, and paired with a brown calfskin strap, the IWC Spitfire provides a nostalgic throwback to the era of leather flight jackets, goggles, and fighter aircraft with propellers.

IWC Pilot’s Watches Automatic 36

Specifications: Price: $4,150, Case Size: 36mm, Thickness: 10.4mm, Lug-to-Lug: 46.2mm, Lug Width: 18mm, Water Resistance: 60m, Movement: Auto Sellita based 35111 calibre, Power Reserve: 42 Hours, Crystal: SapphireComing in at a downright petite 36mm, this time-only IWC Pilot’s watch is best suited for men with smaller wrists, boys, and women. Featuring a beautiful blue sunburst dial and IWC’s classic pilot handset and hour markers, this 36mm pilot’s watch from IWC creates a rare opportunity for enthusiasts to get in on the aviation watch genre without having to confront the huge case sizes often associated with pilot’s watches. Executed in essentially the same case shape as the aforementioned Spitfire, the 36 has a long lug-to-lug for its width, but wears well on its leather strap, interestingly provided by Santoni, a handmade shoe brand that excels in leather craftsmanship.

Panerai Radiomir Base Logo 45mm

Specifications: Price: $4,300, Case Size: 45mm, Thickness: 13.5mm, Lug-to-Lug: 45mm (without the wire lugs), Lug Width: 27mm, Water Resistance: 100m, Movement: Hand-wound in-house P.6000 calibre, Power Reserve: 72 Hours, Crystal: SapphireGoing back to the basics with Panerai, the Radiomir Base Logo sits as the entry level watch for a brand with an impressively passionate enthusiast community known as Paneristi. Originally designed in 1938 for the Royal Italian Navy’s First Submarine Group Command as a diving instrument, Panerai’s base designs have stood the test of time. As a dive watch from before dive watches, the Radiomir lacks crown guards like most vintage dive watches, and is absolutely huge, which makes sense considering the original design concept was all about underwater legibility. Luckily, the modern Radiomir’s 45mm lug-to-lug makes even larger Panerai watches more wearable than you might expect.

Panerai Luminor Base Logo

Specifications: Price: $5,000, Case Size: 44mm, Thickness: 13.5mm, Lug-to-Lug: 53mm, Lug Width: 24mm, Water Resistance: 100m, Movement: Hand-wound in-house P.6000 calibre, Power Reserve: 72 Hours, Crystal: SapphireSimilar to the Radiomir, the Luminor also offers itself as a gateway drug to the world of Panerai. Compared to the Radiomir, the Luminor lineup features a signature oversized crown guard that presses the winding crown against a gasket to improve water resistance. Like the Radiomir series, the Luminor was originally designed as a diving instrument for the Royal Italian Navy back in 1949, as a replacement of the oft-leaky Radiomir. Like the Radiomir, it features Panerai’s signature sandwich dial with tons of lume to maximize legibility both at night and underwater. For the WWII-era maritime commando in all of us, the Panerai Luminor is a solid choice for daily wear, if you can pull off the size.

Breitling Navitimer Automatic 41

Specifications: Price: $4,860, Case Size: 41mm, Thickness: 10mm, Lug-to-Lug: 48mm, Lug Width: 22mm, Water Resistance: 30m, Movement: Auto ETA based Breitling B17, Power Reserve: 38 Hours, Crystal: SapphireLike the aforementioned SuperOcean Heritage, the Navitimer Automatic 41 features a pared-down design based on a longstanding Breitling model, in this case the Navitimer chronograph. Updated with a modern sunburst blue dial and mirror polishing around the bezel, this watch really pops in natural light. Even without the chrono, the Navitimer Automatic 41 is still equipped with the bidirectional slide rule bezel that acts as an on-wrist calculator to measure standard mileage, speed in kilometres, and nautical miles. That, coupled with a slim 10mm thickness, makes this one heck of a daily watch, despite the less than impressive 30 meter water resistance rating.

Bvlgari Aluminium Chronograph

Specifications: Price: $4,250, Case Size: 40mm, Thickness: 11.1mm, Lug-to-Lug: 48mm, Lug Width: Integrated, Water Resistance: 100m, Movement: Auto ETA based Calibre B77, Power Reserve: 38 Hours, Crystal: SapphireThe Bvlgari Aluminium series made a comeback this year with three new variants of the aluminum sport watch originally released in 1998. As you have likely guessed, this lightweight watch is built in an aluminum case. With Bvlgari being a jewelry company at their core, the Aluminum and some of their other watch endeavors have received mixed feelings from hardcore watch enthusiasts. However, the Aluminium sports a rather unique design and choice of material with its aluminum case, rubber bezel, and integrated rubber bracelet made up of links. It’s unique rubber integrated strap is comfortable on the wrist and it’s aided by a titanium caseback.Though the Bvlgari Aluminum may not be a watch for everyone, it’s an interesting option for people looking for a super lightweight sports watch for everyday use.

