The Psychology of Wearing a Watch – Status, Statement, or Companion?

Why do people still wear mechanical watches when phones track time more precisely?

Status Symbol

For some, a watch signals achievement and confidence.
A Rolex Datejust or Audemars Piguet Royal Oak communicates stability, style, and a personal journey.

Statement Piece

Others express their personality with their watch.
A Hublot Classic Fusion represents modern boldness and progressive design, while a Longines DolceVita embodies timeless elegance and cultivated sophistication.

Companion

Many choose a watch like a lifelong partner.
The Omega Speedmaster embodies adventure and vision – and often stays on the wrist for decades.

A watch is not an object; it’s an extension of identity.

Personalities and Their Watches – Portraits in Miniature

The Collector – “Time as History”

He seeks stories, patina, authenticity.
His choices: Rolex Submariner, Patek Philippe Calatrava
His motivation: heritage, rarity, emotion.

The Artist – “Design as Language”

She values shape, colour, mood.
Her choices: Nomos Glashütte Metro, Junghans Max Bill
Her motivation: self-expression.

The Entrepreneur – “Clarity & Purpose”

He needs reliability and symbolism.
His choices: Tudor Black Bay 58, Grand Seiko Heritage
His motivation: precision, focus, understatement.

The Athlete – “Performance on the Wrist”

Strong, functional, dynamic.
His choices: Omega Seamaster Diver, TAG Heuer Monaco
His motivation: power & resilience.

The “Life Watch” – Why One Model Stays Forever

Most enthusiasts have one watch they never sell – and never want to.

Why?

• milestones

• identity

• emotional symbolism

• reliability

• a bond that deepens over time

Whether it’s a Tudor Ranger, Rolex Explorer, or Hublot Classic Fusions, some watches become part of the wearer’s story.

Watches Don’t Just Tell Time — They Tell Stories

A watch is one of the few objects that can grow with its wearer. It captures memories, reveals character, and expresses identity.

In a world that changes fast, a mechanical watch offers something profoundly human: emotional depth, connection, and the luxury of meaning.

Der Beitrag The Watch and Its Wearer: What Timepieces Reveal About Personality erschien zuerst auf Uhrinstinkt Magazine.

A Cultural Icon: More Than Just a Timekeeper

In a world where smartphones display the time with atomic precision, the mechanical watch stands as a symbol of permanence.
It’s no longer a utility, but an object of heritage, identity, and emotional connection.

Its magic lies in its mechanics: gears, springs, and levers: a dance of precision that transcends utility. In an era of automation and AI, the mechanical watch represents the art of slowing down.

The Rolex Submariner or the Tudor Black Bay 58 are more than design icons; they embody the emotion of precision, reliability, character, and an awareness of time itself.

Innovation Within Tradition

Even the most established maisons aren’t standing still. Innovation in watchmaking today often hides beneath a classic dial: silicon balance springs, titanium cases, ceramic bezels, and advanced calibers.

• Tudor Pelagos FXD: A professional diver’s tool in lightweight titanium – built for modern explorers.

• Longines Spirit Flyback Chronograph: A pilot’s chronograph blending vintage aesthetics with high-precision mechanics.

• Hublot Big Bang Integral Grey Ceramic: modern materials, classic style.

This fusion of high-tech materials and traditional craftsmanship defines the future of mechanical watchmaking: innovation in service of legacy.

Sustainability as the New Technology

In 2025, progress means responsibility. The luxury watch industry increasingly embraces sustainability; from ethically sourced materials to carbon-neutral production.

• Oris: A pioneer in eco-initiatives, with ocean conservation projects and the Aquis Upcycle collection.

• Chopard Alpine Eagle: Crafted in Fairmined gold — a statement of transparency and ethics.

Sustainability has become the new face of technical excellence. Those who master it are not just watchmakers, but visionaries.

The Role of the Smartwatch – Rival or Catalyst?

Smartwatches didn’t destroy the mechanical industry, they revitalized it.
Where digital devices deliver efficiency and connectivity, mechanical watches deliver emotion and timelessness.

