Borna Bosniak
Rounding out this year’s holiday buying guide, we’re going to choose only those within a hefty $50,000 budget, which is almost full. It’s especially hard to pick just a few, so if you want more recommendations, head over to the Time+Tide shop and pick up the latest edition of NOW Magazine, which covers over 150 new releases for the second half of the year. year. For budget-friendly options, also check out our under $500, under $1,000, under $5,000, and under $10,000 options.
Rolex GMT-Master II Ref. 126710
There is a distinct impression of Rolex as apathetic, aloof, and almost completely disconnected from the customers who keep Rolex as the top dog in the luxury watch industry. It’s clear that Rolex is still creating a lot of trends rather than chasing them, but the crown has definitely started sprinkling in some references that feel like they’re actually serving their fans. This latest monochrome GMT-Master II “Bruce Wayne” is one of them. Of them. Be sure to pick it up with an Oyster bracelet. Price: $10,900
cartier baignoire mini
This adorable little Baignoir was one of the many Cartier models featured at Watches & Wonders last year, and this mini version of the yellow gold bangle bracelet is a perfect example of what Cartier is best at. The Parisian house combines jewelry and watches with ease, which explains their surge in popularity in recent years. The Baignoire Mini is powered by a quartz movement, regulated by a crown set with a blue sapphire cabochon. Many variations are shown here by Brynn Wallner of @dimepiece. Price: $11,800
Zenith Chronomaster Original Triple Calendar
This release is like a “what if” scenario that Zenith could have released this watch as originally intended. The intention to incorporate a triple calendar into the El Primero A386 seems to have existed as far back as 1969, but by the time Zenith built them, the style seems to have gone the way of 1970s funk. Thankfully, for both Zenith and its fans, the 1960s are in full swing right now. Price: $13,900
Angelus Instrument de Vitesse
Angelus has long been considered one of the finest chronograph manufacturers, but their latest releases are primarily focused on more avant-garde pieces. But for 2024, the brand has gone back to basics and packed a simply fun monopusher chronograph into a case that measures just 9.3 mm in height. The hand-wound movement produced by La Joux Perret is an evolution of the Journe, Frajolais, and Halter designs and is a coveted item for enthusiasts. Price: $17,300
Chopard LUC Qalité Fleurier
Founded by Parmigiani Fleurier, Bovet and Chopard, the Qualité Fleurier approval is given only to Swiss watches of the highest quality, durability and precision. Featuring a lucent steel case with welded lugs and a discreet dial, the LUC turned heads upon its release. That’s exactly what it was made for, and its overall perfection reached an 11. If you’re familiar with LUC, you know it means serious business. Price: $20,300
Alto ART01
Thibault Guitard drew much of his inspiration for the ART 01 from the automotive world. The sharp angles are meant to recall the era of the wedge, a 1970s vehicle design metaphor championed by the likes of Giorgetto Giugiaro. ART 01 is more than just looks. Powered by a micro-rotor movement developed by Cercle des Horlogers, it displays the time normally, with the exception of the seconds hand rotating backwards. Price: $20,350
Vacheron Constantin Traditionnelle Manual winding
As its name suggests, Traditionnelle is a collection by Vacheron Constantin that is most focused on keeping the Maison’s design alive while meeting modern expectations. With a small seconds display and a pink gold case, this Tradition flannel perfectly expresses its significance with a case size that has become synonymous with modern dress watches and a dial color that has become mainstream in recent years. I am. Price: $23,700
Parmigiani Fleurier Tonda PF Micro Rotor No Date Golden Sienna
The overhaul led by Guido Terreni transformed the Parmigiani brand from a niche luxury brand to one of the strongest visual identities Swiss watchmaking has to offer. The Tonda PF Micro-Rotor only has one complaint from purists and that is the inclusion of a date window. Well, the Parmigiani Fleurier Tonda PF Micro Rotor No Date Golden Sienna gives you no reason not to want one. Price: $25,300
Romain Gauthier Freedom C Titanium Edition 5
Romain Gauthier’s watchmaking skills have to be one of the most underrated in the industry. Not only is the C an amazing addition to the saturated luxury sports watch market, but one look at its hand-wound movement will leave you in awe. Look away from the hand-stamped titanium dial and prepare to glue your eyes back to the caseback, observing the fully beveled bridges. Price: $43,000
