- Best Watch For The Man Of Few Words - Rolex 1908
- Best Watch For The Captain Of His Own Ship - TAG Heuer Carrera Skipper.
- Best Watch For The “Made In Where?” Gentleman - A. Lange & Söhne Odysseus 463.178
- Best Watch For The Ultimate Narcissist - Zenith Defy Extreme Mirror
- Best Watch For The Man Of High Culture - Chopard L.U.C XP Urushi Year of the Dragon
- Best Watch For The George Clooney Wannabe - Grand Seiko SBGW301
- Best Watch For The Gent Who’s More Fish Than Man - Longines Hydroconquest GMT
- Best Watch For The Mechanical Freak - H.Moser & Cie Streamliner Small Seconds Micro-Rotor
- Best Watch For The Sports-Car Fanatic - Girard-Perregaux Neo Bridges Aston Martin Edition
- Best Watch To Achieve Holy Grail Status - Richard Mille RM 35-03 Automatic Rafael Nadal
- Conclusion
Chrono Hunter Selects The Top New Men's Watches For 2024
2023 was an incredible year in the horological world. We’ve seen the famed Watches and Wonders 2023 event in March, Geneva Watch Days in late August and the brilliant Dubai Watch Week in November, all of which boasted new releases and stunning pieces for us Timelords to drool over.
Within this article, we will be looking at what has caught our eyes from this monumental year in the world of timekeeping. Either because they are extremely accurate, have a sense of style that could overshadow Johnny Depp’s career, or effortlessly dynamic with the pulling power of a Boeing 747
Sure, there are a number of other reasons like chic-retroism or avant-garde futurism for good measure. But we won’t lay down all our cards yet. There’s plenty of time for that! Without further deliberation, join us as we get into Chrono Hunter’s top new men’s watches for 2024.
Miss it or miss out.
Best Watch For The Man Of Few Words - Rolex 1908
He likes his socks black, his shirts white and his necklace tucked under his shirt. However, remember that those socks are cashmere, the shirt is from Savile Row and the necklace is a limited edition item from Louis Vuitton. The key men’s piece for him is from Rolex’s newest and most talked about collection to date, The 1908.
Source - Rolex
Firstly, some breaking news before we wrap up for Christmas… Owning a Rolex may have just gotten a little easier! Hark the herald angels sing I hear you cry. Hold on to your bezels for just a second.
The horological titans have just been fined a cool $100 million dollars for illegally banning French online sales. Fined this figure by France’s antitrust agency, the reasons were because Rolex attempted to stop authorised retailers in France from selling watches online, as per their offline business model which they claim is “justified by the need to combat counterfeiting and parallel trade”. Tough break, guys! Maybe have a word with Santa to see if he can work his magic.
The Cellini died during Watches and Wonders 2023, and sort of like a Viking burial, The 1908 arose like a horological Phoenix from the flames, bigger and better than its predecessor. Completely new and fitted with the latest gadgets to rival James Bond, this 39mm piece is crafted out of yellow gold and equipped with a fetching classic circular dress timepiece aesthetic. Featuring a luxurious fluted edge on the case, the lugs are kept on the razors side of thin with a 9.50mm thickness.
The beauty of the precious metal casing is exemplified by the matte white dial that showcases an extremely gentle satin finish. Here, they strip everything back by having a small seconds sub-counter located at 6 o’clock, golden Arabic numerals at 12, 3 and 9 o’clock and baton hour markers for the rest. The hands are gold, with the hour marker featuring a distinctive circle below its sharpened tip.
The watches are powered by the Calibre 7140. Maintaining Rolex’s legacy of a brilliant Superlative Chronometer Certification along with a 66 hour power reserve and average of -2/+2 seconds per day, they are supported by a double combo of Syloxi hairspring and Chronergy escapement. Locked in with a brown alligator leather strap, we can see you pulling this off with a classic black suit with your sharpest brown brogues.
- You can buy a Rolex 1908 at retail for £18,500 as of December 2023.
Brand Horological School Report
Now, Rolex is the student who everyone loves. A teacher’s pet if you will…always there to work out the value of Pi and enrolled in every single club under the sun. The headmaster takes advice, the girls love to swoon around him and he certainly knows that he is the hottest thing in the school yard.
He has little siblings like Tudor aspiring to be him when he showcases his diving ability with the one and done Submariner, his effervescent style with the Datejust and his aviation prowess thanks to the Sky-Dweller.
The crème de la crème of horology, Rolex are the Bugatti Veyron of watchmaking. Constantly wanted yet so hard to get, they are the top dogs, but only if you have the green to lay down.
Final Grade: A+
Best Watch For The Captain Of His Own Ship - TAG Heuer Carrera Skipper.
