10 Best Luxury Watch Brands You Should Know

1. Rolex

Founded in: 1905

Made in: Switzerland

Market Price Range: S$2,000 - S$300,000

Often referred to as "The Crown," this watch brand, founded by Hans Wilsdorf and his brother-in-law Alfred Davis, stands as a testament to over a century of precision and innovation in luxury watchmaking. Originally, the duo started their operations in London before moving to Geneva, a decision that deeply embedded Rolex into the heart of Swiss watchmaking.

Rolex dominates the market, accounting for about 30% of the Swiss watch industry with sales surpassing $11.21 billion in 2023 from 1.24 million watches. 

The brand pioneered several key innovations in watchmaking history, including the first waterproof wristwatch, the Oyster, in 1926, and the Datejust in 1945, which was the first self-winding watch to feature a date function. The Submariner, introduced in 1953, revolutionized diving watches with unmatched water resistance and durability.

"Built to perfection," as some would say, Rolex watches blend high-quality materials and meticulous craftsmanship. Iconic models like the GMT-Master II and the Daytona, particularly associated with Paul Newman, are prized in collections worldwide.

Popular Collections

Daytona

Most sought after and designed for racing drivers, Rolex Daytona features a automatic chronographs function and a tachymetric scale for measuring speed. It gained iconic status through its association with actor Paul Newman, making vintage Newman models highly coveted and valuable.

Submariner

Introduced in 1953, the Rolex Submariner set the standard for diving watches with its exceptional water resistance up to 300 meters, automatic movement, and a rotating bezel to monitor diving time. Its robust and functional design makes it popular among both divers and watch enthusiasts.

GMT-Master

Originally developed for airline pilots in 1954 to read multiple time zones simultaneously, the GMT-Master features a distinctive 24-hour hand and a bidirectional rotating bezel. It's celebrated for its utility and classic design, making it ideal for global travelers.

Datejust

Launched in 1945, the Rolex Datejust was the first wristwatch with an automatically changing date function on the dial. Known for its versatility and timeless elegance, the Datejust is available in various materials and styles, making it suitable for almost any occasion.

2. Omega

Founded in: 1848

Made in: Switzerland

Market Price Range: S$100 - S$77,000

Once ranked second among luxury watch brands, it now holds third place, with 2023 sales reaching $2.89 billion from 570,000 units, averaging $7,296 per watch. Omega, established by Louis Brandt a Swiss manufacturer, is a stalwart in precision watchmaking.

The brand has marked its presence in significant historical events, including being the official timekeeper for the Olympic Games since 1932 and equipping NASA astronauts for the Apollo 11 moon landing.

Omega's journey includes notable achievements such as supplying watches to the British Armed Forces in the 1940s and creating the iconic Omega Speedmaster in 1957, which became the first watch on the moon. The brand's connection with James Bond since 1995 has solidified its reputation for combining sophistication with adventure.

With innovations like the Master Chronometer Certification introduced in 2015, Omega continues to demonstrate its commitment to exceeding standards of accuracy and magnetic resistance.

Popular Collections

Speedmaster

Launched in 1957, is celebrated as the first watch worn on the moon. Renowned for its robustness and precision, the Speedmaster remains a top choice for astronauts and is a beloved model among watch enthusiasts for its rich history and classic chronograph design.

Seamaster

Known for its exceptional water resistance and durability, Omega Seamaster collection is ideal for divers and adventurers. First introduced in 1948, it has evolved into a range with various functionalities, including the Seamaster 300M, known for its striking Electric Blue Wave Dial and association with cinematic spy James Bond.

Constellation

Introduced in 1952, the Constellation series represents style and precision. This line is particularly popular for its elegant design and sophisticated finish, making it a favorite in the global market. Its popularity is sustained by its reputation for high performance combined with luxurious aesthetics.

De Ville

Known for its classic and elegant designs, includes the Ladymatic, one of the first self-winding timepieces of this dress watch brands, specifically designed for women, introduced in 1955. The De Ville collection appeals to those who value intricate movements and timeless style in their dress watches.

3. Patek Philippe

Founded in: 1839

Made in: Switzerland

Market Price Range: S$12,000 - S$738,000

This brand holds a unique position in the world of high-end watchmaking as the last family-owned independent watchmaker in Geneva. Renowned for its exquisite craftsmanship and mechanical ingenuity, the brand has a storied reputation that attracts sophisticated clientele, including cultural luminaries like Andy Warhol and Jay-Z. 

