Famous Watch Brands Every Collector Needs to Feature in Their Collectionsubmitted on 22 August 2020
Whether you’re new to the game or have been a collector most of your life, it seems like there’s always something new to learn about watches. Maybe it’s a certain type of movement you didn't know or some obscure watchmaker who made iconic pieces that top collectors are fighting over. Behind all that, however, are the classics that never die. These are the brands that consistently release great pieces, and usually have a very long history behind their names. More importantly, these tend to be the ones whose watches maintain their value the best. Let's take a look at some of the top watch brands all collectors should know about.
Rolex
We can’t start any list of famous watch brands without speaking of Rolex. The name literally became synonymous with luxury, and still remains one of the most respected watchmakers in the world. With over 110 years in history and owners ranging from athletes to politicians to famous movie stars, it’s no wonder Rolex is the most famous watch brand. Rolexes also have the benefit of being readily available on the market on sites like Chronext. Whether you’re looking for a classic Submariner, a Daytona, or a Datejust, you’ll find it right there. You can also shop based on their condition, whether you’re looking for a brand-new watch, or one that was slightly worn, vintage, or in mint condition.
Audemars Piguet
Audemars Piguet was founded by Edward-Auguste Piguet and Jules-Louis Audemars in 1875. While the watchmaker is known for its limited timepieces, it produces over 36,000 watches every year. One of Audemars Piguet’s distinctions is that it was the first watchmaker to heavily feature stainless steel in their pieces. Audemars Piguet watches are also known for their impeccable movement, which is used by other famous watch brands like Bulgari and Tiffany and Co.
Jaeger LeCoultre
This one might not be the most well-known among the casual crowd, but it is one of the most respected brands in the collector world. The Swiss watchmaker boasts almost 200 years of history and is known for creating some of the most iconic pieces the world has ever seen.
Legend has it that a well-known British officer asked the watchmaker to create a watch that could take a hit to the face after one of his was destroyed during a polo game. They then came up with the Reverso, which can be flipped around to protect the face. It was and remains one of the most well-known models in their selection.
Vacheron Constantin
This is another well-known brand in collector circles and a sure investment if you're trying to build a solid collection. Established in 1755 in Switzerland, it is one of the oldest watchmakers still in operation. Their watches are known for their precise detailing and have been said to be worn by famous historical figures such as Pope Pius IX, Harry Truman, and even Napoleon.
While we could list hundreds of other watchmakers, these are great names to get started with. All of these brands represent great investments and are respected by most collectors on the scene.
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