Automatic Watches Insider Tip 2024

As a timepiece that winds itself and doesn't rely on a battery, the automatic watch is the first choice for many watch enthusiasts. The market offers a correspondingly wide variety of watches with automatic movements. We'll be on the hunt for trends, presenting coveted models and exciting new releases in direct comparison, and providing a comprehensive overview of popular luxury watches with automatic calibers—including insider tips!

The most important things in brief

These key statements are discussed in detail in the following article:

• A high-quality automatic watch is characterized by precision and accuracy, impeccably crafted materials, an aesthetic design, and its affiliation with a renowned brand. Attractive automatic watches of the highest quality can be found from brands such as IWC, Longines, Patek Philippe, and Cartier.

• The current trend in the watch world is toward bright colors like blue, red, and green, in-house calibers, a delicate style, and leather straps. The combination of mechanical movements with digital components could also play a larger role in the watch industry in the future.

• The technical principle behind automatic watches, which do not require manual winding, is based on a rotor that vibrates when the watch is worn, thus tensioning the spring. When an automatic watch is not being worn, it is recommended to store it in a watch winder.

What characterizes a high-quality automatic watch?

Automatic luxury watches for men and women are products characterized by a whole range of compelling features. Essentially, these are the characteristics and criteria that distinguish a luxury watch from the more affordable "no-name" automatic watch:

Precise clockwork

The most important component of any watch is the movement that makes it run. Thus, the caliber at the heart of the watch is also a component that easily reveals quality. A high-quality automatic watch impresses with its accuracy and precision. The wearer can therefore fully rely on the precise timekeeping.

In addition, many luxury watches feature complications. This means they have functions that go beyond simply displaying the time. These might include a date display, a perpetual calendar, a second time zone, a chronograph function, or a moon phase display. Smoothly functioning complications are a sign in the watch industry that the manufacturer knows their craft, and this arouses pure fascination in many watch collectors.

High-quality materials

Luxury wristwatches are crafted from the finest materials. Their cases are often made of white, yellow, or rose gold, silver, stainless steel, or platinum, often enhanced with diamonds and other precious stones. Many manufacturers opt for flawlessly cut sapphire crystal, while enamel, mother-of-pearl, brass, silver, or carbon are popular options for the dial. All of these impeccable materials are processed with the utmost care, resulting in watches that embody pure perfection.

Fine workmanship and craftsmanship

Luxury automatic watches are masterpieces of craftsmanship for the wrist. Behind a functioning movement with one or another complication lies sophisticated technology that can only be understood and implemented by true master watchmakers. The aforementioned fine craftsmanship of the precious materials can require skills from a variety of disciplines. It's not for nothing that major brands like Rolex employ experts from numerous niche craft disciplines, such as enamelers, finishers, gemsetters, and engravers. It is precisely the artfully crafted details that transform high-quality watches into works of art and allow one to distinguish many models from cheap copies at a glance.

Aesthetic design

High-quality materials and impeccable craftsmanship create designs that delight the eye and steal the dreams of many a watch enthusiast. The value of a high-priced automatic watch is evident from its appearance alone. The watch has character, charm, and a unique charisma, with a common thread often found throughout the different models within a collection in the form of a few characteristic features. Whether it's recurring colors, such as blue or green luminous material on the hands, subtle engravings, or striking patterns on the dial – these details create a distinctive look that leaves no doubt about the authenticity of a true luxury automatic watch.

We would like to draw special attention to one design element at this point, as it often doesn't get the attention it deserves: the strap. As an important component of every wristwatch, it plays a key role in determining the overall appearance of the watch. An unsuitable, poorly chosen strap can detract from the look, but a strap that perfectly matches the watch can harmoniously round off an aesthetic design. While leather straps are often chosen for classic models and vintage-style watches, a precious metal strap can add the finishing touch to an elegant statement watch, and a plastic strap can optimally emphasize the functional aspect of a diving watch. Whether leather, plastic, textile, or metal: a luxury watch needs a strap that blends harmoniously with the design and underscores the character of the watch.

