Not all watches are created equal, some ooze pure prestige and magnificence and some are in a class of their own.
Combining impressive craftsmanship with a stylish aesthetic, luxury watches are so much more than simple accessories — they are wearable works of art.
The best watches are not necessarily the most expensive, but they are on the pricier side due to the pedigree of the manufacturer as watch quality is judged over a long period of time.
It’s no wonder names like Rolex stir a certain feeling in not only watch enthusiasts but just about everyone. The top manufacturers are usually based in Switzerland.
Thus the most valuable watches are identified by brand names. We will go ahead and list the top 10 luxury watch brands.
- Audemar Piguet
Founded in 1875 by Jules-Louis Audemars and Edward-Auguste Piguet, Audemars Piguet produces 36,000 of their prestigious timepieces a year. This luxury watch brand is also noted for creating the first steel luxury sports watch the Royal oak, which even Uhuru Kenyatta has been spotted wearing.
2. Vacheron Constantin
One of the oldest manufacturers of luxury watches, Vacheron Constantin, was founded by Jean-Marc Vacheron in 1755, in Geneva, Switzerland and is part of the Richemont group. They are famous for their heritage and styling. Napoleon Bonaparte is said to have won a Valcheron.
3. Patek Phillippe
The Swiss brand, Patek Phillipe & Co, was founded in 1851. The watches boast complicated mechanics and traditional styling and have been worn by royalty throughout history.
4. Blancpain
A subsidiary of the Swatch group, it was founded in 1735. It is famed for its elaborately styled watches and broad range of minimalist designed watches.
5. Rolex
One of, if not the most identifiable luxury watch brands, Rolex is internationally acclaimed and coveted by society. Prized for its timeless form and function, Rolex watches are prevalent in popular culture. President Kenyatta has been seen wearing various Rolexes, including a Rolex Submariner with black bezel and another with green bezel and a Rolex oyster perpetual watch.
[Source-Kenyans.co.ke]
6. Cartier
Cartier is undeniably one of the most iconic watches and jewellery brands globally, especially due to its popularity in the mainstream press and celebrity culture. It was founded in 1847 in Paris, France and flaunt a distinguished and classic distinction.
7. Breitling
Founded in 1884, the luxury brand is known for its durability and precision. Their watches are inspired by aviation and also make special watches for divers.
8. Omega
This is another influential swiss watch luxury brand that has built its name from its historical work as well as contemporary products. It is the official timekeeper for the US and British armies as well as the Olympics.
9. Hublot
Although significantly younger than most other brands on this list, it is no less impressive. Since the 1980s, it has become one of the most prestigious names in the industry.
10. Montblanc
Montblanc may be best known for its famous fountain pens, but the label also creates exceptional luxury watches. Beautifully crafted by hand, the brand’s timepieces are as stylish as they are functional.
