The year 2020 was marked by uncertainty, volatility and restrictions. But especially in times like these, people like to fall back on something that gives them a sense of continuity. A high-quality watch is a companion that lasts for decades and a lifetime. Quality is simply everlasting – and that is why the demand for luxury watches is also unbroken in 2020. We reveal which models were particularly popular this year.
Rolex still at the forefront
The high-quality luxury watches from Rolex continued to accompany us in 2020. But other brands of no less high quality are also among the favourites of this year. Three manufacturers’ names in particular stand out: Rolex at the top, closely followed by Breitling and Omega, with three and two places respectively in the top ten most popular watches of 2020.
The top ten watches of 2020
10. Rolex Cosmograph Daytona
First produced in 1963, this model developed into a cult object. A “wristwatch with motorsport DNA” – that is the Rolex Cosmograph Daytona. Its name and history are inextricably linked with Daytona Beach in Florida, the cradle of racing in the USA. The distinctive tachymeter bezel is capable of measuring average speeds of up to 400 miles or kilometres per hour. A novel technique also enables the chronograph to be started and stopped with high precision. Tough, reliable and stylish, the Daytona is a watch for all occasions.
9. Rolex GMT-Master II
The Rolex GMT-Master II is THE watch for globetrotters. The model was designed to show the time in two different time zones simultaneously – the 24-hour triangular hand and the rotating bezel with 24-hour graduation make it possible. Since its first presentation in 1982, the GMT-Master II has inspired enthusiasm in a variety of colour versions, the blue-red “Pepsi” or the black-blue “Batman” being particularly iconic. The discontinuation of production of the black version has ensured among enthusiasts that the second-hand models are more sought-after than ever.
8. Breitling Navitimer 8 Chronograph
One of the most famous pilot’s watches is the Breitling Navitimer, perfectly equipped with chronograph and characteristic slide rule bezel. With a new Breitling boss came the further development of the Navitimer in 2018: oriented on the historical models, however, the new watches manage without a slide rule bezel – although this did not diminish its popularity. The Navitimer 8 Chronograph is our favourite of the line. Equipped with Breitling’s own B01 calibre and COSC-certified rate precision, it conveys a touch of vintage packed in modern watchmaking quality at its finest.
7. Rolex Oyster Perpetual
It was the original Oyster that established the Rolex brand’s reputation in 1926: the world’s first waterproof watch. Almost a century later, the new generation of the Oyster Perpetual continues to impress with its understated elegance and technical mastery. With versions in yellow, red or turquoise-blue dials, among others, it demonstrates the courage to use colour. The hands and indices are also luminescent for optimal readability.
6. Breitling Avenger
Extremely robust and shock-resistant, as well as safe and reliable: with the Avenger, Breitling has met the needs of the times – this watch fits 2020. The high-quality automatic calibres are chronometer-certified for their precision. With the larger pushers, the watch can also be operated with gloves and is thus ideal for use in the toughest conditions. Particularly popular with collectors: the well-known Breitling wing logo, which is used in this way on only a few watches.
5. Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional
The watch on the moon: the Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch was the first and so far the last wristwatch to travel on our natural satellite. No wonder the 2020 model is still as popular as it was in the 60s. But not only for astronauts, but for all watch lovers, the Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional has many advantages to offer: The black dial has a sub-dial for small seconds, a 30-minute and 12-hour counter and a central chronograph hand. At the heart of the watch is the legendary Omega calibre 1861 with manual winding, which was worn on the moon.
4. Rolex Submariner
The Rolex Submariner was again in demand in 2020. The first choice in diving watches is also probably the best-known, most popular and most copied watch in the world. Water-resistant up to 300 metres, the Oyster strap with Glidelock system fits over a diving suit just as well as an office outfit. The luminous material of the hands and indexes allows ideal readability even in low light, and the power reserve is about 70 hours. With this combination of performance and style, the Submariner secures 4th place.
3. Omega Seamaster
Proudly in third place: with the Omega Seamaster, Omega competes with Rolex. As a classic of the house, it is once again one of the most popular watch models this year. Suitable for everyday use, yet with a professional history as a diver’s watch, the Seamaster impresses with its sense of style and watchmaking quality of the finest refinement. James Bond knows this too – in the new 007 film “No time to die”, he wears an Omega Seamaster on his wrist to support him on his military mission.
2. Breitling Colt Automatic
For the first time in the top ranks is the Breitling Colt Automatic. We are not surprised why. It owes its robust steel case to its military origins. Objective and efficient, the watch focuses on reliability and good legibility. With diameters of 41 and 44 mm, the Breitling Colt Automatic secures second place and a place on the wrist.
1. Rolex Datejust
First place in the most popular luxury watches of 2020 goes to an evergreen from Rolex: the Datejust. Since 1945, the model has impressed with its simple, elegant charm and characteristic date display. Whether stainless steel, yellow gold, champagne-coloured dial or diamond bezel – with the diverse versions of the Rolex Datejust, there is guaranteed to be the right one for every lover. The new 2020 models continue the successful series – the Datejust is and remains a classic wristwatch par exellence.
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