Reliable brand and origin

Automatic watches are part of the product range of almost every watch brand today. However, a comparison quickly reveals vast differences between inexpensive watches from unknown manufacturers and luxury watches from renowned brands. With low-priced models, it's often difficult to say much about their expected longevity, accuracy, and value retention. This is often different with watches from "well-known manufacturers," such as Rolex , Omega , Patek Philippe , Vacheron Constantin , or IWC . Customers are fully aware of the brand's reputation and history and can therefore rely on high quality. Such watches come at a price, but they also clearly carry their value. Accordingly, a luxury watch from a major brand, such as one from one of the famous Swiss manufacturers, is often a wise investment, combining the know-how, history, tradition, and craftsmanship spanning many decades and centuries.

New trends and developments in the automatic watch market

The world of watches is constantly evolving, and as in many other industries, one trend follows the next. The automatic watch sector is by no means an exception. A closer look at the developments of recent years and the latest new products reveals some interesting trends.

In terms of functionality, complications, and movements, a trend toward in-house calibers is discernible. What many watch giants have long been doing is now also catching on with smaller companies: More and more luxury watch manufacturers are relying on calibers produced in-house, raising the bar in terms of precision and performance. A watch's functions remain as important as ever. Complex complications were, are, and will remain something that watch brands pride themselves on and that watch collectors can be incredibly enthusiastic about.

In terms of design trends, a return to more delicate watches is becoming apparent. It would be somewhat premature to declare the days of large, bulky watches for men and women over, but in many cases, automatic watch manufacturers are returning to cases with smaller diameters and a more detailed appearance. Such a watch – combined with supple leather straps, for example – is very comfortable to wear and, despite the finest materials, is less likely to cross the line into ostentatiousness. Speaking of leather straps: Leather is definitely a trend that can hardly be overlooked, although it is not an absolute novelty. Especially for occasions that call for a look with a focus on elegance, the classic automatic watch with a leather strap is an excellent choice. While leather straps were once almost exclusively available in black and brown tones, bold colors, previously more commonly associated with plastic straps, are now also coming into play. In green, blue, red, orange or purple, the leather strap becomes an extravagant eye-catcher without stealing the show from the watch itself.

By the way, colors aren't just trending when it comes to straps. Some watch brands are also going wild with dials. From bright, solid colors to patterns and embossing to eye-catching decorations and finishes, they're exploring a wealth of exciting possibilities. The result is watches that allow men and women with large watch collections to bring something completely new and unique into their homes—or rather, onto their wrists.

Ultimately, a trend is difficult to define and, above all, often a very fast-moving affair. We know this from the entire fashion industry: What's popular in spring can already be "old hat" by fall. With luxury watches, however, the situation is somewhat different. High-quality watches that change hands at hefty prices are fortunately often wearable for years and decades. One could also say: Quality simply never goes out of style.

Brands and models for automatic watches 2024

As promised, we now turn to a selection of luxury watches and brands that are enjoying great popularity this year. To facilitate comparison, we discuss specific features and criteria for each, including the available functions, design, and price. Here's a look at the automatic watch bestsellers and highlights of 2024:

IWC Portofino Automatic

If any watch embodies timeless elegance par excellence, it's the Portofino Automatic from IWC Schaffhausen . This automatic watch features a 40 mm stainless steel or rose gold case, a blue, white, or black dial, and Roman numerals at the 6 and 12 o'clock positions. Depending on the model, the watch features a simple Milanese stainless steel bracelet or a stylish alligator leather strap. The self-winding caliber 35111 offers a 50-hour power reserve and features a date display and a central seconds hand with a stopwatch function. Prices for this exceptionally chic watch for men and women start at €5,300.

More IWC automatic watches

The current range from the manufacturer IWC Schaffhausen includes numerous other automatic watches, including the Portugieser Automatic 42 with a 7-day power reserve, power reserve indicator, small seconds, date and sapphire crystal case back, or the Pilot's Watch, which is characterized by its ceramic case and soft iron inner case, which protects the movement from magnetic fields.

