ith over 50 brands showcasing their latest creations at the Watches & Wonders Geneva 2024 high-end watch industry fair, an array of new products awaited discovery by members of the watch media and the general public. Our team at Watch dedicated several days to surveying the new watches on display, meticulously curating this year’s top 10 list based on the latest releases that have captured the attention of luxury watch aficionados worldwide.
The watch team observed that Watches & Wonders Geneva 2024 was notably dominated by a remarkable array of strong and impressive female-centric replica watches. These are watches primarily designed to resonate with female audiences, yet possessing qualities that make them equally appealing to men. This encompasses not only smaller case sizes, typically ranging from 35-39mm, but also encompasses visual and artistic concepts that prioritize elegance over traditional masculinity. For the first time, several watches on our top 10 list from Watches & Wonders Geneva 2024 aren’t merely categorized as women’s watches; rather, they are women’s watches that male members of our team would proudly sport.
Regarding emerging trends in the watch industry, there are few notable shifts this year. Colors continue to be popular among consumers, with brands exploring a myriad of fun and intriguing color combinations and materials. While watch sizes remain modest overall, there has been an influx of new releases spanning both smaller and larger case sizes. Notably, 2024 has witnessed a surge in excellent new men’s watch offerings within the 38-40mm width range. However, a significant trend that cannot be ignored is the evident inflation in prices. In some instances, prices for models have surged dramatically, prompting many brands to express their intent to elevate their positioning in the market. This shift towards a more upscale market segment often translates into substantial price increases across their product lines. The overarching strategy here seems to revolve around brands targeting wealthier clientele, ostensibly less sensitive to price fluctuations, over a higher volume of sales to middle-high-income luxury consumers. While this strategy may not always yield the intended results, it reflects the prevailing mindset among many brands as they gravitate towards higher price points alongside a reduced volume of production. Consequently, while attractive deals still exist, the average price of luxury clone watches from major brands has witnessed a significant uptick in recent years. As buyers become increasingly discerning, thorough market research is more crucial than ever before, empowering consumers to make informed decisions when investing in the latest watch offerings.
The top 10 new watches unveiled at this year’s Watches & Wonders show:
Parmigiani Fleurier Toric Collection
Rolex 1908 in Platinum
Chanel J12 White Star Couture
Patek Philippe Aquanaut Luce “Rainbow” Minute Repeater Haute Joaillerie 5260/1455-001
Hermes Cut
IWC Portugieser Eternal Calendar
Tudor Black Bay 58 GMT
Raymond Weil Millesime Moonphase
Jaeger-LeCoultre Duomètre Heliotourbillon Perpetual
Zenith Defy Extreme Diver
- Parmigiani Fleurier Toric Collection
The Toric collection by Parmigiani Fleurier is a hallmark of the brand, distinguished by its fluted bezel, sophisticated dial, and impeccable horological craftsmanship. The reintroduction of the Toric line was eagerly awaited, and Parmigiani Fleurier delivered with the Petite Seconde and Chronograph Rattrapante variants. While undeniably luxurious, especially with the Chronograph Rattrapante featuring a movement crafted from solid 18k rose gold, the weightiness of the watch on the wrist might surprise some. Nevertheless, the Toric exudes elegance, precision, and quintessential Parmigiani Fleurier refinement. The collection starts at $48,400 USD for the Petite Seconde and $145,200 USD for the limited Rattrapante edition.
- Rolex 1908 in Platinum
The Rolex 1908 Platinum swiftly emerged as a crowd favorite at Watches & Wonders Geneva 2024. Its popularity was evident during our team discussions, with multiple members expressing a desire to provide their take on this exceptional watch. This rarity among releases managed to captivate our attention with its meticulous craftsmanship and horological prowess. Serving as a refined iteration of the Cellini line, the replica Rolex 1908 in platinum stands as an exemplar of sophistication and technical excellence. Priced at $30,900 USD, it embodies the epitome of luxury watchmaking.
- Chanel J12 White Star Couture
Chanel continues its tradition of excellence with the introduction of the J12 White Star Couture, limited to just 12 pieces. Renowned for its innovative and high-end creations, Chanel once again astounds with a watch that strikes the perfect balance between femininity and boldness. The J12 White Star Couture, with its 38mm case adorned with baguette-cut diamonds, offers a visual spectacle unlike any other. Powered by a Kenissi automatic movement, it exudes sophistication and charm. While primarily targeted towards women, this masterpiece effortlessly appeals to discerning gentlemen as well. With a price tag around €470,000 EUR, it embodies the pinnacle of haute horlogerie.
