UPDATED NOVEMBER 2024

You’ve read all the style magazines and scrolled endlessly through social media posts of the hottest celebs flaunting their wrists. One thing you may have noticed is a little something that occasionally flashes under cuffs or is sometimes on full show.

Wristwear isn’t going anywhere. Even with the emergence of smart watches, mechanical watches are becoming increasingly more stylish and attractive. You’ve seen the vintage Rolex Daytona 6239 from John Mayer, the stunning Jacob & Co Billionaire piece worn by Floyd Mayweather or The Richard Mille RM27-03 as worn by sportsman Rafael Nadal. Worth millions of pounds each, we can see why you may be a little overwhelmed!

However, you need not hide under your duvet. There are plenty of watches out there that are accessible to your wage bracket, not to mention exceptionally well crafted with first rate materials that will fit into your hectic everyday lives. 

Whether it’s a Grand Seiko SBGR325, iconic Gerald Genta inspired IWC Ingenieur or Cartier Tank, these watches are just a handful of the quality and brand heritage you can buy under £5,000. 

Without any further chitter-chatter, let’s get into Chrono Hunter’s best watches under £5,000 for the ultimate flexer.  

 

Grand Seiko SBGR325 - £4,900

The Grand Seiko SBGR325 is a great piece for horological lovers, especially since it is under £5,000, boasting its affordability when considering its great craftsmanship and signature Zaratsu polishing. 

Source - SBGR325

 

Marking the 25th anniversary of the iconic 9S Calibre watch movement, this model is capped at 1,200 pieces boosting its desirability among collectors and enthusiasts. Crafted out of 37mm of stainless steel, the dial is given a gorgeous textured face which represents the view from Mount Iwate near the Shizukuishi Watch Studio. 

Specifically, the sheen of the face is inspired by “mid-heaven” or ‘中天= Chūten’ to you Japanese academics, which is viewable from the top of the mountain. The model follows ‘The Nature of Time’ theme, boasting the contrasts of light and shadows. 

You could bag a number of flights to Japan for under £5,000, or you can permanently live there with this stunner on your wrist!

The caseback is an exhibition sapphire crystal, allowing us to look into the similarly blue oscillating weight that’s made through anodic oxidation. Powered by the 9S65 movement, the calibre is an automatic manual winding model and boasts an accuracy of -3/+5 seconds per day and a strong weekend-proof power reserve of 72 hours. 

You can buy a Grand Seiko SBGR325 for £4,900 as of November 2024. 

 

Omega Speedmaster Chronograph 38 - £5,000

Feeling like a lunar gentleman? Taking astronauts to the moon costs around £27 million so why not enjoy the knowledge that your timepiece is capable of getting there for under £5,000!

 

Source - Brand’s Site

 

Of course this list would not be complete without Buzz Aldrin making an appearance. As worn by the man himself back in 1969, The Speedmaster 38mm prides itself on simplicity, veering away from the watches released following the 1969 moon landing.

Crafted out of stainless steel on both the case and bezel, the model boasts a tachymetric scale on a grey aluminium ring as per the sporty start of the Speedmaster. The face is given a silvery sheen with beautifully horizontal oval subdials and a vertical oval date window at 6 o’clock. The sub dials are given jolts of orange on the hands and the main seconds in similarly neon orange.

The indexes are beautifully crafted and finished out of 18K Sedna gold as well as the hands. Crafted with a beautiful Novo Nappa brown leather strap, the model features a Seahorse medallion on the caseback, showcasing the classic Omega emblem. Imagine owning this beauty for under £5,000!

Sedna gold is given a beautifully rose gold alloy sheen which is aptly named after Sedna, an orbiting planetoid that’s allegedly the reddest in the solar system. 

You can buy an Omega Speedmaster 38 at retail for £5,000 as of November 2024. 

 

TAG Heuer Carrera Date - £2,750

Wanted to buy a jewel for under £5,000? Well, we can’t promise crowns or diamonds, but we can give you The Carrera, the jewel of TAG Heuer’s portfolio.

 

Source - Brand’s Site

 

It was inspired by the Carrera Panamericana car race which first started in 1950. The race was based across Mexico and was noted for its lack of safety and precaution measures. Running around 3,500Km, the race featured all classes of cars and ran at an astonishing speed. 

The model was subsequently released in 1963 by Jack Heuer as a chronograph piece that was geared towards racers. It has since become popularised and a staple of any gentleman looking for an affordable racing timepiece. 

The model carries on the great legacy of the collection. Crafted out of stainless steel, the timepiece undergoes brushing on the case sides and polishing along the lugs and the bezel. 

Coming in at 39mm, they are a more modern sizing, capable of being worn underneath the suit shirt cuffs. Zooming into the face, the navy blue sheen features silver batons which are tipped with luminescence and hands which have lume running through its centre. 

The bracelet is similarly crafted out of the case material and undergoes the same brushing along the edge links and a polished finish through the centre. 

The watch is powered by the Calibre 5 automatic, offering a fantastic 28,800VpH frequency and a 38 hour power reserve. Powering the hours, minutes, seconds and date function at 6 o’clock, this is the piece to get your engines purring, Timelords!

You can buy a TAG Heuer Carrera Date at retail for £2,750 as of November 2024. 

 

TAG Heuer Aquaracer Professional 200 WBP2150.FT6210 - £4,400

The TAG Heuer Aquaracer Professional 200 prides itself on durability and a healthy dose of luxury with a yellow gold bezel.

 

Source - Brand’s Site

 

Coming in at 40mm of solid steel for the case, the watch prides itself on its durability as per the history of the Aquaracer. Capable of offering 200 metres of water resistance, the yellow gold screw down crown allows for the watch to cope with extensive depths.

Given an 18K 3N yellow gold, uni-directional bezel inlay and matching screw down crown, our eyes are drawn into the awesome smokey, navy dial with the ever stylish horizontal lines that caress the face. What a cracking piece for under £5,000!

Combining yellow gold edging on the applied hour markers and hands, the entire watch is seamless in its construction, blending a royal concoction of gold and blue into this sporty model. Powered by the Calibre 5 automatic, the watch offers a modest 38 hours of power reserve, a frequency of 28,800VpH and places it all on top of a navy rubber strap for that final sporty confirmation. 

You can buy a TAG Heuer Aquaracer Professional 200 at retail for £4,400 as of November 2024. 

 

Breitling Superocean Heritage ‘57 - £4,650

The Superocean Heritage collection by its own admission is a throwback to the times of the free and easy 60s. Right on, man!

Source - Brand’s Site

 

Crafted out of stainless steel and given 18K red gold upgrades, this is one variation that adds a dose of luxury and elegance. The case is 42mm of solid steel and follows the traditional design codes of a concave bidirectional ceramic bezel and a face that boasts oversized indices. 

Reaching 100 metres of water resistance, the watch is given a non screw-locked crown with two gaskets. The bezel has a thin serrated edge which is made out of pink gold, while the markers on the bezel are similarly made out of the luxury material. We feel for under £5,000, this is a gorgeous luxury piece from Breitling. 

The hands are made of pink gold, standing out against the black face and the white teeth hour markers. Powered by the Breitling 10 movement, the watch offers 42 hours of power reserve and a strong, COSC certified beat of 28,800VpH. Weekend proof it aint, but stylish and sleek it certainly is.

You can buy a Breitling Superocean Heritage ‘57 at retail for £4,850 as of November 2024. 

 

Cartier Tank - £4,850

The Cartier Tank finds its roots creeping all the way back to 1917, taking their inspiration from Renault F-17 tanks during WWI. 

 

Source - Brand’s Site

 

Created by Louis Cartier after his stint in WW1, he witnessed atrocities and the immeasurable force of Renault tanks on the Western Front. The prototype was initially shown to General John J. Pershing of The American Expeditionary Force. 

The watch itself follows the design codes of its predecessors, including the “brancard” (French for stretcher) design of the vertical sidebars and the integrated strap that blends into them.

Featuring bold Roman Numeral hour markers on the face, blued sword shaped hands and a sapphire cabochon crown, the latter is what the brand is famous for and has been on the wrists of many influential figures such as Rami Malek, Princess Diana and Jake Gyllenhaal.

This Tank Américaine WSTA0044 variation was originally released in 1989, follows the classic Tank design, but narrows the case down and adds a gentle curvature. Featuring a silvered face with black Roman numerals and blued Dauphine style hands, the watch is powered by a mechanical movement that offers a 36 hour power reserve.

Sufficient time for that all important meeting, why not pair this with a navy blue suit with brown brogues or a pink suit if you feel a little more outgoing!

Incorporating a solid movement with an iconic build means you can get a phenomenal heritage piece for a touch under £5,000. You can buy a Cartier Tank Américaine WSTA0044 at retail for £3,850 as of November 2024. 

 

Bell & Ross 03-94 Black Matte - £5,000

Bell & Ross has long since been associated with the durable, the stylish, the quirky and the adventurous.

 

Source - Brand’s Site

 

The BR-03 links in with the legibility requirements necessary of professional aviators. The cockpit of an aeroplane closely relates to the style of this watch in its matte black case with bright white numerals and extremely legible white hands. The usage of photoluminescent coating allows for the face to be as lit up as a Christmas tree!

