The 6 Most Coveted Watches of 2025: A Deep Dive into the Timepieces That Are Redefining Luxury
Bold Statement: The world of luxury watches is more fragmented than ever, with 23 different timepieces vying for the top spot in 2025. But here's where it gets controversial: is this diversity a sign of innovation or a lack of consensus among experts? Dive into our list and decide for yourself.
December 12, 2025
Collage Art: Kelsey Niziolek, Photography: Courtesy of Brands
Welcome to the second installment of GQ’s 2025 Watch Survey. If you missed Part I, where our expert panel crowned the brand of the year, you can catch up here. Now, let’s explore the timepieces that have captivated the most discerning eyes in the industry.
In Part I, Rolex emerged as the undisputed champion, thanks in large part to its groundbreaking Land-Dweller. But this year’s Watch of the Year vote was far from unanimous. Unlike 2024, when Berneron’s Mirage dominated with nine first-place votes, the Land-Dweller clinched the top spot with only two first-place rankings. This scattering of votes—with 23 different watches earning top honors—highlights a year of unparalleled diversity and innovation. And this is the part most people miss: it’s not just about the winners; it’s about the incredible range of worthy contenders.
Given the wide distribution of votes, I’ve narrowed the list to the top six watches that managed to garner even a modicum of consensus. Each of these timepieces tells a unique story, blending tradition, innovation, and sheer craftsmanship.
1. Rolex Land-Dweller
Rolex’s latest offering is always a contender, but the Land-Dweller stands out as the brand’s first new ‘professional’ model since the Sky-Dweller in 2012. What makes it truly remarkable? Rolex has reimagined the escapement—a core component of watch movements—for the first time since the 18th century. Yet, despite this mechanical marvel, the Land-Dweller has sparked debate. While Geoff Hess of Sotheby’s acknowledges its significance, Tony Traina of Unpolished notes that its aesthetic isn’t quite there yet. Controversial Question: Is the Land-Dweller a masterpiece in progress, or will its design always fall short of its technical brilliance?
2. Hazemann & Monnin School Watch
This is the underdog story of the year. The Hazemann & Monnin School Watch not only made the list but did so with the most first-place votes. Created by Alexandre Hazemann and Victor Monnin as part of their watchmaking program, this chiming watch with a jump hour feature has captured the hearts of collectors. Drew Coblitz, a renowned collector, praises its mechanical prowess and the sweet sound of its hour chime. Thought-Provoking Question: Are independent watchmakers like Hazemann and Monnin the future of horology, or will established brands always dominate?
3. Cartier Tank à Guichets
Cartier’s annual Privé collection never fails to impress, and the 2025 release is no exception. The Tank à Guichets, inspired by a late-1920s design, displays the hour and minutes through small windows, giving it a Brutalist edge. It’s no wonder celebrities like Henry Golding and Timothée Chalamet have been spotted wearing it. James Lamdin of Analog:Shift calls it ‘long-awaited and brilliantly executed.’ Controversial Interpretation: Is Cartier’s success due to its innovative designs, or is it simply the power of celebrity endorsements?
4. Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Extra-Thin Selfwinding Flying Tourbillon Chronograph (RD#5)
Audemars Piguet’s RD#5 is a technical marvel. By rethinking the traditional chronograph construction, AP has created one of the thinnest watches ever to feature both a tourbillon and a chronograph. The modern design, inspired by iPhone buttons, adds a contemporary twist to a classic. Counterpoint: Is AP’s focus on technical innovation overshadowing its design heritage?
5. Berneron Quantième Annuel
Sylvain Berneron’s second release for his hyped brand focuses on the annual calendar complication, reimagining its layout for better legibility. Fred Savage, founder of Timepiece Grading Specialists, applauds this re-examination of classic complications. What’s truly fascinating is Berneron’s long-term vision—he’s already planning a jewelry collection called Fiasco. Controversial Question: Can Berneron sustain the momentum and build one of the next great watch brands, or is he spreading himself too thin?
6. Nomos Club Sport Neomatik Worldtimer
Nomos’s Worldtimer is a surprise entry, offering a fun and functional design at an accessible price point. Cameron Barr of Craft + Tailored highlights its affordability and non-Swiss origins. Thought-Provoking Question: Are non-Swiss brands like Nomos challenging the traditional luxury watch market, or do they occupy a separate niche?
Meet the Experts
Our panel of experts, listed alphabetically, includes some of the most influential voices in the watch world. From super collectors to industry insiders, their insights have shaped this year’s rankings. [Full list of experts and their Instagram handles]
Final Thoughts
2025 has been a year of unprecedented diversity in the watch industry. Whether you’re a fan of technical innovation, independent craftsmanship, or classic design, there’s something for everyone. But the real question is: which of these timepieces will stand the test of time? Share your thoughts in the comments—we’d love to hear which watch you think deserves the top spot and why.
