Mechanical watches have long been a symbol of elegance, craftsmanship, and timeless style. In a world where quartz watches are increasingly common due to their affordability and accuracy, mechanical pieces curve a name for themselves with their intricate, non-electronic automatic movements.
There are various automatic watches available on the market, catering to various tastes, needs, and budgets. From field watches to divers, dress watches, and more, the mechanical watch industry offers an astounding variety of options for those who appreciate the intricate art of timekeeping.
In this best mechanical watches review, we’ll explore some of the top luxury mechanical men’s and women’s pieces of (mostly) the 2020s. They range from affordable to more high-end picks to help you make an informed decision as you choose the perfect companion for your wrist. Enjoy!
1. Rolex Pepsi GMT-Master II ref. 126710BLRO-0001 – Oystersteel, Black Dial
About
The Rolex GMT-Master II ‘Pepsi’ ref. 126710BLRO-0001 is a luxury men’s sports watch. It’s a modern reinterpretation of the iconic Rolex GMT Master 1955 vintage watch- evident from its sophisticated integrated design that appeals to watch enthusiasts.
It captures the essence of a high-quality automatic watch with its well-polished, broad, 40mm Oystersteel case and matching Jubilee bracelet, a unique dial, and a special mechanical movement that boasts a 70-hour power reserve.
Features
They include a black dial, a date window at 3 o’clock with a Cyclops magnifier lens, a bi-directional rotatable bezel, a new Caliber 3285 movement, a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal over the dial, a red 24-hour GMT hand with an inverted arrow-head tip, and a Jubilee bracelet.
Specifications
- Production Year: 2018
- Case Size: 40mm
- Materials:
- Dial – Black with Chromalight lume-filled Mercedes-style hands and round/triangle/rectangle hour markers
- Bracelet – Oystersteel, Jubilee, with a Folding Oysterlock safety clasp with Easylink 5 mm comfort extension link
- Bezel – Bi-directional rotatable, Oystersteel, with a bi-color red and blue ceramic Cerachrom insert with 24-hour markings
- Function: Date, GMT, Hours, Minutes, Seconds
- Mechanism: Automatic, Caliber 3285 movement, with 31 jewels, a 70-hour power reserve, and a 28,800vph frequency
Why You Should Invest?
It’s a well-built, stylish, and functional timepiece. With its attractive design, reliable movement, and high-quality construction, it’s an excellent addition to any collection.
Additionally, this affordable watch increases in value with time. For example, according to WatchBase, its price increased between 2018 and 2023. Its value rose from S$12,378 on March 21, 2018, to S$13,319 on January 4, 2020.
It increased further to S$14,766 on January 20, 2022, and went higher to S$15,780 on January 10, 2023. Experts predict higher prices before December 2023.
2. Rolex Cosmograph Daytona Panda ref. 116500LN-0001 – Oystersteel, White Dial
About
Suaveness, easy charm, sexy design: These are some of the qualities of the Daytona Panda ref. 116500LN-0001.
It’s an elegant discontinued luxury men’s timepiece that showcases the brand’s expertise in watchmaking. It maintains the legacy of the original 1963 Cosmograph chronograph with the familiar layout on its dial and a bezel with a tachymeter scale.
However, it has added several modern tweaks, such as a modern, high-precision movement, a larger Oystersteel steel case, a stylish Oyster bracelet, and a clean, white dial.
Features
They include a Caliber 4130 movement, a 40mm stainless steel case, a bezel with a black ceramic Cerachrom insert with a tachymeter scale, subdials at 3,6 and 9 o’clock, and an Oyster bracelet with a folding clasp.
