Watches and Wonders 2025: Arguably affordable watches straight from the Geneva fair
Ah, Watches and Wonders—the annual celebration of haute horlogerie. While it’s true that this most awaited Geneva fair showcases some of the most luxurious and exclusive timepieces in the world, don’t let the dazzling six-figure price tags intimidate you. Beneath the sparkle of diamond-encrusted bezels and intricate complications lies a treasure trove of watches that cater to a range of budgets and tastes. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting your journey into the world of fine watchmaking, there’s something here for everyone.
This year’s show wasn’t just about unattainable masterpieces; it also featured accessible gems that prove you don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy exceptional craftsmanship. From brands like Tag Heuer, Tudor and Oris, there are plenty of options that deliver remarkable value without breaking the bank. So grab your wallet (and maybe a loupe), because we’re diving into some of the most budget-friendly watches that stood out amid the luxury spectacle.
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Grand Seiko Heritage Collection Paulownia Tomentose SBGW323
Grand Seiko Heritage Collection Paulownia Tomentose SBGW323 (Photo: courtesy of Grand Seiko)
If you’ve ever looked at your wrist and thought, “This could use a little more magic,” Grand Seiko has answered your call with the SBGW323. Inspired by the beauty of the Paulownia Tomentose flower—Iwate Prefecture’s answer to spring’s Instagram filter—this watch is a love letter to nature wrapped in stainless steel. Underneath all that floral charm lies the calibre 9S64, a hand-wound movement with a power reserve of 72 hours. With 24 jewels, it boasts an accuracy rate of +5 to -3 seconds per day. At 36.5mm in diameter and just 11.6mm thick, this watch is perfectly proportioned for those who appreciate elegance without the bulk.
And while its US$5,600 price tag (approximately HK$43,800) might not scream “budget-friendly” to everyone, it’s practically a bargain compared to some of the six-figure marvels at Watches and Wonders.
Montblanc Iced Sea Automatic Date 38mm
Montblanc Iced Sea Automatic Date 38mm (Photo: courtesy of Montblanc)
Montblanc’s Iced Sea Automatic Date is here to cool down Watches and Wonders 2025, and it’s bringing serious frosty vibes. With a new 38mm case size and glacier-pattern dials in light blue and pure white, this watch looks like it was forged from the Mer de Glace itself. Thanks to “0 Oxygen” technology, it won’t fog up even if you’re diving into Arctic waters—or just a really cold pool.
Certified for depths up to 300 metres and priced at approximately US$3,350 (HK$26,000) for a rubber strap or US$3,500 (HK$27,000) for a stainless steel bracelet, it’s rugged, stylish and icy enough to make Frozen’s Elsa jealous. Let it go? Never.
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Tag Heuer Formula 1 Solargraph
Tag Heuer Formula 1 Solargraph (Photo: courtesy of Tag Heuer)
Tag Heuer Formula 1 Solargraph (Photo: courtesy of Tag Heuer)
Tag Heuer Formula 1 Solargraph (Photo: courtesy of Tag Heuer)
Tag Heuer Formula 1 Solargraph (Photo: courtesy of Tag Heuer)
Tag Heuer Formula 1 Solargraph (Photo: courtesy of Tag Heuer)
Tag Heuer Formula 1 Solargraph (Photo: courtesy of Tag Heuer)
Tag Heuer Formula 1 Solargraph (Photo: courtesy of Tag Heuer)
Tag Heuer’s Formula 1 Solargraph is here to prove that even your watch can be faster than your morning coffee. With its solar-powered calibre TH50-00 movement, this timepiece charges in just two minutes of sunlight—yes, two minutes—and runs for up to 10 months on a full charge. Who needs batteries when you’ve got the sun? At 38mm, it’s sleek, sporty, and available in bold colourways like black-and-yellow or white-and-red. The lightweight bio-polyamide bezel and ergonomic design ensure it’s as comfortable as it is cool.
Starting at approximately US$1,855 (HK$14,400), this is solar-powered swagger for the speed-obsessed.
Tudor Black Bay 58
Tudor Black Bay 58 with a five-link bracelet (Photo: courtesy of Tudor)
The Tudor Black Bay 58 is now cooler (and more precise) than ever, thanks to its new Metas Master Chronometer certification. With its 39mm stainless steel case and burgundy bezel, this watch channels serious retro dive-watch energy while packing cutting-edge tech under the hood. Waterproof down to 200 metres, with a 65-hour power reserve and magnetic resistance up to 15,000 gauss, it’s ready for any adventure. Burgundy never looked so bold.
Choose between a “rivet-style” bracelet (US$4,565 / HK$35,690), a five-link bracelet (US$4,675 USD / HK$36,550), or a rubber strap (US$4,345 / HK$33,970)—all featuring Tudor’s T-fit clasp for on-the-go adjustments.
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Oris Big Crown Pointer Date
Oris Big Crown Pointer Date (Photo: courtesy of Oris)
Vintage charm never goes out of style—it just gets better with age and the Oris Big Crown Pointer Date is proof of it. Sporting a 40mm stainless steel case, this watch comes in three dial colours: yellow, lilac and classic blue, all glowing with Super-LumiNova for night-time flair. The domed sapphire crystal adds a touch of sophistication, while the sporty metal bracelet ensures comfort without compromising elegance. Powered by the reliable Oris 754 automatic movement with a 41-hour power reserve, it’s as functional as it is fashionable. At US$2,375 approximately HK$18,433, it’s a steal—and yes, the oversized crown is still the star.
All prices mentioned are accurate at the time of the article’s initial publication and are subject to change.
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