Many collectors now wear both: technology on one wrist, craftsmanship on the other.

TAG Heuer Connected seamlessly merges digital innovation with the design language of haute horlogerie; proof that the two worlds can coexist.

The truth is simple: smartwatches satisfy the mind, mechanical watches the soul.

The Future: Emotion Meets Precision

The future of the mechanical watch is not about more functions; it’s about more meaning.
Today’s collectors value stories as much as specifications: heritage, sustainability, individuality.

Future generations won’t ask how accurate a watch is, but what it stands for.
Between tradition and technology, a new kind of beauty is emerging: timeless inside, modern in spirit.

The Tudor Ranger or Longines Flagship Heritage embody this balance: traditional in form, forward-thinking in essence.

Eternity in Motion

The mechanical watch is not a relic; it’s a cultural counterpoint to digital speed.
By embracing innovation without losing its soul, it remains profoundly relevant: a masterpiece of time in a world that moves ever faster.

Der Beitrag Between Tradition and Technology: The Future of Mechanical Watches in the Digital Age erschien zuerst auf Uhrinstinkt Magazine.

This year’s leading watch fair was more dynamic and creative than ever before. Brands like TAG Heuer, Tudor, Grand Seiko, Hublot, and Bell & Ross presented groundbreaking designs, new materials, and technical brilliance.

TAG Heuer Formula 1 – A Sporty Revival

TAG Heuer brought its iconic Formula 1 line roaring back in 2025. The updated collection features bold colors like racing green and electric blue, housed in a sleek 38mm stainless steel case. A new solar-powered quartz movement delivers precision with an eco-conscious twist – perfect for motorsport lovers and street-style fans alike.

Tudor – Black Bay 58 & New GMT Releases

Tudor delivered two major highlights in 2025: First, fresh Black Bay 58 versions with bordeaux dials that blend sporty flair with minimalist design. Second, Tudor introduced updated Black Bay GMT watches, featuring bold colorways and a refined movement – ideal for travelers who appreciate a dash of distinction.

Grand Seiko Evolution 9 Collection – Precision Meets Innovation

Grand Seiko pushed boundaries in 2025 with the debut of the Spring Drive Caliber 9RB2, offering an incredible accuracy of ±20 seconds per year. This movement premiered in two standout models:

• SLGB001: A 37mm case in 950 platinum with a deep blue dial, limited to just 80 pieces.

• SLGB003: A 37mm case in high-intensity titanium with a crisp silver dial.

Both timepieces are equipped with a newly developed micro-adjustable clasp, allowing for a precise 6mm adjustment to enhance wrist comfort.

Hublot Big Bang Unico Saxem Water Blue Sapphire

Hublot pushed forward with bold materials by presenting a water blue sapphire glass case. A skeletonized movement and futuristic sportiness make this piece a true wrist statement.

Bell & Ross BR 03 Skeleton Black Ceramic

Bell & Ross made a bold statement with the new BR 03 in black ceramic. The integrated bracelet, square case, and urban elegance pair perfectly with a tough automatic movement made for modern city living.

Conclusion

Watches and Wonders 2025 was a celebration of innovation and diversity. Whether showcasing mechanical marvels or design poetry, the novelties proved that the future of watchmaking is bold, beautiful, and full of potential.

Der Beitrag Watches and Wonders 2025: Innovations and Icons Reimagined erschien zuerst auf Uhrinstinkt Magazine.

Hublot: The Future of Fusion

Hublot continues to revolutionize the industry with its signature Art of Fusion philosophy, combining unexpected materials and avant-garde aesthetics. At LVMH Watch Week 2025, the brand introduced new models that redefine modern luxury.

Among the standout pieces is the latest Big Bang Meca-10, featuring an upgraded movement with improved power reserve and a bold new colorway in ceramic. Available in titanium, rose gold and carbon, the models impress with their futuristic aesthetics, which are perfect for bold individualists.