On family hikes, he takes control of the map and guides you confidently through the marshland. If he was at the World Cup in ‘66, you bet he would’ve been the one to raise the trophy. For the leader of his own life, it’s essential he gets the aptly named and one of our top picks for the best men’s watches of 2024, The TAG Heuer Carrera Skipper.
Source - TAG Heuer
Originating from 1969, this timepiece has more history than the Bayeux Tapestry. The TAG Heuer Skipper was discontinued in 1983, but has had more of an impressive comeback than Anthony Joshua this year. And boy this does pack a punch. Originally made for regatta races, it’s been 40 years since its discontinuation…so what a way to mark an anniversary!
Measuring 39mm of steel, the watches follow on from the classic “Glassbox” design that was prevalent in the past and characterised by a domed sapphire crystal that raises above the dial and over the case sides. This gives you the opportunity to clearly see the periphery of the face.
Water resistant to 100 metres, which should cover all the water babies, you can take to the seven seas with confidence. Given a navy blue dial background, the Skipper heritage comes into play with the bold dial chronograph sub counters at 3 and 9 o’clock. At 9 o’clock is the 12 hour counter which is completely teal shaded and at 3 o’clock is the 15 minute sundial which is made up of teal, green and red.
The hour markers are applied and given red tips above and are very prominent against the background, especially since they seamlessly blend with the rhodium plated hands that have red tips. Don't forget the date aperture and skeletonised small seconds sub counters at 6 o’clock!
Powered by the Calibre TH20-06, the watches offer a wonderful 80 hour power reserve and 28,800VpH. Fitted with a blue fabric strap, pair this with a navy blue jumper or a white T-shirt when chilling out above deck.
- You can buy a TAG-Heuer Carrera Skipper at retail for £5,900 as of December 2023.
Brand Horological School Report
TAG Heuer is a student that works exceptionally hard because he knows that's how he sees results, but plays with the exact same tempo. If it means looking to see where he can improve his personality, he takes the night off every now and again to play dress up like The Formula 1 Mario Kart Chronograph.
TAG Heuer is the go-to brand for many motorsport nerds or petrol heads with enough horological gas in that F1 engine. They are popular, well respected and have a range of legendary collections that have made them a cut above the rest like The Monaco. However, they still need to build their confidence when playing with the bigger boys.
Final Grade: C
Best Watch For The “Made In Where?” Gentleman - A. Lange & Söhne Odysseus 463.178
He gets his leather boots from Italy, updates his wine cellar with only the finest vintage French bottles and sources his diamonds solely from South Africa.
Why not get him a men’s timepiece from the land famed for engineering, punctuality and alternative Swiss quality. Sure we are lovers of the iconic Zeitwerk with jumping hours and minutes. But how about a German based A. Lange & Söhne Odysseus 463.178?
Source - A. Lange & Söhne
The Odysseus collection has been making the rounds since 2019, following 25 years since their reunification from being nationalised in 1948. It was the first steel model and the first capable of reaching a depth of 120 metres.
This year, they have continued the great legacy of the collection. Sized at 42.5mm, the steel watches maintain their 120 metre water resistance. The case is complimented with both beautifully chamfered edges alongside highly polished elements, creating a seamless finish throughout.
The dial is pitch black and features a few different levels to enhance the legibility of the hour markers and hands. The central part of the face is textured with a grain aesthetic, while the edge is given a snailed finish. Furthermore, the silvered flange is slightly raised to allow for a quick check of the minute track.
Featuring silvered baton hour markers and hands, there is an oversized day of the week aperture at 9 o’clock, large day aperture at 3 o’clock and a seconds counter at 6 o’clock. The second hand is bright red and “60” on the minute track, offering a tinge of colour to the industrial style grey and silver hues.
Powered by the L156.1 calibre, this automatic chronograph offers a 50 hour power reserve with a 28,800VpH. Fitted with a steel bracelet, you can wear this while wine tasting in Champagne or firing out last minute documents in the boardroom.
- You can buy an A. Lange & Söhne Odysseus 463.178 at retail when you request a price as of December 2023.
Brand Horological School Report
Quiet, diligent and ready to show why he deserves to be in the same class as you, A. Lange & Söhne is a bit of an oddbod, to say the least. He is not there to socialise and party but to ensure there is lots of form and function.
With the same efficiency as their national train system, they have impeccable timing, perform with expert precision and leave with as much co-ordination as their 1815 Moonphase that only requires one day correction every 1058 years. Truly epic. German built and inspired, they prioritise efficiency and quality over anything else. We think they are a great brand for those that aren’t interested in the huge names or the gimmicks but still offer bags of lineage.
