What is a Good Starter Luxury Watch for Novice Collectors?

Are you a novice watch enthusiast eager to dive into the world of luxury timepieces? Choosing the perfect starter luxury watch can be a daunting task, with countless brands, styles, and price points to consider. 

In this blog, we will guide you through the process of finding the ideal timepiece that not only complements your style but also introduces you to the realm of horological craftsmanship. 

From iconic brands to budget-friendly options, we’ll explore the top recommendations for novice collectors looking to make their mark in the world of luxury watches.

What is a Starter Luxury Watch?

A starter luxury watch refers to a timepiece that offers a balance between quality, craftsmanship, and affordability, making it a suitable entry-level option for individuals looking to enter the world of luxury watches. 

These watches typically have recognizable brand names, solid construction, and desirable features, while being more accessible in terms of price compared to higher-end luxury watches.

Starter luxury watches often come from reputable brands known for their heritage and expertise in watchmaking. They may incorporate automatic or quartz movements, with automatic movements being more common in this category. The watch cases are typically made from stainless steel, and they may feature sapphire crystal for increased durability and scratch resistance.

Price Point of Entry-Level Luxury Watches 

The price range for entry-level luxury watches typically starts from around $1,000 and can extend up to $10,000. This range is determined by the key attributes that define luxury timepieces such as brand reputation, mechanical movement, premium materials, craftsmanship, and overall aesthetic appeal. Although less expensive than their ultra-luxury counterparts, these watches still exemplify the brand’s commitment to quality, refinement, and precision.

A significant number of renowned watchmakers offer models within this price range, enabling customers to gain access to the prestige and craftsmanship associated with these iconic brands. Brands like Longines, TAG Heuer, and Oris offer a variety of models that can be considered an entry-level luxury, with each watch still encapsulating the brand’s unique style, history, and horological significance.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an Entry-Level Luxury Watch

When choosing an entry-level luxury watch, there are several factors to consider to ensure you make an informed decision. Here are some key factors to keep in mind:

• Price: Entry-level luxury watches are generally priced lower compared to the upper echelons of luxury timepieces. They serve as an entry point for individuals who aspire to own a luxury watch without investing a significant amount of money. 
• Brand Prestige: While these watches may not reach the zenith of exclusivity, they often hail from luxury watch brands renowned for their heritage, craftsmanship, and commitment to producing high-quality timepieces. This grants wearers a touch of luxury and quality.
• Design and Aesthetics: Drawing elements from high-end designs, these watches radiate timeless aesthetics and meticulous attention to detail. One may find elegant dials, sapphire crystals, polished cases, and finely finished bracelets or straps on them, although they may lack the complexity and ornate designs of their pricier brethren.
• Movements: Turning to the heart of the watch, the movement, these timepieces typically boast automatic or mechanical movements rather than the quartz ones found in lower-end watches. While these movements offer reliability and acceptable accuracy, they may not possess the intricate complications or exceptional precision inherent in more costly models.
• Brand Recognition and Resale Value: While these watches might not enjoy the high-level brand recognition or resale values that top-tier timepieces command, they still hold their own in the luxury watch marketplace.
• Customer Reviews and Recommendations: Read customer reviews and seek recommendations from trusted sources, such as watch enthusiasts, online communities, or reputable watch publications. Their experiences and insights can provide valuable guidance.

Top 10 Entry-Level Luxury Watches for Beginners

1. Rolex Oyster Perpetual 36 – Stainless Steel & Silver Dial Ref. 116000-0009

About

The Oyster Perpetual 36 stands out as an exceptional entry-level luxury watch due to its combination of premium quality and timeless design. With a price range of S$5,540 to S$7,196, it offers an accessible entry point into the world of Rolex watches without compromising on the brand’s renowned craftsmanship and prestige.

Features

It has a sleek stainless steel case, silver dial, and iconic Oyster bracelet, it exudes timeless sophistication that seamlessly transitions from casual to formal settings.

