A selection of the finest 10 watches under 10,000€ - 2023

Many of us have faced the moment when, based on our budget, we must choose a watch that we like, can afford, and that fits our lifestyle. Sometimes this moment coincides with reaching a personal or professional milestone, but sometimes we simply have a budget to splurge.

There are tons of beautiful watches under the €10,000 mark that will not disappoint but in this article we  discuss 10 watches under this threshold that combine a harmonious blend of mechanical sophistication, luxury, and versatility. 

All indicated prices are for brand-new pieces and we do not take into account any possible discounts at Authorised Dealers nor any secondary market value. Bear in mind that this article was written in November 2023.

Under €100 - Seiko 5 (ref SNK800s):

These watches stand out as some of the most well-known and accessible models within the Seiko 5 collection. Their popularity can be attributed to their successful design and functionality. Priced below €100, these timepieces are a superb choice for daily/casual wear. They house the reliable 7S26 automatic movement. Few manufacturers offer an automatic watch with 30m water resistance and a 40h power reserve at this price.

€500-€1000 - Baume & Mercier Moonphase (ref 10637):

B&M creates designs that fly under the enthusiasts’ radar. The majority of their models sit well above this price range yet there is a classic dress watch featuring a centrally-placed moon phase indicator on a 41mm case. The ref 10637 showcases a compelling fusion of formal and relaxed styles with its deep blue tones and sleek nylon. Its wire lugs, designed on hinges, ensure adaptability to any wrist. This watch is suitable for both upscale events and casual outings and is priced at just under €1K, €990 to be exact.

€1000-€2000 - Oris Big Crown ProPilot (ref 01 751 7761 4065-07 3 20 05LC):

A solid choice for anyone seeking a versatile, sporty, and comfortable timepiece. Its 41mm size and different strap options fit well even on the majority of wrists, offering the appearance of a larger dial without an oversized bezel. Its brushed finish and comfortable bracelet with a tapering design lend it a look that suits casual and formal attire. In all dial configurations, it has exceptional legibility. Although the lume could be more durable and the power reserve could be longer than 38 hours, these are minor drawbacks. Reviews claim the clasp design is good but could benefit from micro-adjustments for optimal fit. €1950 and 100-meter water resistance.

€2000-€3000 - TAG Heuer Aquaracer Professional 200 series (ref. WBP2110.BA0627):

This sports watch successfully fulfils its aim to offer an elegant tool watch that's more accessible for daily wear. It's a well-crafted, pared-down timepiece that, while it may not be a showstopper, stands out for its utility at a reasonable price. If you can overlook minor drawbacks like the power reserve, this watch is likely to satisfy. At €2,900, it's a reasonable price for an automatic watch of this build quality.

€3000-€4000 - Tudor Black Bay 58 (ref M79000N-0001):

One of Tudor's recent releases was a nod to its inaugural 1954 dive watch, offering a vintage aesthetic with a 37mm stainless steel case and black anodized aluminum bezel. While retaining elements like the signature Snowflake hour hand, the watch is modernised with a slimmer profile and a refined crown design. It provides a 70-hour power reserve. The steel bracelet configuration is available at €3,900 and at €3,670 with the black rubber strap.

€4000-€5000 - Tag Heuer Carrera Chronograph (ref CBK2112.BA0715): 

A best seller in the Carrera collection. With its 41mm case, it provides a lot of functionality and robustness for a chronograph in this price range. From the 4000€ threshold, there is a lot of competition from Longines, Omega, or Tudor, but we can’t avoid including a Carrera timepiece in this list. It is available with blue and black dials.

€5000-€6000 - IWC Pilot’s Spitfire (ref IW326805):

This piece strikes anyone as an exceptional value-for-money purchase, reminiscent of IWC's earlier reputation for providing high-quality watches at reasonable prices. Priced at €5,550, the watch is equipped with the new in-house automatic movement, cal. 32110, which boasts a 72-hour power reserve and silicon components. Its 39mm case provides a comfortable fit and is available in different configurations, with the stainless steel and textile strap variant standing out as a top choice, offering a compelling blend of vintage style, traditional appeal and contemporary look.

€7000-€8000 - Omega Moonwatch Professional Co-Axial Master Chronometer (ref 310.30.42.50.01.001):

We will keep it brief regarding this choice as for many enthusiasts it feels quite obvious to include the "Speedy" and its 42mm in this selection. While there are dozens of attractive references that can be found in the secondary market, it's hard to overlook that the most recent configurations and movements represent a bonus point. The most modern reference has a newly refined bracelet that tapers elegantly on the wrist, a top-tier in-house caliber, a redesigned case that nods to historical models, and several nuanced chronograph features. The €7,700 Hesalite glass variant is unquestionably the right choice in terms of value for money.

€8000-€9000 - Panerai Luminor Marina (ref PAM01314):

This specific reference makes a striking impression with its "white sandwich" dial, and it incorporates vintage styles. The dial shows perfect legibility and offers a stark contrast with the grey Super-LumiNova beneath. The 44mm case may be large and not easily tucked under a sleeve, but it reflects the brand's traditional bold aesthetic. This reference also houses an in-house caliber P.9010 movement that offers a 72-hour power reserve and a quick hour hand adjustment, convenient for those who travel often. For €8900, you get what you expect, an overall excellent execution and a timeless unique design.

€9000-€10000 - Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Classic Monoface (ref. Q2548440):

Dress watches can also have a beautiful spark and the JLC Reverso surely has its own unique appeal. It makes a strong case for an everyday watch. It wears svelte, streamlined, and low to the wrist, fitting a wide array of wrists perfectly. The JLC Reverso is minimal, classy, and practical. It is elegant in a way where its vintage profile speaks of real enthusiast taste. In terms of practicality, the Reverso does tell the time accurately, the JLC 846 hand-wound movement lasts 41 hours and is accurate to within 5 seconds on a full wind.