7 Entry watches to kick-start your luxury timepiece collection

There is more to watches than telling time. You can easily do that with a smartphone, laptop, or any other digital device you have on you. However, with a well-made timepiece, you’re getting style, prestige, refined craftsmanship, and an investment for years to come. If you’re looking to purchase your first high-end watch, or looking to start a collection, it can be daunting as there are many factors to weigh in. From price points—which is typically the most discussed topic—to brand history, and even how a watch matches your personal style holds significant value when you’re in the buying phase.

Reputable brands such as Rolex, Omega and Longines are usually on a watch buyer’s radar due to their popularity and status in society. A brand’s legacy plays an important role to certain buyers who value the timelessness and consistency a watchmaker can bring, making it a very important purchasing factor.

Another aspect that should be kept in mind when purchasing a new timepiece—one that’s especially crucial for beginners—is the ability for it to become an investment. This means that the value of the timepiece itself goes up in price over the years, even if it is a starter one. For instance, the Cartier Tank Must is the perfect example of how an entry-level, luxury timepiece is able to retain its value over the years. Dawsons Auctions for Fine Art & Antiques published an article in March of 2022, stating that due to the rising demand and scarcity of Cartier watches, their value is set to not only hold its worth but also increase in value over time.

To get you started, we’ve come up with a list of the best and most affordable timepieces that are luxurious and attainable for beginner buyers—for both men and women!

Bell & Ross BR 03-92

Although watches with black, white, or silver details appear stylish and easy to pair with any outfit, the Bell & Ross BR 03-92 in Blue Steel is a breath of fresh air. Housed in a satin-finished polished steel, this watch sports a blue sunray dial with Super-LumiNova numerals and hour markers that illuminate in the dark. Along with the blue calfskin strap, it comes with an ultra-resilient black fabric strap that you can switch to whenever desired.

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IWC Schaffhausen Portofino Automatic IW356505

The IWC Schaffhausen Portofino Automatic IW356505 is a gender-neutral timepiece that is suitable for everyone. With a steel case that matches its silver-plated dial, this wristwatch looks more appealing when coupled with the Milanese mesh steel band. On top of that, it’s powered by Calibre 35111 and has a power reserve of 42 hours.

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Tag Heuer Carrera Date

Contemporary and sophisticated, the Tag Heuer Carrera Date delivers precision timekeeping in a distinctive look. Rhodium-plated hour markers against a silver dial add modernity, while the contrasting crocodile-embossed leather strap gives it a sleek finish.

Grand Seiko Heritage SBGP017

This limited-edition timepiece features a beautiful dial constructed in a way that makes it look like you are looking at a sea of clouds. The stainless steel watch functions through a Quartz movement. Finished with a dual-curved sapphire crystal, this makes the watch a sturdy instrument that is reflective of precise Japanese artwork.

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Longines Elegant Collection

Round, refined and most definitely discernable, the Longines Elegant Collection comes in six variations to choose from. Brought together by stainless steel and scratch-resistant sapphire glass, this piece comes with a transparent case back for added style. On the dial, we see silver polished hands and Roman-painted numerals, making this timepiece as elegant as it can get.

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Boasting a sleek and seamless dial design and prim, fine hands that complete its overall look, the Tissot Carson Premium Lady is the perfect day-to-night watch. The classic style preserves the watch in a captivating allure. Made with a domed scratch-resistant sapphire crystal that’s anti-reflective, the watch is sturdy for any occasion, so you can step out and about, worry-free.

Cartier Tank Must

Shaped like a tank, as per its name, the Cartier Tank Must is a grand jewellery timepiece that is both affordable and luxurious at the same time. The strap, made with non-animal leather, contrasts the silver dial, blue steel sword-shaped hands and steel ardillon buckle—rewarding you with envious eyes towards your wrists, only in the best way possible.

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