Known for setting records, the Grandmaster Chime 6300A-010 became the most expensive watch ever auctioned, selling for $31.19 million. With a strong market presence, Patek Philippe boasted sales of about $2.28 billion in 2023 from 70,000 units, demonstrating its status as a top-tier watchmaker.

Patek Philippe is celebrated not just for its luxury watches but for maintaining traditions and introducing innovations like perpetual calendar that define and push the boundaries of watchmaking.

Popular Collections

Nautilus

First introduced in the 1970s, the Nautilus is celebrated for its unique porthole design and octagonal bezel. This collection is favored by watch enthusiasts and celebrities alike, including notable figures like Brad Pitt and LeBron James, who appreciate sports watches with its design.

Aquanaut

Launched in 1997, extends the Nautilus's nautical-inspired theme with a more modern, casual twist. It's particularly popular among younger luxury watch buyers, including the likes of Ed Sheeran and other young celebrities, for its contemporary style and rugged elegance.

Calatrava

Initiated in 1932, is the epitome of the classic dress watch with its elegant and understated design. Revered for its purity and balance, the Calatrava represents Patek Philippe’s commitment to timeless watchmaking traditions.

Grand Complications

Showcase of the brand's expertise in complex mechanical ingenuity. These watches include features like moon phases, minute repeaters, and perpetual calendars, demonstrating the brand's leading role in the innovation of watchmaking.

4. Audemars Piguet

Founded in: 1875

Made in: Switzerland 

Market Price Range: S$5,000 - S$442,000

Initially established as a simple partnership, evolved into Audemars Piguet & Cie in 1881. This transformative move marked the beginning of its journey to becoming a titan in the ultra-luxury watch sector.

The brand made a significant impact with the introduction of the Royal Oak in the 1970s, a pioneering design by Gérald Genta that featured a stainless steel case, integrated bracelet, and octagonal bezel, redefining the luxury sports watch category.

Despite producing only 51,000 watches in 2023, Audemars Piguet achieved remarkable sales, generating approximately $2.61 billion, indicative of its high-end market positioning with an average price point of around $53,786 per watch.

The company remains family-owned, preserving its heritage while continuously innovating with new materials and designs, particularly evident in the contemporary Code 11.59 series.

Popular Collections

Royal Oak

Disrupted the watch industry with its debut in 1972. Its novel design, featuring an octagonal bezel and visible screws, has since become a hallmark of the brand, revered for its sophisticated yet durable build.

Royal Oak Offshore

Expanding on its predecessor's legacy, the Royal Oak Offshore was introduced in 1993 as a bolder, more robust iteration. It caters to an audience that appreciates a sportier aesthetic, often incorporating features like chronographs and larger case sizes.

Code 11.59

Launched in 2019, Code 11.59 by Audemars Piguet blends advanced technology with daring aesthetic choices. Initially met with skepticism, this collection has steadily gained traction, recognized for pushing the boundaries of traditional watch design.

5. TAG Heuer

Founded in: 1860

Made in: Switzerland

Market Price Range: S$200 - S$37,000

Initiated by Edouard Heuer in 1860 in Saint-Imier, Switzerland, this brand rapidly transitioned from a modest pocket watch venture to a vanguard of luxury chronographs. Notably, Edouard's invention of the oscillating pinion in 1887, a crucial chronograph component, marked a significant advancement still used in modern watches.

Now under the LVMH Group, TAG Heuer balances innovation with tradition, renowned for its precision and durable designs that cater especially to the rigorous demands of motorsports. With 2023 sales reaching CHF 615 million (approximately USD 682.65 million) from 390,000 units, the implied average price per watch stands at CHF 2,228 (about USD 2,473).

Popular Collections

Carrera

Originally tailored for professional drivers, the Carrera, launched in the 1960s, combines a high-visibility dial with a sturdy build, ideal for high-speed endeavors. It retains a classic aesthetic that echoes its long-standing heritage with motor racing.

Monaco

Known for its distinctive square casing and celebrity association with Steve McQueen in the 1971 movie "Le Mans," marries retro charm with cutting-edge features, including a beveled, scratch-resistant crystal, embodying the spirit of vintage motorsports.