Final Grade: B
Best Watch For The Ultimate Narcissist - Zenith Defy Extreme Mirror
You are a gent who likes his hair preened and polished until you can perform trigonometry from your brow to the tapered hairs on your neck. If you feel like you fall under this fashionable category, we have a brand new men’s model which allows you instant mirror access and Hollywood glamour…straight from the comfort of your wrist!
Source - Zenith
The Zenith Defy Extreme Mirror takes its cues from the Extreme Collection that was originally released in 2021. Mysteriously, the watches are crafted at 45mm of stainless steel. We wouldn’t be surprised if you thought they were made out of crystal clear sapphire!
From Zenith’s instantly recognisable 12 sided bezel to the integrated steel bracelet, these timepieces are shined up real good. The mirror-polished effect creates a stunning surface that holds no distortions or blurring. This avant-garde style is continued through the skeletonised dial that features a sapphire crystal within the watches centre. We think this could almost double up as a mirror for some who want to look gorgeous in and out of the office.
Legibility shouldn’t be a cause for concern either. The hour markers and hands are silvered and given a centre filled with Luminova, as well as the hands across all three sub-counters. The sub-counters relate to a small seconds counter at 9 o’clock, a 30 minute counter at 3 o’clock and a 60-second counter situated at 6 o’clock.
The watches are powered by the illustrious El Primero 9004 chronograph movement. With not one but two escapement functions, this automatic calibre offers a fantastic level of accuracy, reaching 36,000 VpH for the general timekeeping, 360,000 VpH for the chronograph and a power reserve of 50 hours.
The way the main chronograph seconds hand completes a lightning fast rotation around the dial is enough to send any aficionado into timekeeping ecstasy. I mean, this thing is quicker than Usain Bolt running for the last train. With the option of an integrated steel bracelet with the mirror aesthetic or a black rubber or velcro strap, we reckon you could flex your style with a sharp black tux.
- You can buy a Zenith Defy Extreme Mirror at retail for £23,100 as of December 2023.
Brand Horological School Report
Zenith are the scientific futuristic boffins that love to experiment with different styles and aesthetics. They are the ones at the back of the class playing with the Bunsen Burners! Be it turning things cold with their Defy Extreme Glacier or lighting things up rainbow style with The Defy 21 Chroma II, they love to smash compounds together and see which ones blow up with the most thrilling results!
A modern day George Jetson, they closely resemble the prestige of a Mercedes Benz with the forward thinking attitude of James Dyson. They really are the exciting innovators of their world. Endlessly pioneering and with a strong heritage of success, we recommend Zenith to those who enjoy endless excitement and a tad of intergalactic wackiness to their watches.
Final Grade: B+
Best Watch For The Man Of High Culture - Chopard L.U.C XP Urushi Year of the Dragon
If you spend your days reading up on a hidden tribe in the Amazon forest, trying to find a flight to a remote part of the Icelandic planes or learning your 7th language, you won’t be disappointed with our next entry on the best men’s watches for 2023. Something that enriches the debonair gent while epitomising their rich cultural standing or Royalist type influences.
Source - Magnifissance
The Chopard L.U.C XP Urushi Year of the Dragon celebrates the Chinese New Year 2024 which is happening in February next year. Talk about forward thinking!
Sized at 39.50mm, this is crafted out of ethically sourced 18K rose gold. They are very minimalist at 6.80mm thickness, entitling you to a very ergonomic flex on the wrist. The watches have 30 metres of water resistance which is good enough to last a brisk shower, but not enough for a deep dive in the Caribbean Ocean. For that you might want to refer to the below if you are in search of a truly bottomless diver;
The real prize comes in the form of a beautiful dial with a Dragon aesthetic, pertaining to the Chinese New Year celebration. The dial is handcrafted in Japan by a master craftsman, Minori Koizumi. Specialising in the incredible Maki-e technique, the dials require at least 20 hours of work in order to attain the lacquer finish that also features gold flakes.
The watches are powered by the L.U.C 96.17-L movement. Supported with a 22K gold micro rotor, these timepieces run at 28,800VpH and offer a weekend-proof 65 hour power reserve. Furthermore, the sapphire caseback allows you to view the glorious Cotes de Genève finished movement. Fitted onto a hand stitched black alligator leather strap, why not consider wearing this with a navy cashmere jumper for a relaxed fit.
- With a limited edition run of just 88 pieces, you can buy a Chopard L.U.C XP Urushi Year of the Dragon at retail for around £24,360, as of December 2023.
Brand Horological School Report
Chopard are the luxurious loners that have the creative skills of a final year Art student wanting that place at St. Martins College of Design. Kinda like the Tracy Emin of the watch world. With an allure just like their cutting edge and ultimately colourful Imperiale Joaillerie. If it means remaining independent to keep their authenticity, they would rather look charming from afar than repeated like a cliche fashion trend!