Another highlight is the Classic Fusion Tourbillon Orlinski, a collaboration with renowned artist Richard Orlinski. This sculptural timepiece showcases geometric edges, playing with light and shadow, making it a wearable work of art. With limited production numbers, this model is destined to be a collector’s dream.

Hublot’s 2025 collection embodies technical mastery and boundary-pushing design, ensuring that each piece remains at the forefront of luxury watchmaking.

TAG Heuer: Precision Meets Performance

TAG Heuer, synonymous with motorsport-inspired precision, made a powerful statement at LVMH Watch Week 2025 with its latest releases, blending tradition with high-tech innovation.

The new Carrera Chronograph editions shine in blue, pink and violet. Whether with a crocodile leather strap or with diamonds, there is something for everyone.

TAG Heuer also unveiled the limited Formula 1 Calibre 16 Automatik Chronograph x Oracle Red Bull Racing, which impresses with its extraordinary design.

By refining its classics while embracing modern innovation, TAG Heuer proves once again why it remains a dominant force in Swiss watchmaking.

Zenith: A New Era of High-Frequency Precision

Zenith’s pioneering spirit was on full display at LVMH Watch Week 2025, reinforcing its reputation for high-frequency precision and futuristic design.

The Defy Skyline Skeleton emerged as a showstopper, featuring an intricately open-worked dial that showcases Zenith’s expertise in high-beat movements. Powered by the legendary El Primero movement, this timepiece balances avant-garde aesthetics with impeccable mechanical performance.

Another highlight is the Chronomaster Sport 2025 Edition, an evolution of Zenith’s signature chronograph, now enhanced with a lightweight carbon fiber case and a new Zenith-exclusive high-frequency escapement. This updated model is designed for collectors who appreciate technical excellence paired with contemporary aesthetics.

With these innovations, Zenith continues to uphold its legacy of precision while embracing the future of watchmaking.

Experience the Latest Creations Now

Each of these extraordinary watches from Hublot, TAG Heuer, and Zenith is now available on our website. Whether you’re drawn to Hublot’s fusion of materials, TAG Heuer’s motorsport precision, or Zenith’s mastery of high-frequency movements, these timepieces offer something exceptional for every enthusiast. Discover the future of luxury watchmaking today.

Der Beitrag LVMH Watch Week 2025: A Showcase of Innovation and Prestige erschien zuerst auf Uhrinstinkt Magazine.

Futuristic marvels: The avant-garde of innovation – Breitling Endurance Pro

Immerse yourself in the world of the avant-garde with the Breitling Endurance Pro, a true avant-garde of innovation. Witness the meticulous craftsmanship and technological prowess that Breitling has seamlessly incorporated into this exceptional watch. The Endurance Pro is not just a timekeeping accessory. It is also a testament to Breitling’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of traditional watchmaking. This model is an interplay of cutting-edge technology and sporty aesthetics that you will discover as you explore its multiple functions. Breitling’s dedication to precision engineering is evident in every detail. From the lightweight yet robust materials to the advanced mechanisms that power this masterpiece. The watch is not only a reliable timepiece, but also a bold and distinctive statement.

Sustainable chic: on the way to environmentally conscious fashion with the Tudor Black Bay Fifty-Eight

Embark on a journey in sustainable style. The Tudor Black Bay Fifty-Eight traverses the waters of eco-friendly fashion with elegance. Immerse yourself in the timeless appeal of this timepiece. Tudor demonstrates its commitment to ethical craftsmanship without compromising on sophistication. Discover the deep blue hues of sustainability in the landscape of 2024 watch trends with this remarkable addition to Haute Horlogerie.

Vintage renaissance: nostalgia meets modernity

The current trend in watchmaking is a remarkable revival of timepieces. Inspired by old times and embodying the essence of timeless elegance, transcending eras and exuding a touch of nostalgia. Among these pieces of watchmaking jewelry is the Omega Seamaster 300, a prime example of a classic design that pays homage to the original from 1957. This timepiece, steeped in history, is not only a testament to Omega’s enduring heritage. It is also a wearable work of art that weaves together the threads of the past and the present.