Specifications

• Production Year: 2020
• Case Size: 36mm
• Materials:
  • Dial – Silver
  • Bracelet – Oyster, three-piece solid links
  • Bezel – Steel
• Function: Hours, Minutes, Seconds
• Mechanism: Calibre 3130, a self-winding mechanical

2. Omega Seamaster 300m Chronometer – Stainless Steel & Blue Dial Ref. 2531.80.00

About

As an entry-level timepiece is a remarkable balance of craftsmanship and affordability. Priced between S$2,161 and S$3,065, this Swiss-made watch offers an accessible entry point into the world of luxury timepieces without compromising on the renowned Omega quality and timeless design. By combining a captivating blue dial, stainless steel construction, and chronometer-certified precision, this timepiece truly represents the epitome of attainable elegance for discerning watch enthusiasts.

Features

Its robust design and functionality, offer a water resistance of 300 meters, making it suitable for diving and ensuring reliability even in the most demanding aquatic environments.

Specifications

• Production Year: 1993-2005
• Case Size: 41mm
• Materials:
  • Dial – Blue
  • Bracelet – Stainless steel
  • Bezel – Steel
• Function: Date, Hours, Minutes, Seconds, Chronometer
• Mechanism: Omega caliber 1120, Automatic

3. Tag Heuer Carrera Porsche Chronograph “Special Edition” – Stainless Steel & Grey Dial Ref. CBN2A1F.FC6492

About

With its exceptional craftsmanship and collaboration between two iconic brands, these timepieces offer an entry-level experience for watch enthusiasts seeking luxury and performance at an accessible price range. Priced between S$4,283 and S$5,151, the watch provide an excellent entry point into the world of Tag Heuer and Porsche, combining style, precision, and heritage.

Features

A unique blend of sleek stainless steel construction, a striking grey dial, and exclusive design elements inspired by the world of motorsport create an exceptional timepiece that captures the essence of speed and style.

Specifications

• Production Year: 2021
• Case Size: 44mm
• Materials:
  • Dial – Grey
  • Bracelet – Stainless steel
  • Bezel – Ceramic
• Function: Hours, Minutes, Small Seconds, Date, Chronograph, Luminous Hands
• Mechanism: Heuer 02, Automatic

4. Longines Master Collection Date 38.5 – Stainless Steel & Silver Dial Ref. L2.628.4.78

About

The Longines Master Collection Date 38.5 timepiece embodies the essence of entry-level luxury watches. Crafted with precision and elegance, this model offers exceptional quality and timeless design at an affordable price point. With prices ranging from S$1,078 to S$1,468, it caters to those seeking a sophisticated timepiece without compromising their budget.

Features

The Longines Master Collection Date 38.5 boast a remarkable automatic movement, ensuring precise timekeeping and the convenience of self-winding functionality.

Specifications

• Production Year: Unknown
• Case Size: 38.5mm
• Materials:
  • Dial – Silver
  • Bracelet – Stainless steel
  • Bezel – Steel
• Function: Hours, Minutes, Seconds, Date
• Mechanism: L619, Automatic

5. Tudor Black Bay 58 – Stainless Steel & Black Dial Ref. 79030N

About

With prices ranging from S$2,584 to S$3,322, the Tudor Black Bay 58 is a compelling entry-level luxury watch. Its affordability, coupled with its quality craftsmanship and stylish design, makes it an ideal choice for beginners venturing into the world of luxury timepieces.

Features

Reliable and accurate in-house movement, the Calibre MT5402. This self-winding mechanical movement provides a power reserve of 70 hours, ensuring precise timekeeping and long-lasting performance.

Specifications

• Production Year: 2018
• Case Size: 39mm
• Materials:
  • Dial – Black
  • Bracelet – Stainless steel
  • Bezel – Steel
• Function: Hours, Minutes, Seconds, Chronometer
• Mechanism: Tudor caliber MT5402, Automatic

6. Breitling Navitimer 8 Super 8 B20 Automatic 46 – Stainless Steel & Black Dial Ref. AB204010.BG92.491X

About

The Navitimer 8 is an entry-level luxury watch, offering exceptional craftsmanship and iconic design at an accessible price point. With an average price range of S$2,406 to S$3,228, it provides an opportunity to experience the renowned quality of Breitling timepieces without breaking the bank.

