The most expensive watches in the world are far more than devices for measuring time: they are true works of art. Such items are some of the most desired objects among millionaires: celebrities, athletes, members of royalty, and heads of state. There is hardly anyone on Earth that doesn’t have a soft spot for a unique timepiece.
But what are the most expensive watches in the world, and how to get them? Our article is here to help you pick amongst the most expensive, rare and beautiful options. Discover the main brands, the most precious pieces and the best shops on the planet.
In the meantime, pack your bags and board one of our chartered private flights – it’s time to see these watches for yourself.
A Relic Through Time
Popular wisdom says you can’t buy time. Instead, we can only measure and enjoy it. That’s why the world’s best watchmakers decided this precious concept should become an object of worship. In many cases, it’s indeed a partner that inspires.
The finest models are not mere watches: they are Haute Horlogerie. Fantastic little machines of intriguing beauty, robust construction and absolute precision. Their structure is crafted using only the noblest of materials. Expect to find pure metals, precious stones and the highest standard of engineering. Many of these are rare, with editions limited to a few copies. Some are even unique pieces and can cost several million dollars. It’s no surprise that such a level of exclusivity comes with a hefty price tag!
To get to know some of the most expensive watches in the world, we will visit the main and most renowned brands. These include Richard Mille, Patek Philippe, Rolex, Chopard, Breguet, A. Lange & Sohne, among others.
Here, we also have the unique opportunity to get to know precious antiques. Vintage watches with quirky construction, some of which belonged to noteworthy individuals or reflected acute historical value. On this particular trip, we will fly to the countries with the longest tradition of timepiece manufacturing. From Switzerland to Germany, and not forgetting Japan.
Since the clock is ticking and time is of the essence, let’s find out some of the most expensive watches in the world.
The greatest of All Masterpieces: The Graff Diamonds Hallucination
As the name suggests, this particular watch is borderline hallucination. A unique wristwatch made of 18-karat white gold pieces – more precisely, 110 of them. This fabulous piece holds the record for the most expensive watch ever sold: fifty-five million dollars ($55 million).
Describing the Graff Diamonds Hallucination in itself is challenging, so please allow us the attempt:
The piece is based on a platinum bracelet covered by 110 stones in shades of pink, yellow, blue, orange and green. The various stones are cut into unique shapes, creating a stunning visual amalgamation. In the centre, we find the delicate quartz dial encased in a circle of pink-tone diamonds. And, of course, the piece features the most precise engineering, ensuring perfectly stable hands while the clock runs for months without winding.
Graff Diamonds Hallucination was launched in 2014 at Baselworld, an international fair that brings together the best pieces of watches, jewellery, gems and suchlike. At the time, Graff Diamonds were making its debut at the fair and made history. It is also worth mentioning that this timepiece is developed by the concept of Laurence Graff himself, the brand’s creator. According to him, this watch is the realization of a long-planned ideal. Quoting: “The Hallucination has made my diamond dream a reality.” We are sure that this work of unparalleled beauty is undoubtedly every collector’s dream.
The most fascinating timepieces
Now that we know the most expensive watch in the world, let’s look at the ones that made the cut. In the following list, you’ll have your pick from several other luxurious and multi-million dollar pieces.
As we’ve mentioned before, they aren’t mere watches. They are nearly-priceless works of art, with the prospect of constant valuation. In any case, any of the watches featured here is expected to be worth even more in the future than their hallucinating price tag.
Graff Diamonds – The Fascination
Figuring as the second most expensive watch in the world, we have another gem from Graff. This time around, the name isn’t less impressive: The Fascination. It is a 152.96-carat White Diamond bracelet which has a unique hybrid feature. Its centre, drop-shaped in a 38.13-carat diamond, can be detached from the bracelet and worn as a ring. Besides being a piece worth $40 million, this particular feature makes it a standout piece against any other bracelet worth mentioning.
Patek Philippe – Grandmaster Chime 6300A-01
In a very honourable and expensive third position, we find a classic wristwatch. This one draws attention more for its elegance and sophistication than for its extravagance. It is the most complex of all the watches in the Patek Philippe collection, with no less than 20 complications. These include five acoustic functions with two unique features: an alarm that sets a preset date and an alarm that sounds the date on demand. This magnificent piece fetched $31.2 million at a Christie’s auction in Geneva.
