Best of 2025: Value Propositions Below US$10,000
The year 2025 showcased a variety of affordable watches under US$10,000, with notable entries from Tudor and micro-brands. Tudor's Ranger 36 stands out for its well-crafted design and in-house movement, offering a compact size that appeals to enthusiasts. The watch features a unique "dune white" dial, enhancing its vintage-inspired aesthetic while ensuring practicality for daily wear. Christopher Ward's C12 Loco impresses with its innovative CW-003 movement, which has been re-engineered for affordability while retaining Swiss manufacturing standards, making it a distinctive choice in the market. Albishorn's Thundergraph and Kollokium's Projekt 02 also made a mark with their thoughtful designs and movements. The Thundergraph combines traditional mountaineering elements with a modern California dial, showcasing a proprietary monopusher chronograph movement that balances character and functionality. Meanwhile, the Projekt 02 introduces a striking luminous dial and a refined case design, powered by a compact La Joux-Perret movement, emphasizing ergonomics and aesthetic appeal. Together, these timepieces highlight the growing trend of high-quality, affordable watches that cater to diverse tastes and preferences.