The Omega Seamaster 300, with its mid-20th century design features, offers watch lovers a journey through time. Every detail, from the elegantly proportioned case to the vintage-inspired dial, has been meticulously crafted to evoke the bygone era of horological excellence. This attention to historical authenticity not only sets the Seamaster 300 apart from other watches, but also makes it a timepiece that is not only worn, but also treasured as a relic from another era.

What makes the Omega Seamaster 300 exceptional is its seamless fusion of vintage charm and modern technology. Beneath the classic exterior lies a powerhouse of cutting-edge horological advances, combining the best of both worlds for discerning individuals looking for a watch that not only tells the time with precision, but also embodies the allure of the past. It becomes a bridge between two worlds, a bridge where the craftsmanship of yesteryear meets the technological achievements of today.

Avant-garde opulence: Grand Seiko Spring Drive Snowflake – ethereal elegance in every flake

Discover ethereal elegance with the Grand Seiko Spring Drive Snowflake, a timepiece that embodies avant-garde opulence. Grand Seiko’s meticulous craftsmanship and unique design redefine luxury while creating a horological masterpiece that captures the essence of haute couture watches for 2024.

Minimalist elegance: Hublot Classic Fusion – bold, understated haute horlogerie

Finally, experience a new dimension of understated boldness with the Hublot Classic Fusion, a timepiece of minimalist elegance. Hublot’s refined lines and innovative design redefine the subtleties of minimalism, presenting a horological masterpiece that effortlessly stands out in the world of haute couture watches.

The evolution of timepieces in 2024

As we navigate the corridors of 2024, the world of watches beckons with a variety of styles, each telling a unique story of innovation, sustainability and timeless elegance. Whether you’re drawn to high-tech marvels, ethically crafted timepieces, vintage classics or avant-garde luxury, this year’s watch trends promise a stylistic journey that goes beyond simply telling the time. Embrace the revolution on your wrist and adorn your arm with a timepiece that not only tells the time, but also tells your story in the language of haute horlogerie.

Der Beitrag Watch trends 2024 erschien zuerst auf Uhrinstinkt Magazine.

Watches as an investment? Interesting, if you can stay realistic

If you choose the right timepieces, you can invest in watches without losing value and achieve high increases in value. They are the insider tip when it comes to investments – especially in times of crisis. Immediately afterwards, a list reveals which models from Rolex, Omega, Breitling & Co are guaranteed to be and remain in demand. Such promises carved in stone are as serious as the prophecies of a fortune teller at the fair. This is evidenced by a number of vintage watches that were praised to the skies and bought for adventurous prices, only to be hit by a loss in value soon afterwards.

Anyone who concludes from these findings that it is not worth buying luxury watches is just as out of touch with reality as the exaggerated visions of the future held by self-important financial experts. Rather, it is about taking a rational look at what is meant by investing in watches without losing value. If individual preferences are combined with objective considerations when choosing a model, most masterpieces will meet expectations – regardless of whether they come from Audemars Piguet, Chopard, Junghans or another renowned manufacturer.

Works of art for moments of happiness that are priceless

The Queen of Naples longed for a piece of jewelry that would tell the time beautifully on her wrist. Abraham-Louis Breguet fulfilled her wish in 1810 with the first wristwatch. Since then, more than 200 years have passed in which technical achievements have been made. The smartphone provides constant access to time data based on high-precision atomic clocks. Nevertheless, luxury watches with hand-wound or automatic movements have lost none of their fascination. After all, they are works of art created by hand with remarkable finesse. Such observations indicate that manufacture watches retain their ability to inspire and will never be affected by a complete loss of value.

Anyone who hoards their savings in an interest-free bank account for decades will be disappointed in any case. In the case of timelessly sought-after wristwatches, on the other hand, the chances are good that inflation will have less of an impact on their tangible value in the long term than on the banknotes in your savings stocking. If no buyer is found for it later, this is at least to be expected: The price of new luxury watches has risen significantly due to increased material and labor costs and is an argument against purchasing them. Fortunately, there is a favorite piece in the safe that you can now proudly put on for special occasions. When that time comes, you’ve already bought the watches without losing value and gained a lot, haven’t you?