Breguet – Marie Antoinette Grande Complication Pocket Watch
When history, luxury and masterwork merge, the result is a pocket watch valued at $30 million. This watch is the culmination of its long history centred on Queen Marie Antoinette. Reports suggest that the clock was commissioned in 1783 for the Swiss Abraham-Louis Breguet, who would finish it only in 1802. Despite the magnificent 823 gold, platinum, ruby and sapphire components, the Queen would never see the object as she was executed in 1793. Although the original piece was lost for a long time, it is now in the hands of the L.A. Mayer Institute for Islamic Art.
Chopard – 201 Carat Watch
This $25 million extravaganza from Swiss brand Chopard is another fine specimen of an item that is much more than just a watch; it is a true wearable art. It is encrusted with no less than 874 diamonds of different types and shades. The result is a perfect blend between the colours yellow and white. The detail that draws attention is the three heart-shaped diamonds surrounding the centre of the watch, in the colours blue, pink and white. Eye-popping!
Patek Philippe – Henry Graves Supercomplication
Another Patek Philippe piece that catches our eye for its genius of construction and the steep price tag is a unique pocket watch, The Supercomplication, manufactured in January 1933. Its project was considered very daring for the time, taking three years to plan and another five years to build. The feat was such that the watch stood for over 50 years as the most complicated timepiece of all time. Despite being commissioned for just $15,000 (around $250,000 at today’s prices), the piece ranks as one of the most expensive in the world. The Supercomplication was snatched up at auction in 2014 for $24 million.
Where to find the world’s most luxurious watches?
With the popularity and renown of the big brands, today we can find the best luxury watch shops all over the world. Naturally, don’t expect to find million-dollar watches at just any shopping centre in your neighbourhood.
However, if you pick the right country and street, we’re certain you can find the right store for your multi-million dollar watch needs. More importantly, we can fly you there in great style with our private jet charter service. Let’s now discover where some of the finest watch stores are located in order to plan your next trip ahead:
Switzerland
Those who think of watches automatically think of Switzerland. Not surprisingly, the country is considered prime in the art of clockwork, hosting several major brands. Geneva can be considered a reference to luxury watchmaking. To prove it, nothing like taking a walk down the famous Rue du Rhône. There are dozens of stores showcasing some of the most beautiful and precious items. You’ll find brands such as Patek Philippe, Vacheron, Cartier and Richard Mille, as well as other boutiques such as Bucherer.
Are you planning to travel to the Swiss Alps soon? This is another great opportunity to visit luxury boutiques and stores which offer some of the finest watch brands. Tourist cities like Zermatt and Gstaad are also graced with the presence of these stunning boutiques. They are, in fact, a tourist destination in their own right.
England
The British have a deep connection and long history with time pieces. The most famous clock in the world is undoubtedly the one called Big Ben, which is located in the Elizabeth Tower at the Palace of Westminster. It’s no surprise that many of the main luxury watch brands are also present in the land of 5 o’clock tea.
In London, Bond Street’s super shopping avenue is a paradise made of sophisticated shops. Certainly, you will find the most expensive watches in the world at the official representatives of Breitling, Wempe, and the official Rolex shop. Close by, in the Burlington Arcade shopping centre, there are also several fabulous options awaiting. Somlo is one such standout, with an envy-inspiring collection. In addition to classic and modern watches, we are mesmerized by the antiques, including pocket watches, watches covered in jewellery, bracelets, and bangles.
United States
The watch tradition is also present far from European territory, where wealth and great test provide the perfect marriage. Figures point out that Americans are increasingly interested in purchasing luxury watches, which shows us that they also greatly appreciate this form of art in gear. Although not all major brands are present in some American cities, it is possible to find the most beautiful timepieces at retailers. And in such a case, New York provides many choices.
For example, Soho works with all the best in the watch market on Greene Street. Visiting Soho is much more than just shopping – it is about living an experience. The refined shop not only sells the best watches in the world from brands such as Rolex, Jaeger-LeCoultre and Omega but also offers repair and cleaning services. To top it off, they also have an exclusive atmosphere for socializing in the form of an in-house cocktail bar.
Looking for an even more exclusive experience? Book a visit to Audemars Piguet Boutique. A brand with an enormous tradition and over a century of expertise. Their boutiques at 65th and 57th Street in NYC are open to visitors by appointment only.
Japan
Known for being perfectionists and precise in their creations, luxury watches also find a big expression in Japan. If Tokyo is one of your future destination list, there are great options to purchase high-quality pieces, both from local manufacturers and classic brands. The establishments in the Japanese metropolis are even known for having great prices.
