Top 10 Best-Selling Watches in the World

Why are certain watches consistently regarded as the best-selling models in the world? The world of luxury and premium watches is highly competitive, with some brands standing out due to their craftsmanship, heritage, and marketing. While watches have evolved from mere timekeeping tools to symbols of status and personal expression, a select few have dominated sales worldwide. In this article, we will dive into the top 10 best-selling watches globally, exploring what makes them iconic and how they've managed to captivate the attention of consumers across continents.

1. Rolex Submariner

It’s no surprise that the Rolex Submariner tops the list. The Submariner is arguably the most recognizable watch on the planet, worn by everyone from professional divers to movie stars like James Bond. It is a blend of durability, luxury, and style, making it a staple in the collections of many watch enthusiasts. The Submariner’s reputation for being robust and water-resistant, along with its timeless design, continues to attract buyers, which explains its massive global sales.

• Features: Automatic movement, water-resistant to 300 meters, unidirectional rotating bezel
• Price range: $8,000 - $15,000
• Fun fact: The Submariner was the first watch to be water-resistant up to 100 meters when it was launched in 1953.

2. Omega Speedmaster Professional “Moonwatch”

A watch with a truly historic legacy, the Omega Speedmaster earned its place in history as the first watch to be worn on the moon during the Apollo 11 mission. This makes the “Moonwatch” one of the most iconic timepieces ever produced. Its association with space exploration, combined with Omega’s impeccable craftsmanship, has kept it in high demand since its introduction.

• Features: Chronograph function, manual-wind movement, tachymeter scale
• Price range: $5,500 - $8,000
• Fun fact: The Speedmaster was subjected to and passed NASA’s rigorous testing, making it the only watch qualified for all manned space missions.

3. Audemars Piguet Royal Oak

The Royal Oak revolutionized the luxury watch industry when it was launched in 1972, being one of the first high-end sports watches made from stainless steel. Designed by the legendary Gérald Genta, it features an octagonal bezel and “tapisserie” patterned dial, instantly recognizable among watch aficionados. Its blend of craftsmanship and unique design has made it a best-seller.

• Features: Self-winding movement, iconic octagonal bezel, “tapisserie” dial
• Price range: $25,000 - $50,000
• Fun fact: The Royal Oak was initially a controversial design due to its bold appearance, but it has since become a flagship model for Audemars Piguet.

4. Patek Philippe Nautilus

The Patek Philippe Nautilus is another creation by Gérald Genta, famous for its rounded octagonal bezel. Since its launch in the 1970s, it has become one of the most sought-after watches in the world. Patek Philippe’s legacy as a master watchmaker, combined with the rarity of the Nautilus models, keeps demand incredibly high. Many collectors regard it as the pinnacle of luxury sports watches.

• Features: Automatic movement, stainless steel case, water-resistant
• Price range: $30,000 - $70,000
• Fun fact: The Patek Philippe Nautilus often has a long waiting list, with some buyers waiting years to get their hands on one.

5. TAG Heuer Carrera

A mainstay in the world of motorsports, the TAG Heuer Carrera was inspired by the legendary Carrera Panamericana auto race. Introduced in 1963, this chronograph watch has since become an icon among racing enthusiasts and professionals. Its simple, readable design, coupled with TAG Heuer’s association with speed and precision, makes it one of the brand’s best-selling watches.

• Features: Chronograph function, automatic movement, sapphire crystal
• Price range: $3,000 - $6,000
• Fun fact: The Carrera was designed by Jack Heuer himself, the great-grandson of the brand’s founder.

6. Cartier Tank

The Cartier Tank has been a favorite of royalty, celebrities, and watch collectors since its introduction in 1917. Inspired by the shape of World War I tanks, the Tank’s minimalist design and rectangular case have made it a timeless classic. Cartier’s reputation as a luxury jeweler also adds to the allure of this model, which continues to be a best-seller.

• Features: Quartz or automatic movement, rectangular case, Roman numeral dial
• Price range: $4,000 - $20,000
• Fun fact: Jackie Kennedy, Princess Diana, and Andy Warhol were all known to wear Cartier Tanks.

7. Seiko SKX007

For those looking for a more affordable yet highly reliable watch, the Seiko SKX007 stands out. Known for its rugged design, water resistance, and precision, this watch has become a cult favorite among dive watch enthusiasts. Seiko’s reputation for producing durable and accurate timepieces at an accessible price point keeps the SKX007 in demand.

• Features: Automatic movement, water-resistant to 200 meters, luminous hands
• Price range: $200 - $400
• Fun fact: Despite its low price, the SKX007 meets the ISO 6425 standard for dive watches.

8. Breitling Navitimer

One of the most famous aviation watches, the Breitling Navitimer has been a favorite among pilots and aviation enthusiasts since its release in 1952. The iconic slide rule bezel, used for performing various calculations, sets it apart from other chronograph watches. Breitling’s association with aviation, combined with its precision and reliability, has made it a best-seller.

• Features: Chronograph function, slide rule bezel, automatic movement
• Price range: $7,000 - $12,000
• Fun fact: Astronaut Scott Carpenter wore a Navitimer during his 1962 space flight.

9. Tissot Le Locle

Named after the town where Tissot was founded, the Le Locle is a classic dress watch that offers Swiss craftsmanship at an affordable price. With its elegant design and automatic movement, it appeals to those looking for an entry into luxury watches without breaking the bank. Its popularity stems from its balance between affordability and timeless design.

• Features: Automatic movement, Roman numeral dial, sapphire crystal
• Price range: $500 - $1,000
• Fun fact: The town of Le Locle is one of the historical centers of Swiss watchmaking, home to many renowned brands.

10. Hublot Big Bang

A relative newcomer compared to the others on this list, the Hublot Big Bang has made a big impact since its introduction in 2005. Known for its bold, modern design and use of unconventional materials like carbon fiber and rubber, the Big Bang has become a favorite among younger watch enthusiasts. Its innovative approach to watchmaking has earned it a place among the best-sellers.

• Features: Automatic movement, chronograph function, unique material combinations
• Price range: $12,000 - $30,000
• Fun fact: The Big Bang won multiple awards shortly after its release, including the prestigious “Best Design” prize at the Grand Prix d'Horlogerie de Genève.

Conclusion

These ten watches represent the pinnacle of global watch sales, each one offering something unique in terms of design, heritage, or functionality. Whether it’s the timeless elegance of the Cartier Tank or the rugged reliability of the Rolex Submariner, these best-sellers have stood the test of time and continue to captivate watch enthusiasts around the world.