Rolex Cosmograph Daytona

The 2024 reinterpretation of the legendary Rolex Cosmograph Daytona automatic watch presents a thoroughly sophisticated look never seen before. The new models feature a dial of shimmering natural mother-of-pearl, framed by an 18-carat white gold case. The beautifully incorporated totalizers contrast harmoniously with the dial and radiate brilliantly with the numerous diamonds at the numeral points and on the bezel. Thus, the iconic Daytona shines in a new light that could hardly be more sparkling. Anyone who wants to call one of these coveted Rolex models their own can expect list prices starting at just under €63,000.

More Rolex automatic watches

Among the Rolex novelties for 2024 are some extremely attractive automatic watches, for example the Day-Date 40 in Everose gold with a date and day display, the new GMT-Master II with its characteristic Cerachrom bezel, or the 1908 timepieces in platinum, which feature fresh dial colors.

Breitling Avenger Automatic

Anyone who enjoys a sporty style should not miss the Breitling Avenger Automatic 42. These stainless steel watches with a date display and luminous indices are water-resistant to 300 meters and available in two modern colorways. One version sports a rich green hue, the other showcases its colorful side in deep blue. The calfskin strap on both models echoes the dial color, creating a striking combination. With a list price of €4,600, this functional automatic watch offers unparalleled value for money.

More Breitling automatic watches

Breitling recently surprised watch fans with new Navitimer automatic watches, such as the Navitimer Automatic GMT 41 with an ice-blue dial. Also worth a look are the highly functional Superocean Automatic 42 watches and the Chronomat Automatic 36 Victoria Beckham model, which captivates women.

Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean

The Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean , which can be safely submerged to depths of up to 600 meters, demonstrates how diverse a diving watch collection can be. The versatile models cover everything the heart of avid Omega collectors could desire, from the classic stainless steel watch to the extravagant version with a black rubber strap and orange highlights to the white gold luxury watch with diamonds. The Omega 8800 automatic movement that powers these watches impresses with a 55-hour power reserve, high precision, and resistance to magnetic fields up to 15,000 gauss. Prices vary considerably from model to model, ranging from €7,200 to €115,300.

More Omega automatic watches

As befits a renowned brand, Omega offers a wide range of automatic watches. For example, there's the diamond-studded Speedmaster 38, which attracts the attention of women, or the Seamaster Ploprof 1200 M for divers who want to go all out. Other examples of Omega watches with automatic movements include the Seamaster Aqua Terra 150 M , the Seamaster Diver 300 M, and the Constellation in yellow gold, gold, or a combination of two precious metals.

Longines HydroConquest

The HydroConquest product line from the Longines Sport Collection includes not only the well-known models but also several new additions that bring fresh color to the table. With dials in metallic green, silky blue, or chic brown, the HydroConquest wristwatches showcase their most sophisticated side – naturally, with a date function, and some also feature a GMT function. Thanks to the wide range of color and strap variations, the collection offers timepieces that are sure to please almost everyone. Depending on the function and design, a Longines diver's watch ranges in price from €1,500 to €4,550.

More Longines automatic watches

If you're looking for a more expensive automatic watch, then the Longines Master Collection GMT with Roman numerals and a leather strap might be a good option. Tech-savvy men might enjoy the large-framed Longines Pilot Majetek, while the delicate Primaluna with a date display looks great on the wrist of a fashionable woman.

TAG Heuer Carrera Calibre

The fascination of racing packed into a watch: that's the Carrera Calibre from TAG Heuer. Available with either a date or chronograph, these wristwatches house highly precise in-house calibers and are manufactured with case diameters ranging from 31 to 45 mm. The manufacturer is thus catering to both watch enthusiasts with a preference for large luxury watches and customers seeking a fine, delicate automatic watch. The prices of the TAG Heuer Carrera Calibre timepieces are as varied as the sizes. Prices for all models range from €2,750 to €54,350.

