18 Best Swiss Watch Brands: Top of the Line Quality
When it comes to best Swiss watch brands, the options are endless. There are so many to choose from that each one is unique for its own reason.
However, this list of 18 best Swiss watch brands is a great place to start your search for the best timepiece on the market. Whether you’re looking for a luxury brand or something more affordable and casual, these Swiss watchmakers have something that will fit your needs perfectly!
Audemars Piguet
Year Founded: 1875
Best Known For: The Royal Oak, aka the one every watch-loving celeb on Instagram can’t stop flexing.
Audemars Piguet is a luxury watch company that was established in 1875. This is one of the top brands for watches and they are known worldwide as a prestigious name. They have been manufacturing some of the finest watches since their inception.
They have also been involved in many philanthropic causes over the years, including donating to research for diabetes, autism, epilepsy and more. Audemars Piguet has an exclusive line called Royal Oak Offshore which features larger cases at 44mm with a scratch resistant ceramic bezel on steel bracelet or rubber strap with screw-down crowns and caseback screws to protect from water intrusion if submerged underwater up to 100 meters deep (330 feet).
Audemars Piguet watches are designed for all types of people. Whether you’re looking for a sporty quartz model or a classic mechanical piece. They offer many different styles of men’s and women’s watches at various price points which make them accessible to everyone who wants to invest in quality craftsmanship.
Bell & Ross
Year Founded: 1992
Best Known For: Square-case watches that look like they were pried out of a jet cockpit.
Bell & Ross, a Swiss watchmaker founded in 1992 by two aviators, is one of the most exclusive and best Swiss watch brands on the market. Despite being relatively new to the industry, they have quickly been gaining traction for their high-end timepieces that are known for their precision and attention to detail. This article will discuss some of Bell & Ross’s latest releases — including both men’s and women’s models — as well as what makes these watches so desirable among collectors.
They create luxury timepieces that are made of the finest materials and have an impeccable quality. Bell & Ross’ line ranges from watches with simple, clean faces to those with complex dials, such as their Instrument Collection or Emergency Collection. While these collections can be expensive, they’re some of the best looking watches you’ll find on the market today.
Their designs range from vintage styles to modern pieces as well as some that are made for the military. Bell & Ross has had an impact on many aspects of society including fashion, artistry and even music. Their influence spans decades and is still felt today in many industries including their own brand!
Breitling
Year Founded: 1884
Best Known For: Pilot’s watches worn by actual pilots.
Breitling watches are a global icon of luxury, performance and prestige. The Breitling company was founded in 1884 by Leon Breitling in Saint-Imier, Switzerland. Originally focused on the production and sale of premium pocket watches for men and women, today it is known as one of the world’s most prestigious watch brands.
Breitlings are designed to be both beautiful and functional instruments for everyday life at home or abroad. They have been worn by astronauts like Scott Carpenter during NASA’s Mercury missions; pilots such as Chuck Yeager (the first man to break the sound barrier); legendary explorers such as Sir Edmund Hillary (first person to climb Mount Everest) or Jacques Cousteau (pioneer underwater explorer).
They offer a wide variety of styles and models, each with their own unique design. Breitling is more than just a watch company — they are pioneers in the aviation industry who have set records with their timepieces in flight. Breitling is also known for its high-quality chronographs that are used by professional pilots and astronauts alike to calculate speed or altitude based on elapsed time between two points.
Cartier
Year Founded: 1847
Best Known For: Timelessly elegant and unapologetically old-school watches worn by every fashionable celebrity ever.
Cartier has been a part of the life and history of many notable people, from Marilyn Monroe to Princess Diana. The company was founded in 1847 by Louis-François Cartier and is now managed by his grandson. Their jewelry pieces are known for their unique designs and unmatched craftsmanship.
As a leading luxury watchmaker, Cartier has been in the business for over 175 years. And became as one of best Swiss watch brands now. They have always been known to create watches that are luxurious and high-quality. Their designs often incorporate the finest materials such as gold and diamonds.
One of their most popular collections is the Santos 100 line which features mechanical movements with automatic winding, date display, power reserve indicator, and a function for alarm or chronograph. The attention to detail on these watches is impeccable — from the sapphire crystal glass to the delicate leather strap. These beautiful timepieces will never go out of style!