Aquaracer

Tailored for aquatic sports, the Aquaracer line offers up to 1,000 meters of water resistance, boasting a robust and sporty design that enhances functionality without compromising on style, perfect for divers and water sports enthusiasts.

Autavia

Designed for automotive and aviation professionals, this aviation watches features a bold look characterized by a prominent crown and easy-to-operate chrono pushers, offering versatility and resilience for both professional applications and everyday adventures.

6. Richard Mille

Founded in: 2001

Made in: Switzerland 

Market Price Range: S$388,800 - S$413,000

Launched in 2001, Richard Mille a Swiss brand, has rapidly ascended to the upper echelons of luxury watchmaking with a clear vision from its founders, despite having no traditional legacy. The brand, known for shattering the status quo, and technical precision, draws inspiration from the engineering prowess of Formula 1 racing, designing watches that emulate the sophistication and performance of race cars.

With only 5,600 watches sold in 2023, Richard Mille generated an impressive $1.71 billion in sales, reflecting an average price of about $305,250 per watch, highlighting its position in the market as a producer of some of the world's most exclusive and sought-after timepieces.

Popular Collections

RM 001

Richard Mille’s inaugural model, set the tone for the brand's innovative approach by introducing a tourbillon watch with a distinctive, futuristic design that emphasized transparency and ultra-light materials.

RM 056

Known for its all-sapphire skeleton case, the RM 056 exemplifies cutting-edge watchmaking by allowing a full view of the intricate movement within, combining supreme aesthetics with technical brilliance.

RM 11-03

Features an aggressive, sporty design inspired by automotive technology. It incorporates high-tech materials like titanium and LITAL® alloy, enhancing its robustness and resilience, making it a favorite among enthusiasts of high-performance machinery.

7. Vacheron Constantin

Founded in: 1755

Made in: Switzerland 

Market Price Range: S$7,000 - S$202,000

Since its founding in 1755, Vacheron Constantin is one of the oldest continuously operating watchmaker that has epitomized expert craftsmanship and timeless design. This prestigious brand is recognized for its subtle luxury and technical sophistication, appealing to those who appreciate the artistry of high horology. A subsidiary of the Richemont Group since 1996, Vacheron Constantin has continuously innovated while maintaining a discreet profile compared to its peers in the Holy Trinity of watchmaking.

In 2023, Vacheron Constantin joined the "Billionaire’s Club" in the watch industry, selling 35,000 units and achieving $1.22 billion in sales, indicating a strong market presence with an average price of $43,000 per watch.

The brand's history is rich with milestones, such as creating the world’s first world time watch with 31 time zones in 1932 and crafting one of the most complicated watches ever for King Farouk of Egypt in 1935.

Popular Collections

Patrimony

Embodies the essence of minimalism in watchmaking, featuring clean, circular designs that focus on the purity of form. These timepieces are celebrated for their sleek contours and are a staple for those who prefer understated elegance.

Overseas

Designed for the modern traveler, the Overseas collection combines casual elegance with functionality. Known for its versatility, each piece comes with an interchangeable strap or bracelet system, making it suitable for various settings, from formal to casual.

Traditionnelle

Showcases Vacheron Constantin's mastery of horological complications. This collection ranges from models with simple yet elegant designs to those with sophisticated mechanisms, catering to connoisseurs of traditional watchmaking.

Égérie

Dedicated to women, the Égérie collection is where haute couture meets haute horlogerie. These watches are intricately designed, featuring delicate detailing and luxurious materials, making them a perfect accessory for fashion-forward individuals.

8. Breitling

Founded in: 1884

Made in: Switzerland 

Market Price Range: S$800 - S$32,000

Founded by Léon Breitling, Breitling has been a stalwart in precision chronograph watches for over a century. Known for its robust and technically oriented watches, Breitling became synonymous with aviation and adventure.

After experiencing a period of uncertainty in the early 2000s, the company underwent a significant revitalization under the leadership of George Kern, who was appointed in 2017. Under Kern's guidance, Breitling has reinvigorated its product lines with revamped classics and new designs, ensuring its place among the top popular luxury watch brands.

In 2023, Breitling reported substantial revenues of $965.7 million from 178,000 units sold, marking an average retail price of approximately $7,514 per watch.

Popular Collections

Navitimer

First introduced in 1952, is a quintessential pilot's watch featuring a circular slide rule for flight calculations such as fuel consumption, distance traveled, and rate of climb/descent. Its functional complexity and iconic design have made it a favorite among aviators and watch enthusiasts alike.