With the unique, family-owned styling of being under the Scheufele family of Germany since 1963, Chopard are the obsessively independent brands that aim to keep their watches between the lines of classic and contemporary. We recommend Chopard to those who love to buy cutting-edge designs while enjoying wearing something that isn’t usually seen on people’s wrists.
Final Grade: C
Best Watch For The George Clooney Wannabe - Grand Seiko SBGW301
You’re the kind of guy who loves looking suave, elegant and who knows that understated sophistication is the only way to show true fashion sense. Perhaps none more so than your idol, George Clooney! It’s only fair you get a new men’s time keeper that shows your unbridled handsomeness.
Source - Grand Seiko
Developing from the diverse history behind the Grand Seiko SBGW001 in 2001, this ivory dial beauty has continued to keep its style minimalist, and its vibes suave.
As we drew the horological curtain over 2023, this latest play on reference SBGW001 had confirmed that the reference is not just a flash in the pan, but a confirmation that Grand Seiko is more than a Japanese inspired brand. They are also style gods!
The Grand Seiko SBGW301 is sized at a very wearable and much slimmer 37mm, allowing them to comfortably slip under shirt cuffs with ease. The circular, dressy case undergoes a thorough Zaratsu polished finish which is their signature party trick, as well as gently curved case sides, dial and slightly chamfered lugs.
The sapphire crystal is given a domed build that emphasises the legibility of the ivory coloured dial. While it’s only resistant to 30 metres, we recommend you keep them out of the crystal clear waters. The dial is slightly curved and continues its tradition of a matte cream face, alongside diamond-cut markers and sharpened hands. This is minimalism that would put Terry Riley and Steve Reich to shame.
Aside from the great “Grand Seiko” title and emblem positioned under 12 o’clock, the dial is as untouched as that new Porsche you have just purchased after picking up that festive bonus. Powered by the Calibre 9S64, they run at 4Hz and offer a power reserve of 3 days. They have an estimated accuracy of around +5/-3 seconds per day. Considering the highly esteemed Rolex brand yields a fantastic -2/+2 seconds per their Superlative Chronometer certification, you are getting bang for your buck! Fitted with a black crocodile leather strap, they will look excellent under white shirt sleeves or a camel overcoat.
- You can buy a Grand Seiko SBGW301 at retail for £4,400 as of December 2023.
Brand Horological School Report
They are a diligent exchange student who takes his academics very seriously. However, gets a few drinks in him at the Student Union, and he lets his hair down and takes off his tie to unveil a rebellious streak just like the Yuka Momiji SBGJ273 with its bold red hues inspired by reflective Japanese maple hardwood floors and the autumnal landscape.
Designed with the same Eastern grit of a Suzuki, Grand Seiko are a high powered brand that is proud of its Japanese heritage. We think they are a top luxury brand for those that are seeking more budget friendly alternatives to Rolex.
Final Grade: B
Best Watch For The Luxury Loving Sybarite - Vacheron Constantin Overseas Tourbillon High Jewellery
I bet you wish you could dive into a pool of coins like Scrooge McDuck with our next best new men’s watch of 2024. You even salivate at the tracking location of your parcel, filled with designer jumpers and jewel encrusted rings. You are the luxury lover, the man who cannot get enough of the finer things in life. You are the definition of La Dolce Vita.
Source - Vacheron Constantin
If this is you, we can only recommend one of the most beautiful men’s watches to grace 2023…The Vacheron Constantin Overseas Tourbillon High Jewellery.
Sized at 42.5mm, this represents the first time a piece from the Overseas collection has been crafted out of white gold. Water resistant to 50 metres, they may not be dive certified, but they are most suitably appropriate for a gentle sprinkling in the shower.
The six-sided bezel clearly stands out especially since it’s filled with an impressive 60 baguette cut diamonds that gleam against the satin brushed case.
The eyes are then drawn into the beautiful, blue lacquer dial that’s swiftly become a staple of the Vacheron Constantin Overseas collection. Not jewelled up enough? Take a look at the white gold hour markers from 8 o’clock to 4 o’clock which are similarly filled with baguette cut diamonds.
The other hour markers are removed in replacement for a skeletonised tourbillon complication. They are powered by the movement 2160. Given a fantastic 80 hour power reserve and 18,800VpH frequency, they are more powerful than a contest between the Hulk and Arnold Schwarzennegger. They are fitted onto an integrated white gold bracelet, a blue calfskin or rubber strap. We think you’d look the part with this under a cream suit if you are brave or a black polo shirt for a more casual look.