Specifications
- Production Year: 2016-2023
- Case Size: 40mm
- Materials:
- Dial – White, with Chromalight lume-filled hands and hour markers
- Bracelet – Oystersteel Oyster, with an Oysterlock double-locking folding clasp with an Easylink 5mm extension link
- Bezel – Unidirectional rotating stainless steel black, with 60-minute graduations and contours
- Function: Date, Hours, Minutes, Seconds
- Mechanism: Self-winding Caliber 8L35 movement with 26 jewels, a 50-hour power reserve, and 28,800vph frequency
Why You Should Invest?
The Rolex Cosmograph Daytona ref. 116500LN is an ideal timepiece for those who value the history and heritage of watchmaking. Its high-quality materials, automatic movement, and durability make it a sound investment for watch enthusiasts.
Moreover, it has appreciated in value over time, according to WatchBase. It had a fixed retail price of S$14,477 from 2016 to 2020.
Its value went higher to S$17,372 on January 4, 2020. The rise went on to S$20,267 on January 20, 2022, and S$21,715 on January 14, 2023- for now.
3. Hublot Big Bang Black Magic ref. 301.CM.130.RX – Black Ceramic, Black Carbon Fiber Dial
About
The Big Bang Black Magic is a well-regarded watch series from the reputable Hublot brand. One of its family members, the Hublot Big Bang Black Magic ref. 301.CM.130.RX, is a luxury men’s sports watch.
It has an intimidating all-black design consisting of a black 44mm ceramic case, a black dial with a special pattern, and a black strap that’s consistent with the sporty theme.
These, plus its four-figure price range, make it a must-have among most watch enthusiasts.
Features
They include a black ceramic case, a date window between 4 o’clock and 5 o’clock, a bezel with 6 H-shaped Titanium screws, a black rubber strap, a black carbon fiber dial, Arabic numeral hour markers at 12,2,4,8 and 10 o’clock, 3 subdials at 3,6 and 9 o’clock, and a red printed minute track with 5 minute Arabic numerals in white intervals on the flat black rim on the dial flange.
Specifications
- Production Year: 2023
- Case Size: 44mm
- Materials:
- Dial – Black Carbon Fiber, with lume-filled hands, a red seconds hand with an ‘H’ counterweight, and Arabic numeral/index hour markers
- Bracelet – Black structured rubber strap with a microblasted black ceramic and black-plated stainless steel deployant buckle clasp
- Bezel – Fixed, smooth, vertical satin-finished black ceramic, with 6 H-shaped Titanium screws
- Function: Chronograph, Date, Hours, Minutes, Seconds
- Mechanism: Automatic, Caliber HUB4100 chronograph movement
Why You Should Invest?
According to WatchCharts, its average private market price increased from S$11,312 on May 11, 2023 to S$12,213 on November 3, 2023.
4. Vacheron Constantin Overseas ref. 4500V/110A-B128 – Stainless Steel, Blue Dial
About
The Vacheron Constantin Overseas ref. 4500V/110A-B128 is a luxury everyday men’s watch that’s not easy to ignore: For its movement with golden details and stylish, modern design that’s pleasant to the eye and wrist.
It boasts a slender, confident demeanor- amplified by its formidable 41mm stainless steel case, deep blue dial, and a unique brushed bezel and bracelet
Features
They include a minute track with Arabic numerals every five-minute intervals on the dial’s rim, a bezel and bracelet with a Maltese cross design, a deep blue dial, a date window at 3 o’clock, and an exhibition sapphire glass caseback.
Specifications
- Production Year: 2016
- Case Size: 41mm
- Materials:
- Dial – Deep blue, with lume-filled hands and hour markers
- Bracelet – Stainless steel, with a Maltese cross design. Dark blue calf leather and dark blue Elasto NBR straps also available
- Bezel – Fixed, smooth, stainless steel, with a Maltese cross design
- Function: Date, Hours, Minutes, Seconds
- Mechanism: Automatic Caliber 5100, with 37 jewels, a 60-hr power reserve, and a 28,800vph frequency
Why You Should Invest?
With its stunning design and superb performance, this perfect everyday watch will not only make a statement but also hold its value over time.