Dream watch with potential to increase in value

This kind of thinking suggests investing in watches that are bound to increase in value in an idealistic sense. Smart watch fans therefore direct their interest towards manufactories and collections that appeal to their hearts. This ensures that they will enjoy the masterpieces. Only after the groundbreaking decision has been made is it worth considering which models will retain their value. A look at tips from watch experts is inspiring if you don’t overestimate them. After all, any prediction regarding loss or increase in value remains speculative.

Experience shows this: A pioneer is ahead of its time, in low demand and comparatively inexpensive. Later, a change in taste draws interest to the underestimated model, which ideally comes into the limelight due to a spectacular event or a famous wearer. The Cosmograph Daytona sports watch from Rolex and the Royal Oak from Audemars Piguet are successful examples of increases in value that watch enthusiasts would hardly have expected decades ago. They also illustrate that the tide can turn when the hype dies down. This is particularly true for investors who suddenly have to sell due to a financial crisis and are unable to give investment watches the peace of mind they need for attractive performance.

Bold speculation or proven investment – a question of type and budget

Color, material, diameter – the yellow Spirit of Big Bang from Hublot with rubber strap and 45 mm case is a rebel on the luxury watch scene. Anyone who puts one of these in their safe will need courage. According to the recommended retail price, the eccentric automatic watch breaks the 100,000 euro barrier. Logically, the number of potential buyers who are able and willing to invest the impressive price plus inflation rate when reselling the watch is limited. The risk of a loss in value seems high. The opposite is conceivable: A financially strong watch fan dreams of a Hublot with a strictly limited edition. He is prepared to spend three times the original retail price.

Those who cannot engage in such speculation tend to invest in tried and tested watches. The Omega Speedmaster has secured a permanent place in horological history because it was the first wristwatch on the moon. Humans will not stop exploring the universe. With every space mission that attracts media attention, it is inevitable that watch enthusiasts will remember the Moonwatch and want to treat themselves to a copy. This is why the Omega icon is considered to have a stable value and can be purchased in the classic version for around 5,000 euros or as an unusual edition for 50,000 euros, depending on your personal budget. Which model retains, loses or increases its value remains to be seen. In terms of adjusted profit, the classic model could win the race just as easily as the special edition.

Small investment, big impact – stylistically, ideally or financially

Max Bill was a creative all-rounder who was inspired by the Bauhaus era. The Weimar art school – founded by Walter Gropius – produced a design style that inspired at its debut, continues to inspire today and will probably never seem out of fashion. The award-winning Swiss designer’s most important works include dials that characterize a Junghans collection of the same name. The so-called architect’s watches are affordable compared to the timepieces of popular luxury brands such as Rolex, Chopard, Breguet or Breitling.

The artist’s birthday, the founding year of the Bauhaus school or key dates in watch history: many occasions in the coming decades can fuel the dream of owning an automatic watch in Bauhaus design. These occasions can be used to sell the watch without losing value. However, the chances are just as great that you will not want to part with the Black Forest design classic, which is and remains a style-conscious statement on the wrist regardless of the age. Can we give a guarantee for watches without loss of value? No, of course not. But you do get other guarantees with every watch at Uhrinstinkt. Such as authenticity and functionality.

Der Beitrag Which model? – The best chances of buying watches without depreciation erschien zuerst auf Uhrinstinkt Magazine.

There are plenty of expensive watch brands around the world. In top 10 rankings, the order changes depending on the comparison criterion. However, the top ranks are often occupied by the same manufacturers with many similarities: They love visionary ideas as much as traditional watchmaking craftsmanship and are mostly based in Switzerland.

Rolex – popular status symbol

When it comes to prestigious luxury, Rolex is intuitively accorded the top position in the list of watch brands. This is true even for people who neither know nor can identify with exclusive timepieces. This unparalleled popularity is based on the mix of tasteful aesthetics and practical added value to which the Geneva-based luxury brand has been committed since its entry in the commercial register in 1913.

