What's the best brand of watch to buy? You may be looking for that perfect accessory to wear to an upcoming event, to complete your look at the office, or to give as a gift to someone that means alot to you. Not sure where to start, here are the top 10 Watch Brands starting from the most expensive to the most affordable.
1. Audemars Piguet 
Audemars Piguet, founded in 1875 by Jules Louis Audemars and Edward Auguste Piguet, has a rich history of crafting exceptional timepieces. One of their most notable creations is the Royal Oak, introduced in 1972. Designed by Gerald Genta, the Royal Oak was the first luxury sports watch made of stainless steel, defying traditional watchmaking norms. Its octagonal bezel, exposed screws, and integrated bracelet set a new standard for luxury sports watches. Notable wearers include Arnold Schwarzenegger and LeBron James. A new Royal Oak typically starts at around $20,000, while used models can be found starting at around $15,000.
1. Patek Philippe
Patek Philippe, established in 1839 by Antoine Norbert de Patek and François Czapek, later joined by Adrien Philippe, epitomizes haute horology and timeless elegance. The Calatrava, introduced in 1932, exemplifies the brand's understated sophistication with its clean lines and minimalist design. Notable wearers include Albert Einstein and Queen Victoria. A new Calatrava typically starts around $20,000, while used models can be found starting at around $15,000.
3. Rolex 
Founded in 1905 by Hans Wilsdorf and Alfred Davis, Rolex is synonymous with precision, innovation, and exploration. The Rolex Submariner, introduced in 1953, is perhaps the most iconic dive watch in history. Known for its robustness and water resistance, the Submariner has been worn by everyone from James Bond to Steve McQueen. A new Submariner typically starts at around $10,000, while used models can be found starting at around $7,000.
4. Omega 
Omega, founded in 1848 by Louis Brandt, has a storied history of precision and innovation. The Omega Speedmaster, introduced in 1957, earned its place in history as the first watch worn on the moon during the Apollo 11 mission in 1969. Its reliable performance in extreme conditions and its iconic design have made it a favorite among astronauts and collectors alike. A new Speedmaster typically starts at around $4,000, while used models can be found starting at around $3,000.
5. TAG Heuer
TAG Heuer, founded in 1860 by Edouard Heuer, has a long history of innovation in precision timekeeping, particularly in the realm of sports timing. The TAG Heuer Monaco, introduced in 1969, gained legendary status as the first square-cased automatic chronograph. Its association with Steve McQueen in the film "Le Mans" solidified its place in pop culture. A new Monaco typically starts at around $5,000, while used models can be found starting at around $3,000.
6. Breitling 
Breitling, founded in 1884 by Léon Breitling, has a strong association with aviation and precision timekeeping. The Breitling Navitimer, introduced in 1952, is renowned for its slide rule bezel, which allows pilots to perform various calculations in-flight. A new Navitimer typically starts at around $5,000, while used models can be found starting at around $3,000.
7. Jaeger-LeCoultre 
Jaeger-LeCoultre, founded in 1833 by Antoine LeCoultre, is revered for its technical innovation and haute horology. The Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso, introduced in 1931, is perhaps the brand's most iconic model. Originally designed for polo players to protect the dial during matches, the Reverso features a reversible case that can be flipped to reveal a personalized engraving or a second time zone. A new Reverso typically starts at around $6,000, while used models can be found starting at around $4,000.
8. Cartier
Cartier, founded in 1847 by Louis-François Cartier, is renowned for its exquisite jewelry and luxury timepieces. The Cartier Tank, introduced in 1917, is a true icon of modern watchmaking. A new Tank typically starts at around $3,000, while used models can be found starting at around $2,000.
9. Hublot 
Hublot, founded in 1980 by Carlo Crocco, is known for its bold and avant-garde designs. The Hublot Big Bang, introduced in 2005, revolutionized the watch industry with its fusion of materials such as gold, ceramic, and rubber. A new Big Bang typically starts at around $15,000, while used models can be found starting at around $10,000.
10. Fossil
Fossil, founded in 1984 by Tom Kartsotis, is known for its accessible and stylish watches. While not traditionally considered a luxury brand, Fossil has gained popularity for its affordable yet well-crafted timepieces. A new Fossil watch typically starts at around $100, while used models can be found starting at around $50.Fossil, founded in 1984 by Tom Kartsotis, is known for its accessible and stylish watches. While not traditionally considered a luxury brand, Fossil has gained popularity for its affordable yet well-crafted timepieces. A new Fossil watch typically starts at around $100, while used models can be found starting at around $50.
11. Pagani Designs (Bonus)
Pagani Design, a German company, is known for producing affordable watches inspired by luxury timepieces. Drawing inspiration from iconic designs, Pagani Design watches often feature automatic movements, stainless steel cases, and sapphire crystals, providing excellent value for money. One of Pagani Design's notable collections is the PD-1661 series, which features a design reminiscent of the Rolex Submariner, offering a stylish and reliable alternative at a much lower price point. Another popular model is the PD-1645, which takes inspiration from the Omega Seamaster series, providing excellent value for those seeking a stylish and functional timepiece without breaking the bank. Prices for Pagani Design watches typically range from $50 to $200, making them accessible to a wide range of consumers.
Now that you have some good information to choose from, what is your favorite brand? Leave a reply in the comments below.