The ceramic case is closely associated with the aeronautical industry. Ceramic by its very nature is capable of withstanding high temps and being extremely resistant to corrosion and acid. To have a piece that’s so durable for under £5,000 is a fantastic price point for any budding horological connoisseur.

Showcasing many highly effective functions, this terrific piece has hours, minutes and small seconds based at 3 o’clock, elapsed time chronograph, a 30 minute timer at 9 o’clock, central chronograph seconds and a very useful minute track on the flange. 

Powered by the BR-CAL.301, this automatic winding movement powers all the functions, including the chronograph features and a hacking function, not to mention offering a 40 hour power reserve. 

You can buy a Bell & Ross 03-94 Black Matte at retail for £5,000 as of November 2024. 

 

Longines Spirit Flyback L3.821.4.93.6 - £4,350

The Longines Spirit Flyback keeps with the sublime aviation heritage of the brilliant Spirit Flyback collection, but adds a very funky twist to keep it dressy!

 

Source - Brand’s Site

 

The stainless steel case is typical of the durable aviation piece, but it does feature polished bevel corners that allows for the watch to have a very dressy nature. The rest of the case undergoes a brushed aesthetic, giving a sporty feel to the piece which is perfect for those looking to buy a watch under £5,000. 

The bi-directional rotating bezel is given a nice blue ceramic insert with a 60 seconds scale that's supported with luminous 5 seconds interval indications. The face is given a sun-ray finish, allowing its navy sheen to reflect light and enhance different aspects of the piece. Look closely above 6 o’clock and notice the iconic 5 star Longines emblem, boasting the quality of these luxury watches! 

Part film review aesthetic in a newspaper and part brand symbol, some will be on the fence in terms of design. Equipped with bronze coloured hands that have a polished effect, they keep in tandem with the similarly bronzed hour markers, all of which are filled with Luminova. The dial is circled with a blue flange that has accompanying minutes/seconds making up a seconds track. 

As an aviation piece, the watch boasts a chronograph function, including a flyback function that allows for the chronograph to instantly be restarted. Bolstered with a column wheel mechanism, it is ready for the plane or the catwalk! Powered by the L791.4 calibre, this COSC chronometer runs at 28,800VpH and has a strong power reserve of 68 hours. 

You can buy a Longines Spirit Flyback L3.821.4.93.6 at retail for £4,350 as of November 2024. 

 

IWC Pilot’s Watch Automatic 36 - £4,300

In the modern era, people are looking for the everyday watch, capable of being durable enough for the rough and tumble but smart enough to be pulled off with a fresh black suit. 

 

Source - Brand’s Site

 

The IWC Pilot’s Watch Automatic is one just model that competently demonstrates its modernisation due to it’s 10.4mm height and supple blue leather strap. Bringing the size down to 36mm, the watch is perfect for the slimmer wrist and is well under the £5,000 mark.

Crafted out of stainless steel, it features a sapphire convex glass and is coated with anti reflection to allow for the dial to be visible in all conditions. In addition, the glass is secured in to counteract any displacements in air pressure. 

The blue sun-ray dial boasts a rapid-advance date display located at 3 o’clock, allowing for a quick change in an instant so you are good for several special occasions. This three handed watch is enhanced with a slightly recessed inner circle, allowing the face to look much more prominent. 

Placed atop a fantastic blue Santoni alligator strap, Santoni is a recognised name for high quality leather, Italian craftsmanship. Fitting in with the blue face, it is seamless and looks exceptionally sharp under shirt cuffs, ideal for that 

Water resistant to 60 metres, the movement is protected by a soft-iron inner case for increased security against magnetic fields. The 35111 calibre is an automatic movement that has a strong power reserve of 42 hours. 

You can buy an IWC Pilot’s Watch Automatic 36 at retail for £4,300 as of November 2024. 

 

Panerai Radiomir Officine - PAM01384 - £4,700

The Panerai Radiomir Officine gets its name from the heritage of the Panerai brand. 

 

Source - Brand’s Site

 

Giovanni Panerai opened its doors of the Officine Panerai in Florence Ponte alle Grazie in 1860, resulting in patents of radiomir, the first luminescent substance used in horology and a legacy of highly durable watches with a strong relationship with the military, including the Italian Navy. 

Nicknamed after the brand itself, The Panerai Radiomir Officine epitomises Panerai’s vision for large yet stylish watches. Coming in at 45mm, it is crafted out of steel and undergoes a beautifully polished finish on the top of the case. The subsequent aesthetic moves away from its sporty past and goes with a more fashionable finish. 

The dial is snow white, but don’t expect a sea of dwarfs to come and march after you down the street! The face is made up of Arabic numerals and baton indices. Filled with luminescence, it is extremely legible which is perfect for its 100 metre water resistance. So in summary…Boasting a great water resistance?

Check. Under £5,000 for a beautiful model in a highly durable case? Definitely!

Featuring a small-seconds complication at 9 o’clock, it is the perfect melange of dressy and sporty. Powered by the mechanical P.6000 calibre, it offers a 3 day power reserve that’s supported by Incabloc anti-shock technology. Running at 21,100VpH, it is ideal for the everyday wearer.

Fitted with a beautiful black Scamosciato (Italian for suede) strap, the steel case compliments the suede complexion perfectly. 

You can buy a Panerai Radiomir Officine at retail for £4,700 as of November 2024. 

 

Breitling Avenger Chronograph 45 Night Mission - £4,950

The Breitling Avenger Chronograph 45 Night Mission prides itself on durability and an excellent degree of precision. 

 

Source - Brand’s Site

 

As part of the Breitling Avenger collection, it is able to be navigated while using gloves. Perfect for the aviator gentleman or those cold winter nights sipping at that must see rooftop bar. It’s rugged bezel and ridged grip pattern on the crown and chronograph pushers means accessibility is easy at any time. 

For around £5,000, this is a tough, everyday piece for gents as rugged as George Clooney. Nespresso not included? However, for a real pick me up, we recommend this piece for the more sporty ventures in your life 

The Night Mission variation goes one step further. The 45mm diameter may be a tad oversized but it is made out of titanium and coated with DLC. Known as diamond-like carbon, it allows the titanium to be hardened and offers a fantastic degree of abrasion resistance. 

Given a matte black face, it has highly legible Arabic numerals in a stencilled style. You may already know that the stencilled finish actually links to aeroplanes and the stencilled style that’s located on the decks of aircraft carriers.

Featuring a few tinges of yellow on the face, on the minute track and the 12 o’clock sub-dial, there’s a small date aperture located at 3 o’clock which features a white background for prime legibility. 

It is powered by the Breitling 13 calibre. As a self-winding mechanical movement, the watch has a 48 hour power reserve and a solid frequency of 28,800VpH. Other not to miss highlights include running chronograph functions that read ¼ of a second, 30 minutes and 12 hours sub dials. 

You can buy a Breitling Avenger Chronograph 45 Night Mission at retail for £4,950 as of November 2024.

 

Tudor Black Bay M7941A1A0RU-0003 - £3,790

The Tudor Black Bay was released this year, comes in at 41mm and is crafted out of stainless steel. 

 

Source - Brand’s Site

 

The case combines both a satin and polished finish. Utilising both means that the watch can be used universally, including dressy events like abroad business trips and even for casual events like cheering on your favourite thoroughbred from the grandstands. 

The dial is black, allowing the high contrast white hour markers and iconic “Snowflake” hands. Edged with gold and coated with lume, they are presented with a high degree of legibility. The combination of gold, black and white is universally accepted as both a dressy and a sporty piece which, for not so much as £5,000, is an absolute steal!

Offering 200 metres of water resistance, this is a piece that closely adheres to the ISO standard 22810:2010, confirming its water resistance.

The watch is given a visible red bezel with a 60-minute unidirectional feature. Crafted out of stainless steel, the bezel insert is crafted out of aluminium. It may not be Rolex’s Cerachrom, but we can still appreciate the use of classic materials within this particular piece. 

Presented on a five-link stainless steel bracelet with a polished and satin finish, these watches are accompanied with a solid Tudor T-fit clasp, ensuring that it is secured onto your wrist at all times. 

Powered by the MT5602-U calibre, they are given a self-winding mechanical functionality with a bidirectional rotor system. Given an impressive 70-hour power reserve, Tudor Black Bay has a great water resistance of 200 metres, meaning you are free to wear these watches for a spot of water-skiing and snorkelling. 

You can buy a Tudor Black Bay M7941A1A0RU-0003 at retail for £3,910 as of November 2024. 

 

Cartier Santos Dumont WSSA0022 - £4,000

The Cartier Santos Dumont has a storied history, based around it’s iconic status as the first ever wristwatch.

 

Source - Brand’s Site

 

In 1904, a Brazilian aviator named Alberto Santos-Dumont brought to Louis Cartier’s attention the difficulty of using a model while in flight. Typically using just pocket watches, Louis Cartier heard the complaints loud and clear. In turn, he created a thin wrist watch with a square bezel for Alberto Santos-Dumont to use. 

Nowadays, these wonderful watches have since continued their strong horological legacy and have been updated in keeping with its status. At 43.5mm, the watch is crafted out of steel and undergoes a brushed aesthetic. The squared, polished bezel is fastened in with eight visible screws. 