If you are looking for any form of a luxury item in Tokyo, you will certainly find it in Ginza. The neighbourhood is the noblest shopping centre in the city, very similar to 5th Avenue or even the already-mentioned Rue du Rhône. Omega, Rolex and Zenith shops are present. We also find the presence of great Japanese watchmakers, such as Grand Seiko.
Several other areas of Tokyo are also home to superstores with the most expensive watches in the world. The Yoshida Watch Store, which is located in the Hatagaya area, is a perfect example of how to unite 100 years of tradition in an environment that manages to be both modern and preserved, with a rustic air.
We must also mention the excellent treatment given to customers by the attendants in Japanese shops. The customer is lifted up on the altar and treated like a member of royalty from the moment they set foot in the shop until the moment they leave it, receiving their farewells with a full bow.
Other Regions
Several other regions have a strong presence of major luxury watch suppliers. Beautiful places to stroll and shop, such as:
- Germany – Berlin. Fantastic city with many representatives of national brands like Glashutte and A. Lange & Sohne and the presence of several international brands.
- France – Besançon. If you are looking for passionate nights in France and great shopping for timepieces, know that the best destination is not trendy Paris. Besançon is the French watch capital, which seems to have inherited this prowess from its neighbours since it borders Switzerland.
- Sweden – Stockholm. If your trip is further north, it is possible to take advantage of Stockholm’s shopping centre to do some great shopping in the best-known boutiques. On Hamngatan street, we find a very pleasant environment to fill bags, with shops organized in a clean atmosphere. At Krons, for example, which is the official Rolex retailer in the area, you will find a small but cosy structure with everything you need to purchase your watch, including first-class service.
- China – Beijing, Shanghai and Chengdu. It may surprise some, but China is also heavily active in the luxury watch market. The number of Chinese buyers has skyrocketed over the past few years, even pushing the Chinese domestic industry to develop in order to grab a slice of this cake. If your destination includes one of these big three cities, rest assured that you will find shops with the highest European standards, capable of providing top-notch watches.
- Dubai. The Dubai Mall redefines the concept of a mall through an extensive offer of luxury items and experiences. You won’t be surprised to find out that many of the world’s best watch brands are at your disposal in this exciting location.
The Clock is Ticking For Your Next Trip
After this reading, we’re sure you’ve got the urge to see some of these wonders up close. Or better yet, try them on your wrist.
Contact our team to plan your private jet flight today and set on a trip to discover some of the most exciting watch manufacturers and stores anywhere. We can’t promise you’ll return home with one of the most expensive watches in the world, but you’ll certainly have a timeless adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do you still have questions about premium watches? The following answers are here to help you find the information you’re after. We let you in on a few secrets regarding how these wonderful luxury machines work and which are the best watch brands worldwide.
What is the difference between ordinary watches and luxury watches?
As much as an inattentive eye may not notice the difference between the two, the quality of the materials and the nobility with which the piece is treated show us why a watch is considered a luxury. These pieces are handmade with a rigorous construction process, using noble materials such as gold, plantain, ruby, sapphire and diamond.
Do luxury watches also use batteries?
Although there are some luxury models that are battery-powered, the vast majority of luxury watches prefer to rely on mechanical wonders to ensure their constant movement. This way, automatic or self-winding timepieces can remain active for long periods without needing to be wound manually. This process is done through the kinetic force made by the arm when the person moves, so it is enough to wear the watch constantly to keep it running.
What is the first watch in the world to be water-resistant?
The first watch made to be fully water- and dirt-proof was the Oyster by Rolex, launched in 1926. It made its name in history when swimmer Mercedes Gleitze wore it during her 10-hour crossing of the English Channel, finishing the competition with the watch intact and in full working condition.
Which are the best watch brands?
There are several big brands with established names in the international market. Suppose you are looking for the most refined and expensive watches worldwide. In that case, you will find them in Rolex, Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet, Richard Mille, Graff, Hublot, Cartier, Vacheron and Chopard.
Do all high-end watches cost millions?
No. Despite the models mentioned in the article, many other luxury pieces are much more affordable. For example, the Richard Mille In-house Automatic Tourbillon has a value of $511,000. The Audemars Piguet Oak Openworked “Skeleton” can also be purchased in the $250,000 range. On the other hand, the Cartier Tank Anglaise has a value of $33,000.