Luxury watch brands such as Rolex, Omega, Patek Philippe, and Audemars Piguet are world-famous and continue to enjoy great popularity. But even these well-known “high-end” luxury watch brands have watch models that are somewhat less popular and comparatively affordable. I present five exciting and affordable watch models from high-end luxury watch brands.
What does “high-end” mean in relation to watches?
But before we get down to the nitty-gritty, what exactly are “high-end” luxury watch brands and what distinguishes them from all the others? “High-end” luxury watch brands are manufacturers of watches that are known for their exceptional craftsmanship, high-quality materials, and exclusive designs. The best-known watch brands in this category include Rolex, Omega, Audemars Piguet, Vacheron Constantin, and Patek Philippe, with the latter three belonging to the “Holy Trinity”. These three Swiss watch manufacturers stand for the highest level of craftsmanship and luxury and are the dream of every watch lover.
The Little Icon: Rolex Explorer 36
It is difficult to talk about unknown watch models and references when it comes to the name Rolex. After all, the brand with the crown is the most popular watch brand in the world. Nevertheless, there is one model that is currently flying under the radar despite its popularity and great history: The Rolex Explorer 36. Paradoxically, the small version of the legendary field watch is significantly closer to the original model from the 1950s than the contemporary 41 mm variant and the now discontinued 39 mm version. Whether you opt for the latest Explorer 36 with ref. 124270 or a vintage model from the last few decades: With the Rolex Explorer in 36 mm, you have a legendary icon on your wrist that is comparatively affordable and flies under the radar (for now). Explorer models from the 1990s or 2000s are available for as little as $5,400, and the current six-figure reference Rolex field watch is available for less than $7,500.
Interesting Rarity: Audemars Piguet Offshore Diver
When the name Audemars Piguet is mentioned, watch enthusiasts immediately think of the legendary Royal Oak, which founded the steel sports model segment in 1972 and revolutionized the watch world forever. The watch created by mastermind Gerald Genta is still extremely popular today and the current reference is a watch that is reserved for just a few connoisseurs. It is almost impossible to acquire an Audemars Piguet through official channels and the market price of this sought-after all-rounder is at least $32,000 – for rather unpopular dial variants, mind you. The Audemars Piguet Offshore, which is comparatively affordable especially in the Diver version, is significantly less popular but no less interesting. And you don’t have to do without the popular waffle dial or the iconic octagonal bezel. In combination with the beefy 42 mm case and the rubber strap, the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Diver is an interesting model that you don’t see too often on other wrists and that flies extremely under the radar of watch fans. The AP diving watch is available for less than $22,000. Compared to the standard Audemars Piguet Royal Oak model, this is almost a bargain.
The Little Brother: Omega Speedmaster 38 Co-Axial
A timeless design and space adventures in the service of NASA have made the Omega Speedmaster Professional a watch with an incomparable fan base. Leaving aside the history and romance behind this timepiece, however, it is clear that the legendary Moonwatch also has a few disadvantages. The 42 mm case may be a little too large for some wrists, the watch is only water resistant to 50 meters, and a hand-wound movement is nowhere near as practical as an automatic movement, especially for everyday use. The lesser-known and more affordable Omega Speedmaster 38 Co-Axial solves all these problems without sacrificing the popular design. The essence of the Speedmaster is retained, but the dial has a slightly more modern and luxurious look. In addition, there is a Co-Axial automatic movement that eliminates the need for daily winding. With water resistance up to 100 meters, the 38 mm Speedy is also suitable for swimming – although you could also do this with the current Moonwatch reference thanks to the METAS movement. With a price tag of less than $4,300, this variant of the Omega Speedmaster has many advantages, but is significantly more affordable than its big brother.
A Tooly Overseas: Vacheron Constantin Overseas “Deep Stream”
Behind the bulky reference 47040/000W-9500 hides an unrecognized jewel of the Vacheron Constantin Overseas collection. Known among fans and enthusiasts as the “Deep Stream”, this model is a real insider tip for anyone who has always dreamed of owning a Vacheron Constantin Overseas but doesn’t have the budget for it. This version of the popular Overseas comes with a rubber strap and a modified dial layout and, with its titanium bezel, can be described as the tool version of the legendary Vacheron Constantin Overseas. Water resistance up to 150 m and an automatic movement make the package complete. The Vacheron Constantin “Deep Stream” is available for just under $12,000, making it considerably more affordable than the standard model of the well-known and popular Vacheron Constantin Overseas.
An Exceptional Dress Watch: Patek Philippe Calatrava 6119G-001
When watch lovers think of the name Patek Philippe, they inevitably think of legendary sports models such as the Nautilus or Aquanaut. However, since Patek Philippe also stands for fine dress watches like hardly any other luxury watch brand, many watch enthusiasts are also familiar with the name Calatrava. The Patek Philippe Calatrava with the reference 6119G-001 is a true insider tip among Patek Philippe watches and a model that is immediately memorable thanks to its design. The case and the applied indices are made of elegant white gold, the discreet, slate gray sunburst dial is beautiful to look at, and the characteristic “Clous De Paris” bezel makes this elegant dress watch an absolute eye-catcher. Even if this is a comparatively more affordable model, a large budget is a must. With a price tag of around $32,000, this fine Patek Philippe watch is anything but a bargain.