Unfortunately, this doesn’t guarantee a great water resistance as this is capped at 30 metres. Just enough for a vigorous shower!

For in and around £5,000, you get an iconic piece of watchmaking history, boasting a classic squared case and a stunning Roman Numeral dial face. 

The dial has a satin-brushed aesthetic and is finished with a sunray effect. Featuring black Roman numerals, the watch features blued-steel sword shaped hands, a colour that matches the stunning blue synthetic cabochon-shaped spinel on the right hand side of the case. 

The watches are fixed on a navy blue alligator-skin strap and secured with a steel ardillon buckle ensuring this goes well with a double breasted suit. Powered by a quartz calibre that runs both the hours and the minutes function, you can buy a Cartier Santos Dumont at retail for £4,000 as of November 2024. 

 

Grand Seiko SBGN021 - £4,100

The Grand Seiko SBGN021 is a fantastic sports watch that combines resistance with effortless style. Everyday watches have never looked so hot! 

 

Source - Brand’s Site

 

Crafted out of stainless steel, the watches feature polished chamfered edges, but predominantly prides itself on a brushed finish throughout. The crown is bizarrely placed at 4 o’clock, alongside the date aperture. This unusual placement goes to show Grand Seiko’s thoughtful engineering, doing away with conventional placement and making horological history. All for below £5,000!

This 40mm piece is given a ceramic bezel, boasting 24 hour markers to allow the user to determine the time in 2 different time zones. This is emphasised by the blued GMT hand with an arrow head which runs along the periphery of the dial. 

The navy blue dial features blocky hour markers and tapered hands, all of which are dosed up with Lumibrite to ensure a high degree of legibility. The watch is powered by the calibre 9F86 which is a Quartz calibre, runs at -10/+10 second per year and offers 200 metres of water resistance. 

You can buy a Grand Seiko SBGN021 at retail for £4,100 as of November 2024. 

 

Omega DeVille Prestige - £4,840

The Omega DeVille Prestige is the ultimate collection for those vintage model lovers who love nothing more than a hardy dress piece. 

 

Source - Brand’s Site

 

Based on masterful craftsmanship, the collection is elegant and fit for the gentleman looking to make his mark for shy of £5,000. Crafted out of both steel and red gold, the watch has the luxury of the precious metal, but also the steel that allows the piece to be accessible to most consumers. 

Luckily, the precious metal is on the bezel and makes up the hands and hour markers, ensuring it’s centre stage when eyes glance down to it. We particularly enjoy the chestnut-brown dial that undergoes a sun-brushed finish, allowing light to promote various parts of the face. 

The use of 18K red gold on the dial blends in well with the chocolate dial, but not too much that they are illegible. At 39.5mm in diameter, the watch is a perfect size for the modern wearer. The sapphire crystal is domed and scratch resistant with anti-reflective treatment to keep the piece visible from the sun.

The watch is powered by the Calibre 2500. Chronometer certified, it is as precise as Marcus Rashford’s right foot and features a gorgeous escapement calibre that is given a rhodium plated finish. Offering a 30 metre water resistance, the piece offers a power reserve of 48 hours and runs at 3.5Hz, making this is a great piece for you horological fiends! 

Chronometer certified and being effortlessly stylish are just a few pointers for this cracking timepiece for downwards of £5,000. 

You can buy an Omega DeVille Prestige at retail for £4,840 as of November 2024.

 

Bell & Ross GMT Sky Blue - £5,000

We understand that flying first class for all your business meetings may take a chunk out of the chequebook. Bell & Ross ensure that you can get yourself a GMT model that’s prime for aviation and considerably more affordable than its GMT competitors (no offence Rolex GMT-Master!).

 

Source - Brand’s Site

 

As part of The BR 05 family, the watches pride themselves on utilising an integrated bracelet with a beautiful squared case. At 41mm, these luxury timepieces are crafted out of steel which undergoes a beautiful satin-polished aesthetic. 

The flange is rhodium plated and similarly satin-brushed, boasting the two tone, grey and light blue colour scheme to showcase the 24 hour scale. The crown is screwed down and features two blocky crown guards to ensure the 100 metre water resistance.   

The face is sky blue and features a GMT complication that’s highly legible against the sunray finish, offering key information for travellers. Boasting a second time zone, it produces one revolution every 24 hours. Cast your eyes to the 24-hour scale on the flange ring.

Painted in both grey and blue for the daytime and nighttime, the GMT hand is given a broad arrow tipped hand with a Super-LumiNova lume filled head. 

The watch is powered by the BR-CAL.325, an automatic mechanical movement with a lot of power for your buck. Offering a 40 hour power reserve, we love the exhibition caseback that showcases the stylish movement in all its steely glory.

You can buy a Bell & Ross GMT Sky Blue at retail for £5,000 as of November 2024. 

 

Tudor Black Bay 54 - £3,260

The Tudor Black Bay takes inspiration from Tudor’s first ever dive model way back in 1954, The Tudor Submariner 7922. 

 

Source - Brand’s Site

 

Tudor continued on the great legacy of the collection, keeping the timepiece with a decidedly modern case size of 37mm. Crafted out of steel, the strap is similarly crafted out of the material. Available in a three link structure, it features both a polished and satin finish, not to mention featuring the iconic Tudor T-fit clasp as released in 2021 on The Black Bay 58. 

The domed sapphire crystal gives us an eagle eye into the matt black face. The hour markers are presented as dots and batons that are complemented with yellow gold gilting, and the same goes with the oh so classic “Snowflake hands”. 

These have become an emblem of the brand since 1969 as first seen on the reference 7021 and 7016. Given a unidirectional black bezel, it references a 60-minute scale within an aluminium insert. Offering a water resistance of 200 metres, this is a piece that is more than capable of dealing with a private beach or a swimming pool. 

The timepiece runs on the MT5400 self-winding calibre. Offering a 70 hour power reserve, the Black Bay 54 is COSC certified and ensures precision and longevity, no matter what 5 star hotel or private beach you may be lounging on. For under £5,000, you are getting a bucket load of technical prowess including a COSC certified calibre and strong build.

You can buy a Tudor Black Bay 54 at retail for £3,360 as of November 2024.

 

Omega Seamaster 300M - £3,750

The Omega Seamaster 300M has graced the horological world since 1993. 

Source - Brand’s Site 

 

The Omega Seamaster 300M was an upgrade to the previous 200M edition and had notable design features like a scalloped bezel and a unique wave pattern which runs across the entirety of the timepiece's face. 

Used in the 1995 James Bond film, “Goldeneye”, Omega and Bond have been inseparable since, especially Mr Bond who adorns none other than the glorious Seamaster 300M. The latest variation of the Seamaster 300M follows the heritage of the piece while also including a few modernised aspects. 

Coming in at 42mm of stainless steel, the model boasts a lug to lug measurement of 49.2mm and attains its whooping 300 metres water resistance. Given a blue bezel with a white enamel diving scale, the edition is fitted with a helium escape valve at 10 o’clock. After all, this is a diving timepiece!

The similarly blue dial face features laser engraved waves as an ode to the past and large baton and dot hour markers in a sharp, Super-Luminova coated white. The timepiece is given an exhibition caseback, allowing us to see into the mastery of the Calibre 8800.

The model is powered by the Omega Calibre 8800, a movement that looks great with its Geneva waves in Arabesque, but it has an incredible Master Chronometer Status, ensuring longevity and accuracy due its certifications from both COSC and METAS. 

Given a 55 hour power reserve and a hardy 3.5Hz frequency rate, we reckon that for under £5,000, you will either be the most suave man under chandelier lights like Seamaster lover, Prince William, or the debonair gent in the boardroom. 

You can buy an Omega Seamaster 300M on the secondary market for around £3,750 as of November 2024. 

 

Longines Conquest Heritage Central Power Reserve - £3,500

The power reserve indicator is an instrumental complication which saw its heritage start in the 1880s under the careful eye of Abraham-Louis Breguet. When it comes to wristwatches, no other brand quite has claim to the complication like Longines. 

Source - Longines

 

Joining the Conquest collection in 1959, just 5 years on from its inception, the power reserve was literally given the centre stage as it resided in the middle of the dial. Made up of two rotating discs, the crown moves the discs, with the outer one referencing 0 to 45.

As the crown winds, the disc turns until a small black arrow on the inner ring reaches 45, namely the maximum power reserve.

This works both ways. The inner disc will rotate counterclockwise as a representation of your watch's power depleting until it hits zero. With such a unique function, Longines have deemed it fair to bring it back in January 2024 to titillate the vintage lovers! And for less than £5,000 you cannot argue with that.

Sized at 38mm, this steel watch remains a true representation of the original reference 9028. Reaching 50 metres of water resistance, the satin-brushed and polished timepiece is the classy everyday piece for all men’s wardrobes. 

Given a champagne dial the legendary discs remain in the centre with black edging pronouncing its purpose. The faceted hour markers are dressed appropriately in yellow gold and the hands take a syringe form. There is a date aperture at 12 o’clock which optimises legibility and adds yet another level of complexity. 

Powered by the fresh Calibre L896.5, these watches have a power reserve of 64 hours. This is also shown on the main power reserve disc as the maximum capacity figure is 72 hours. The disc shows 64, but with a gap insinuating the potential to rise to 72. Fitted with a silicon balance spring for anti-magnetism, they run at around 25,200VpH.  