More TAG Heuer automatic watches

TAG Heuer's range is rich in automatic watches, all of which are worth a closer look. These include the Autavia Flyback Chronometer , the Monaco Chronograph with its distinctive square case, and several references to the feminine Link Date wristwatch.

Patek Philippe Nautilus

There's probably hardly anyone interested in watches who hasn't heard of the Patek Philippe Nautilus . Instantly recognizable by its rounded octagonal case, the watch is a true classic from the Swiss watchmaker and appealing to more than just divers. Whether it's equipped with a moon phase display, a diamond bezel, or a date display, the Nautilus, with prices starting at just under €40,000, transcends every trend and will likely never go out of style.

More Patek Philippe automatic watches

If you're looking to add a high-quality automatic watch to your personal collection, Patek Philippe is undoubtedly a good choice. The brand's product range includes the sporty Aquanaut diver's watch , the timelessly elegant Calatrava timepieces , and the Grandes Complications with automatic movements, which do justice to haute horlogerie .

Girard Perregaux Laureato Chronograph

Anyone willing to invest at least €19,600 can admire a Laureato Chronograph from Girard Perregaux on their wrist. This functional automatic watch features an extravagant case shape and is water-resistant to 100 meters. The mechanical movement, which powers the timepiece with chronograph function, date, and small seconds, boasts a 46-hour power reserve and consists of a whopping 419 meticulously crafted individual parts.

More Girard Perregaux automatic watches

Boredom is guaranteed with Girard Perregaux 's automatic watches. The exquisite mix of watches in the manufacturer's range is simply too colorful and unusual. One only has to look at the Cat's Eye automatic watch in Eternity, Blossom Jewellery, or Eye Lotus Edition to convince oneself of the brand's inventiveness – Girard Perregaux certainly doesn't lack the courage to embrace unconventional design.

Cartier Santos de Cartier

Cartier watches are known for their incomparable chic, breathtakingly classic style, and a high quality you can see and feel. The Santos de Cartier automatic watch fits perfectly into the product portfolio. Its flowing case, sword-shaped hands, and contrasting Roman numerals integrated into the dial create a harmonious whole with a subtle vintage flair. Available in two sizes, the Santos de Cartier automatic watch, priced between €8,300 and €20,600, meets the highest standards and makes a statement that speaks of value and elegance.

More Cartier automatic watches

If you're looking for a watch for occasions that call for an authentically luxurious look, you're sure to find it at Cartier. Luxury watches with automatic movements include the Tank Francaise , Ballon Bleu de Cartier , and Ronde Must de Cartier , which, depending on the version, reflect the current trend for bold colors in watch design.

Porsche Design Chronograph

The Porsche Design Chronograph 1 is a watch for those with petrol in their veins. These timepieces evoke associations of daring maneuvers, sleek race cars, and endless tracks, and are priced between €8,950 and €11,950. For this automatic watch, the manufacturer opted for a design that emphasizes matte black with occasional accents of white, gray, and red. The solid titanium case, 48-hour power reserve, and day and date display visibly enhance the chronograph and make it the ideal companion in times when top speeds are the order of the day.

More Porsche Design automatic watches

Examples of other watches with automatic movements from Porsche are the 1919 Globetimer UTC and Sport Chrono Subsecond 42 models - two luxury watches that make the hearts of true Porsche fans beat faster.

Seiko Prospex Sea Automatic

A good automatic watch doesn't have to remain a dream, even on a somewhat lower budget. With its Prospex Sea automatic watches, the manufacturer Seiko appeals to men and women who don't want to spend a fortune but still have certain expectations of their new watch's quality. Those who choose the Seiko Prospex Sea will receive a diver's watch water-resistant to 10 bar with luminous indices, a 50-hour power reserve, and a date function for €3,150. Consequently, the price-performance ratio of this Seiko watch with its stainless steel case can be considered extremely fair.