It can also increase in worth with time. For example, according to WatchCharts, its average private market price increased from S$38,387 on June 13, 2023, to S$38,434 on November 2, 2023.
5. Patek Philippe Nautilus ref. 5711/1A-010 – Stainless Steel, Blue Dial
About
The Patek Philippe Nautilus ref. 5711/1A-010 is, in short, a no-nonsense discontinued luxury men’s sports timepiece for the modern adventurer with a taste for fashion.
It’s part of the Nautilus collection and borrows from the original 1976 Nautilus- designed for wealthy men and their families as they cruised the seas on boats.
Most of Its design styles point to its maritime roots, such as a porthole-shaped stainless steel case and flanks, and a dial with embossed horizontal lines to resemble teak wood boat decks.
Features
Some of them are a porthole-shaped case and flanks, a bracelet with contours, a dial with embossed horizontal lines, a date window at 3 o’clock, and a transparent sapphire crystal caseback.
Specifications
- Production Year: 2012-2021
- Case Size: 40mm
- Materials:
- Dial – Stunning blue, with luminous hands and hour markers
- Bracelet – Stainless steel, with contours and a fold-over clasp
- Bezel – Fixed, smooth, stainless steel
- Function: Date, Hours, Minutes, Seconds
- Mechanism: Automatic Caliber 324 S C movement with 29 jewels, a 45-hour power reserve, and a 28,800vph frequency
Why You Should Invest?
It’s a top-tier timepiece with a rich history and impressive craftsmanship. Investing in this watch ensures you own a piece that combines functionality, durability, and a timeless design.
In addition, according to WatchBase, it has increased in value between 2010 and 2016. Its price rose from S$22,106 on April 1, 2010 to S$29,996 on March 1, 2012. The figure went higher to S$34,020 on April 9, 2016.
6. Chopard Happy Sport ref. 274808-5006 – Rose Gold, Silver Dial
About
The Chopard Happy Sport ref. 274808-5006 is a luxury women’s dress watch with a unique design. It’s part of Chopard’s Happy Sport collection- created in 1993 to wow and please (female) wearers with its unique use of diamonds and its watches’ awe-inspiring design.
It’s arguably one the most refined pieces in the brand’s collection, clear from its golden 36mm case, a diamond-set bezel, busy dial with a special pattern and golden details, and a leather strap with a glossy finish and comfortable wrist presence.
Its elegant, mostly-golden design is complemented by an equally capable Swiss-made automatic movement that completes it. Pair it with your best evening dress, and you’re set to make a statement!
Features
It boasts several features that enhance its appeal, such as a seven floating/spinning diamonds set in rose gold, a bezel set with 38 diamonds, Roman numeral hour markers at 12, 3, 6 and 9 o’clock, a dial with a spiral sunburst guilloche patterned center, a transparent caseback, and a polished rose gold crown set with single sapphire cabochon.
Specifications
- Production Year: 2020
- Case Size: 36mm
- Materials:
- Dial – Silver, with a spiral sunburst guilloche patterned center and Rose Gold-tone hands and Arabic numeral/ index hour markers
- Bracelet – Black crocodile leather strap with a Rose Gold tang buckle
- Bezel – Fixed, smooth, Rose Gold, set with 38 diamonds
- Function: Hours, Minutes, Seconds
- Mechanism: Swiss Automatic Sellita SW 300-1 movement with 25 jewels, a 42-hour power reserve, and 28,800vph frequency
Why You Should Invest?
Investing in a MIDO Baroncelli Diamonds watch is a smart choice for watch enthusiasts who value timeless design, high-quality materials, and reliable Swiss mechanics.
Moreover, it rises in value with time. Its price increased by at least 25 percent between 2020 and November 4, 2023.
7. Tudor Black Bay 36 ref. m79643-0001 – Stainless Steel, Black Dial
About
Looking for an equally refined luxury gem with a bolder and less flashy design? The Tudor Black Bay 36 ref. m79643-0001 delivers that and much more.