A great pretender to another nice looking number, the 18ct gold Longines Master GMT, We can see you wearing this with a pair of brown brogues and your comfiest camel overcoat.

You can buy a Longines Conquest Heritage Central Power Reserve at retail for £3,500 as of November 2024. 

 

Grand Seiko Elegance SBGW301 - £4,400

The instalment of the Grand Seiko Elegance SBW301 in December 2023 was not supposed to be an early Christmas gift. Au contraire, mes amis. 

It was supposed to emit a fresh breath of horological air into a fairly quiet collection. Famed for the low-key designs of the GMT SBGM221 or the minimalist SBGW231, the sumptuous SBGW301 takes the best from the line and keeps things understated, yet appreciatively gorgeous. 

Source - Grand Seiko

 

Given a highly compact 37.3mm steel case, the classic Grand Seiko Zaratsu polishing is maintained for that undeniable signature finish that many have become accustomed to with this Japanese brand. At just 11.7mm thick, the watch is only 30 metres water resistant, so just enough to cope with a brisk shower. 

Sleek and neutral in tone, the curved case is complemented with chamfered lugs and thin bezel which draws the eyes into the beautiful ivory dial face. Ivory is perhaps the greatest colour for minimalist design, especially since it works with almost every other shade and style of suit. 

Therefore, the steely, diamond-cut hour markers work in sync with the equally steely hands to produce optimal legibility. The rest of the dial is clear, aside from a GS logo located below 12 o’clock. In fact they are nearly as text and as fuss free as dials on some of the latest watches by H.Moser & Cie including the Streamliner Centre Seconds Smoked Salmon, one of our pick of the best men’s watches 

Powered by the Calibre 9S64, there is a fully capable 3 day power reserve alongside a beat of around +5/-3 seconds per day. Kudos must go to the sapphire caseback for letting us gaze into the fabulous finish on the movement. 

We see you adorning this with a navy suit when occasions call for optimal smartness. You can buy a Grand Seiko Elegance SBGW301 at retail for £4,400 as of November 2024. 

 

Longines Flagship Heritage Moonphase Year of the Dragon - £2,770

If you are reading this article to find the best watches under £5,000, chances are that you are culturally observant and willing to show you are a man of many complexities. Why not show your knowledge with a Chinese New Year inspired Longines timepiece?

Source - Longines

 

2024 is the year of the Dragon and so flocks of brands from IWC to the expensive Chopard have been dropping their watches like it's hot on the event. However, Longines Flagship Heritage Moonphase is one of our top choices for less than 5 grand.

Measuring 38.5mm x 12.4mm thick these fire-breathing timepieces are given short lugs and chamfered edges in keeping with the refined design of the piece. This works wonderfully with the brushed and polished aesthetics across the bezel and case sides. 

On this edition, Longines opt for a rich, wine-red as that's the main colour of the Chinese festivities with sleek golden hour markers and Dauphine hands to visibly stand out alongside the brand logo. 

Given a moonphase indicator residing at 6 o’clock, the blue night sky is a perfect fit for the firey red shade, especially since the red graduates to a black periphery. The moon phase has a date ring which is home to  two complications for the price of one, sitting at the bottom of the dial. 

Given a solid caseback, we can’t see the movement, but we are presented with a Dragon’s head engraved medallion. Sultry and seductive, it is powered by the L899.5 calibre, skipping away at 25,200VpH and offers a 72 hour power reserve. We recommend pairing this with a charcoal suit shirt against black chinos for the man-who-means-business style.

With a limited edition run of 888 pieces, you can buy a Longines Flagship Heritage Moonphase at retail for around £2,770, as of November 2024. 

 

Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra Golf Edition - £4,840

The Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra on its own accord is a top line for horophiles and connoisseurs alike. What if the line was fused with golf? Well, they have only just gone and scored a hole in one. Coming in at just under £5,000, it’s time to stroll down the fairway and shake on that big deal with the Aqua Terra Golf Edition. 

Source - Omega

 

The go-to choice for 18 tournament winner, Major Championship and Masters winner, Sergio Garcia, this steel timepiece is the physical representation of Omega’s relationship with the sport. They have become the Official Timekeeper of the PGA Championship in 2011 and even the Ryder Cup in 2012. 

Sized at 41mm, this line has been designed into a perfectly symmetrical case with evenly displayed lugs. Meanwhile, the caseback is given a wave-edged design, just like all of its predecessors. 

Given a teak black dial which consists of fine horizontal lines running through its centre, they allow the tooth shaped silver hour markers to stand out with the Super-Luminova filled hands. Meanwhile, the green second hand is highly visible and fits in with the green and black NATO strap.

Finished with a small date aperture at 6 o‘clock, this compilation is neither too overbearing or insignificant to be present. The perfect melange of a luxury sports model, it has been flexed on the wrist of some well-renowned clientele…George Clooney klaxon alert.

Powered by the 8900 calibre, these watches are Master Chronometer certified which entitles you to a weekend-proof 60 hour power reserve alongside 150 metres of water resistance. We envisage you pulling this beauty off with a cream shirt and brown slacks. 

As of November 2024, you can buy an Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra Golf Edition at retail for £4,840 

 

IWC Portofino Pointer Date IW359201 - £4,700

Inspired by a coastal town on the Italian riviera, The IWC Portofino is a top horological line for those looking for an out and out dress watch less than £5,000. 

Introduced in 1984 and noted for its circular case and classy dials, you’ll be hard-pressed to find anything sweeter for an important event.

Source - IWC

 

Sized at 39mm, the IWC Portofino is around 10.7mm tall which isn’t too bad for a suit shirt accompaniment. Offering 50 metres of water resistance and a thoroughly polished bezel, we recommend keeping this solely for your smart-dress occasions, weddings or impressing your new squeeze.

Turning to the dial and the matte cream shade is a perfect canvas for the prominent gilt baton hour markers and slender hands. There is a very slight minute track along the periphery of the dial and a functional date sub-counter based at 6 o’clock. 

The automatic in-house IWC 35160 calibre offers a 50 hour power reserve alongside a 28,800VpH. Totalling 25 jewels and utilising highly accurate central hacking seconds, the watches are precise to a tee and likely to be strong candidates for your evening wear. 

Fitted onto a brown leather strap, looking good requires very little effort with this understated piece. Opt for slate-grey trousers and a burgundy suit shirt for a little vibrancy, or take things down a notch with an all black tux for those wining and dining soirees. 

You can buy an IWC Portofino Pointer Date IW359201 at retail for £4,700 as of November 2024. 

 

Breitling Navitimer Automatic 36 A17327361L1P1 - £4,100

Cartier has the Tank, Rolex has the Daytona…and Breitling? Well, they can bring out the Navitimer card from the timekeeping deck. 

A very worthy collection for every type of horophile, is anyone up for a game of slide rule bezel?

Source - Breitling

 

Historically, it began in 1952 as a tool watch for the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA). In essence, the slide rule allows pilots to effectively measure distances and fuel consumption and has since become a highly versatile line which has garnered interest for more than seven decades. 

Now, Breitling have released the 36mm Navitimer Automatic with a lean towards unorthodox chic-style, as opposed to another replay of a pilots timepiece. Measuring 36mm x 11.4mm thick, these watches offer a pretty low water resistance of 30 metres, but remember that this is a piece you’ll wear with a suit, not swimming trunks!

Retaining the classic bidirectional slide rule bezel, the dial is a big leap from Breitling into exciting new colourways and innovative design. First off, we cannot get enough of the minty fresh green, pastel style dial which is made up of a number of scales. These could appear daunting to the newbie horophile, but we promise it’s not as scary as it seems! 

Want a frighteningly new look for your wrist? Check out our spooktacular guide to the best luxury watches for Halloween.

Back to the Navitimer and on the periphery, there is a tachymetric scale on the flange which is used to measure speed. This sits alongside a minutes and seconds track which is printed on. However, you don’t have to use these in order to appreciate these watches. 

The sunray finish on the dial enhances the silver baton hour markers and hands, all of which are coated in luminescence for optimum legibility. Beating at 28,800VpH, this is powered by the chronometer certified Breitling 17 movement but has a mediocre 38 hour power reserve.

Rounded off with a dark green leather strap, we can see you pulling this off with a green suit jacket or a plain chequered shirt. 

You can buy a Breitling Navitimer Automatic 36mm at retail for £4,100 as of November 2024. 

 

Bell & Ross BR 03-92 Diver Black & Green Bronze - £4,500

Dr. Spock spoke about boldly going where no one has gone before. Was he talking about the Rolex Deepsea Challenge? Maybe not. 

Yet the Bell & Ross BR 03-92 Diver Black & Green Bronze is Bell & Ross’ latest statement on bronze watches which dares to buck the trend and make a name for itself. Released in January 2024, it seeks to reinvent the brilliance of the BR 03-92 Diver White Bronze which was seen at Watches and Wonders 2023. 

Is bronze the way forwards for the seafaring and fashionable man? We think so!

Source - Bell & Ross

 

Specifically named CuSn8, the bronze material is made up of 92% copper and 8% tin, ensuring maximum durability and the same qualities that make them so desirable on both yachts and luxury ships. 

