Most watches are designed simply to tell time, but a rare few stand out as masterpieces of watchmaking. Their importance extends beyond their practical function. The selection considers seven watches from across watchmaking history, chosen for their craftsmanship and significance. No individual watches or further details are provided.
From Geneva’s biggest winners to the watch you might design yourself, today’s BuyingTime explores what makes a timepiece matter.
Historical tourbillon carriages were often built by specialist watchmakers whose names were omitted from finished watches, which carried the names of the firms that sold them. Records such as observatory reports, trade directories, costing sheets, obituaries, and occasional signatures reveal the work of Ernest Guinand, Auguste Grether, Albert Pellaton-Favre,
A grail watch is a personal ideal shaped by an enthusiast’s exposure, knowledge, and changing interests. Early ambitions may center on iconic designs and prestigious brands, but deeper study can shift attention toward movement architecture, complications, finishing, independent makers, and distinctive approaches to watchmaking. The grail is therefore a
Racing has long been closely tied to chronograph watchmaking, with these watches designed to time laps and stages. Six notable racing chronographs showcase that connection, including models linked to Formula 1 teams and historic road racing. The selection spans TAG Heuer’s Carrera Chronograph Sport, Seiko’s Prospex Speedtimer, Chopard’