Features

The automatic B20 movement. This self-winding movement ensures accurate timekeeping and reliability, making it a trusted companion for any aviation enthusiast or watch connoisseur.

Specifications

• Production Year: 2018
• Case Size: 46mm
• Materials:
  • Dial – Black
  • Bracelet – Leather
  • Bezel – Steel
• Function: Hours, Minutes, Seconds, Date, Chronometer
• Mechanism: Breitling caliber B20, Automatic

7. IWC Portofino Automatic – Stainless Steel & Black Dial Ref. IW3565-02

About

The IWC Portofino Automatic offers exceptional value and craftsmanship at a price range of S$2,285 to S$3,149. This accessible price point makes it an ideal choice for beginners looking to venture into the world of luxury watches without compromising on quality and style.

Features

Boasts a reliable and precise automatic movement, providing effortless timekeeping without the need for manual winding. Its mechanism ensures accurate and consistent performance, enhancing the overall functionality of the watch.

Specifications

• Production Year: 2011
• Case Size: 40mm
• Materials:
  • Dial – Black
  • Bracelet – Leather
  • Bezel – Steel
• Function: Hours, Minutes, Seconds, Date
• Mechanism: IWC caliber 35111, Automatic

8. Panerai Luminor Base Logo – Stainless Steel & Black Dial Ref. PAM00000

About

Is an excellent entry-level luxury watch. Panerai has crafted this timepiece to deliver exceptional quality and style at a relatively accessible price point. With an average price range of S$2,871 to S$4,005, it offers an affordable gateway into the world of luxury watches without compromising on the renowned Panerai craftsmanship and iconic design. This makes the Panerai Luminor Base Logo an ideal choice for those seeking their first luxury timepiece that combines affordability with timeless elegance.

Features

Its use of a manual-winding mechanical movement, which allows enthusiasts to experience the traditional charm and interaction of manually winding their watch for precise timekeeping.

Specifications

• Production Year: 2004-2016
• Case Size: 44mm
• Materials:
  • Dial – Black
  • Bracelet – Leather
  • Bezel – Steel
• Function: Hours, Minutes
• Mechanism: Panerai caliber OP I, Handwound/Manual Winding

9. Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Classic Large Small Seconds – Silver Dial Ref. Q3858522

About

An exceptional timepiece is known for its exquisite craftsmanship and sophisticated design. With an average cost ranging from S$5,032 to S$6,766, it offers incredible value considering Jaeger-LeCoultre’s esteemed reputation, Swiss watchmaking heritage, and the timeless elegance it brings to the wrist.

Features

A notable mechanism known as the “flip-over” case, allowing the wearer to reverse the watch face, revealing a solid caseback or personalized engravings, adding a touch of versatility and customization to the timepiece.

Specifications

• Production Year: 2018
• Case Size: 27.4mm
• Materials:
  • Dial – Silvered Grey
  • Bracelet – Calfskin Leather
  • Bezel – Steel
• Function: Hours, Minutes, Small Seconds
• Mechanism: Jaeger-LeCoultre caliber 822/2, Handwound/Manual winding

10. Grand Seiko Spring Drive – Stainless Steel & Silver Dial Ref. SBGA057

About

Grand Seiko offers entry-level luxury watches with prices ranging from S$2,326 to S$4,002, providing an accessible option for those seeking high-quality timepieces without compromising on craftsmanship and design.

Features

Unique Spring Drive mechanism, which combines the precision of quartz with the smooth sweeping motion of a mechanical watch, offering unparalleled accuracy and a mesmerizing experience on the wrist.