Inspired by the original Hydromax which holds the world record water resistance level of 11,100 metres, the BR 03-92 line is a much more attractive and palatable edition, but still with the same level of nautical inspiration. 

Sized at 42mm, the Diver Black and Green Bronze has both a satin and polished finish. On the top is a solid bronze unidirectional bezel that features a black aluminium ring and 60-minute diving scale. Given legibility via Bilight dots, these luminous markers allow for sensational visibility in the dark of a private jet cabin or amid murky seas!

Fitted with a screw down crown and supported with two prominent crown guards, expect around 300 metres of water resistance which complies with ISO 6425 and certifies this as a 100% dive watch. 

The dial is a rich British Racing green shade which we admire as it allows the black baignoire hands to stand out. The hour markers are made up of dots and batons which are filled with Super-Luminova. And once again, take note of the small date aperture between 4 and 5 o’clock. 

Its heartbeat is provided by the BR-CAL.302 which offers around a 54 hour power reserve and supplies all functions like hours, minutes, seconds and the date. Linked onto a black rubber strap, it’s only fitting you pair this with smart chino shorts for when you’re hitting the beach, or short sleeved polo shirts for those sultry nights sipping on fine wines.  

You can buy a Bell & Ross BR 03-92 at retail for £4,500 as of November 2024. 

 

Panerai Radiomir Officine PAM01383 - £4,300

The Panerai Radiomir Officine is a top line for avid horophiles who like a piece with a touch of legacy. 

Source - Panerai

 

Panerai were the inventors of Radiomir, a radium substance that allowed for maximum legibility in the dark following its patent in 1916. Commissioned by the Royal Italian Navy, the prototype was released in 1935 and became their flagship line. 

The Radiomir Officine is a tribute to the classic line from this pre WW2 period. Crafted at 45mm of solid steel, the models are polished for maximum dressy effect. Sure, it’s a chunky timepiece, but we recommend you wear this as a centrepiece to your outfit.

Given a solid caseback alongside a prominent crown, these imposing watches offer 100 metres of water resistance. The blue dial features a sun-brushed finish to allow the luminous Arabic numerals and hour markers to clearly stand out. Powered by the hand-wound P.6000 movement, the Radiomir Officine has a fairly low 21,600VpH. 

All is not lost as it makes up for it with a 3 day power reserve and Incabloc anti-shock device, repelling any knocks and impacts. Fitted onto a blue calfskin leather strap, we feel this would look sublime against a blue T-shirt or a cream suit if you are in the mood to paint the town red…or any other colour of your choosing.

You can buy a Panerai Radiomir Officine at retail for £4,300 as of November 2024. 

 

Tudor Black Bay 41mm 7941A1A0NU - £3,910

For Watches and Wonders 2024, Tudor decided to turn back time and revisit one of their most revered lines, the Black Bay and reimagine it with a very monochrome theme. 

Source - Tudor

 

Released in 2012, the collection is famed for its sporty theme, including a diving scale and durable, barrel shaped design. For the new Black Bay 41mm 7941A1A0NU in steel, they keep their  dive watch heritage, but add a little pzazz in the form of a Gothic aesthetic. If you really want something spooky and spine tingling, check out our best watches for Halloween.

Specs wise, we are looking at 41mm x 13.6mm, undergoing brushed case tops, polished chamfered edges and case sides. Tudor have carefully curated a perfect finish to allow this piece to be easily worn in the boardroom and on the beach.

With 200 metres of water resistance, the timepieces as per their build quality offer excellent durability at this price point. The water resistance aligns well with the 60 minute diving scale, displayed on a unidirectional bezel and essential for divers to read decompression phases. 

For the dial, the background is pitch black, just like the bezel insert, allowing the combination of dot and baton hour markers to be particularly legible. This is especially since they are all coated in Super-Luminova for optimal legibility, just like the classic Snowflake hands that are synonymous as Cartier’s cabochon crown. 

Providing a rapid heartbeat within the timepieces is the Master Chronometer certified MT5602-U movement. Enjoy 4Hz frequency, 70 hour power reserve, and the security guaranteed by a silicon hairspring, repelling magnetism and ensuring maximum accuracy. As Rolex’s smaller sibling, this definitely deserves its place as one of the best watches for under £5,000!

- You can buy a Tudor Black Bay 41mm at retail for £3,910 as of November 2024. 

 

Longines Spirit Flyback Titanium - £5,000

Trust us when we say this is no spirit in the sky. 

The Longines Spirit collection remains one of the top Swiss brand's flagship lines. The collection is no plain-Jane either. Available with a multitude of complications, including GMT capability and chronograph functionality, the Longines Spirit Flyback Titanium from back in 2023 quickly represented the pinnacle of Longines technical skill and aviation spirit.

Source - Longines

 

The Dog Days Are Over sang Florence and The Machine. However, horophiles will gladly be dancing to a different tune after the replacement of steel for the highly regarded titanium material. Grade 5 titanium to be precise. Used in the marine and aerospace industries, the material is around 40% lighter than steel, but more durable, boasting the benefits of the alloy.

Therefore, the 42mm x 17mm measurements are not so obtrusive on the wrist, even though by conventional standards, the watches are quite large. Not the Rolex Deepsea Challenge, but you get the picture. Surrounding the dial is a rotating bezel that's fitted with a serrated edge for maximum grip.

Given a black ceramic insert, the minute scale showcases recessed markers and large Arabic numerals coated in Super-Luminova for the 60-minute scale. 

Resisting 100 metres of water, the Longines Spirit Flyback Titanium utilises a screw in crown and screw down caseback to ensure neither water, dust or bad vibes can penetrate! The dial is black as the night’s sky in its centre with a very retro gilt edging. Vintage vibes alert.

Showcasing Arabic numerals with diamond shaped pointers below them, they are coated in Super-Luminova like the sword shaped hands. 

At 3 and 9 o’clock are two sub-dials, pertaining to the 30-minute and small seconds counter respectively. Above 6 o’clock is a 5 star emblem, linking to the sublime precision of the movement. How accurate, you say?

Home to the COSC certified Calibre L791.4, it offers 4Hz and a 68 hour power reserve to ensure you can take to the skies for that crucial overseas meeting and be back in time for that 9am meeting.

This is complimented by a silicon balance spring and shows the quality that goes into powering the flyback functionality and general timekeeping, earning its place on our list of the best watches under £5,000. 

- You can buy a Longines Spirit Flyback Titanium at retail for £5,000 as of November 2024. 

 

Omega De Ville Prestige - Reference 434.13.34.20.57.001 - £5,000

The Omega De Ville Prestige has been in their roster since 1994, and has swiftly become a highly desirable collection due to its outwardly dressy persona. You won’t see any deep diving Seamasters or lunar-loving Speedmasters.

Source - Omega

 

The De Ville Prestige has reached the third generation of its current lifespan. For this model, it’s crafted out of steel and has a case diameter of 34mm with a thickness of a smidgen over 10mm.

With a thoroughly polished aesthetic, its diminutive size means this is perfect for the black tie affair or Oscar style party. And you’ll see plenty of Omega watches trotting the red carpet. Yes pigs may fly, but it leaves many paps squealing with delight for photo ops.

For the dial, Omega utilises a very unique play on the ever-stylish mother-of-pearl dial. This material is already a fabulous aesthetic on many of their novelties. Produced by the same composite material that makes up pearls, the material is iridescent and changes colours depending on light and the angle you view the dial. 

Omega utilises a rather flamboyant Tahiti mother-of-pearl. This variation gleans a naturally darker colour, offering an exotic beauty that is incomparable to other materials. This unique concoction of dark reds and greens can be too much for some horophiles, but it’s a fabulous statement piece to casually whip out from under your cuffs. 

The hour markers are two-fold, choosing to be designed in both diamonds and Roman Numerals. The date aperture based at 6 o’clock is an excellent function for offering another level of complexity and visual theatre. 

On the other hand, if you don’t want all the glitz and glamour for less than £5000, you can enjoy its engine room in the form of the Calibre 8800. Master Chronometer certified, the watches offer a sublime level of accuracy, alongside a 55 hour power reserve and 15,000 gauss resistance. 

- You can buy an Omega De Ville Prestige at retail for £5,000 as of November 2024. 

 

Tudor Black Bay 58 GMT - £3,960

Tudor strikes again at Watches and Wonders 2024 to release a delicious Black Bay 58 GMT. The Black Bay has a heritage which can pull the heartstrings of every type of horophile and enthusiast. And for what you can buy under £5,000 from this brand, you really cannot go wrong. 

Source - Tudor

 

Tudor have turned back the clocks again to offer a fresh look-in on the Black Bay 58, complemented with the travellers function, the GMT. This complication is highly desirable due to its multi-purpose function, and deserves its place in our roundup of the best watches under £5,000. 

The 39mm x 12.8mm dimensions ensure that the watches are definitely ergonomic and can be worn in all manner of environments if a little rigid in looks. This is a diver, but it does slightly lack personality.  

The lugs and case tops seamlessly work together to affix the steel strap seamlessly. Utilising brushing and chamfered edges, the watches are top options as an everyday driver. Framing the dial is the dual colour bezel, splitting two segments into red and black.