More Seiko automatic watches

Even more affordable is the Seiko Presage automatic watch with date, which has a streamlined look and is perfect for everyday wear. Other options include the Marinemaster watches or products from the King Seiko range.

Zenith Chronomaster El Primero

Zenith's Chronomaster automatic watches boast a distinguished history and have managed to maintain their popularity to this day. The Chronomaster watches from the Original and Sport product lines capture the viewer's attention with their sleek exterior and are equipped with impressive technology in the form of the El Primero high-frequency chronograph movement . With a power reserve of 60 hours and a range of functions that, depending on the model, includes a date and moon phase display in addition to the chronograph function, Zenith's Chronomaster watches are true all-rounders that demonstrate the power of automatic movement. If you're interested in such a watch, expect prices starting at €10,400.

More Zenith automatic watches

The Zenith brand offers a wide range of automatic luxury watches, such as the Pilot Automatic in black or blue, the Defy Skyline with El Primero movement and light blue dial, or the ELITE Classic with sunburst finish and alligator leather strap.

Vacheron Constantin Égérie

With the Égérie collection, Vacheron Constantin presents a luxury watch range specifically for women, bringing together haute couture and haute horlogerie. An Égérie automatic watch is a fashionable accessory, expensive jewelry, and precise timepiece all rolled into one, with each piece in the collection standing out from the crowd thanks to its distinctive details. Each model features either a date or moon phase display, surrounded by dials with delicate sunburst finishes or lavish diamonds. The curved numerals perfectly complement the enchanting design of the watches, whose prices start at €23,300.

More Vacheron Constantin automatic watches

Watch connoisseurs who aren't put off by a price that might seem comparatively high can discover premium automatic luxury watches at Vacheron Constantin . Among the models with automatic movements, there are both straightforward classics, such as the Patrimony Automatic , and more special models, such as the dove-blue Traditionnel with a perpetual calendar.

Jaeger-LeCoultre Master

Powerful functions, clean lines, and a proven automatic movement: The Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Control wristwatches, worn on a comfortable leather strap, know what to delight men and women with a penchant for luxury watches. Functionally, the models impress, depending on the reference, with a date, day of the week, moon phase, 24-hour display, and a second time zone. Externally, they vividly demonstrate that a design can aim for elegance without becoming lost in playfulness. Master Control watches range in price from €10,300 to €34,900.

More Jaeger-LeCoultre automatic watches

Jaeger-LeCoultre is a brand where you're likely to find the perfect automatic watch for a variety of occasions. As a gift for your sweetheart, a watch from the Rendez-Vous collection is the obvious choice; men with a penchant for complex automatic movements might opt ​​for a Hybris Mechanica model; and those who want to experiment with color, in keeping with current trends, should take a closer look at the Reverso watches.

Materials and workmanship: Choosing the best quality

A wide variety of materials are used in the manufacture of watches today, each with its own advantages and individual properties. It is therefore worthwhile to take a closer look at the subject. The case of most wristwatch models is made of a precious metal. Stainless steel watches remain popular, but yellow, white, red, and rose gold, silver, and platinum are also often used. These materials are easy to work with, have a certain value, and last for centuries. Less commonly, special ceramic materials and titanium are used to construct the cases. These alternatives are often particularly scratch-resistant and do not rust, and their low weight is also a plus.

As we all know, there's no accounting for taste, so everyone can find out for themselves which material they like best. Stainless steel or silver watches are often considered to have a distinctly sporty look, while gold products emphasize elegance and charm. Ultimately, however, the exception proves the rule: There are gold sports watches, and stainless steel watches can also be extremely elegant.

When comparing the materials used to make watch straps, precious metal and leather straps are the most popular and in demand. However, if you're the type of watch wearer who prioritizes robustness, everyday practicality, and comfort, straps made of rubber, textile, and similar materials are also an exciting option. When it comes to comfort, however, there's another important aspect besides the raw material: size. Only a strap that's not too wide, not too long, and not too tight will be truly comfortable.