- You can buy a Vacheron Constantin Overseas Tourbillon High Jewellery at retail upon request, as of December 2023.
Brand Horological School Report
They are not bashful in the slightest. He is the can do school prefect that’s in every student council, meeting early and feared among every student for his academic and physical presence. Continuously looking to evolve himself like their Retrograde collection at Watches and Wonders 2023, you can only shake your head and wonder… Can I ever be like him? Built with Genevan heritage like their mountainous hillsides, Vacheron Constantin is the ultimate brand for any horophile, regardless of knowledge or experience. Like David Beckham, they have a timelessness and appeal that will always remain steadfast to their purpose.
Final Grade: A+
Best Watch For The Man Who Never Grows Up - IWC Big Pilot’s Watch 42 Tourbillon Le Petit Prince
If you still giggle like a small child at cartoons or can’t help but think Santa Claus is tip-tapping on your roof tiles, you need to get yourself a ticker that reflects your childhood charms. Introducing one of the best men’s watches to reignite your childish heart…The IWC Big Pilot’s Watch 42 Tourbillon Le Petit Prince.
Source - IWC
IWC and relations of Saint Exupéry have been in collaboration since 2013, resulting in a number of Pilot watches that are heavily inspired by the famous “Little Prince” who has taken centre stage of writer and pilot Saint Exupéry’s works.
Celebrating ten years of IWC’s inspired Little Prince watches, this edition comes in at 43mm and has a pretty thick case size of 14.58mm. Water resistant to 100 metres, they are very durable and built to last.
Crafted out of 18K Armor gold, they are fitted with a beautiful navy dial that allows the gold-plated Arabic numerals to clearly stand out, just like the sword shaped hands and gold plated triangle at 12 o’clock which allows pilots to recognise the position of the hands with just a glance.
We recommend you flip the case over to see the Le Petit Prince etching. The sapphire caseback shows the Prince standing on an asteroid that rotates via the 18K gold rotor. They are powered by the Calibre 82905 that offers 28,800VpH and a 80 hour power reserve. Fitted onto a brown calfskin leather strap, they would look great with a charcoal grey suit.
- Capped at 300 pieces, you can buy an IWC Big Pilot’s Watch 42 Tourbillon Le Petit Prince for £72,100 as of December 2023.
Brand Horological School Report
IWC are the cheeky planes, trains and automobile spotters that have suddenly been hanging out with the cool pupils like Lewis Hamilton.
Yes, they may have enough natural charm to swing their classes, but they know how to flex their muscles when the times get tough. Adapting to being a scientist's best friend with the Ingenieur or being sky-high with the Pilot collection, IWC is versatile and continues on the great Schaffhausen watchmaking beacon. Plus, they are trendy enough to now be called one of the “it” watches of the moment.
IWC is the Hugo Boss of horology. Well known and well respected with impeccable legibility emanating from their pilot watches, you can be confident that they will last. This is a key player in the market but we feel they are a bit too safe. Same school desk setup, same routine going to Starbucks at lunch. But how long can they keep this up for?
Final Grade: C
Best Watch For The Born-To-Be Politician - Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar Openworked "Cactus Jack"
He’s the office collaborator, the man who can link a Gobi desert resident with an Eskimo in Alaska. He can bring together families for special occasions like an all-out birthday party and make amends between divorcees.
What better men’s model than the fusion of two great artists, Travis Scott and Audemars Piguet. Presenting The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar Openworked "Cactus Jack".
Source - Audemars Piguet
We don’t know what Francois François-Henry Bennahmias, CEO of Audemars Piguet was thinking at the time but this does work on so many levels.
Representing the first time Audemars Piguet have used brown ceramic, they are 41mm diameter and have a rather thin sizing of 9.9mm. The bezel continues the Royal Oak aesthetic with the octagonal shaping and eight hex screws, but everything changes when your eyes turn to the dial with enough chocolate in it to close Willy Wonka’s factory down (well almost).
The dial features a number of chronograph sub-counters, including a perpetual calendar with date, day of the week, month, leap year and double moon. The classic four sub-counter layout is given a Travis Scott aesthetic.
Take for example the typography which closely resembles that used by Travis Scott and his Cactus Jack brand. This includes the numbering of the minute track, those on the sub-counter and lettering for dates and days on the sub counters which were all written by the American rapper.
The double moon phase is hand drawn with a sewn eyes and mouth shut design on both moons. The entire face gives a luminescent flow which adds to the ghostly aesthetic of the timepiece. Powered by the Calibre 5135, the movement runs at 19,800VpH and offers a modest power reserve of 40 hours (Were perplexed why given the $201,000 retail price). Fitted onto a brown calfskin leather strap, they are perfect for a grey bomber jacket for the man on the fly.
