Written by Julie de Los Rios - Wednesday, February 2, 2022
It is more difficult for a man to find a watch under 5000 euros that purists would consider "respectable". Difficult, though not impossible! If you search through the collections of major brands as well as lesser-known watchmakers, some iconic models are stripped of everything that raises prices to make themselves more accessible to amateurs on a limited budget. For them, timepieces come in stainless steel, titanium or ceramic - materials that are much cheaper than gold. Always a safe bet, these iconic watches that never get old are also available in "entry-level" versions, which all informed collectors are fighting over! Sometimes, these marvels are even equipped with complications, thus taking on several functions beyond simply showing the time.
Gentlemen, if you are not particularly receptive to mechanics, you can also settle for a very elegant or sport chic model with a quartz movement, which is much cheaper than a mechanical watch. And for those of you who are not willing to compromise anything, whether that is style or mechanism, vintage is a good alternative. For the past twenty years, second-hand watches, just like fashion or design, have been gaining momentum in an already growing market. But where to find them? In addition to speciality stores, millennials can easily surf on Watchfinder & Co., the leader in second-hand luxury watches founded in the UK in 2002, which has since deployed a network of stores and showrooms in different parts of the world, and more recently in Paris. And even though vintage is not as fully set in French culture as it is in England or in Germany, it is still a big success. The website features some 70 brands and 3,000 pieces, with prices ranging from 300 to 100,000 euros!
Big brands have also hopped on the trend - these include Richard Mille, who has set up an international distribution network for its second-hand watches, One in Japan, The Value of Time in Singapore, Westime in the US and Ninety in London.
Second-hand watches do have a nice asset – the charm of patina. The object thus becomes a unique piece, with a past and a story to tell its wearer. Some watches have such a heritage that no new watch can compete with. It's up to you... A beautiful watch will always make a man happy, whether new or old. Perfect timing: Valentine's Day is around the corner! Tick-tock...
When it comes to finding a watch under 2,500 euros, it is possible to find exceptional pieces that combine style, quality and value for money. Within this price range, watch lovers will have a wide variety of choices, from automatic to quartz watches, from classic designs to more contemporary models. Here's what you need to know about watches in this price range.
First of all, it's important to stress that price doesn't always mean compromising on quality. Several well-known watch brands offer watches in this price range, giving you the chance to buy a timepiece that combines aesthetics and precision. Brands such as Seiko, Tissot, Hamilton, Certina and many others offer watches under 2,500 euros that meet the highest standards of watchmaking.
Automatic watches are often sought after by enthusiasts, as they incorporate genuine watchmaking engineering. For those who love mechanical movements, some Swiss watches, such as Tissot Le Locle watches or Hamilton Jazzmaster watches, offer excellent value for money. These watches are equipped with reliable automatic movements and elegant cases, making them popular choices in this price range.
Quartz watches, on the other hand, are often more affordable while still offering great precision. Japanese brands such as Seiko and Citizen are known for their high-quality automatic and quartz watches that offer exceptional durability and unrivalled precision.
In terms of design, several styles are available, from classic to contemporary. Dress watches, diving watches, chronographs and sports watches are all possible choices. The dial, case and strap can adapt to your personal preferences, whether you're looking for something timeless or a bolder, more modern look.
In conclusion, finding a watch under 2,500 euros doesn't mean sacrificing quality or style. This price range offers a multitude of options for watch lovers, whether it’s a collector's item, an everyday watch or a special gift. It is important to do thorough research, compare brands and models, and find the watch that best suits your needs and personal style.
We've put together a selection of the latest watches that have the potential to become a stylish and functional accessory for many years to come.