Furthermore, just as important as the materials used is their expert, careful workmanship. A watch can be made of the finest raw materials and still appear clumsy if the workmanship is poor. The quality of a luxury watch therefore depends significantly on the craftsmanship – it's not for nothing that watchmaking is a craft, mastering which to perfection is a lifelong pursuit.

Technical innovations: advances in watchmaking

The watch industry is also not immune to the changing times. And that's a good thing: After all, stagnation is the greatest enemy of innovation. The inventiveness of great watchmakers has brought us numerous advances and technological achievements over the past decades and centuries, which continue to enrich the world of watches to this day. But what's currently happening in terms of innovations in watchmaking?

A lot! A good example of how successful luxury watch manufacturers continue to think ahead and not rest on their laurels is the Tonda PF Minute Rattrapante automatic watch from Parmigiani Fleurier. The watch features a chronograph function and a dedicated second hand. However, the hand is cleverly concealed behind the minute hand and only reveals itself at the touch of a button. An impressive mechanism that definitely gives the watch that certain something.

One topic that the watch industry must increasingly address is new technologies, such as digital watch components and the use of artificial intelligence. At first glance, one might think that mechanical automatic watches and digital functions are mutually exclusive. But this doesn't have to be the case. So-called smart mechanical watches combine traditional watch movements with digital features. Such a product, for example, has the design of a conventional mechanical watch but is also capable of offering digital tracking and fitness functions. Smart mechanical watches are still niche products, but we can look forward to seeing what developments we can expect in this area in the coming years.

Watch movements and complications: Understanding the mechanics

How does an automatic watch work, and what is its movement constructed? We'd like to answer this fascinating question in the simplest terms possible. Even though the movement of an automatic luxury watch may look slightly different from manufacturer to manufacturer, and the detailed construction naturally depends on the complications, the basic principle remains the same.

An automatic watch winds itself through the movement of the arm while wearing the watch. There's no need to wind it manually. This works thanks to the following mechanism: The watch's barrel contains a spring. This spring is tensioned by the oscillating movements of the rotor. The rotor essentially picks up the wearer's arm movement, oscillates, and thereby tensions the spring. Meanwhile, a slip clutch prevents the spring from becoming overtensioned. This means it is never overtensioned, even if the watch is constantly moving vigorously on the wrist. Since the spring, by its very nature, wants to relax—to "wind back" or "unwind"—it releases energy that flows directly into the watch's gear train. There, the energy is used to turn small gears, which in turn move the watch's hands.

If the spring were to completely relax and not rewind due to inactivity, the watch would stop and would need to be reset after winding. To prevent this from happening even when a watch isn't worn for an extended period, watch winders can be used. These are special devices that we'll discuss again later in this article.

Care and maintenance of automatic watches

Since watches with mechanical movements are more complex than quartz watches, proper care and maintenance are crucial. Simply putting watches away and only taking them out every few months to admire them briefly, following the motto "out of sight, out of mind," is therefore not a good idea. In general, wearing or regularly inspecting your watch is an essential part of its care. Only those who take the time to examine the watch have a chance of detecting any malfunctions or damage early and having them rectified or repaired before further damage occurs.

Proper storage is also important. A mechanical automatic watch is best stored in a watch winder. The winder sets the watch in motion at an adjustable frequency, tensioning the spring and preventing it from stopping. If you want to store the watch elsewhere, a soft surface is recommended that won't scratch the crystal or case. Polishing to repair such damage always involves abrasion and a certain amount of expense – inconveniences that can be avoided in the first place.

Watch straps that are worn frequently should also be cleaned from time to time. A fine brush with soft, non-scratch bristles or thin cotton swabs can be used to clean the spaces between metal bracelets with links. Leather straps, on the other hand, can be cleaned regularly under clean water, allowed to dry thoroughly, and kept supple with a suitable leather conditioner.

