These are what we consider four of the best timepieces unveiled in 2024 — based on aesthetics, brand heritage, ergonomics, movement, retail price, and value retention.
1. Rolex GMT-Master II 126710GRNR “Bruce Wayne” – features the existing 40 mm diameter 904L stainless steel GMT-Master II case, the same Superlative chronometer caliber 3285 movement, the option of either an Oyster or Jubilee bracelet, and an all-new black and gray 24-hour ceramic bezel. For us, the new bezel is the closest thing to the discontinued black bezel GMT-Master IIs, with the added functionality of easily being able to distinguish between day/night. $10,700/$10,900
2. Omega Seamster Diver 300M “Daniel Craig” is a fantastic new iteration of the Seamaster Diver 300M. Initially teased by Daniel Craig, fans nicknamed it after him. Though this is not a 007 Edition Seamaster, it has the same 42 mm diameter case dimensions, in stainless steel (not titanium), and the same excellent Master Chronometer caliber 8806. What’s new is the monochromatic look, not to mention a more appealing price tag compared to the “No Time To Die” Seamaster 300M. $5,900/$6,500
3. IWC Ingenieur Automatic 40 – based on Gerald Genta’s original 1970s Ingenieur SL design, the 40 mm diameter stainless steel Ingenieur (Ref. IW328907) is a sexy alternative to the Royal Oak, with similar provenance, which no other watch of its kind can say. Inside, is IWC’s caliber 32111, with 120 hours of power reserve. It’s shown with a blue dial and is available in other colors. $11,700
4. Tudor Black Bay “Monochrome” – features a sleek 41 mm diameter stainless steel case, a Master Chronometer caliber MT5602-U movement, and most importantly, an all-new monochromatic color scheme. You have the option of an integrated black rubber strap, a faux riveted bracelet, or a Jubilee bracelet. After years of improving the original design, this is Tudor’s most refined Black Bay yet. $4,225/$4,500
This year, we saw a continuing trend of iterative watch launches, where simple updates and refinements were more prevalent than completely new watch designs. For us, that’s okay — especially when the resulting timepieces are this good.
Photos by Rolex, Omega, IWC, Tudor.