Hublot
Year Founded: 1980
Best Known For: Watches that say, “My other car is a Cigarette boat.”
Hublot is a luxury Swiss watch company that was founded in 1980. And known as one of best Swiss watch brands now. The name Hublot comes from the combination of the French word “huit” which means eight, and “boule,” meaning ball. This is because their brand logo has eight balls at the center of it.
The company’s motto is “There are some things you can’t put a price on” and they produce timeless watches that will last generations. They have collaborated with many famous people including Jackie Chan, Diego Maradona, Pele, Michael Jordan, Muhammad Ali and more!
They have since created many different styles of watches and have been the official timekeeper for a number of international events including the Olympics. There is no doubt that Hublot watches are expensive but they do come with some perks such as recyclable materials and water resistance up to 10 ATM.
IWC
Year Founded: 1868
Best Known For: WWII pilot’s watches you can wear with a suit.
IWC is a Swiss luxury watchmaker that was founded in 1868 by Florentine Ariosto Jones and his brother-in-law, American John Schaffner. IWC stands for International Watch Company. The company’s headquarters are located in Schaffhausen, Switzerland. In the late 1800s to early 1900s, IWC manufactured pocket watches as well as wristwatches.
From 1920 onward, they only made wristwatches and stopped manufacturing pocket watches altogether from 1942 on due to World War II shortages of raw materials. However they resumed production after the war ended but never fully recovered their previous market share.
Today, IWC timepiece has been producing some of the world’s most sought-after timepieces for over 150 years. They have been supplying watches for various countries and governments since their start date, with the United States most recently acquiring a contract to provide them with four of their watches for use by military officers.
Jaeger-LeCoultre
Year Founded: 1833
Best Known For: Highly sophisticated sports watches; unpronounceable name.
As a watch brand that is over 180 years old, Jaeger-LeCoultre has maintained its reputation as the oldest Swiss watchmaker. They’ve been in existence since 1833 and have always been known for their quality craftsmanship and dedication to excellence.
The company’s founder Antoine LeCoultre was an innovator who invented the world’s most precise measuring instrument of his time -the micrometer. Ever since, they’ve been devoted to designing watches with precision complications which are now considered some of the best mechanical watches in the world.
The company has been through many changes and survived wars, depressions, and financial crises to become a leading producer of Swiss watches. It is famous for its fine craftsmanship and offers some of the best timepieces available today.
Longines
Year Founded: 1832
Best Known For: Spot-on vintage reproductions of archival designs.
A brand that is often found on the arms of celebrities, Longines watches are not only known for their quality timepieces. Established in 1832, Longines has been a family-owned company since day one and continues to provide customers with high-quality Swiss made wristwatches.
The brand’s notoriety stems from its dedication to excellence in watchmaking and its increased production of well-known models such as the Conquest VHP or the Heritage Military collection. Their watches have been worn by many world leaders, including General Charles de Gaulle of France, Queen Elizabeth II of England, and US President Harry S Truman.
The company has seen its fair share of successes over the years with awards from various international competitions such as the International Watchmaking Competition in Geneva (1954) or at Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève (2009). Their goal is to provide consumers with high-quality products that will last for generations.
Omega
Year Founded: 1894
Best Known For: Being the first watch on the moon.
The Omega is one of the most prestigious watches in the world and has been for more than a century. The company was founded in 1894. And it remains to this day a family-owned business that crafts their timepieces with care and precision. These luxury watches are designed to last for generations. They’re crafted from high-quality materials like gold, steel, titanium or platinum.
You’ll also find diamonds on many of them as well as other gemstones such as sapphires and rubies which will only increase its value over time. At Omega Watches Direct we offer these beautiful timepieces at an affordable price. So you can have access to all the features they offer without breaking your budget!
Different watches are made for different purposes. Some are used for telling time, some to help with diving and swimming, others for the military and law enforcement. Omega has a long history of making watches that are water resistant up to 300 meters deep! Which makes them perfect for any activity including scuba diving or snorkeling. Omega’s most popular series is the Seamaster line which is known as one of the best dive watches on the market today.
Panerai
Year Founded: 1860
Best Known For: Big, beefy dive watches beloved by Sly Stallone, Dwayne Johnson and other guys with arms like tree trunks.