- Capped at 200 pieces, you can buy an Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar Openworked "Cactus Jack" upon request for a price as of December 2023. Although, that’s if you happen to be quids in with the singer!
Brand Horological School Report
Audemars Piguet has always been a cool kid on the block and the rock n roll child of the classroom. One moment, he is furiously keeping to his schedule with tried and tested processes like the Royal Oak, and the next. Well, he’s gone stir crazy and performing off-the-wall stunts, like the far-fetching Concept collection, to attract the eyes of a girl! Whose money is he using anyway…Daddys?
Swiss brands don’t get much bigger than AP. Representing the Harry Winston of the diamond world, they have been around forever and will likely remain top of the leaderboard and a Holy Trinity member. We think they are one of the ultimate luxury brands for those that want to see and be seen…with a controversial edge.
Final Grade: A-
Best Watch For The Gent Who’s More Fish Than Man - Longines Hydroconquest GMT
If these men look for a hotel, it needs to have an infinity pool. If he’s heading abroad, it must be near the clearest and most azure-coloured waters. His search history is filled with reviews of new scuba gear and snorkels. So, it’s only fair that he gets hooked like a salmon with a men’s dive watch that has a little travelling functionality!
Source - Longines
With a 41mm case, the Longines Hydroconquest GMT are sublime stainless steel watches that receive a brushed styling that link in with the sporty design. They are supported with a rotating diving bezel that features a ceramic 60-minute diving scale graduation.
Given a first rate water resistance of 300 metres, they are capable of being worn when diving in the sea around this figure. Any more and you can say so long to functionality or accuracy. Take a look at the green dial which features a sunray-brushed aesthetic and applied markers and hands daubed with Super-Luminova to ensure optimal legibility.
Powered by the L844.5 movement, the Longines Hydroconquest GMT runs at 25,200VpH and has a power reserve of 72 hours. We like its GMT functionality, as noted by the extra GMT hour hand that works with the 24 hour scale on the flange. Fitted onto a steel bracelet or a NATO strap, they would look sublime with a blue denim jacket or with your favourite trunks. For us, this is one of the best men’s watches for 2024 if you want the perfect entry-level diver
- You can buy a Longines Hydroconquest GMT at retail for £2,650 as of December 2023.
Brand Horological School Report
Longines are the dark horses of the academic system. They’ve been there since school began and will likely remain prowling the walls with their evergreen phrases and quotes. A steady Eddie, they don’t need to do anything outlandish or perform one off events to gain the teachers respect. But they don’t stand out from the crowd while reflecting on old times. In fact, they can even get away with giving their past a makeover like the Heritage collection!
Longines have a multitude of lines that are very versatile like a Ford. They can interchange from the dressy Master Collection to the pilot inspired Spirit Zulu and perform both very well. Affordable yet reliable is a code that's served them well.
Final Grade: C
Best Watch For The Mechanical Freak - H.Moser & Cie Streamliner Small Seconds Micro-Rotor
These men love to own the newest tech, the just-released designs and new concepts in his pocket or on his desk. We guarantee that this top men’s watch will make him smile! Introducing, The H.Moser & Cie Streamliner Small Seconds Micro-Rotor.
Source - H.Moser & Cie
Crafted out of stainless steel, these 39mm watches are built into a beautiful cushion shape that allows the lugs to be integrated into the bracelet. The case is very ergonomic, allowing easy wearability under shirt cuffs.
Water resistant to 120 metres, they are incredibly durable and are capable of being worn either in the boardroom or when impressing that date with dinner plans. If you can get past the beautiful display, don’t avert your eyes and try to focus on the dial…
Given a Grand Feu aesthetic which offers a textured feel to the navy blue colour. This is attained through combining three different enamel colours which are applied to achieve the great style. The small seconds complication is given a snailed finish to promote its legibility, while the applied hours and minute hands are fitted with Globolight to boost legibility.
Home to the fascinating HMC 500 movement, this new release is given a brand new micro-rotor and hairspring that’s created by Precision Engineering AG. The micro-rotor is crafted out of platinum. Running at 3Hz, they enjoy a power reserve of 3 days meaning you have enough to energise you for that overseas business trip or weekend getaway. Fitted with an integrated steel bracelet, we suggest wearing this with a powder blue suit shirt for those formal occasions.
- You can buy an H.Moser & Cie Streamliner Small Seconds Micro-Rotor at retail for around £27,400 as of December 2023.
Brand Horological School Report
H. Moser & Cie is the child who spends his lunchtime in the technology room, twisting together wires and soldering bits of copper together in pursuit of the next great invention. He doesn’t shout or scream but simply evolves like The Streamliner Centre Seconds.
