Aspirational Watches

Last updated: 11/18/24

My favorite watches between $1,000 and $5,000. Typically this includes heritage brands, up-and-comers, and brands that still have a modicum of respect for the people wearing their watches. These are the ones where the used market will become your go-to to find great quality at way more reasonable prices. Except for Tudor.

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Showing watches between $1,000 and $5,000 MSRP
  • 01

    christopher ward

    C1 Moonphase

    $2,325

    A stunning moonphase unique in the world of boring dress watches

    C1 Moonphase
  • 02

    oris

    Big Crown Pointer Date

    From ~$1,400

    Perfect proportions, great color options, cool date function—this one has it all

    Big Crown Pointer Date
  • 03

    nomos

    Club Campus

    From ~$1,150

    Stylish with just a hint of irreverence

    Club Campus
  • 04

    raketa

    Big Zero

    From ~$200

    In Soviet Russia, watch wears you

    Big Zero
  • 05

    junghans

    Max Bill

    From ~$700

    Bauhaus minimalism at its best

    Max Bill
  • 06

    echo neutra

    1956 Chronograph GMT

    $1,940

    Vintage style with a dash of unique flair

    1956 Chronograph GMT
  • 07

    tudor

    Black Bay 58

    From ~$2,800

    The new hotness, destined to be a modern classic

    Black Bay 58
  • 08

    longines

    Spirit Zulu Time

    $3,150

    Understated sophistication, not-so-understated price

    Spirit Zulu Time
  • 09

    longines

    Legend Diver

    From ~$1,400

    A different take on the compression diver

    Legend Diver