Superocean

Designed primarily for divers, the Superocean collection boasts superior water resistance and a vibrant color palette. These watches are built to handle the extreme conditions of sea exploration, featuring modern technical specifications that cater to both amateur and professional divers.

Chronomat

Known for its versatility and robustness, offering everything from mechanical chronographs to models with three-hand and GMT functions. Initially designed for the Italian aerobatics team, it combines precision with performance, making it suitable for a range of sporting and professional activities.

9. IWC

Founded in: 1868

Made in: Switzerland 

Market Price Range: S$1,000 - S$49,000

Nestled in the heart of Switzerland and is part of the prestigious Richemont Group. Known for combining high engineering with exclusive design, IWC has carved out a niche as a top purveyor of luxury watches, reflecting a legacy that blends American entrepreneurial spirit with Swiss manufacturing precision.

In 2023, the company sold 137,000 watches, generating sales of $805.9 million with an average retail price of around $7,791 per watch. IWC's offerings include a variety of technical complications, such as perpetual calendars, which demonstrate the brand's commitment to horological innovation.

The brand's ambassadorship includes high-profile names like F1 drivers George Russell and Lewis Hamilton, underscoring its appeal among elite athletes and watch connoisseurs alike.

Popular Collections

Portugieser

Lauded for its classic design, featuring large cases, clean Arabic numerals, and a railway-track chapter ring. These watches are distinguished by their simplicity and balance, making them a favorite for those who appreciate understated, functional elegance.

Aquatimer

Tailored for diving professionals, equipped with a pioneering rotating bezel that can be adjusted even under water for added safety. This collection is known for its robustness and reliability, enhanced by the IWC bracelet quick-change system, which allows for easy strap adjustments.

Pilot's Watches

Embody the essence of aviation instruments. They are celebrated for their cockpit-like design and practical features such as anti-magnetic properties and shock resistance. The use of high-tech ceramic cases in certain models adds to their durability and aesthetic appeal.

10. Jaeger LeCoultre

Founded in: 1833

Made in: Switzerland

Market Price Range: S$4,000 - S$45,000

A pillar in the luxury watchmaking industry since 1833, exemplifies Swiss precision and artistry, operating entirely from its workshops in Le Sentier, Switzerland. As a fully owned subsidiary of the Richemont Group, JLC is celebrated for its innovative designs and complex watch mechanisms.

In 2023, the brand achieved sales of CHF 641 million (USD 711.5 million) from 97,000 units sold, reflecting an average price of CHF 8,753 (USD 9,716) per watch. 

Each collection within JLC's diverse catalog showcases the brand's commitment to both tradition and innovation, particularly noted in the Reverso's ingenious reversible case designed for both practicality and aesthetic charm.

Popular Collections

Reverso

Introduced in 1931 for British army officers in India, the Reverso is famed for its unique reversible case that protects the dial during polo matches. This iconic design combines elegance with utility, making it a timeless choice for watch enthusiasts who appreciate a blend of classic and innovative features.

Polaris

Offers a sporty yet sophisticated look with varied functionalities such as date displays, world timers, alarms, and chronographs. These watches cater to adventurous spirits who demand reliability and versatility from their timepieces.

Master Control

Drawing from JLC's rich heritage, the Master Control series features vintage-inspired designs that highlight the brand's long-standing expertise in watchmaking. These models are crafted to showcase simple elegance and precision, appealing to purists who value timeless design and technical excellence.

Rendez-Vous

Designed specifically for women, the Rendez-Vous collection is distinguished by its feminine charm and elegance. These watches are often adorned with diamonds and feature small, precise calibres, ideal for those seeking luxury and refinement in a timepiece.

Comparison Table

Here's a summary that includes essential information about each brand in the luxury watch world, their defining characteristics, popular collections, and market price range:

Final Word

The finest watch brands blend craftsmanship with sentimental value, making them perfect gifts for life's big moments. Whether it's a vintage piece or a new classic, these watches often carry personal and historical significance.

• Most of the best-known brands originate from Switzerland.
• Prices range from best affordable watch brands with a price of S$100 to high end watches with a price of S$738,000, catering to both new enthusiasts and seasoned watch collectors.
• High-profile endorsements and the historical significance of brands like Rolex and Patek Philippe often enhance their value, making these watches a smart investment that can appreciate over time.

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