Watch brand rankings 2023: Luxe’s favourites
Are you always racing against the clock? With busy full-time jobs, childcare and a hectic social life to contend with, staying on top of a schedule has never been more crucial.
Of course you could rely on your trusty phone to keep you in check, but why picture yourself with one of the most luxurious watches in the world, making a statement with every flick of your wrist?
A luxury watch never goes out of style. There’s just something about the intricate craftsmanship and the story behind each tick that adds a touch of class to your ensemble.
But a high-end watch isn’t just a tool to keep you punctual. It’s an emotional investment, a statement of your taste, a great family heirloom.
If you’re wondering about watch brand rankings 2023 and which to choose next, we’re here to help. Luxe watches’ favourites are masterpieces, embodying unbelievable finesse with artistic sensibility.
- Patek Philippe
Taking its deserved space at the top of our watch brand ranking 2023 list, is Patek Phillippe.
With a rich history dating back to 1839, the Swiss brand has maintained its tradition of excellence, craftsmanship, and innovation over generations. This heritage adds a layer of prestige and authenticity to its hand-finished timepieces, with each watch created undergoing extensive quality control and precision testing.
Patek Philippe manufactures almost all of its components in-house, ensuring a high level of control over the production process. This includes everything from movements to cases and dials. This vertical integration allows Patek Philippe to maintain an exceptional level of quality.
Avid watch collectors will know that Patek is globally renowned for its complex and intricate watch complications including perpetual calendars, minute repeaters, and tourbillons.
Here at Luxe Watches we are particular fans of the Nautilus (who isn’t), especially the 5712/1A-001: This model features a stainless steel case and bracelet, along with a unique dial design that includes a power reserve indicator, a date sub-dial, and a moon phase display.
2. Rolex
With a history dating back to the early 20th century, Rolex has built a reputation for prestige and exclusivity. Its association with accomplished individuals, from explorers to athletes and celebrities, has further elevated its status as a symbol of success and achievement.
Rolex has a history of innovation, having introduced several groundbreaking technologies in watchmaking. The brand was first to develop a waterproof watch – the Rolex Oyster, in 1926. Rolex also created the first wristwatch with an automatically changing date, the Datejust, in 1945. These innovations have solidified Rolex’s position as a pioneer in the industry.
As for the designs, we love them because they’re timeless and can be passed down from generation to generation. The brand has successfully maintained the aesthetic appeal of its iconic models, such as the Submariner, the Datejust, and the Day-Date, while also introducing new designs that cater to contemporary tastes.
Rolex watches tend to hold their value exceptionally well, often appreciating over time. Their enduring popularity, limited production, and high demand contribute to their strong resale market, making them a desirable investment for collectors and enthusiasts.
Our buying team loves a Rolex GMT-Master II. Noted for its dual time zone functionality, it’s a popular choice among frequent travellers and pilots. It’s instantly recognised for its distinctive 24-hour rotatable bezel and its ability to display multiple time zones simultaneously.
3. Audemars Piguet
Dating back to its debut in 1875, Audemars Piguet is known for its limited edition and special complication watches, which often incorporate intricate mechanisms and innovative designs.
We love this brand’s ability to push the boundaries of traditional watchmaking, which often appeals to collectors and enthusiasts seeking exclusive and unique watches.
The company has remained independent and family-owned, allowing it to maintain its focus on craftsmanship, innovation, and quality without being constrained by corporate interests or mass-market trends.
One of the most notable and iconic collections by Audemars Piguet is the Royal Oak line. Introduced in 1972, the Royal Oak was the world’s first luxury sports watch, designed by the legendary watch designer Gerald Genta. Its distinctive octagonal shape, exposed screws, and integrated bracelet have become an iconic design in the world of luxury watches.
We do love a Royal Oak here at Luxe Watches and we were lucky to get our hands on a 50th anniversary rose gold offering this week. The 41mm case with fixed rose gold bezel features a blue Grande Tappiserie dial with automatic movement and chronograph function.
4. Hublot
What we love about Swiss brand Hublot is its futuristic appeal. Its bold and unique designs and ability to incorporate unconventional materials such as carbon fibre, ceramic, and rubber. The brand’s watches are easily recognisable due to their fusion of traditional and contemporary elements.
Hublot has a reputation for using cutting-edge materials and technology in its timepieces. It has incorporated materials such as Magic Gold, a scratch-resistant gold and ceramic alloy, and Texalium, a combination of carbon fibre and aluminium. These innovations have contributed to the brand’s popularity among watch enthusiasts and collectors.
Celebrities alike have shown a lot of love for the brand including Jay-Z, Novak Djokovic and Usain Bolt. We are fans of the Hublot LaFerrari Tourbillon Black DLC MP-05 – and if you’re an F1 fan you will be too.
5. Richard Mille
Richard Mille watches often incorporate advanced and unconventional materials in their construction, such as carbon composites, titanium, and even materials used in the aerospace industry. These materials make the watches durable, lightweight, and resistant to various forms of stress and wear.
When taking ‘state of the art’ this is the brand that springs to mind. Richard Mille watches are known for their intricate, high-tech movements that often incorporate innovative solutions to improve accuracy, durability, and performance.
If you want to get your hands on one though…. Tricky. Richard Mille produces limited quantities of each model, contributing to their exclusivity and desirability. The limited availability of these watches enhances their appeal among collectors and enthusiasts who value uniqueness and rarity.
We love how they are instantly recognisable due to their distinctive and futuristic designs. Their bold, avant-garde aesthetics appeal to individuals who appreciate a combination of luxury and a sporty, contemporary look.
Fancy a new watch? Our sales team can help you find your perfect new or pre-worn timepiece. Contact us today.