Ming 27.01

Specifications: Price: $4,300, Case Size: 38mm, Thickness: 6.9mm, Lug-to-Lug: 42.5mm, Lug Width: 20mm, Water Resistance: 50m, Movement: Manual-wound ETA based MING 7001, Power Reserve: 42 Hours, Crystal: SapphireA successor of the well-regarded 17.01, award-winning Ming has put extensive thought into the design of the 27.01. Designed from the ground up with 3D CAD, one of founder Ming Thein’s signatures, and with a design concept simply called, “design language 2”, the 27.01 is the thinnest of the watches Ming has produced. A highlight of the 27.01 is an attractive caseback, utilized so that the ETA 7001, manufactured by Schwarz Etienne, is on full display. Paired with a leather strap from Jean Rousseau Paris, the Ming 27.01 watch showcases the beauty of the intersection between Malaysian design and Swiss watchmaking.

Grand Seiko SBGM221

Specifications: Price: $4,600, Case Size: 39.5mm, Thickness: 13.7mm, Lug-to-Lug: 46.3mm, Lug Width: 19mm, Water Resistance: 30m, Movement: Auto in-house GS 9S66 GMT, Power Reserve: 72 Hours, Crystal: SapphireAs a luxury watch for smart, laid-back travellers, whether you’re on your business trips or vacation, the SBGM221 is perhaps the GMT option for your daily wear. The SBGM221 separates itself from many GMTs on the market today with a more subtle GMT integration, featuring a smaller second time zone hand and a restrained 24 hour ring inside the hour markers. Coupled with zaratsu polishing, Grand Seiko’s proprietary polishing method, an eggshell white dial, and a fully in-house GS 9S66 GMT caliber, the SBGM221 from the Elegance collection will not disappoint as an everyday option with a useful complication.

Grand Seiko SBGA285

Specifications: Price: $3,800, Case Size: 39mm, Thickness: 12.3mm, Lug-to-Lug: 46mm, Lug Width: 19mm, Water Resistance: 100m, Movement: Auto Spring Drive 9R65, Power Reserve: 72 Hours, Crystal: SapphireAgain looking to Grand Seiko for a value-packed luxury watch, this entry-level Spring Drive-driven Grand Seiko is one of the better options out there for an everyday watch with an interesting movement. As an older, more serious brother to the ever-popular and much less expensive SARB033, the SBGA285 gives you a heck of a lot more in terms of high-end case finishing, a beautifully executed dial, and a useful power reserve indicator, care of the excellent Spring Drive caliber within. According to Grand Seiko’s Spring Drive specification, this caliber is able to keep time within a ±1 second per day (and many are much more accurate) with a unique combination of quartz and mechanical tech. For a complete look at Spring Drive, check out our video here.

Ball Trainmaster Manufacture 80 Hours

Specifications: Price: $2,799, Case Size: 40mm, Thickness: 12.25mm, Lug-to-Lug: 46mm, Lug Width: 20mm, Water Resistance: 50m, Movement: Auto in-house calibre BALL RRM7309-C, Power Reserve: 80 Hours, Crystal: SapphireIf you’re a subscriber to the YouTube channel, you know that Ball watches have a special place in my heart. Coming from Cleveland, Ohio, I feel a special connection with the brand and can attest to the tremendous value represented by many of their offerings. What we’re looking at here is the Trainmaster Manufacture 80 Hours. Priced at $2,799, the Trainmaster is a perfect everyday watch, equipped with tritium-filled tubes to enable easy nighttime viewing without the need for a charge. Also of interest here in the inclusion of an in-house calibre from Ball, with 80 hours of power reserve. If you like tritium and you’re looking for an affordable one-watch collection, this might just be it.

Bell & Ross BR05

Specifications: Price: $4,900, Case Size: 40mm, Thickness: 10.33mm, Lug-to-Lug: 47.5mm, Lug Width: Integrated, Water Resistance: 100m, Movement: Auto Sellita based BR-CAL.321, Power Reserve: 38 Hours, Crystal: SapphireIntroduced in 2019, the Bell & Ross BR05 is the brand’s answer to integrated-bracelet sport watch designs from industry titans, like the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak and the Patek Philippe Nautilus. While admittedly heavily influenced by the previously mentioned designs, Bell & Ross have done well to give the BR05 its own look and feel, making full use of B&R’s signature square case shape. Building upon the integrated bracelet trend pioneered by the late Gerald Genta decades ago, the BR05 demonstrates what Bell & Ross can offer to the market with its own iconic design of the square case and large aviation numeral dial, making it an ideal everyday sports watch that doesn’t break the bank in today’s ever-growing market and price for sports watch.

