The right watch is a quintessential indicator of luxury. Not only are high-end luxury watches an excellent investment, they are also classy and sophisticated accessories. If you’re interested in getting yourself a timeless piece of luxury, it’s important you know which are the top brands available, and why they’re so highly regarded.
The holy trinity of watchmaking: Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet, and Vacheron Constantin
While many nations are capable of making high-quality luxury watches, few are as renowned as Switzerland. Chief among the Swiss manufacturers, however, are the ‘Holy Trinity’ of Patek Phillipe, Audemars Piguet, and Vacheron Constantin.
Each of these extraordinary brands has a long history, with Audemars Piguet being founded in 1875, Patek Phillipe in 1839, and Vacheron Constantin in 1755. Unsurprisingly, Vacheron is regarded as the oldest watchmaker in the world, further adding to its exclusivity and prestige.
The influence of Gerald Genta on luxury watch design
If you’re an avid horologist, you may already know about Gerald Genta and his iconic influence on watch design. First designing the Polerouter at only 23 years old, this was Gerald’s first legendary contribution to watchmaking. Following this, Gerald went on to design multiple collections of incredible watches, from refreshing Omega’s Constellation range in 1959 to designing the Nautilus for Phillippe Patek in 1976.
In 1995, Gerald unveiled the Grande Sonnerie. Considered to be one of the most sophisticated and complex watches in the world, this watch was a masterpiece.
German precision: The excellence of A. Lange & Sohne
Germany is also home to expert watch craftsmanship and innovation, especially regarding A. Lange and Sohne. As Germany’s premier luxury watch brand, they’ve produced several notable models including the Lange 1 and the Zeitwerk.
Initially from a family of skilled artisans, A. Lange set his sights on watchmaking, apprenticing under some of the best watchmakers of his era. After a decade of training, he launched A. Lange and Cie.
By recruiting the best watchmakers in the region and investing heavily in the latest technology and machinery, A. Lange and Cie became one of the most respected brands in the world. He invented both the three-quarter plate design and introduced millimetres to watchmaking, both practices are still in use today.
The Swatch Group’s portfolio: Merging tradition with innovation
As the world’s largest watch conglomerate, The Swatch Group has to balance a diverse range of brands from Omega to Blancpain. As the wider public increasingly relies on digital clocks, The Swatch Group has focused on developing collections that function as eye-catching accessories as well as high-quality timepieces.
This allows them to consistently target a range of markets, with some of their brands focused on more traditional and functional options, while their other brands can capture the attention of more stylistic pieces.
The resurgence of mechanical watches among younger generations
In an interesting turn of events, interest in mechanical watches from the younger generations has led to a resurgence in recent years. In an age where digital clocks are a tap away, mechanical watches have become increasingly elegant statement pieces.
Certain brands, however, have maintained their appeal across different age groups. For example, Rolex watches are known for their wearability, durability, and high status. This has allowed them to consistently retain popularity and awareness.