It’s a stunning, lightweight luxury women’s watch with a beautiful two-tone design consisting of a 36mm stainless steel case, a fixed bezel with golden detailing, a deep black, and a two-tone bracelet with a special design and polished center links for an unmatched shine.
It flaunts a mysterious aura while expressing effortless style- qualities that resonate with the modern, stylish lady who’s thirsty for adventure.
Features
The watch boasts several features that enhance its appeal, such as a black dial with golden details for a clean and refined look, a Yellow Gold and stainless steel construction, a two-tone bracelet, a bezel with a golden cap, a steel screw-down crown with a golden cap, and a flat sapphire crystal with an anti-reflective treatment.
Specifications
- Production Year: 2022
- Case Size: 36mm
- Materials:
- Dial – Black, with lume-filled Yellow Gold-tone hands and hour markers
- Bracelet – Yellow Gold center links at 6 and 12 o’clock. Remaining center links in steel covered by a 0.2mm Yellow Gold cap. It also has a ‘T-fit’ folding clasp with a safety catch
- Bezel – Fixed, smooth, stainless steel, with a Yellow Gold cap
- Function: Hours, Minutes, Seconds
- Mechanism: Automatic Caliber MT5400 Movement with 27 jewels, a 70-hour power reserve, and 28,800vph frequency
Why You Should Invest?
Investing in the Tudor Black Bay 36 ref. m79643-0001 is a wise decision due to its timeless design, reliable craftsmanship, and versatile style.
Plus, it also appreciates in value with time. According to WatchBase, its price increased between 2022 and 2023. It had a value of S$6,905 on March 31, 2022, which rose to S$7,557 on January 1, 2023, and finally to S$7,716 on September 1, 2023.
8. Zenith Chronomaster A385 Revival ref. 03.A384.400/385.M385 – Stainless Steel, Smoked Brown Dial
About
Still on the beautiful design with graceful elegance, the Zenith Chronomaster A385 Revival ref. 03.A384.400/385.M385 is a luxury unisex watch with a perfect blend of sophistication and functionality.
It was designed to be an upgrade of the original 1969 El Primero A385 (however, most of its design elements are from its classic predecessor) and may be chunky for some female wearers due to its 37mm stainless steel case.
However, it makes up for it with its comfortable ladder-design steel bracelet and smoked brown dial that gives off a mellow, reflective appearance.
Its careful combination of quality materials, high-precision movement, and mesmerizing characteristics make it the ideal accessory for enthusiasts who appreciate both style and functionality.
Features
They include a tonneau-shaped case, a steel ladder bracelet, subdials at 3,6 and 9 o’clock, a smoked brown dial, 50m water resistance, a date window between 4 and 5 o’clock, a domed anti-reflective sapphire crystal above its dial, and a tachymeter scale around the dial’s outer ring.
Specifications
- Production Year: 2021
- Case Size: 37mm
- Materials:
- Dial – Smoked Brown gradient, with silver-tone hands and hour markers
- Bracelet – Stainless steel or leather strap
- Bezel – Fixed, smooth, stainless steel
- Function: Chronograph, Date, Hours, Minutes, Seconds, Small Seconds, Tachymeter
- Mechanism: Automatic El Primero 400 movement with a 50-hour power reserve and 36,000vph frequency
Why You Should Invest?
The Ball Engineer II Ohio Ladies ref. NL1026C-SJ-SL is a reliable, precise, and elegant timepiece. Its automatic movement provides consistent timekeeping, while the micro gas tubes ensure the watch remains legible in low-light conditions for years.
On the financial front, its price has increased by 20% between 2021 and November 3, 2023, with the chances of a further rise before December 2023 being high. The better the condition it is in, the more buyers it will attract in pre-owned and secondary markets.