Sometimes it took a Rolex newcomer to win hearts – for example, the stainless steel Daytona chronograph. It aroused little enthusiasm when it debuted in 1963 and was sold rather cheaply. Nowadays, it is among the models of the top 10 watch brands that are enormously popular. This was helped by an original by Paul Newman, which they auctioned off for around 16 million euros in 2017.

Avant-garde bestsellers from Le Brassus – Audemars Piguet

Soon after its foundation in 1875, Audemars Piguet was among the best watch brands, appreciated for masterpieces with precious decorations made of precious metals and stones. But the breakthrough came with the opposite: in 1972, the Royal Oak was among the first luxury watches with a decidedly sporty design: as revolutionary as the stainless steel manufacturing was the octagonal bezel with the same number of screws saucily seeking the limelight.

When it comes to expensive watch brands, Audemars Piguet is represented in the top 10 because the casual Royal Oak made design history. The company founded by Jules-Louis Audemars and Edward August Piguet is one of those watch labels whose luxury character is not obvious to many laymen. It is precisely this underlying exclusivity that appeals to many watch lovers.

Omega – the heavenly star among the top 10 watch labels

When adventurous people are asked to name expensive watch brands for the top 10 ranking, Omega lands far in front. Since the registration of the brand name in 1894, the timepieces have been appreciated for their technical sophistication. Early on, the manufacturer impressed with records related to precision. These advances gave the Masterpieces starring roles in expeditions that do not forgive any inaccuracies or material weaknesses.

For the Speedmaster Professional alone, selected by NASA for the first lunar expeditions, Omega has earned a regular place among the top 10 watch brands. Although other brand collections are just as noteworthy, the Moonwatch’s fan base is particularly large.

First choice of the French Emperor – Breguet

Napoleon Bonaparte treated himself to three pocket watches from the repertoire of the Breguet manufacture. Other expensive watch brands in the top 10 charts are green with envy at this vita. More significant than the celebrity clientele for watch lovers are the groundbreaking ideas with which Abraham Louis Breguet paved the way to the first functional wristwatch between 1780 and 1810.

Breguet hairspring, pare-chute shock protection or filigree hand with a circle at the tip: the inventions of the talented watchmaker still characterize handmade masterpieces from Breguet and other luxury brands. The sympathetic philosophy of the watch manufacture: it wants to preserve the time and be ahead of it – for example, with the Tradition collection, which invites the study of the movement on both sides.

Zenith – Top 10 timepieces with pioneering movements

If the focus is on the incessant pursuit of innovation, Zenith has to be counted among the top 10 watch brands. Ultra-flat, high-frequency, or accurate to a hundredth of a second: the timepieces from Le Locle contain movements that amaze experts.

Zenith achieved an international breakthrough in 1969 with a world first: the first automatic chronograph movement. In the meantime, high-frequency movements are a matter of course at the Swiss chronograph professional, which generally ranks among the best watch labels.

Top 10 jewelry watch design company – Chopard

Expensive watch brands in the top 10 league with jewelry aesthetics to fall in love with: If that’s what you’re looking for, Chopard is the place to go. Founded in 1860, the brand offers high-quality men’s watches, but is on top form when it comes to creating enchanting women’s watches.

The Happy Diamonds collection lives up to its name: from discreet to expressive, sparkling diamonds characterize the playfully designed timepieces. Chopard is one of the watch brands that interpret luxury in a passionate and diverse way. Necklaces or rings to match the cocktail watch? The noble brand fulfills such wishes with its multifaceted jewelry assortment.

Blancpain – underestimated top ten pioneer

Founded in 1735 by Jehan-Jacques Blancpain, the manufacture should actually be one of the universally known top 10 watch brands. First self-winding wristwatch (1926), diving watch pioneer Fifty Fathoms (1953) or the smallest automatic movement for ladies’ dress watches Ladybird (1956): Often, the ambitious manufacturer passed the finish line at the same time or just ahead of its competitors in terms of groundbreaking innovations. Thus, when it comes to major watch labels, Blancpain cannot be missing from the list. This was the view not only of oceanographer Jacques-Yves Cousteau, but also of Marilyn Monroe.

