Twelve of the best watches that you can actually buy
- Matt M
- Mar 9, 2023
- 2 min read
Updated: Mar 13, 2023
You've come here because you know. You know that when you walk into a boutique to buy a Rolex, Patek Philippe, Audemar Piguet or Vacheron Constantin, that you're probably going to be "put on a list".
Don't get me wrong - I'm on those lists. I have three Rolex in my collection, all bought second hand through and authorised dealer (AD) and Im still on the list for new models, but I don't want to wait "8-10 years" for another Rolex. I want to wear, enjoy and possibly exchange a watch in that time period. Taste develops, trends change - in 10 years will the general public care about the Moonswatch? Or the Omega Snoopy? Will people looking for a new investment category be bundling into the watch market with money to burn?
That's why I wanted to highlight 12 watches that you can actually buy (for the most part) that are arguably better than the over hyped models that might take you years to get hold of.
1) The Girard Perregaux Laureato
This is an epic watch - it was one of the few watches of this style that wasn't designed by Gérald Genta, but follows a lot of the same conventions at the same time. The recent Laureato is one of the best integrated bracelet designs around. Producing around 12,000 units a year, GP is a small brand relatively, with hundreds of years of legacy behind them.
2) Baume & Mercier: Classima - M0A10524
This fine automatic watch features a thoughtfully-designed silver-coloured dial with guilloché line decor in the center, and a visible open balance and escapement function at 12 o’clock. The 42 mm case is polished stainless steel. Combining the classic look of Roman numerals, a luxurious dark brown alligator strap and an open balance on the dial, this is a well-made timepiece for those with distinctive tastes. It comes with a stainless steel case, rhodium-plated indexes, and blued steel leaf hands.
3) IWC: Portugieser Perpetual Calendar
IWC's perpetual calendar, developed by Kurt Klaus in the 1980s, automatically recognizes the different lengths of the months and the leap years and can easily be adjusted via a single crown. Now, for the first time, the complication is integrated into a movement from the 82000-calibre family. The Portugieser Perpetual Calendar 42 displays the date, month and weekday on three subdials at "3 o'clock", "6 o'clock" and "9 o'clock". It also features indications for the moon phase and the leap year. With the help of ceramic components, the IWC-manufactured 82650 calibre's Pellaton winding system builds up a power reserve of 60 hours.
4) Omega Speedmaster
The Omega Speedmaster is another classic watch that was initially designed for astronauts. It's a chronograph watch that has a classic and timeless design.
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