The split represents both AM and PM times, and is fitted with a knurled edging to ensure that your diving gloves can easily twist it. That explains the 200 metre water resistance…

The dial opts for black to promote the gilt dot and baton hour markers, alongside the timeless Snowflake hands that have been ticking in Tudor’s portfolio since 1969 under dive watch references like the 7016 and 7021.

All of the above are coated in luminescence for maximum visibility. Secured with a date aperture at 3 o’clock, the Tudor Black Bay 58 GMT are inherently complex. The extra GMT works in conjunction with the 24 hour scale bezel to allow users to read two time zones. 

Pulsating within is the MT5450 calibre. Master Chronometer certified, the watches provide a 65 hour power reserve alongside a very accurate -2/+4 seconds per day accuracy. 

- You can buy a Tudor Black Bay 58 GMT at retail for around £3,960 as of November 2024.

 

TAG Heuer Aquaracer Professional 300 Date - £3,400

The TAG Heuer Aquaracer can trace its lineage back to 1982, developing from the classic 2000 series that epitomises TAG Heuer’s dive watches. Its actual release was in 2004, and has taken onboard the roots that made up classic divers from the early 80s. 

Source - TAG Heuer

 

For the immaculate TAG Heuer Aquaracer Professional 300 Date, modernity is the name of the game. Gone are the days of monochrome dial colours and tired hour markers. Let’s introduce a brand new model designed to get those horophiles talking!

Sized at a slim 36mm, the steel models feature brushed tops and polished sides to balance the luxury design codes. The sloped case sides and prominent crown are a few distinguishing features of these specific models. 

Capable of 300 metres of water resistance as per the Rolex Submariner, these bad boys  are more than capable of being worn in the Mediterranean, but still stylish enough to be pulled off alongside a navy suit or smart chinos. Fitted with a solid caseback, the diving element is promoted again by an engraving of a divers helmet. 

Around the dial is a fabulous bezel with a black ceramic insert, showcasing a 60-minute diving scale. Given a ridged edge, users can easily grasp it and make adjustments, depending on how long they have till a decompression phase, or when it’s time to order the next champagne cocktail. 

Onto the dial! TAG Heuer opt for a fabulous neon pink aesthetic that's given a wave motif to suit the diving legacy. Featuring inconsistent wave embossments, the watches soft engravings allow the VS diamond hour markers to clearly stand out. 

Interjected with tooth shaped hour markers at 12, 3 and 9 o’clock, they are dosed with Super-Luminova for legibility in all conditions. Within the timepieces is the automatic calibre 5. 

Providing a 28,800VpH alongside a weak 38 hour power reserve, they are though more than capable of powering elements like hours, minutes, seconds and the date function at 6 o’clock.

You can buy a TAG Heuer Aquaracer Professional at retail for £3,400 as of November 2024.  

 

Bell & Ross BR-05 GMT Black - £5,000

The most complex BR-05 was a beautiful chrono edition… before the entrance of the astonishing BR-05 GMT that is! Representing the first dual time model in the BR-05 series, the dimensions are kept locked in the typical squared case that has established the brand since it’s creation in 1992. 

Source - Bell & Ross

 

Measuring 41mm, the high-powered Bell & Ross BR-05 GMT Black is constructed in both satin-finished and polished steel. Affixed to an integrated rubber strap, the timepieces showcase both functionality and modernity, as opposed to the standard steel bracelet. 

Locked in with four screws at each corner of the case, as with many watches from this brand, there is immense durability.

Surrounding the edge of the dial is a 24 hour scale emblazoned on the flange. Separated into both black and a silvery grey, the AM and PM time zones are easily distinguishable. This ties in with the extra, red tipped GMT hand to read multiple time zones. 

This surrounds the black sunray dial, allowing light to be cast through and the batons and Arabic numerals to be clearly promoted. Of course, they are given a generous dose of Super-Luminova which helps with their legibility. We like the added touch of a date aperture at 3 o’clock.

Inside the timepieces is the BR-CAL.325. This automatic mechanical movement offers a 42 hour power reserve alongside a 28,800VpH, supported by 25 jewels to enhance accuracy. 

You can buy a Bell & Ross BR-05 GMT Black at retail for £5,000 as of June 2024. 

 

Cartier Tank Française WSTA0074 - £4,500

The Cartier Tank Française debuted in 1996 and brought with it a fresh take on the already inspirational Tank line. Inspired by the Western Front after Louis Cartier’s stint on the front line, he took note of the F-17 Renault tanks and took his design code from a birds eye view of their tops. 

Taking something so gruesome and converting into a timeless watch for the ages is no mean feat. 

Source - Cartier

 

Here, the style changed to a sharper edition of the original line, including prominent lugs and a bracelet that pushed the envelope towards being integrated as opposed to it being a separate entity. 

For this edition of the Cartier Tank Française, the sharp design codes remain. All the case sides are bolt straight. This may appear hostile to some horophiles, but it works perfectly with an equally sharp suit ensemble, primed for the Grammys or Emmys. Totalling 32mm x 7.1mm, they offer the perfect angles for a dress watch. 

Capable of resisting 30 metres of water, the timepieces are definitely suited for those glamorous parties. On the case side lies the attractive synthetic cabochon-shaped spinel with a deep blue dot.

Sleek, simple and elegant, the dial features a silvered shade that boasts blued steel sword shaped hands and black edged Roman Numeral hour markers. On the centre, you will find a squared railway track that can competently read the minutes. 

Within the timepieces is a quartz movement that offers power to the hours and minutes. Rocked by Rami Malek and Mick Jagger, you are in good company with this timepiece.

You will certainly be in esteemed company with one of the best luxury brands on your wrist…and for less than £5000 to boot.

- You can buy a Cartier Tank Française at retail for £4,500 as of November 2024.

 

Grand Seiko 44GS Spring Drive SBGA375 - £4,950

The Grand Seiko SBGA375 utilises the phenomenal Spring Drive calibre. Since the calibre utilises a mainspring and an electrical regulator, the watches offer the strong power reserve of a mechanical movement, and the accuracy of a quick-fire quartz oscillator.

Inspired by the classic 44GS, originally launched in 1967, this calibre formed the main selling point of Grand Seiko watches, alongside the fabulous dial displays, exemplifying their “Alive in Time” motto. 

Source - Grand Seiko

 

Crafted out of stainless steel, it has a case thickness of 12.5mm and a diameter of 40mm. They are radiant due to the sensational Zaratsu polishing. Exclusive to Grand Seiko, this polishing provides a hairline finish, offering razor sharp edges accompanied by mirror-like surfaces. Not quite like a short back and sides at your hairdresser! This is next level stuff.

Displayed in a barrel shape, the crown is very prominent on the case side. However, all of this is simply the background for the sumptuous dial. Inspired by the darkness of midnight (they do like their imagery), the navy blue background goes to black on the periphery, allowing the white minute track to be clearly displayed. 

The large, silver baton hour markers and sword shaped hands are diamond cut to allow light to be caught and let the timekeeping functions glisten like a snowflake on the ground. See we can do our visual descriptions. This works perfectly with the beautifully finished case while the date aperture at 3 o'clock and power reserve indicator are clearly presented.

For under £5000, aficionados can enjoy the 9R65 movement which delivers the oh so legendary Spring Drive movement. It entitles you to approximately 72 hours power reserve and a sensational accuracy of around +/- 15 seconds per month. That’s just +/- 1 second deviation per day! And as we know in this game, every second counts.

- You can buy a Grand Seiko Spring Drive SBGA375 at retail for £4,950 as of November 2024.

 

Longines Flagship Heritage Moonphase L4.815.4.62.2 - £2,950

Our next best men’s watch under £5,000 will send you to the moon and back. 

And we ain’t talking about a Speedmaster. Upon the Flagship's initial release in 1957 (same year as the Speedy!) enthusiasts sought to get their hands on the lineup that fused dressy aesthetics with minimalism. 

Source - Longines

 

Celebrating its 60th anniversary in 2017, it’s been another seven years, and this top Swiss luxury brand has treated us to a fresh and funky colour scheme. Let’s introduce the fabulous Longines Flagship Heritage Moonphase L4.815.4.62.2. 

Coming in a tidy 38.5mm x 12.4mm steel case, they are thoroughly polished and satin-brushed finishes across them, from the bezel, lugs and the case sides. It’s a truly desirable novelty for all manner of occasions in your life. Think big bonus, promotion, or the father-in-law birthday party where you simply have to emit the best impression possible.

All for under £5,000.

The 30 metres of water resistance is not fantastic, but we wouldn't envisage a scenario where you flex this near water. Unless you are on a party barge with ballers like LeBron James of course…

Within the circular bezel and under the glare proof sapphire crystal, is a domed dial in a fetching sunray beige shade. This stunning finish allows light to be cast through, enhancing the various tinctures of the face. 

This, in turn, allows the tooth shaped polished hour markers and sword shaped hands to clearly stand out. Given a strip of Swiss Super-Luminova, the dials are very low-key and would be outstanding when paired alongside a chocolate brown suit or black leather jacket like “Top-G” Andrew Tate. 

In addition to the faces is the fabulous moon-phase indicator with an outer date ring. This is a useful addition as not only is it an ultra-complex feat to undertake, but it is a very stylish aesthetic due to the dark blue sky alongside rich, white moon and stars. 