Horological extravaganza from Lake Geneva – Hublot

If you prefer fancy accessories and expensive watch brands, a top 10 rank is reserved for Hublot. Since its debut in 1980, the bold mix of materials has characterized the brand’s signature design, as has the watch shape, which resembles a porthole. In 2005, the manufacturer debuted the Big Bang chronograph, whose look pops – literally. That goes for the material contrast richness and the extroverted decor, which sometimes seems a touch over the top. Does your heart beat for purist timepieces? Then Hublot is probably not one of your personal top watch brands.

Breitling – high-flyer from the Bernese Jura

Léon Breitling was interested in measuring instruments that performed professional tasks in scientific, sporting and industrial scenarios. His manufacture, founded in 1884, served up swift advances in watchmaking technology that impressed a major pilots’ association. It recommended the Navitimer as a pilot’s watch. On land, underwater, or in the air, Breitling is among the top 10 watch brands valued for brilliant engineering and sophisticated functionality.

Patek Philippe – masterfully complicated or simply beautiful

Patek Philippe’s passion for complicated timepieces ensures that it regularly takes first place in top watch brand rankings. Handcrafted decorations, refined reversible cases and 20 complications, some of which can be enjoyed acoustically: One look at the watchmaking sensation, auctioned in 2019 for more than 30 million Swiss francs, is enough to understand its reputation. In the meantime, the Grandmaster Chime ennobles the brand assortment in a strictly limited edition.

As desirable as the complicated watches are uncomplicated evergreens – for example, the ultra-flat Ellipse. The elegant evening watches only display hours and minutes, because more information seems superfluous in the evening savoir-vivre. Since its founding in 1839, the manufacture has created fewer watches than other luxury brands market each year. That’s why Patek Philippe is irresistibly beautiful, but hard to come by.

Der Beitrag Top 10 watch brands erschien zuerst auf Uhrinstinkt Magazine.

Gérald Genta, Max Bill, Richard Orlinski: the most famous watch designers of all time are inextricably linked with their masterpieces, some of which have been causing excitement on our wrists for decades. Other design watches come from the pens of talents who are rather unknown outside the watch world. We take a look behind the facades of six of the most prominent creations of our time and illuminate the minds behind their success.

Junghans Max Bill

Bauhaus in its purest form: when Swiss architect, painter and sculptor Max Bill was commissioned by Junghans in the mid-1950s to design a kitchen clock, he gave top priority to perfect legibility and created a dial whose sober and simple design remains legendary to this day. In 1961, the corresponding wristwatch followed, immediately adopting the succinct name of its creator and becoming the German watch legend par excellence: for over 60 years, the Junghans Max Bill has been a best-seller and today’s collection holds more design watches than ever before. Whether men or women, quartz or automatic, chronograph or radio-controlled watch: the purist icon from the Black Forest draws old and young into its wake and is the ultimate flagship of the traditional brand. One of our absolute favorites is the Max Bill Chronoscope with black dial (Ref. 027/4601.02), which discreetly packs its stop function and has an extremely noble aesthetic in its dark design. The latter is further enhanced by the domed case and crystal shape, which makes each Max Bill stand out from the crowd.

Audemars Piguet Royal Oak

Stainless steel watches in the luxury segment? Unthinkable before the introduction of the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak in 1972. The iconic design watch was created by Swiss Gérald Genta, a freelance designer in 1970, who was commissioned by Audemars Piguet to create an entirely new waterproof sports watch. Within 24 hours, Genta delivers the revolutionary result: never before had design watches had an octagonal bezel with visible screws and nestled on the wrist with an integrated bracelet. Initially, success was limited because, despite its steel case, the designer watch was more expensive than many a gold watch of the 1970s. But in the decades that followed, the Royal Oak became the most successful high-end sports watch of all time, was given a beefy sister model in the form of the Royal Oak Offshore, and became the aesthetic model for countless other designer watches. For example, for the Patek Philippe Nautilus, introduced in 1976, which Gérald Genta is said to have drawn on a napkin in less than five minutes.

