Our Favourite Starter Luxury Watches
Watch lovers, it’s time for something really special. Luxury watches are the perfect gift or self-gift to last a lifetime. If you’re a newbie when it comes to the luxury watch world, then we’re here to help with our carefully curated selection of top 10 watches under £1,000. An unbelievable gift for someone you love, or a well-deserved treat from you to you, prepare to delve into the world of luxury watchmaking at an accessible entry point.
“When you’re looking to buy a timepiece, there are a number of things to consider including personal preference, budget, and the occasion. Whether you're looking for a watch to wear every day, formally or for a particular sport, then you have to consider the different features.” – Bruce, Head of Luxury Brands.
Whether you’re trying to find your first luxury watch or wow the one you love with one of our exceptional watches, then keep reading as we talk you through what is a luxury watch, the key features to look for, the best entry-level luxury watch brands, price ranges and our favourite timepieces curated by our experts. From Swiss watches to the best entry-level TAG Heuer watches, these selections are perfect.
What is a luxury watch?
Meticulously crafted to a high quality, luxury watches are designed to last a lifetime thanks to their impeccable movements, manufacturing and the most innovative materials. Luxury watches are crafted to be highly precise and feature durable metals, scratch resistant sapphire crystal glass, and in-house movements with a longer lasting power reserve.
“A luxury watch is truly a special purchase, as the craftsmanship that goes into making them can’t be replicated in standard watches.” - Bruce, Head of Watches.
What budget should you set for your entry-level luxury watch?
Now you know the key features, it’s all about choosing the details that matter the most to you or the loved one you’re purchasing for. Think about what its purpose is - will it need additional functions, such as chronograph? What type of bracelet or strap is needed, such as leather or stainless steel? Will it be an heirloom or a watch suitable for every day?
That is when you can set the budget for your first luxury watch. It’s probably best to decide the highest amount you’re willing to spend on a gift before looking. We’re confident you can find a perfect entry-level luxury watch that has the high quality features you’re looking for, for around £500 - £2,000.
Best entry-level luxury watch brands
We’d say the best starter luxury watch brands are Gucci, Tissot, Raymond Weil, Longines, Rotary and Hamilton. For an extra special first luxury watch, TAG Heuer has a longstanding history of manufacturing the highest quality timepieces for professionals, sportspeople, and adventurers alike. With each brand boasting a long history of luxury craftsmanship, innovative designs and mainstays in the world of sports, they’re definitely entry-level watches that you can treasure for years to come.
Men’s entry-level luxury watches
Tissot PR 100 40mm Chronograph Men’s Watch - £640
For the lovers of a watch with a retro, 70s style, this handsome Tissot PRX Powermatic 80 40mm Automatic Men’s Watch has an innovative and contemporary sense of style. An ideal gift for those who have an eye for on-trend timepieces, the cool blue coloured textured dial is a luxury watch trend we’re loving at the minute. An entry-level watch to love forever, the openwork case back will let you take a glimpse at the meticulously crafted Swiss-made automatic movement live in action.
If you’ve got your heart set on a new watch for 2026, discover our Watch Care Guide for all the aftercare tips and advice you’re looking for.
Hamilton Khaki Navy Scuba 40mm Automatic Watch - £790
A first luxury watch that’s perfect for the sophisticated type, this Hamilton Khaki Navy Scuba 40mm Automatic Watch showcases robust design with a nod to the brands maritime heritage with a wave-textured dial. Featuring the reliable H-10 automatic calibre with an impressive 80-hour power reserve, get ready to embark on adventures on both land and sea with this contemporary companion.
Longines HydroConquest 39mm Automatic Men’s Watch - £1,925
With a stylish, timeless black dial that we’re certain will win you over, this Longines HydroConquest 39mm Automatic Men’s Watch boasts classic elegance with its stainless steel bracelet and black ceramic bezel. Business-ready and reliable, this timepiece’s classic aesthetic comes equipped with an automatic movement, power reserve up to 72 hours and a water resistance of up to 300m. One of the best entry-level luxury watches, you can have the best of both worlds when it comes to style and performance with this watch.