- Patek Philippe Aquanaut Luce “Rainbow” Minute Repeater Haute Joaillerie 5260/1455-001
Patek Philippe surprises enthusiasts with the Aquanaut Luce “Rainbow” Minute Repeater Haute Joaillerie 5260/1455-001, a departure from their conservative design ethos. This dazzling watch, adorned with precious stones and featuring a full gold bracelet, marries traditional watchmaking with luxurious playfulness. Despite its opulence, the watch maintains a wearable 39mm width, making it appealing to both women and men enchanted by its aesthetic allure. The intricate rainbow effect achieved through 131 diamonds and 779 colored gems accentuates its sport-chic appeal. Priced at an impressive 2,500,000 CHF, it epitomizes the pinnacle of horological and artistic craftsmanship.
- Hermes Cut
Hermes continues to make waves in the watch industry with its dynamic Cut collection. While the Hermes Duc Attele may have stolen the spotlight with its impressive complications, it is the Cut collection that truly captivates this year. Youthful and contemporary, the Cut watches cater predominantly to women but possess a universal appeal that transcends gender boundaries. With a 50-hour automatic movement and push-button quick-release straps, they offer both style and functionality. Available in four case options, including a “Large” 36mm model, the Cut collection is priced starting at $6,725 USD, affirming Hermes’s commitment to accessible luxury.
- IWC Portugieser Eternal Calendar
IWC presents the Portugieser Eternal Calendar, a testament to horological innovation and timeless design. Boasting a mechanical perpetual calendar accurate to the year 4000 and a moonphase indicator with minimal deviation, this masterpiece embodies precision and sophistication. Encased in solid 950 platinum and featuring a multi-layered lacquered glass dial, it exudes elegance and refinement. Despite its six-figure price tag of $155,000 USD, the Portugieser Eternal Calendar stands as a coveted symbol of luxury and craftsmanship.
- Tudor Black Bay 58 GMT
Tudor surprises enthusiasts with the Black Bay 58 GMT, a stunning addition to the beloved Black Bay 58 family. Embracing a vintage-inspired “Coke” colorway and gilt dial, this watch captures the essence of classic sports watches while incorporating modern features. With its manageable 39mm case diameter and slender profile, it appeals to both traditionalists and contemporary enthusiasts. Equipped with a METAS-certified chronometer in-house GMT movement, the Black Bay 58 GMT is poised to become a must-have release of the year. Priced at $4,400 USD on the rubber strap and $4,600 USD on the steel bracelet, it offers exceptional value within the luxury sports watch segment.
- Raymond Weil Millesime Moonphase
Raymond Weil introduces new iterations of the Millesime Moonphase, embodying a collection of charming watches designed for everyday wear. Featuring a crosshair dial, moonphase complication, Arabic numerals, and gem-set lugs, these watches exude character and allure. Available in various sizes, including a larger 39.5mm version, the Millesime Moonphase caters to diverse preferences. With prices ranging from $2,325 USD to $2,575 USD, they offer accessible luxury without compromising on quality or style.
- Jaeger-LeCoultre Duomètre Heliotourbillon Perpetual
Jaeger-LeCoultre presents the Duomètre Heliotourbillon Perpetual, the pinnacle of horological innovation and craftsmanship. Building upon the Duometre concept, this watch integrates multiple complications while maintaining unparalleled timekeeping accuracy. Encased in luscious rose gold, it features a perpetual calendar, moonphase indicator, and two separate power reserves. With the addition of a third axis to its Gyrotoubillon, it exemplifies Jaeger-LeCoultre’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of watchmaking. Priced at $438,000 USD, it represents a true investment in haute horlogerie.
- Zenith Defy Extreme Diver
Zenith surprises enthusiasts with the Defy Extreme Diver, a bold addition to its diverse lineup. Combining muscular design elements with modern aesthetics, this diver’s watch stands out with its orange-accented sunburst dial and robust construction. With a water resistance of 600 meters, it is ready to tackle any environment with confidence. Priced at $11,300 USD, it offers exceptional value for a high-performance sports watch.
Each of these fake watches represents the pinnacle of watchmaking excellence, captivating enthusiasts with their innovation, craftsmanship, and aesthetic appeal. As we reflect on the highlights of Watches & Wonders Geneva 2024, these watches stand as testaments to the enduring allure of luxury watches.