There are differing opinions within the watch industry regarding how often a watch should be serviced. Some swear by having their jewelry checked every three or five years, while others are less fussy about maintenance and can cope with much longer intervals between service visits. Generally speaking, it's high time to take your watch to a specialist when you notice any inaccuracies in its timing or malfunctions.

Buying advice for automatic watches

Given the variety of automatic watches on the market, it's helpful to take your time when choosing a new watch. Our step-by-step guide provides prospective buyers with a rough "watch-buying roadmap" that paves the way to their dream watch:

Step 1: Research

First, there's some browsing. It's important to get an overview of the watches from various manufacturers and to find out what the market actually has to offer.

Step 2: Defining your wishes and ideas

In the next step, personal wishes and ideas are defined:

• Watch type: What type of luxury watch, for example a diver's watch, a dress watch or a vintage model, is desired?

• Brands: Should it be a model from a specific brand (e.g. Rolex, Seiko , Tissot or Patek Philippe)?

• Complications: What functions should the watch have?

• Movements: Are automatic watches the only option? Are there any expectations regarding the power reserve?

• Design: What are your visual preferences?

• Prices: What is the maximum price the watch can have?

Step 3: Favorites list

Then, with a clear idea in mind, you can start your search. Ideally, you should create a list of all the watches that meet your previously defined requirements.

Step 4: Narrowing down the selection

In the penultimate step, all the watches on the list are carefully examined, compared, and weighed against each other. This gradually crystallizes the timepiece that your heart desires.

Step 5: Compare offers

Finally, you review offers for the selected model. Where can you buy the watch in the desired version? While the price is obviously a relevant factor in the comparison, the reliability of the seller should also be considered.

Watch collection and investment: Automatic watches as an investment

If you're considering purchasing an automatic watch as an investment, the expected value development is paramount. Anyone with little knowledge of the watch market should definitely seek advice, conduct thorough research, and never just shop blindly. Generally speaking, many automatic watches from renowned brands change hands on the secondary market for astonishingly high prices. An expensive luxury watch can therefore be an excellent investment. Nevertheless, it's rarely possible to predict with complete certainty how a watch's value and prices will develop on the secondary market. Therefore, even investing in a luxury watch carries a certain amount of risk.

Authenticity and genuineness of automatic watches

Watches are among the most counterfeited products in the world. To reduce the likelihood of falling victim to a scammer and buying a cheap fake product at an expensive price, you should pay attention to the following points:

Completeness of the documents

A good sign that a watch is probably genuine is that it is sold including all important accessories and documents, which would be:

• Certificate of authenticity with serial number

• Warranty certificate and dealer details

• Operating instructions

• Original box

However, the presence of these things is not a guarantee of the authenticity of the watch, because the documents can of course also be forged.

Dial and hands

The hands are one aspect of the watch itself that deserves closer inspection. It's recommended to compare the design of the hands of a watch on offer with the known original. Counterfeits often have small deviations. The dial can also provide a clue: Is it cleanly crafted and does it have sharp contours? This would indicate an original. Uneven lines and distorted contours indicate a fake.

Engravings

Engravings should also be examined more closely. Blurry engravings, such as those with uneven gaps between letters or appearing out of place, are more common in counterfeits.

Weight

Fake watches are often lighter than originals. This may be because, for example, a cheaper, lightweight quartz movement is installed instead of the advertised automatic movement.

Price

Another important indicator is the price. An offer for a luxury watch that seems too good to be true is a clear warning sign.

Those who choose to purchase a watch from a reputable, trusted retailer avoid the worry of potentially investing in a cheap fake. At HORANDO, all watches are thoroughly inspected and authenticated by experts. This means customers can be 100% confident they're purchasing an original automatic watch from Rolex, Omega, Seiko, Tissot, and others at a fair price.

Conclusion

Quality, craftsmanship, design, accuracy, and value for money: all of these are important factors when it comes to luxury watches with automatic movements. These fundamental characteristics and features remain unaffected by constantly evolving trends. They should be the focus when purchasing an automatic watch, regardless of whether you choose a trendy model in modern colors or a time-honored classic.