Nomos Glashütte Metro

German Design Award, Red Dot, Good Design: Within a short time of its unveiling in 2014, the Nomos Glashütte Metro clears some of the most important design prizes in our country. Dubbed a “classic of the future” by the manufacturer, the timeless piece owes its success to Berlin-based Mark Braun. He has been a professor at the Hochschule für Bildende Künste Saar since 2015 and can look back on numerous collaborations with renowned brands – from Viennese crystal glass manufacturer Lobmeyr to furniture manufacturers such as Hartô or E15. With the Metro, Mark Braun has created a design watch that stands out expressively from the rest of the Nomos range. Not only the fine knurled pattern on the crown and the applied lugs, but also the literally “spot-on” dial gives the design watches a modern yet classically elegant character. In the meantime, the collection has grown to over ten variants, ranging from the classic to the luxury model in 18-karat rose gold. Whether you prefer the designer watch with a hand-wound or automatic movement is a matter of taste.

Nomos Glashütte Autobahn

Werner Aisslinger is not only one of the most important designers of our time, but also a self-confessed lover of high speeds. The fact that the internationally recognized artist likes things to be fast and sporty is reflected in the name and appearance of the Nomos Glashütte Autobahn: while the centrally positioned, concise luminous ring is reminiscent of the aesthetics of a tachometer, the curved edge of the dial marks a reminiscence of the north curve of the Berlin Avus for Aisslinger. Paired with the wide date window at six o’clock and the clear typography, the overall look of the design watches conveys pure sportiness while maintaining the simplicity typical of Nomos. What looks harmless during the day comes to life spectacularly in the dark thanks to the expansive luminous material. Just as the German autobahns with their boundless freedom mark an international peculiarity, the Nomos Glashütte is unique in the watch world. No doubt about it: this designer watch by Werner Aisslinger will continue on its successful course for many years to come.

Hublot Classic Fusion Orlinski Titanium White Alternative Pave 40 mm

What does a wristwatch from the pen of an internationally renowned sculptor and pop artist look like? Hublot provides the answer with the Classic Fusion Orlinski Titanium White Alternative Pave 40 mm (Ref. 550.NS.2200.RW.1604.ORL20): Like Frenchman Richard Orlinski’s famous animal figures, his watch captivates us with angular geometry and looks like a giant cut diamond. This is not a far-fetched association: the titanium case is set with 210 brilliant-cut diamonds, the bezel with an additional 54 of the precious gems. The bottom line is around 1.6 carats, which surround a comparatively simple dial in polished white. The same timelessness is adopted by the white rubber strap, so that the entire focus of the viewer is on the sculpture of watch case that Orlinski brings to the wrist with this design watch. Somewhere between vintage and neo-futurism, the aesthetics of these ticking works of art appeal above all to owners who do not want to disguise their wristwatch in permanent restraint.

Hublot Big Bang Sang Bleu II

The same applies to the design watches of the Hublot Big Band Sang Bleu II line (Ref. 418.CX.1107.RX.MXM22), which perform the geometric game even more brawny and imposing. The designer this time is not Orlinski, but Swiss tattoo artist Maxime Plescia-Büchi, whose London tattoo studio Sang Bleu served as the namesake for the limited edition collection. Made of black ceramic, the model shown here has a mysterious, almost intimidating effect on the viewer and features pure futurism in the dial. After identifying the hands, glimpses of the automatic HUB1240 UNICO movement with 72-hour power reserve open up. Coupled with gigantic 45 millimeters in diameter, its aesthetic details make the Hublot Big Bang Sang Bleu II the eye-catcher par excellence and should be of extremely limited interest to watch lovers with a sense of restraint. Nevertheless, the bolide is a monument in the universe of design watches and shows what an enrichment prominent artists can be for the watch world.

Der Beitrag Top 6 design watches erschien zuerst auf Uhrinstinkt Magazine.