Flip them over for a tick to reveal a solid steel caseback that’s screwed down. Given a golden “flagship” emblem (we like what they did there), we unfortunately cannot see the Calibre L899. Providing a robust 72 hour power reserve alongside a 25,200VpH, the watches are fitted with a silicon balance spring to combat magnetism and ensure maximum accuracy.

- You can buy a Longines Flagship Heritage Moonphase at retail for £2,950 as of November 2024. 

 

Bell & Ross BR-03 Horizon - £3,990

Ah the dashboard debonairs. 

Picture yourself in a world where you can travel by private jet and find yourself sky-high almost every day…Those ardent horophiles will be glad to know that Bell & Ross have released another aviation inspired timepiece, the BR-03 Horizon with unique feature as opposed to classic GMT models. 

Source - Bell & Ross

 

Originally launched in 2006, the BR-03 line is clearly inspired by aviation, including the instruments found in cockpits. Remember, Bell & Ross were the original supplier of the French Air and Space Force since 1994, demonstrating that this isn’t a particularly obscure release from the brand. 

At 41mm x 10.6mm in black ceramic, these watches make it darker than the scarily moody Escudo Ocean Seacrest Deep Azul Ceramic. This really is a fantastic choice for a number of reasons. Get in touch with your pilot side for a second. 

Offering optimal scratch resistance and being lighter than titanium, steel and gold, this is a prime material for something you will likely wear everyday. In this way, their design codes remain true to the present day. 

Four uniformed screws with the round in a square case is perfect for the modern wearer, especially since the micro-blasted finish is very minimalist and not as objectively dazzling as a polished finish, or sporty as a brushed finish. Still offering 100 metres of water resistance, they are very strong for less than £5,000.

For the dial, the brand breaks some boundaries by introducing a stonewall aviation theme, through an altitude indicator. Split into two segments, light blue and black with an orange decal in the centre relating to the horizon, this references the artificial horizon that pilots view via an instrument on their dashboard. 

Essentially, it allows for seeing the orientation of the plane in poor visibility.

Time is simply read via the black triangle at the top covering the hour indicator, the white scale on the black periphery covering the main hour markers, white arm referencing the seconds hand, and the striped hand covering the running seconds. Within beats the BR-CAL.327 movement. Offering a 54 hour power reserve alongside a steady 28,800VpH, the calibre powers the hours, minutes and hacking seconds. 

- You can buy a Bell & Ross BR-03 Horizon at retail for £3,990 as of November 2024. 

 

Breitling Superocean Automatic 42mm A17375211B2S1 - £4,250

Oh yes, we can certainly taste the rainbow when it comes to our next offering for under £5,000.

If you are on your summer holidays, an avid swimmer, or just fancy taking up a hobby like diving, the Superocean was originally the go-to line for you. However, they have since evolved to become the prime line for connoisseurs interested in flexing a watch in everyday scenarios

Source - Breitling

 

Launched in 1957, the Breitling Superocean was a purpose built dive watch, created to suit the burgeoning popularity of underwater escapades, while offering an ideal alternative to their Chronomat and Navitimer lines. 

So how has Breitling altered it to make consumers want to buy a watch to suit the modern man. Easy. Keep the size manageable and add a pop of colour like H. Moser & Cie X Studio Underd0g’s Passion Fruit timepieces!

The Breitling Superocean Automatic 42mm A17375211B2S1 measures 42mm x 12.56mm of stainless steel. Unfortunately, this means that we don’t have the lightness of titanium, or the precious metal glow of a golden material. However, we can revel in the screw down caseback and crown that grants us 300 metres of water resistance. 

Given a 60-minute unidirectional bezel, this has a ratcheted edge allowing for maximum grip, and grants users the ability to measure decompression phases with ease. For the dial, this has an imposing black centre and high contrast white flange with another 60-minute scale, allowing the rainbow coloured hour markers to stand out. 

From the yellow batons at 12 o’clock to the purple shades at 6 o’clock, the multicoloured aesthetic modernises the timepieces and makes them more desirable to the wearer looking for something more than just a traditional dive watch. 

Heck, down to the hour hand, which has a bright orange centre, or the blue tipped seconds hand, this is the equivalent of the London Fashion Week starlet for horology.  Looking sublime inside is the steady Breitling 17 self winding movement. Supported by 26 jewels, it produces a 38 hour power reserve alongside a reliable 28,800VpH.

- You can buy a Breitling Superocean Automatic 42mm A17375211B2S1 at retail for £4,250 as of November 2024. 

 

Longines Master Collection L23575702 - £2,600

The Longines Master Collection has become a tried and tested line from the one of the best Swiss brands, demonstrating their contemporary and modernised outlook on watchmaking. 

Initially released in 2005, the lineup has seen everything from moon-phases to date-filled dials. 

Source - Longines

 

So, how does one begin to judge the sparkling Master Collection L23575702. Simple, minimalist and the perfect encapsulation of everything refined in their ranks, it’s a real beauty for less than £5,000. 

Available in a very discreet 34mm x 9.20mm, the watches' steel and rose gold cases allow potential buyers to get something a little luxurious without the hefty price tag of a solid gold model. Furthermore, the accompaniment of steel means they retain their durability, but do not fall short in terms of ensuring their models are beautifully presented. 

The rose gold is in all the right places. Found on the circular bezel and the crown, these are instantly noticeable, and have a sharp distinction from the steel lugs and case sides. 

For the dial, the Maison ensures to keep things completely minimal. No fuss or excess here! Given a slate grey colour with sandblasted finish, the rose gold engraved hour markers are unique to this line, opposing the industry standard of printing or applying the numerals. 

This adds an extra level of dimension, alongside the rose gold leaf-shaped hands. Meanwhile, the dotted minute track on the sunray finished flange allows for precision time reading, especially since the watches are so accurate due to their automatic movement. 

The L888 calibre is quite remarkable for such an affordable timepiece. Powering the hours, minutes and the seconds, it offers a 25,200 VpH alongside a weekend-proof 72 hour power reserve. Fitted with a monocrystalline silicon balance spring, those naughty magnetic rays won’t get to your wrist in a hurry!

- You can buy a Longines Master Collection L23575702 at retail for £2,600 as of November 2024. 

 

Tudor Pelagos FXD GMT Zulu Time x Marine Nationale - £4,000

The Tudor Pelagos FXD is one of those watches you’ll see every calibre of celeb flexing in a few years. Defined as a collaborative project between Tudor and the great Marine Nationale (French Navy), this is an ultra strong model for only the most fashionable gents around. 

Source - Tudor

 

We see Tudor taking to titanium for the 42mm x 12.7mm dimensions. This is a wonderful addition to any man’s wardrobe, as titanium is more practical than steel due to its lightness and durability. Heck, the material is so popular that it covers everything from golf clubs to horses hoofs!

If you are a man that requires instant access to multiple time zones, you will take satisfaction in knowing all about the bidirectional bezel with a prominent 24 hour scale. This pairs well with the added 24 hour, red hand, allowing users to read home and away times with ease. 

For the face, this is pitch black, promoting the tropical lume filled baton hour markers and snowflake hands. Legible, retro and ultra-fashionable, the Pelagos FXD GMT Zulu Time x Marine Nationale is an exciting addition to the modern man’s watch stand. 

The small date aperture at 3 o’clock is another handy addition to the watches, projecting it past the general timekeeping watches that make up a large proportion of modern horology. We’re with you Tudor. Bring back complexity!

With a hop, skip and a jump, the MT5652 calibre is the power-house within the models. Keeping up to date with modern Tudor calibres, this Master Chronometer movement offers you a 65 hour power reserve alongside a 28,800VpH. 

- You can buy a Tudor Pelagos FXD GMT Zulu Time x Marine Nationale at retail for £4,000 as of November 2024. 

 

IWC Portofino Automatic 34mm - £4,650

We are far from done yet. Our next runner in the best men’s watch under £5,000 has a kinda Grinch like feel to it. 

Let us explain for a minute. 

Fancy living out your green fantasies as the Grinch (as Christmas approaches) or maybe something a little more tactful like Ryan Gosling’s green outfit spotted at the Premier of The Ides of March - unfortunately not worn again since his 2011 flaunting.

Source - IWC

 

Well, we have the perfect timepiece for you to flex! Enter, the IWC Portofino Automatic 34mm with a slender case aesthetic and refined dial style to get you elevated from office nobody to storming the boardroom conversation. 

The 34mm x 8.6mm case dimensions are exceptionally small, especially when considering your next purchase. The Rolex 1908, came in a 39mm x 9.50mm of solid platinum. With such slender aesthetics, we aren’t surprised at the rather low 30 metres of water resistance. No problem, just don’t wear this near any body of water!

Polished throughout, these are excellent additions to any formal wardrobe, be it a black suit for a promising promotion meeting, a simple camel overcoat for those winter treks to the local hotspot, or hosting a dinner party at your house. This is without doubt a conversation starter bar none.

For the dial, we have a dark green shade with sunburst and sunray finish. Fitted with polished steel baton hour markers, alongside small diamonds atop each of the indices, the polished syringe shaped hands allows the watches to be visible, since they don’t have luminova. 

