From SwissWatchExpo…
Spotlight on: Our picks for the 5 best chronographs under 5 thousand dollars.
While chronographs were created to measure elapsed time, they have
long escaped their utilitarian leanings, and have become watch icons in their own right.
The harmony of two to three counters, plus the abundance of pointers,
scales, and crowns, gives watchmakers lots of room for creativity.
Meanwhile, the ritual of timing, stopping, and resetting a chronograph makes them so interesting.
Today, there is an abundance of chronograph styles for just about anyone.
Unlike more complex complications, excellent chronographs can be had for a reasonable price.
Here are our top 5 favorite chronographs for less
than $5000 dollars. Subscribe to our channel to get updates on new videos!
Famous for being the first watch on the moon,
it’s arguably the most recognizable chronograph in the world.
The modern Omega Speedmaster Professional MoonWatch that you can buy today is nearly
identical to the one worn on the moon – the same case shape and 42 millimeter size, the
same dial design, and even a movement that’s heir to the original caliber 321 worn on the moon.
Once endorsed by NASA as the official timepiece for use in outer space, the Speedmaster guaranteed
reliable functioning of the movement, even under the most extreme of conditions.
With the Omega Speedmaster, you get top notch function,
reliability, and heritage at a very reasonable price.
Tudor has mastered the art of reinventing pieces from their archive,
and the Tudor Heritage Chrono is proof of that.
Based on the classic but short-lived Tudor “Monte-Carlo” chronograph from the 1970s,
the Heritage Chrono has a bold and retro-inspired visual architecture,
while making concessions to modernity in terms of mechanics and finishing.
Tudor kept the distinctive touches of blue, gray,
and orange ; but increased it in size and upgraded to a modern movement.
The Tudor Heritage Chrono is perfect for someone looking
for a functional and vintage-flavored timepiece at a friendly price point.
The Tag Heuer Carrera line presents a heaping load of options,
from vintage inspired models to more avant garde designs.
Our pick among the lot are the Calibre 16 models, which are all-rounders made
from either high-quality stainless steel or lightweight titanium.
With the Carrera Chronograph Calibre 16, Tag Heuer was able to achieve a healthy blend of
the classic 60s Carrera chronograph, and the ultra-modern skeletonized Carrera
watches TAG Heuer released under the helm of Jean (john) Claude Biver.
All in all, it’s sporty, retro and modern all at once.
There’s a certain charm and personality to the Breitling Navitimer that is really hard to ignore.
One of the features that gives it that quality is the slide-rule bezel.
Once a practical tool for pilots before the development of modern navigational equipment,
it’s not as frequently used today, but remains a pillar of the collection.
With a contraption such as a slide rule bezel, the Breitling Navitimer,
by default is a connoisseur’s choice,
but the timelessness of the design alone and its high recognition as a horological classic
are enough to make even budding collectors want it.
The IWC Pilot’s watch collection is renowned for its robust build,
and resistance to changes in air pressure and acceleration, that come during flight.
While the size of the Pilot’s Chronograph is contemporary – hefty,
even – it’s look is very discreet.
The finely brushed stainless steel body provides the utility-inspired look and feel,
while complementing the matte finish of the dial. Sub-dials at 6,
9, and 12 maintain a clear distinction between the chronograph, civil time, and day-date readouts.
Overall, the IWC Pilot’s Chronograph is a powerfully
built tool watch that doesn’t overpower the wrist.
Chronographs offer great value at a reasonable price.
Which watch was your favorite? Tell us in the comments section.
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