Every watch collection has to start somewhere, and often that initial watch purchase is on a somewhat restricted budget. Here’s an introduction to entry-level mechanical watches from 10 brands. To narrow the field down, we only considered men?s watches with a case diameter of 37 mm or greater.
ROLEX OYSTER PERPETUAL 39 ($5,700)
Rolex Oyster Perpetual 39
In 2015, the world?s best-known watch brand presented a new basic model, which remains its lowest-priced men?s watch. In return for $5,700, the buyer gets Rolex?s typical advantages: high-quality craftsmanship, a modern manufacture caliber, a case made of saltwater-resistant 904L stainless steel ? and very little danger that this watch will depreciate in value. The 39-mm case contains self-winding chronometer-certified Caliber 3132. The Oyster Perpetual 39 is available with either a gray or a blue dial. For our test of the watch, click here. BREITLING COLT AUTOMATIC $3,025
Breitling Colt Automatic
Breitling?s least costly mechanical watch has also earned a chronometer certificate. A buyer who parts with $3,025 not only gets certified precision but also enjoys numerous features that are helpful for divers ? a unidirectionally rotating bezel with a luminous dot; a 44-mm stainless-steel case that remains water resistant to 200 meters and includes a screw-down crown; and a black, blue or silver-colored dial with bright, luminous displays. Read our review of the Colt Automatic here.
OMEGA DE VILLE PRESTIGE CO-AXIAL ($3,600)...