Panerai is a luxury watchmaker founded in Florence, Italy by Giovanni Panerai. The company has been producing high-quality timepieces since its founding in 1860. And became as one of best Swiss watch brands now. They are renowned for their beautifully designed watches which come with many different functions. Not only do they make excellent watches but Panerai also produces eyewear and leather goods to complement the watch collections.
The brand’s history traces back to 1860 when founder Giovanni Panerai began designing and creating precision tools that were used in manufacturing industries at the time. He started applying his knowledge of metallurgy and engineering to create innovative solutions to various problems faced by these industries. Such as accuracy issues caused by water seeping into equipment calibrating mechanisms or improving safety standards among workers who used dangerous machinery.
They are most well known for their Luminor and Radiomir lines of watches. The company has been family owned since its inception and is still operated by the fourth generation of the Panerai family. If you’re looking for a watch that will last you for life then this is the perfect choice!
Patek Philippe
Year Founded: 1839
Best Known For: Extremely expensive, buttoned-down watches coveted by hedge fund managers, oligarchs, and John Mayer.
A storied watch company that dates back to 1839, the Patek Philippe brand has been a household name for over 180 years. The company is one of the few in the world who can boast their own production facilities. And holds patents on many of its most iconic timepieces.
The company has been family-owned for five generations and still operates out of Geneva where it’s headquarters are located. They have always strived to create pieces that were luxurious but also technologically advanced as they wanted to be on the forefront of innovation in watchmaking from day one. To this day, they continue to make elegant timepieces with refined details like diamond dials or finely crafted leather straps that will last for generations to come.
Known for its precision engineering and attention to detail, Patek Philippe watches are prized among collectors around the globe. With such a rich history behind them, it’s no wonder why this Swiss-based company continues to be so successful today.
Piaget
Year Founded: 1874
Best Known For: Impossibly thin mechanical movements.
Piaget watches are a hot commodity for those that want to show off their good taste in watch brands. They have been around since the 1800s. And should be considered one of the top luxury Swiss watch brands, despite being much more affordable than other brands. The company is known for its innovation and creativity with timepieces, which it has applied to all of its products over the years.
Piaget watches are prime examples of this as they offer different styles from traditional dress watches to sport-inspired pieces that can withstand any activity you might do while wearing them. This brand is also popular because it collaborates with several other companies such as Porsche Design Group, La Redoute, Cartier Paris Fashion House, and even Rock & Republic clothing line.
Piaget watches are the epitome of luxury. They represent a life filled with style and class. Their designs have been inspired by some of the world’s most iconic cities, from Paris to New York City to Tokyo. And their craftsmanship is unparalleled in its quality. The true Piaget watch experience begins when you first see one in person; they’re truly something special and will last for generations if properly cared for.
Richard Mille
Year Founded: 1999
Best Known For: Marrying 19th century watchmaking with 21st century industrial design.
Richard Mille is a luxury watch company that was founded in 1999 by Richard Mille. And became as one of best Swiss watch brands now. The watches are designed to be light weight, and to resist the effects of gravity on timekeeping. They have created two new materials for their watchmaking industry: Carbon TPT™ (Titanium-Carbon) and Silicium.
These new materials are used for the case, bezel, crowns or pushers, buckles as well as some parts of the dials which all contribute to making these watches so light weight! Some features you might not even notice include the use of Sapphire glass instead of crystal which makes it much more scratch resistant than other standard types of glass found in most watches today. A major part about being light weight is that the best Swiss watch companies are able to use less material and create a more efficient product.
The company is best known for its high-end, expensive watches that are designed with precision and built to last. The micro-mechanics of the watch requires a lot of work from specialized craftsmen in order to produce such a durable yet elegant timepiece.
Rolex
Year Founded: 1905
Best Known For: Understated design, uncompromising attention to detail and insane waiting lists at retail.
Rolex is a well-known brand that produces luxury watches and jewelry. The company was founded in 1905 by Hans Wilsdorf, a German inventor, entrepreneur, and visionary. Rolex has been known to have a timeless quality that transcends time periods and cultures.
Rolex is known for its signature crown emblem which has been an iconic symbol since it’s debut. In addition to its luxurious appearance, Rolex watches are also prized for their precision and accuracy that can be seen through its high quality movements. These two key features have led many people to collect these timepieces as status symbols or because they appreciate their beauty and craftsmanship.