H.Moser & Cie are fast becoming a top tier brand in this sphere with some attitude for good measure that will grab new and old enthusiasts by the scruff of their collar. The items are durable and will last you if looked after. If you take the time to do your research, you may even find a killer item that will be with you forever!
Final Grade: A-
Best Watch For The Sports-Car Fanatic - Girard-Perregaux Neo Bridges Aston Martin Edition
These are the men who take the corners at 100mph, would rather race for two luxurious minutes than walk five and is hell bent on continuously developing his luxury sports car portfolio. For the man who treats his cars as his personality, the revved up men’s watch, The Girard-Perregaux Neo Bridges Aston Martin Edition is one of the best men’s timepieces to buy!
Source - Girard-Perregaux
Girard-Perregaux and Aston Martin have been close friends since their initial collaboration back in 2021. From there, they have released a total of four watches, with this latest Neo Bridges Aston Martin taking pole position out of the five.
Coming in at a sizable 45mm, they are crafted out of titanium that's 12.8mm thick. Admittedly, this is a bulky watch, but you are receiving sportscar-like prowess and reams of energetic spirit within this beauty of a movement! The case is coated in black DLC to make it even more scratch resistant, in keeping with the moody vibes going on.
The dial is entirely openworked and secured with a boxy sapphire crystal that instantly draws the eyes into the complexity of its face. The hour markers are seemingly suspended as they are attached to the raised flange which are interjected with a neon green minute track.
The anthracite grey baseplate simultaneously acts as the dial, offering the perfect backdrop for the lume filled hands and hour markers to be promoted. The racing element comes in Aston Martin’s signature colour, a beautifully moody green that coats the two bridges across the dial and the minute track, plus there is “Aston Martin” text on the micro-rotor at 10 o’clock and a large emblem of the brand on the sapphire caseback.
It’s enough to make Daniel Craig go giddy with excitement, as his closely guarded car collection contains a £200,000 Aston Martin DBS and an Aston Martin Vanquish, priced at £334,000.
Powered by the GP 84000 movement, they offer a 3Hz frequency and a power reserve of 48 hours. Fitted with a black rubber strap with the same Aston Martin green stitching, we can see you wearing this in your private box at Royal Ascot or while watching The Autosport Racing Car Show in 2024!
- You can buy a Girard-Perregaux Neo Bridges Aston Martin Edition at retail for £32,100 as of December 2023.
Brand Horological School Report
Girard-Perregaux are the likeable goth kids that shroud themselves in hooded Stonecutter type cloaks, but are the first choice to have a conversation with. While it may look effortless, their style and charm is garnered through a rigorous morning routine that changes every day, just like the Laureato collection.
Designed with the cool vibes of a Bentley, Girard-Perregaux glides around the horological world, taking collaboration opportunities and constantly developing their image. We think they are the ultimate brand for those that want to look for something that’s not commonly worn, but just as powerful and accurate as anyone else.
Final Grade: C
Best Watch To Achieve Holy Grail Status - Richard Mille RM 35-03 Automatic Rafael Nadal
This gentleman thinks of himself as Indiana Jones swiping the Idol, or Mike Tyson ripping off Holyfield's ear as a trophy for a hard brawl. For a man who desires the grail, he deserves the best and something better than a one way entry to the Mile High Club. Enter the new Richard Mille RM 35-03 Automatic Rafael Nadal. There’s nothing baby faced about this particular timepiece.
Source - Richard Mille
At 43.15mm, the case is crafted out of Quartz TPT which is laid out and fused together to bolster durability and lightness. Shaped in the classic tonneau shape, the watches are highly ergonomic which allows you to wear them in the height of sporting tension, or when kicking back with your friends at that exclusive private members' secret bar no one knows about.
We can forgive the 50 metres of water resistance for its ostentatious engineering and RM fully know how to deliver this. We wouldn’t be so keen on using this in the sea or placed near a sink for this silly amount of money.
Yet the visuals are remarkable. In a beautiful sky blue sheen on the large crown and strap, the white bezel is similarly bright and draws eyes into the dial's face.
The Richard Mille dial is completely skeletonised, allowing you to view the stunning movement from either the front, or via the immersive sapphire caseback. The baseplate is crafted out of grade 5 titanium with grey electroplasma and PVD treatment. This allows the printed Arabic numerals at 12, 3, 6 and 9 o’clock on the flange to be boasted, alongside the industrial hands which have yellow lume tips.
Powered by a fresh butterfly rotor, these wondrous watches allow the wearer to interact with the movement's winding speed depending on the activity you are about to take part in. So, if you are Rafael Nadal and ready to unleash some powerful serves, click it into sports mode to suspend the rotor activity and not risk overwinding the movement.