Specifications

• Production Year: Unknown
• Case Size: 40mm
• Materials:
  • Dial – Silver
  • Bracelet – Leather
  • Bezel – Stainless Steel
• Function: Hours, Minutes, Power Reserve Indicator
• Mechanism: Spring Drive Caliber 9R65, Automatic

Where to Buy Your First Authentic Luxury Watch in Singapore

Authorized Retailers

1. Cortina Watch

Cortina Watch, a respected retailer of luxury timepieces for 50 years, is cherished by discerning consumers for its exquisite offerings. As they plan for future expansion, their goal is to retain their leadership in the luxury watch sector across the Asia Pacific. Fueled by passion, foresight, and diligence, the company consistently delivers top-tier horology to clients, innovating to ensure the perfect blend of quality and satisfaction.

2. Kee Hing Hung 

Kee Hing Hung, an independent Rolex boutique, holds a distinguished position in Singapore’s watch industry. Established in the 1960s by the late How Ting Hai as a humble trading firm, the company has grown, emphasizing exceptional customer service. As part of the global Rolex retailer network, the boutique is a testament to the trusted relationship with Rolex. It offers an extensive selection of Rolex watches in a luxurious setting, providing a unique customer experience. 

3. Watch Palace 

Founded in 1978, Watch Palace has evolved from a family-run business on Orchard Road into an Official Rolex Retailer, signifying decades of mutual trust with Rolex. Their dedication to customer service and horological expertise have firmly positioned them within the luxury watch market. Today, customers can peruse an extensive Rolex collection in an opulent environment, assisted by highly trained staff proficient in the nuances of horology.

Pre-Owned Luxury Watch Shops

1. Watch Exchange Singapore

Watch Exchange, with over 10 years of experience, ensures authenticity through a 60-point inspection process. Their 5-step watch authentication guarantees genuine, fully functional pre-owned luxury watches. Using advanced tools, like high-resolution microscopes and timegraphers, they leave no detail unchecked. Offering a wide selection of popular brands and models, they prioritize fair and transparent pricing.

2. Chuan Watch 

Established in 1995, Chuan Watch is a seasoned player in the luxury watch industry. Specializing in buying, selling, trading, and restoring luxury timepieces, the company also offers watch accessories. The owner, Mr. Henry Lim, brings 15 years of experience as a Rolex technician and was trained in Switzerland in watch repair and restoration. 

3. HJ LUXURY PTE LTD

HJ Luxury specializes in the evaluation of used Rolex watches, branded timepieces, and fine jewelry, offering some of the highest valuations in town for valuable items. With a focus on luxury watches, they continuously source high-grade timepieces and jewelry to meet the demands of their customers. HJ Luxury is always interested in purchasing fine watches from individuals.

FAQs

1. What is the best entry-level luxury watch brand?

Determining the best entry-level luxury watch brand is subjective, but notable options include Tissot, Longines, Hamilton, Oris, and Seiko. These brands offer a range of high-quality watches with different styles and movements at accessible price points. Choose based on your personal preferences and desired features.

2. What is the best watch to start with?

The best watch to start with depends on your individual tastes and budget. Some popular entry-level watches include the Tudor Black Bay Fifty-Eight, Rolex Oyster Perpetual 36mm, Omega Speedmaster 300m Chronometer 41mm, and Tag Heuer Carrera Porsche SE 44mm.

3. Is Tudor entry-level?

Yes! For instance, Tudor’s Black Bay is an excellent entry-level luxury brand for those just starting out on their luxury watch journey. The brand offers a wide range of watches that combine quality craftsmanship with timeless style – not to mention incredible value for money!

4. Is Rolex an entry-level watch?

Rolex offers several models that are perfect for beginners. These include classic models such iconic watches as the Rolex Oyster Perpetual Datejust 36mm, as well as more modern designs like the Oyster Perpetual 39mm – both are great choices for those just entering the world of luxury watches!

Final Word

Choosing the right starter luxury watch is an exciting endeavor that can elevate your style and showcase your taste for timeless sophistication. Consider factors like premium quality, reasonable pricing, and a design that resonates with your personal style.

Looking to buy or sell your luxury watches? Watch Exchange is your one-stop destination for trading Rolex, Patek Philippe, Tissot, Sinn, Zenith, and other luxury timepieces. Find your next watch today or list your item for free!