Rado Golden Horse

Specifications: Price: $1,800, Case Size: 37mm, Thickness: 10.8mm, Lug-to-Lug: 40.9mm, Lug Width: 19mm, Water Resistance: 50m, Movement: Auto ETA C07.111, Power Reserve: 80 Hours, Crystal: SapphireThe Rado Golden Horse is probably the most affordable everyday watch in this list at only $1,800. With an amazingly wearable 37mm width and a lug-to-lug of only 40.9mm, the Golden Horse is severely under-appreciated by much of the watch world, considering what you get for the price. I am sort of breaking the rules by mentioning limited edition watches here, but the fact that this watch is so handsome, often overlooked, and not really all that limited, with 1957 pieces across 4 different dial colours, it should be fairly easy for you to secure one as an everyday wearer. In addition, the Golden Horse’s rarely seen 80 hour power reserve allows you to take the watch off after work on Friday and pick it up still running on Monday morning, a cool capability even if you do plan to wear it every day.

Sinn 903 St B E

Specifications: Price: $3,580, Case Size: 41mm, Thickness: 14.5mm, Lug-to-Lug: 48.5mm, Lug Width: 22mm, Water Resistance: 100m, Movement: Auto La-Joux Perret LJP 8000, Power Reserve: 45 Hours, Crystal: Sapphire“Hey Teddy, why are you featuring a copy of the Breitling Navitimer?” Before you start raising your pitchforks or hammering your keyboards, hear me out. The original Breitling Navitimer was introduced in1952, designed for and directed at professional pilots. It featured a slide rule bezel to help pilots calculate speed and distance in different units. The Breitling Navitimer was then and is now a phenomenal creation by the brand. Fast-forward to 1979: Breitling was faced with financial difficulties and was going under partial liquidation. Helmut Sinn, the founder of Sinn Watches, then bought the rights to manufacture the Navitimer style dial, giving birth to the Sinn 903 ST. While it does look (almost exactly) like the Navitimer Chronograph, there is a slight alteration where the slide rule bezel’s crown was shifted to the 10 o’clock position to allow for easier operation of the bezel. Also of significance, the Sinn 903 ST serves as a legit value proposition and interesting watch industry history lesson, with a price point that undercuts the Navitimer by thousands of dollars.

Nomos Tangomat GMT

Specifications: Price: $4,920, Case Size: 40mm, Thickness: 10.9mm, Lug-to-Lug: 50mm, Lug Width: 20mm, Water Resistance: 30m, Movement: Auto in-house DUW 5201, Power Reserve: 42 Hours, Crystal: SapphireThe Tangomat GMT is essentially a simpler version of the Nomos Zurich. It boasts a clean dial and the information necessary for you to keep time in multiple time zones. With an interesting in-house GMT caliber called the DUW5201, you can instantly jump back and forth between your second timezone and hometime with a push of a button at two o’clock. The award-winning Tangomat GMT is definitely a strong option for world travellers out there who appreciate Bauhaus design language, German watchmaking, and an uncluttered look that still offers a lot of information.
Bulova Heritage Chronograph A "Surfboard"

Bulova Heritage Chronograph A "Surfboard"

Specifications: Price: $2,950 (automatic), $695 (quartz), Case Size: 38.5mm, Thickness: 16.7mm, Water Resistance: 200m, Movement: Auto Sellita SW510, Power Reserve: 48Hours, Crystal: Sapphire

Bulova rides a retro-style wave with this 1970s-inspired chronograph model that derives its name from the quirky, surfboard-shaped oval that encompasses the two subdials at 3 and 9 o’clock. Like the original model, which was produced for only two years in 1970-’71, the modern watch has a tonneau-shaped 38.5-mm steel case, a set of pump-style chronograph pushers, a tachymeter scale occupying the outer edge of the dial, and oddly shaped, colorful hands for the hours, minutes, stopwatch seconds, and subdials, including the prominent triangular central seconds hand. Bulova offers some models with quartz movements as well as a more high-end version that is equipped with the automatic Sellita SW 500-1. In addition to the models on color-coordinated rubber straps, there is also one mounted on a charmingly retro, integrated single-link bracelet with a deployant clasp. Shop here.

