Great Watches for Under $5,000
TAG Heuer Carrera Calibre 16
In 2018, TAG Heuer celebrated the 55th anniversary of one of the most iconic models the brand has ever created: the Carrera. To mark this special occasion, the Swiss company released two models, one of which was this white, blue, and red TAG Heuer Carrera Calibre 16. While the inspiration for the Carrera Calibre 16 came from its vintage predecessor, the overall look and feel of this watch is very modern. As you can tell by its 41-mm case, the watch is by no means small. While the size may be modern, the rest of the case screams vintage. It features short, thick lugs and round pushers that are reminiscent of models from the 1960s. The dark beige faux lume on the dial adds to the retro charm. There is a chronograph with three subdials, a date at 3 o’clock, and an automatic movement. This watch has everything you’d expect from a comfortable and functional modern mechanical timepiece with a touch of the past.
Enthusiast’s Corner: Rare and Exceptional Timepieces
Bvlgari Octo Finissimo Sandblasted Rose Gold Extra Thin
Bvlgari hit a home run with the release of their Octo Finissimo line. It is now easily on track to become the most iconic watch design of this millennium. Bvlgari continues to push the envelope with new materials and increasingly slimmer timepieces. The steel Octo Finissimo Ultra Thin is an amazing timepiece in its own right, but it doesn’t get any cooler than the Bvlgari Octo Finissimo Sandblasted Rose Gold Extra Thin. This watch is 40 mm in diameter but only 5.1 mm thick. It is a time-only model, making the dial clean and elegant. On the other hand, the iconic case design and use of sandblasted rose gold make the Bvlgari Octo Finissimo Sandblasted Rose Gold Extra Thin stand out on the wrist, even from a distance. It is an amazing timepiece that every enthusiast should own at some point.
Iconic Timepieces: Great Value for Money
Vacheron Constantin Patrimony Hand Wind
The world of watches has a lot to offer – from large complicated tool watches to thin and elegant timepieces, the selection is endless. Luckily, watchmakers, engineers, and designers are able to create beautiful pieces from even the most simple models. This Vacheron Constantin Patrimony Hand Wind is one such watch. It is a simple time-only model with a small seconds at 6 o’clock. Housed in a 42-mm white gold case that stands just 7.65 mm tall, the Patrimony Hand Wind would be a great contestant for a hypothetical “Most Iconic Dress Watch” award. The unmistakable Vacheron Constantin logo is not the only interesting element on the dial; the thin indices and barely noticeable dots both add exciting touches. Vacheron Constantin’s 4400 AS caliber ticks away inside. It offers a 65-hour power reserve, 21 jewels, and has been awarded the Geneva Seal. What more could you ask for from an iconic dress watch?