Fixed firmly under the dial is the excellent 35100 calibre. This automatic winding movement offers a 50 hour power reserve alongside a steady 28,800VpH, alongside being fitted with 25 jewels to allow the movement to have little friction. 

- You can buy an IWC Portofino Automatic 34mm at retail for £4,650 as of November 2024. 

 

Tudor Black Bay 79210CNU - £4,420

If you fancy a piece that uses avant garde materials, stark dials and is one of the latest continuations of perhaps the most enigmatic Swiss collections since its release in 2012, we’ll let you in on a little horological secret. 

Why have you not discovered the sensational Tudor Black Bay Ceramic 79210CNU.

Source - Tudor

 

Designed in collaboration with the racing team, Red Bull F1 team, Visa Cash App RB Formula One Team, as per their original collaboration in early 2024, the models were unofficially flexed by Daniel Ricciardo and Yuki Tsunoda. Now, we finally have the watch in our grasp. 

Coming in at 41mm x 14.4mm, they continue on the dive watch legacy of the original Black Bay models, explaining the 200 metres of water resistance and utility aesthetic of the micro-blasted black ceramic case. 

Across the top, there is a unidirectional rotatable bezel in steel. Given a black PVD coating, this allows maximum protection as the coating acts as an extra line of defence against scratches and marks. Not bad for less than £5,000.

Fitted with a 60-minute scale, this comes in black ceramic and complemented with a sunray satin finish. However, it’s completely blacked out, meaning legibility is not the best, but does tie in very well with the rest of the blackened piece. 

For the dial, they have a stark, matte navy blue shade, linking to the blue livery of the Visa Cash App RB Formula One Team. There’s no frills or bizarre brush strokes on this. It’s kept minimal and pure, allowing for the dot and baton hour markers, legendary snowflake hands and white minute track on the periphery, to be clearly displayed.

So, what keeps this watch in horological check? Simply twist the piece over and take a look through the exhibition caseback! Inside is a Master Chronometer certified MT5602-1U calibre, allowing for a 28,800VpH, alongside a 70 hour power reserve. Oh yes they may be the smaller sibling of Rolex. But it’s no wonder they get many horophiles' wrists revved up.

- You can buy a Tudor Black Bay 79210CNU at retail for £4,420 as of November 2024. 

 

Grand Seiko Heritage 44GS USA Exclusive SBGA509 - Pink Dial - £4,300

Now, our loyal readers from the great U.S of A will have to take a seat. 

You guys are the only nation with the chance to get your hands on an exclusive pair of Grand Seiko watches… while the rest of us have to diligently wait for the secondary market! And you know Chrono Hunter is the beating heart of the pre-owned world…

Source - Grand Seiko

 

Sized at 40mm x 12.5mm, the steel models are beautifully finished with signature Zaratsu polishing across the bezel, lugs and case. This finishing is specifically reserved for the Grand Seiko craftsmen, resulting in a polished finish alongside sharp edges. 

Requiring years of experience to perform, this is an exceptionally exclusive finish and is about as complex as the ultra insane Franck Muller Crazy Hours Eau De Parfum! Away from the beauty of the polished bezel with its sharp, contoured edge, we have 100 metres of water resistance, ensuring longevity and durability. 

So, what sits underneath the sapphire crystal?

We have Japanese inspiration in the form of the stunning shades of an early evening sky over Lake Suwa. The slightly granular texture offers a glossy backdrop for the applied, baton hour markers to clearly stand out, alongside sword shaped hands. 

Furthermore, users can cast their eyes over a power reserve indicator over 7 o’clock and a date aperture located at 3 o’clock, in case they feel like general timekeeping is simply inadequate!

Keeping consistent time within the timepieces is the highly reliable Calibre 9R65 in-house calibre with 72 hour power reserve alongside a sensational accuracy of around +/- 15 seconds per month.

Users will be glad to note that this is powered by Spring Drive tech, a fabulous part of Grand Seiko’s movement portfolio that uses an oscillating rotor from quartz models for maximum accuracy, alongside a mainspring for optimal power reserve. 

- You can buy a Grand Seiko SBGA509 at retail for $5,600 (around £4,300) as of November 2024. 

 

TAG Heuer Aquaracer Professional 300 Date - Green Dial - £3,300

The TAG Heuer Aquaracer 300 Automatic is only a very recent venture in horology. 

First spotted in 2021, it evolved from the original Aquaracer from 1982 when the Falklands War took place and Italy were World Cup winners. Earning its proper name in 2004, the later Aquaracer 300 Automatic is a very funky addition to the classic dive line. 

Source - TAG Heuer

 

For this model, the 42mm x 12mm is not particularly obtrusive. Finished beautifully with satin-brushed and polished surfaces across the tops and sides, we suggest you flex this as often as you can. For us it has a kinda Omega Seamaster vibe to it but that’s not a bad thing. It can certainly take the punches as ensured by the steel case and 300 metres of water resistance, allowing you to drop down like Swatch’s net sales.

Along the top is a steel octagonal bezel, relating to the original Aquaracer aesthetics. Of course, there is a green ceramic insert that covers a luminous, 60-minute scale for when you need to measure the decompression phases when diving. 

The dial is equally a green hue and features a textured finish. The deep etched lines mimic the rocking waves of the sea, and further cement these models as exciting, dive inspired tickers. The dotted and baton, lume-filled hour markers alongside the sharp hands are easy to see, especially the prominent, neon yellow seconds hand. 

The added date aperture residing at 6 o’clock is a tidy addition to the face, while the magnified glass over it ensures that it takes only a quick glance down to spot it. Home to the TH31-00 automatic movement, this piece has a 28,800VpH alongside an impressive 80 hour power reserve. COSC certified? You bet.

- You can buy a TAG Heuer Aquaracer Professional 300 Date - Green Date at retail for £3,650 as of November 2024. 

 

Longines Pilot Majetek Pioneer Edition - £4,600

We know who you are. You love the private jets, the sounds of the suitcase wheels against the airport floor...even the boring wait-times for the passport checks. For such a demure gent, you simply must buy a Longines Pilot Majetek Pioneer Edition for your wrist. 

Source - Longines

 

Brimming with more history than Hadrian’s Wall, the original Longines Pilot Majetek was made for the Czechoslovakian Air Force in 1935, and noted for a number of design codes including a prominent, serrated bezel edge, legible dial and cushion shaped case. 

At 43mm x 13.30mm, it is crafted out of titanium, promoting durability and lightness when compared to steel. This quickly counters the prominent design, and means you won’t be walking like an ape with your knuckles to the floor. 

Polished across the lugs and inner bezel ring, the large serrated edge is a culture shock for many modern horophiles. However, those interested in vintage watches, like Girard-Perregaux’s very desirable 1945 line, will be more than glad to let the bulbous bezel aesthetic shine. 

The dial is pitch black with a matte grained finish. Complemented with prominent Arabic numerals and sword shaped hands with a polished aesthetic, these are all coated with Super-Luminova to offer phenomenal legibility. At 6 o’clock is a fabulous small seconds counter that allows precision reading. 

Framed by a white minute counter, the watches are kept low-key and prioritise optimal visibility over pretension. The heartbeat is the steady Calibre L893.6. This automatic movement is COSC certified, offering a 72 hour power reserve alongside a 25,500VpH. Heritage, retro vibes and classic design means it’s a winner all round.

- You can buy a Longines Pilot Majetek Pioneer Edition at retail for £4,600 as of November 2024.

 

Rest Of The Best Men’s Watches Under £5,000

There are a few honourable mentions that we feel more than obliged to mention that fit the bill for less than £5,000; 

Brand and Model	Retail Price (As of November 2024)
IWC Pilot’s Watch Automatic Spitfire	£4,600
Panerai Luminor Base Logo	£4,900
Grand Seiko SBGA429	Around £4,500
Breitling Super Avenger II	£4,700
Bell & Ross BR05 GMT	£5,000
Longines Spirit Zulu Time	£4,000
Panerai Radiomir Base Logo	£4,300
Breitling Superocean Automatic	£4,100
Tudor Black Bay Bronze	£3,870

 

Conclusion

There you have it, Timelords. Looking sharp doesn't have to be an extortionately priced endeavour and hopefully we’ve given you enough examples to offer you a little inspiration for under £5,000

There are a few other models you could choose from that may take your fancy if you want to buy a watch that is not as much as £5,000.  We adore The Tudor Pelagos due to its highly modern 42mm titanium case with its 500 metres of water resistance. You can buy a Tudor Pelagos at retail for £4,040 as of June 2024. 

Each of these beautiful luxury watches are based within the entry level category of high level horology. They are considerably more affordable than pieces from Audemars Piguet and Vacheron Constantin, but they are all made to extremely high standards and in some instances are COSC certified. 

We really hope you enjoyed reading this article! Now, I wonder where you can source any of these exciting luxury watches for less than £5,000?

 

Can't wait to buy a Rolex Daytona? Want to save money the smart way and feel the vibration of a Superlative Chronometer on your wrist for under £5,000? It’s about time you had a chat with Chrono Hunter here. Check out our phenomenal reviews on Trustpilot and find out why we are the go-to place to buy a watch or sell a watch. 

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Further Reading: 

The Best Watches To Buy Under £20,000

 

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