Anyone who isn’t ultra-wealthy is always looking for good value for money. That applies to clothes, cars, groceries, and even watches. Thanks to a competitive landscape and advancements in manufacturing technology, brands are constantly improving the models we know and love with more accurate movements, more captivating dials, and sturdier bracelets. And because luxury watches are enthusiast goods, not essential goods, you need to make sure you’re getting not only what you need but also what you want.
What follows is a list of the top five best-selling modern watches on Chrono24 within a price range that can reasonably be called “affordable luxury.” Five brands are featured, showcasing a variety of styles including chronographs, dress watches, GMTs, and more. Each has its own personality, heritage, and fan base. Any of these watches would be right at home in a two-watch collection, and a couple could serve as a standalone option. Whether you’re ready to buy or still saving up, the watches on this list provide five distinct options for your watch-collecting journey. You’ll no doubt see some familiar faces here; in fact, you might already own one.
Omega Speedmaster Reduced 3510.50.00
Sometimes considered the little brother to the Omega Speedmaster Professional, the Reduced has gained a following all its own for several reasons. As the name implies, the watch comes in a slightly smaller size that’s more manageable for many wrists. The Reduced also features an automatic movement, which keeps the watch powered longer, especially if you’re using the chronograph. Lastly, the Reduced offers buyers what they love about the Speedmaster at a more affordable price. If you’re a fan of this watch, you can branch out to different dial styles, explore different case materials, or add a date complication. It might not be the top choice for purists, but the Reduced has its advantages, earning its spot on this best-seller list.
Tudor Black Bay GMT 79830RB
It’s no surprise to see a Tudor watch on this list. The brand has made a name for itself over the decades by offering Rolex-level build quality at a much more approachable price. Tudor dive watches like the Black Bay and Pelagos often take the spotlight, as they’re the brand’s best-selling category overall. That said, the single biggest seller for Tudor on Chrono24 is the Black Bay GMT 79830RB with its red and blue bezel. This watch continues Tudor’s everyman mission by taking the beloved DNA of the Rolex “Pepsi” GMT and applying it to a watch that doesn’t require a waitlist. It looks great on a bracelet or strap, and with a robust 41mm case, you’ll know you’re getting a timepiece built to last.
Grand Seiko Heritage Collection SBGX261
Black dial, sharp lines, and Japanese precision. The Grand Seiko SBGX261 comes in a 37mm case, giving it unisex appeal without feeling too small on the wrist. At only about 10mm thick, it’s both slim and light. Grand Seiko’s high-end 9F quartz movement ensures unparalleled accuracy. The main attraction here is the detailed design, inspired by Taro Tanaka’s “Grammar of Design,” which emphasizes sharp case angles and precise polishing for undistorted reflections. It’s crisp, clean, and irrefutably reliable. In short, it’s a Grand Seiko.
Cartier Tank Française W51008Q3
Let’s class it up a bit, shall we? If you want to feel like a movie star, Cartier is a go-to choice. In fact, Cartier has been worn by some of the most recognizable and celebrated figures of the last century. The Cartier Tank Française features the signature details we love: a rectangular case, stretched Roman numeral dial, blued-steel hands, and a cabochon crown. Powered by a quartz movement—perfectly acceptable for such a fashionable accessory—it’s a two-hander that doesn’t tick like a typical quartz. The steel bracelet makes it ideal for year-round wear, and if you’re looking for an insider tip, this watch looks stunning on a strap as well.
Longines Master Collection L2.673.4.78.3
While the Cartier Tank thrives on simplicity, the final watch on our list revels in complexity. This model from the Longines Master Collection combines a chronograph with a moon phase and an annual calendar. With eight hands, three subdials, and two pushers, it’s perhaps the most ambitious example in its price range. This is complicated watchmaking paired with classical touches like a guilloché dial and Breguet numerals. Movement enthusiasts will appreciate the puzzle-like mechanics visible through the display caseback. Simply put, there’s a lot going on, and this watch offers exceptional value for the money.