9. Ulysse Nardin Classico ref. 3243-222B/390 – Stainless Steel, White Mother of Pearl Dial
About
The Ulysse Nardin Classico ref. 3243-222B/390 is an unapologetically vibrant luxury ladies’ timepiece that combines the expertise of renowned Swiss watchmaker Ulysse Nardin with a contemporary and dressy design.
It’s part of Ulysse Nardin’s Classico collection, which was established in 2015 and is famous for its daring watches with unique dial designs, imaginative color combinations, rounded cases, and curved lugs that complements their overall dressy appearance.
The watch showcases the brand’s signature combination of elegance and functionality with its well-rounded 37.5mm stainless steel case, diamond-set bezel, and dial with golden and diamond details and a special pattern, and a white leather strap, making it a perfect choice for bold women who want to stand out from the crowd.
Features
Some of its most eye-catching features include a well-rounded stainless steel case, a Mother of Pearl dial set with 7 diamonds, a big date display in a double window at 2 o’clock, a diamond-set bezel (60 brilliant-cut diamonds), a second time zone with quick setting at the 9 o’clock position, a small seconds subdial at 6 o’clock, and an anti-reflective scratch-resistant sapphire crystal over its dial.
Specifications
- Production Year: 2022
- Case Size: 37mm
- Materials:
- Dial – White Mother of Pearl, with silver-tone hands, diamond hour markers at 1,4,5,7,8,10 and 11 o’clock, and Roman numeral hour markers at 12 o’clock
- Bracelet – White alligator leather strap with a deployant buckle
- Bezel – Fixed, smooth, stainless steel, set with 60 brilliant-cut diamonds
- Function: Date, GMT, Hours, Minutes
- Mechanism: Self-winding Caliber UN-324 mechanical movement with 53 jewels, a 48-hour power reserve (approximately), and a 28,800vph frequency
Why You Should Invest?
Investing in a Ulysse Nardin Classico watch not only provides you with an exquisite and timeless timepiece but also allows you to own a piece of the Piaget legacy.
With its combination of high-quality materials, beautiful design, and Swiss precision, it’s an excellent addition to any collection.
Moreover, the inclusion of diamonds adds to its ability to rise in value with time. For instance, its price has increased by at least 30 percent between 2022 and November 3, 2023.
10. Audemars Piguet Royal Oak ref. 77450SR.OO.1361SR.02– Stainless Steel and Pink Gold, Silver Dial
About
Audemars Piguet’s Royal Oak collection is renowned for its elegance and technical prowess. The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak ref. 77450SR.OO.1361SR.02 is a prime example of the brand’s expertise. It’s a luxury women’s watch with a simple yet eye-catching design.
It captures the collection’s design essence while adding a feminine vibe to it. That’s evident from its 34mm stainless steel and Pink Gold case, a matching steel bracelet with a smooth drape and comfortable presence, and an easily noticeable silver dial with a special pattern and golden details. Let’s have a closer look.
Features
They include a silver dial with a ‘Grand Tapisserie’ pattern, an octagonal bezel with 8 polished screws, Pink Gold hour markers, a steel bracelet with Pink Gold links, a date window at 3 o’clock, 50m water resistance, and a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal over its dial.
Specifications
- Production Year: 2022
- Case Size: 34mm
- Materials:
- Dial – Silver, with a ‘Grand Tapisserie’ pattern and Pink Gold-tone Royal Oak hands and applied hour markers with luminescent coating
- Bracelet – Stainless steel, with Pink Gold links and an AP folding clasp buckle
- Bezel – Fixed, smooth, Pink Gold, octagonal, with 8 polished screws
- Function: Date, Hours, Minutes, Seconds
- Mechanism: Automatic Caliber 5800 movement with 28 jewels, a 50-hour power reserve, and a 28,800vph frequency
Why You Should Invest?
The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak ref. 77450SR.OO.1361SR.02 is an excellent investment for watch enthusiasts and collectors, as it combines a powerful movement with a stunning design.