Offering a 55 hour power reserve and a 28,800VpH, this model is a sublime weapon of choice for those earning DJ Khaled or Ed Sheeran salaries. Perhaps one of the grailiest of them all for 2023 due to the connection with the Spanish Grand Slam Champ, we expect this to sell out as quickly as you have read this sentence.
Decked with a light blue rubber strap, you can wear this with your work out uniform, or a similarly light blue bomber jacket and grail Nike Air Jordans for those more chilled out days.
- Well, there you go…our horological spies inform us you can no longer buy a Richard Mille RM 35-03 at retail as it’s out of stock. However, you can purchase it on the secondary market for upwards of £504,000 as of December 2023.
Brand Horological School Report
Richard Mille are kids that are constantly running around the school yard, ignoring the teachers telling them to slow down and laughing at the kids that can’t keep up. Speed you say? Nothing faster than their RM 30-01 with that awesome declutchable rotor! They are the ultimate braggers and have accomplished sums before their compadres have opened their pencil cases.
Fresh to the market but instantly popular like a bottle of Prime, Richard Mille may have only started in 2001. But they have become the go-to source for celebs globally, including Pharell Williams and his beautiful RM 88 Tourbillon Smiley emblazoned with pink flamingos and cacti. The Marmite of luxury watches? Quite possibly. Love em or hate em, we think you can’t find an uber plush brand for modern-chic design and high powered movements.
Final Grade: A-
Conclusion
On that note, let’s leave our article there! We’ve looked at the best men’s watches for 2024 for all price points and deciphered those that have made our hearts skip a beat. And those who sadly didn’t make the final cut? Here’s our summary of the rest of the best;
Model |
Retail Price (As of December 2023) |
Blancpain Fifty Fathoms 70th Anniversary Special Edition Act 1 - 5010B 1130 NABA |
£15,200 |
£250 |
|
Bell & Ross BR 05 Green Gold BR05A-GN-PG/SPG |
£30,900 |
Breitling Premier B01 Chronograph 42mm Anniversary - (Navy Blue Dial) AB0145171C1P1 |
£7,150 |
IWC Pilot's Watch Automatic 41 Black Aces IW326905 |
£6,350 |
Patek Philippe 5668R Aquanaut Chronograph |
£60,950 |
A Lange & Söhne 1815 Rattrapante Perpetual Calendar - 421.056FE |
Price Upon Request |
Girard-Perregaux Casquette 2.0 Saint Laurent 01 39800-32-3102-6GX |
£5,105 |
TAG Heuer Date Carrera Pink Dial (Ref. WBN2313.BA0001 |
£2,750 |
Circa £43,300 |
If you’re mad about cars or simply crazy about looking dapper, Chrono Hunter has cut through the noise to glean the top watches for men for 2024 that would make any gent stride with confidence. These luxury watches have excellent features which cannot be understated.
Whether it's the incredible design of the Vacheron Constantin Overseas Tourbillon High Jewellery or the understated beauty of The Rolex 1908, all of them are primed with enough power and durability to take you from 2024 into 2025…and beyond. If you are diving deep or flying high, Chrono Hunter has got your collection covered by not only sourcing your watches but also getting you the top prices possible when purchasing a luxury timepiece.
Roll on 2024 which will be bigger and more expansive than that festive Spotify playlist!
Feeling an insatiable appetite to buy a Rolex 1908 quickly? Want to get your hands on one of the models in this article at the most competitive prices? Save time and money with Chrono Hunter.
Contact us here if you want a no-obligation valuation should you want to sell a watch or the best possible prices when you decide to buy a watch. We are renowned for our high quality service, unparalleled brand expertise and live portal where you can receive multiple offers from our trusted network of the finest retailers.
Let us match you with the best luxury watches in the business and find out exactly why we are transforming the industry as we know it. With a wealth of 5-star Trustpilot reviews, speedy turnaround and the most secure platform, there has never been a better buying or selling experience. What do we need from you?
Simply enter the details via our form or download our dedicated app, available on both Apple and Android platforms and your request will be connected to our handpicked selection of verified dealers all competing for your business.
Further Reading:
John Mayer’s Watches Are A Horological Who’s Who Of The Timekeeping World
16 Of The Most Iconic Watches In Horological History
Buy Or Sell A Luxury Watch The Smart Way With Chrono Hunter
If you are considering your new purchase or perhaps the sale of a beloved timepiece, Chrono Hunter is the smart way to buy or sell a luxury watch.
Compare Offers from the worlds most reputable luxury watch retailers.
Save Time.
Save Money.
Personalised Service.
Hassle-Free.