Cover IWC-manufactured 52640 calibre
IWC-manufactured 52640 calibre
1 / 1
From resurrections of classic timepieces to groundbreaking mechanics, these are the best watches that made 2024 an unforgettable year in horology
What was the most memorable watch launch in 2024? I bet some would say the Patek Philippe Cubitus, its unveiling in November is still fresh in our collective memory. Perhaps some would pick the interesting revivals of classic watches, the most recent being Piaget’s revisit of the cushion-shaped Black Tie watch belonging to Andy Warhol. Tech nerds might be inclined towards Panerai’s Submersible Elux Lab-ID and Konstantin Chaykin ThinKing, the thinnest mechanical watch ever.
Read more: Watches and Wonders 2024: The most innovative watches
Being front and centre at every major watch event has undoubtedly spoiled me, making it increasingly challenging to choose a definitive favorite. However, in the spirit of our love for listicles, here are my top 10 picks of the year.
Patek Philippe Golden Ellipse
Above Patek Philippe Golden Ellipse Reference 5738
Patek Philippe Golden Ellipse Reference 5738
1 / 1
An extremely appealing timepiece with minimalist aesthetics and a retro-inspired case shape originally introduced in the late 1960s, I love the unique construction of its chain bracelet and how it comfortably—and perfectly—wraps around the wrist.
See also: Who is Zach Lu, the person who paid US$17mil for this unique Patek Philippe at Only Watch?
Christiaan van der Klaauw Grand Planetarium Eccentric
Above Christiaan van der Klaauw Grand Planetarium Eccentric
Christiaan van der Klaauw Grand Planetarium Eccentric
1 / 1
Matching the ingenious real-time orbits of Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Uranus, and Neptune around the Sun is an original oil painting that elevates the astronomical watch to a celestial masterpiece.
Read more: Sincere Fine Watches turns 70
IWC Schaffhausen Portugieser Eternal Calendar
Above IWC Schaffhausen Portugieser Eternal Calendar
IWC Schaffhausen Portugieser Eternal Calendar
1 / 1
Undoubtedly one of the year’s most groundbreaking watches, if not the most, it is a step up from the perpetual calendar with an accurate display of the calendar over several centuries, and a double moon phase display that is precise for 45 million years. It deservingly won the “Aguille d’Or” Grand Prix at GPHG 2024.
See also: IWC’s CEO Christoph Grainger-Herr on winning the top prize at GPHG 2024
A. Lange & Söhne Datograph Handwerkskunst
Above A. Lange & Söhne Datorgraph Handwerkskunst
A. Lange & Söhne Datorgraph Handwerkskunst
1 / 1
With every component given the right amount of care and attention, an A. Lange & Söhne timepiece is always exquisite. The Datograph Handwekskunst takes it to the next level with tremblage engraving that gives the dial a luxurious frosted finish.
Parmigiani Fleurier Toric Petite Seconde
Above Parmiginai Fleurier Toric Petite Seconde
Parmiginai Fleurier Toric Petite Seconde
1 / 1
The latest Toric personifies understated luxury—refined, sophisticated, and effortlessly versatile.
Read more: Guido Terreni, CEO of Parmigiani Fleurier, on the revival of the Toric timepiece
Daniel Roth Souscription Tourbillon
Above Daniel Roth Souscription Tourbillon
Daniel Roth Souscription Tourbillon
1 / 1
Undeniably one of the most stunning-looking watches this year, it is a faithful replication of the original 1989 version except this time, it is powered by the new DR001 Calibre developed at La Fabrique du Temps Louis Vuitton,
Hermès Cut
Above Hermès Cut
Hermès Cut
1 / 1
Its “circle within a round shape” case looks good on all wrists, exemplifying the current trend of fashion becoming less defined by traditional gender norms.
Piaget Polo 79
Above Piaget Polo 79
Piaget Polo 79
1 / 1
Another classic revival that looks so cool now, the Piaget Polo 79 is crafted entirely in yellow gold powered by the ultra-thin 1200P1 automatic movement.
Longines Conquest Heritage Central Power Reserve
Above Longines Conquest Heritage Central Power Reserve
Longines Conquest Heritage Central Power Reserve
1 / 1
A beautiful watch distinguished by a unique feature: a power reserve display via two rotating discs positioned front and centre on the champagne dial.
Grand Seiko SBGJ285
Above Grand Seiko SBGJ285
Grand Seiko SBGJ285
1 / 1
Undoubtedly the best-looking purple watch of the year, the dial design is inspired by the gentle sway of wisteria blooms in the breeze.
NOW READ
The Piaget Polo 79 is the perfect combination of old and new
3 best perpetual calendar watches for leap year 2024
Usher in the Year of the Snake with these commemorative timepieces
Brian Cheong leads the watch (Tatler GMT) and jewellery content at Tatler Malaysia, combining sharp editorial insight with years of luxury lifestyle experience. A seasoned journalist in luxury watches based in Kuala Lumpur, Brian had previously helmed World of Watches, Men's Folio and Prestige Malaysia.