The Grand Tapisserie pattern on its dial, along with its sophisticated stainless steel-Pink Gold construction, make it an attractive choice for those seeking an elegant and functional mechanical watch.What’s more, according to WatchCharts, its average private market price has increased steadily from S$42,733 on May 11, 2023 to S$43,015 on November 6, 2023. Its performance on the financial market guarantees more profit in the future.
Summary
The following table highlights the best automatic watches above, plus their key features, retail, private market, and pre-owned prices:
| Model | Key Features | Retail Price | Private Market Price | Pre-Owned Price |
| Rolex GMT-Master II ref. 126710BLRO-0001 | • Date window at 3 o’clock with a Cyclops magnifier lens • Bi-directional rotatable bezel • Jubilee bracelet | S$14,504 | S$28,167 | S$26,600 |
| Rolex Cosmograph Daytona ref. 116500 | • 40mm stainless steel case • Bezel with a black ceramic Cerachrom insert with a tachymeter scale • Subdials at 3,6 and 9 o’clock | S$20,061 | S$40,227 | S$37,500 |
| Hublot Big Bang Black Magic ref. 301.CM.130.RX | • Black ceramic case • Date window between 4 o’clock and 5 o’clock • Bezel with 6 H-shaped Titanium screws | S$21,823 | S$12,213 | S$14,569 |
| Vacheron Constantin Overseas ref. 4500V/110A-B128 | • Sapphire crystal that’s domed on both sides and anti-reflective coating inside • Unidirectional bezel with a blue ceramic insert • Gradient blue dial | S$33,887 | S$38,434 | S$37,500 |
| Patek Philippe Nautilus ref. 5711/1A-010 | • Porthole-shaped case and flanks • Bracelet with contours • Dial with embossed horizontal lines | S$47,293 | S$137,075 | S$126,900 |
| Chopard Happy Sport ref. 274808-5006 | • Seven floating/spinning diamonds set in rose gold • Bezel set with 38 diamonds • Dial with a spiral sunburst guilloche patterned center | S$39,580 | S$21,570 | S$19,900 |
| Tudor Black Bay 36 ref. m79643-0001 | • Two-tone bracelet • Bezel with a golden cap • Steel screw-down winding crown with a golden cap | S$7,252 | S$5,315 | S$3,600 |
| Zenith Chronomaster A385 Revival ref. 03.A384.400/385.M385 | • Tonneau-shaped case • Steel ladder bracelet • Tachymeter scale around the dial’s outer ring | S$11,386 | S$7,461 | S$6,350 |
| Ulysse Nardin Classico ref. 3243-222B/390 | • Mother of Pearl dial set with 7 diamonds • Big date display in a double window at 2 o’clock • Diamond-set bezel (60 brilliant-cut diamonds) | S$20,332 | S$15,140 | S$11,800 |
| Audemars Piguet Royal Oak ref. 77450SR.OO.1361SR.02 | • Silver dial with a ‘Grand Tapisserie’ pattern • Octagonal bezel with 8 polished screws • Steel bracelet with Pink Gold links | S$38,903 | S$43,015 | S$46,900 |
Final Word
The world of mechanical watches offers a wide array of exceptional timepieces to suit different tastes, styles, and budgets. From the affordable to the high-end, there’s a mechanical watch out there that meets your needs.
With proper research and consideration, you’ll find a timepiece that complements your style and serves as a reliable companion for years to come.
Key Takeaways
- The main difference between a mechanical watch and a quartz watch is mechanical watches use a clockwork mechanism to measure time. Meanwhile, quartz pieces use a battery.
- Luxury mechanical watches are an excellent investment for their intricate craftsmanship, timeless appeal, and unmatched precision. Others even proceed to appreciate in value with time.
- There’s a mechanical watch in the watch world for everyone, regardless of their taste, style, and budget. The key is extensive research and knowing what you want.
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!