 

Hamilton Intra-Matic Chronograph H

Specifications: Price: $2,095, Case Size: 40mm, Thickness: 14.4mm, Lug Width: 20mm, Water Resistance: 100m, Movement: Auto H-51 (base ETA 7753), Power Reserve: 60 Hours, Crystal: Sapphire

Hamilton’s retro-flavored Intra-Matic collection pays tribute to a fondly remembered model from the mid-20th century that became one of the first timepieces to contain an automatic chronograph caliber. The “H” in the Intra-Matic Chronograph H, however, stands for “hand wound” and denotes a manually winding movement, based on the self-winding ETA 7753, that Hamilton has dubbed the H-51; the goal was to re-create as closely as possible the American-roots brand chronograph wristwatches from 1968 — the year before the dawn of automatic chrono calibers. Adding to the retro feel of the watch, which is housed in a 40-mm steel case, is the two-tone bicompax dial’s lack of a date display, a feature found on more contemporary models in the Intra-Matic line. Shop here.

Missing the Cut:

Zenith Elite Classic

Specifications: Price: $5,800, Case Size: 40mm, Thickness: 9.1mm, Lug-to-Lug: 48mm, Lug Width: 22mm, Water Resistance: 50m, Movement: Auto in-house Elite 670K, Power Reserve: 50 Hours, Crystal: SapphireThe Zenith Elite Classic is a dress watch that comes closer to the $6,000 mark but is still very appealing thanks to an excellent in-house movement, longer than average power reserve, and a classic, highly wearable case size that makes it a great dress watch to wear all the time.

Tag Heuer Monaco

Specifications: Price: $6,350, Case Size: 39mm, Thickness: 15mm, Lug-to-Lug: 47.3mm, Lug Width: 22mm, Water Resistance: 100m, Movement: Auto Sellita based Calibre 11, Power Reserve: 40 Hours, Crystal: SapphireMade famous by the king of cool, Steve McQueen, the original Monaco was featured in the film Le Mans and has been a go-to for automotive racing enthusiasts ever since. The modern Monaco still features the signature sharp square case that made the model iconic, coupled with a modern Sellita based movement all for a bit over $6,000.

Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Hesalite

Specifications: Price: $5,350, Case Size: 42mm, Thickness: 14mm, Lug-to-Lug: 48mm, Lug Width: 20mm, Water Resistance: 50m, Movement: Manual-wound Omega 1861, Power Reserve: 48 Hours, Crystal: HesaliteOne of the best chronograph watches of all time, the Omega Speedmaster was worn on the freakin’ Moon. With one of the most effective dial layouts, a hesalite crystal for vintage vibes, and a comfortable size, the Speedmaster may cost a bit more than $5000, but should still be on the radar of any enthusiast who loves out-of-this-world watch design.

Rolex Oyster Perpetual

Specifications: Price: $5,900, Case Size: 41mm, Thickness: 11mm, Lug-to-Lug: 47.6 mm, Lug Width: 20mm, Water Resistance: 100m, Movement: Auto Rolex 3230, Power Reserve: 70 Hours, Crystal: SapphireThe latest addition to the Rolex family, this watch has been the victim of some mixed feelings in the market, largely due to the funky colors on offer and the doubled-up three, six, and nine o’clock hour markers. Despite all that, the new Oyster Perpetual is still classic Rolex, with a timeless feel and undisputed quality that’ll set you back closer to $6000.

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9 Comments

Join the Conversation

MH
Michael H.

Are Ball watches a good place to start a watch collection

MH
Michael H.

Are Ball watches a good starter watch

SW
Stephen W.

What about Raymond Weil watches at this price point?

SW
Stephen W.

What are your thoughts on Raymond Weil Watches at this price point?

dd
d d.

no omega aqua terra?

JS
Jeremy S.

I’m surprised the Longines Ultra-Chron didn’t make this list while some pieces with a lot less cohesive design language did. Solid features and the high beat distinction, for under $4K.

ar
alex r.

Hi,
Is EDOX any good?

AN
Alexander N.

Where can I find an oyster rolex for $5,900 ?

AG
Alekz G.

Hi Teddy and team! Please help me which brand to get. I am torn between Hamilton, Longines & Tudor… For Hamilton, I’m leaning to the intra matic model. For Longines I’m leaning to the Spirit model. For Tudor i can only afford the BB 36 and 41… I’m after for the brands reputation also and how long will it holds the value. Hoping for a reply from you guys… Thank you very much!

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