Ever stopped to wonder what watches grace the wrists of the world’s most stylish and time-conscious individuals? With half the year already gone, 2024 has seen the release of a diverse array of exceptional timepieces. There’s been a thrilling mix of innovation and heritage, with established brands unveiling modern takes on classics and newcomers making waves with cutting-edge technology.
What is the limit to creativity? This year’s crop of exceptional timepieces is a testament to the boundless imagination of watchmakers. From the ‘Watches and Wonders’ 2024 offerings to our very own Haute Horlogerie standouts, we’ve compiled the best watches worth adding to your collection. Whatever your style or budget, we’re hopeful you’ll find a watch to match your taste.
Here are the best watches of 2024 so far…
Watches and Wonders 2024
#1. Bremont Terra Nova 42.5 Chronograph
Bremont’s Terra Nova 42.5 Chronograph is a true adventurer’s watch. Inspired by the rugged beauty of the Antarctic landscape, this watch boasts a striking design that seamlessly blends functionality with style. The 42.5mm case is crafted from a combination of titanium and stainless steel, ensuring both durability and elegance. The chronograph function is a highlight, allowing the wearer to track time with precision and flair. This watch is a must-have for those who appreciate the fusion of form and function.
#2. Patek Philippe Golden Ellipse Ref. 5738/1R
Inspired by the Golden Ratio, a mystical mathematical proportion (1/1.618) used in art and design to convey harmony, Patek Philippe’s Golden Ellipse collection was launched in 1968. The new Golden Ellipse timepiece, crafted from 18k rose gold, houses a beautifully finished self-winding movement. The understated elegance of the dial, with its applied hour markers and dauphine hands, is a masterclass in refined design. This watch is a classic for those who appreciate the finer things.
#3. Patek Phillipe Grand Complication Alarm Travel Time
Patek Philippe continues to reign supreme in the realm of high complications. The Grand Complication Alarm Travel Time features a plethora of complications, including a perpetual calendar, a world time function, and a moon phase display. The alarm function is particularly noteworthy, allowing the wearer to set reminders with precision. This watch is a true collector’s item, a pinnacle of watchmaking artistry.
#4. Tudor Black Bay 58 GMT
The Tudor Black Bay 58 GMT offers a vintage aesthetic with a modern twist. Taking inspiration from the iconic Tudor divers’ watches of the 1960s, the Black Bay 58 GMT features a compact 39mm case size and a beautiful gilt dial with snowflake hands. The addition of a GMT complication, however, brings this timepiece firmly into the 21st century, allowing wearers to track a second time zone with ease. The Black Bay 58 GMT is a perfect choice for those who appreciate classic design with a touch of functionality.
#5. Jaeger-LeCoultre Duometre Heliotourbillon Perpetual
A marvel of engineering, the Jaeger-LeCoultre Duometre Heliotourbillon Perpetual pushes the boundaries of watchmaking. This timepiece features not one, but two tourbillons—a complication that counters the effects of gravity on a watch’s accuracy. The addition of a perpetual calendar and a tourbillon complication further elevates this timepiece to the pinnacle of haute horology. It’s a conversation starter for those who appreciate the cutting edge of watch design.
Haute Horlogerie Standouts
#6. Timex Marlin Jet Automatic
Timex takes a bold step into the world of automatic watches with the Marlin Jet Automatic. Featuring a stainless steel case with a 38mm diameter, this watch boasts a sleek, rounded profile that evokes the excitement of 1960s space-age style. The domed Hesalite crystal extends beyond the dial, creating a smooth, bubbly appearance that sets it apart from traditional Marlin models. Adding to its appeal, the combination of retro-futuristic styling and dependable automatic movement make this watch a compelling option.
#7. Spinnaker Bradner GMT Automatic
Calling all globetrotters! The Spinnaker Bradner GMT Automatic is a pilot’s watch built for adventure. Featuring a 40mm stainless steel case, the Bradner GMT boasts a sleek and refined appearance, with a bidirectional bezel and a GMT complication that allows for the simultaneous display of two time zones. With a water resistance of 200 meters, the Bradner GMT is suitable for a variety of activities, from everyday wear to light water sports.
#8. Tissot Seastar Wilson WNBA
This special edition watch from Tissot celebrates the spirit of female athletes. Designed in partnership with the WNBA, the Seastar Wilson WNBA is a vibrant and functional dive watch. The 40mm stainless steel case boasts a water resistance of up to 300 meters, making it a reliable companion for water adventures. The eye-catching mother-of-pearl dial features a blue and orange color scheme, inspired by the WNBA’s official colors. This watch is a perfect blend of style and functionality, suitable for both on-court and off-court activities. Little wonder why it’s one of the best watches of 2024.
#9. Seiko Prospex Solar Speedtimer Chronograph
Inspired by Seiko’s iconic 1970s Speedtimer, this modern iteration combines vintage motorsports styling with cutting-edge solar-powered technology. The Speedtimer features a 41.4mm stainless steel case, a curved sapphire crystal, and a tachymeter bezel. Powered by Seiko’s Caliber V192 solar quartz movement, the watch offers impressive accuracy of -15/+15 seconds per month and a 6-month power reserve. The Speedtimer delivers exceptional value for a watch that captures the spirit of a Rolex Daytona at a fraction of the cost.
Featured image: @jaegerlecoultre/Instagram
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