Rotary Apex 100 42mm Chronograph Watch - £249
Championing modern versatility, this Rotary Apex 100 42mm Chronograph Watch is one that will make the perfect entry-level luxury watch if you’re looking for a timepiece with a sophisticated yet contemporary aesthetic. Love a watch with a hint of colour? We think the beautiful green dial complements the brushed and polished stainless steel bracelet perfectly. If you’re looking for an entry-level luxury watch inspired by innovation, this timepiece is one to add to your wish list.
Found the perfect watch for him? Pay £0 today and spread the cost with interest free credit.
TAG Heuer Formula 1 43mm Chronograph Quartz Watch - £2,200
For a timeless watch that will never go out of fashion, this TAG Heuer Formula 1 43mm Chronograph Quartz Watch makes a statement with its bold and instantly recognisable design. The ultimate choice for those seeking a luxury timepiece with a sporty edge, this watch is a firm favourite amongst the most stylish men, and features a black tachymeter scale bezel, luminescent markers and a Swiss quartz movement.
Want to know the difference between Quartz and Automatic movements? Find our more over on our Watch Buying Guide for expert knowledge.
Ladies entry-level luxury watches
Raymond Weil Toccata 28mm Stainless Steel and Yellow Gold PVD Diamond Ladies Watch
Providing elegance for any occasion, this Raymond Weil Toccata 28mm Stainless Steel and Yellow Gold PVD Diamond Ladies Watch is a stunning first luxury watch. For those who’d like to radiate with glowing gold tones, this watch is crafted in yellow gold PVD stainless steel and features a classic rectangular dial, making a glamorous modern statement. The diamond dot how markers are the perfect sparkling finishing touch to this expertly crafted Swiss watch, what more could you ask for?
Gucci G-Timeless 29mm Mother of Pearl Diamond Ladies Watch - £1,560
Gucci are renowned for their elegant, timeless watches. Epitomising the it-girl watch trend with its chic design, this Gucci G-Timeless 29mm Diamond Ladies Watch is the perfect choice if you’re looking for a watch that captures that quiet luxury aesthetic. The stainless steel case and dainty pink dial make this timepiece a first luxury watch that will never go out of style. Powered by a quartz movement, it also boasts utmost precision and accuracy.
Think she’ll love this luxury watch? Pay £0 today and spread the cost with interest free credit.
TAG Heuer Aquaracer Professional 200 Ladies Watch - £2,000
Boasting a luxurious mother-of-pearl dial, this TAG Heuer Aquaracer Professional 200 Mother of Pearl Quartz Ladies Watch is one that will make the perfect investment entry-level luxury watch. A perfect gift or self-gift for someone who loves a timepiece with classic elegance, the refined style is one we can’t help but fall in love with. With a water resistance of up to 200m and powered by a quartz movement, you’re covered with this watch’s uncompromising accuracy, durability and precision.
Like this watch? It comes with an extra WOW! When you spend between £2,000 - £4,999 on a luxury watch, you’ll receive a free £250 gift card. T&C’s apply.
Raymond Weil A.R.T 30mm Mother of Pearl Ladies Watch - £1,595
True to Raymond Weil values of elegance, tradition and performance, this Raymond Weil A.R.T 30mm Mother of Pearl Ladies Watch features a beautiful mother of pearl dial and lab grown diamond hour markers for a watch that is both contemporary and perfectly timeless. With a highly precise quartz movement, this watch revels in Swiss craftsmanship and stunning design.
Tissot PRX 35mm Ladies Watch - £335
An icon in the world of sports-chic watches, this Tissot PRX 35mm Ladies Watch is one that we know will look sleek anywhere, including beneath the waves. Complete with a statement pink dial, and a water resistance of up to 100m, this is the ultimate entry-level watch for lovers of vibrant colour, or those who’d appreciate a pretty watch gift to enhance their day-to-day style.
Looking to learn more about watches? Our Watch Buying Guide has everything you need to know, whilst our Best Swiss Watches Under £1,000 has more of our favourite selections.
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