In the past, Rolex only created timepieces but now they also make bracelets, necklaces and earrings too! There are many different styles to choose from including sporty or elegant pieces. If you’re looking for an investment piece that exudes quality then Rolex may be right up your alley!
TAG Heuer
Year Founded: 1860
Best Known For: The favorite watch of golden-era motorsports drivers and Walter White on Breaking Bad.
TAG Heuer has been around for over 160 years, but it is still relevant in today’s world. TAG Heuer was founded in 1860 by Edouard Heuer and his brothers-in-law. In 1985, the group became a part of SMH (Swatch Group).
The company has produced over 200 different models with 18 different movements over the years. TAG stands for Temps Absolu Geant or “absolute time.” It’s slogan is “Don’t Break Time” because they strive to provide watches that are accurate and durable enough to last long enough. So that you don’t have to ever worry about replacing them. The company also produces eyewear such as sunglasses and sports goggles, which were first introduced in 1980.
As the company grew and expanded to other locations like La Chaux-de-Fonds and Biel/Bienne, TAG Heuer has maintained its place as one of the most popular brands among celebrities and sports figures. The brand’s design philosophy is “to create watches that are timeless classics for both men and women with an emphasis on high quality materials”.
Tissot
Year Founded: 1853
Best Known For: Swiss quality, entry-level prices.
Tissot is a Swiss watch manufacturer that was founded in 1853. The company’s most iconic model is the T-Touch, which has a touch screen that allows for features like altimeter and compass readings. As well as more traditional functions such as time and date display. Other popular models include the PRC 200, Ladies Touch Lady Solar Quartz Analog Watch with White Dial Analogue Display (200) , Women’s Classic Collection — Silver Dial Brown Leather Strap womens watch (020104/1) .
Tissot watches are a quality timepiece that has been around for over 160 years. They have an international reputation for being the best in watch technology and craftsmanship. And they are well-known for their beautiful designs. Tissots is a Swiss company with headquarters in Biel, Switzerland.
They have a wide range of watches for men and women, as well as kids. Tissots are known for their craftsmanship, versatility, and attention to detail. When you purchase a Tissot, you know it’s quality from the get go!
Vacheron Constantin
Year Founded: 1755
Best Known For: Being the world’s oldest watchmaker.
Vacheron Constantin is an esteemed maker of luxury watches. They are one of the oldest watch manufacturers in the world, and they have been producing timepieces for over 260 years. Founded by Jean-Marc Vacheron and John Roger David in 1755, it is now part of the Richemont Group that owns brands like Cartier, Montblanc, IWC Schaffhausen and Panerai among others.
The company has a long history with royalty from all over Europe as well as Asia. It also has an impressive list of clients including Pope Pius IX and Queen Victoria to name a few. The company is best known for developing the world’s thinnest self-winding tourbillon movement in 1999. And that can be seen through a sapphire crystal caseback on some models such as their iconic Patrimony Traditionnelle line which has been worn by royalty since 1972 when Queen Elizabeth II commissioned one to celebrate her Silver Jubilee.
From their beginnings in Geneva, Switzerland to their current home in Panama City, Vacheron Constantin continues to produce some of the most sought-after watches on earth today.
Zenith
Year Founded: 1865
Best Known For: High-accuracy chronographs for serious watch nerds.
Zenith is a leading Swiss-made luxury watch brand. The company was founded in 1865 and has been producing high quality, reliable timepieces for over 150 years. Zenith has won many awards for its excellence in design and craftsmanship including the Swiss Made Excellence Award and the Geneva Seal of Quality.
These watches are the perfect accessory for any occasion. They have a wide variety of styles and colors, so you can find something that matches your personal style. Some features to consider when looking for the right Zenith watch include: materials used, movement type, water resistance rating, lume (light) feature and battery life.
Zenith has an array of models with quartz movement types from Japanese Miyota to Swiss Ronda. You also have the option to choose between analog or digital display formats on many models. As well as various dial colors such as blue or black. With over 30 different series in total there is sure to be a wristwatch that will suit all tastes!
Conclusion
We hope you’ve enjoyed our list of 18 best Swiss watch brands and the information we provided about their history, company culture, and products. If you want the best of the best, then look no further than any one of these 18 brands! Every single one is a guarantee to be just as impressive as the next. What are your thoughts on this list? Which brand would you like to purchase from? Leave your comment below at SenseOrient.
