Top 5 Watches Under £5000

When you increase your budget, the world of watch collecting opens up even further. After covering our top picks under £1000 and £2000, we now dive into the realm of timepieces under £5000, highlighting our top 5 watches under £5000. This higher price range brings a wealth of options, offering you access to more sophisticated designs, materials, and craftsmanship that a few extra thousand can unlock.

With so many choices, it's important to take your time, do your homework, and try on watches in person. Photographs don’t always capture the full essence of a timepiece. A visit to a boutique allows you to experience the weight, feel, and finish of a watch up close. But don’t rush—resist the urge to buy immediately. Instead, take a step back, reflect, and revisit a week later. This approach ensures that your investment is a thoughtful one, and the watch you choose is truly the right fit for you.

Often likened to the iconic Rolex Daytona, the Tudor Black Bay Chronograph (M79360N-0002) carves its own niche with an impressive blend of features and excellent value for money. It offers 200 meters of water resistance, a date window discreetly placed at 6 o’clock, screw-down pushers, and the signature faux-riveted bracelet. A pop of red on the seconds hand and depth rating adds a dynamic touch to its sleek dial.

At its core, the watch is powered by a Breitling B01-based movement, enhanced with subtle adjustments. The chronometer-certified movement delivers a robust 70-hour power reserve, ensuring reliability. Encased in a finely polished 41mm stainless steel case, it has a well-balanced feel on the wrist. Though it measures 14.4mm in thickness, the compact design and 49.9mm lug-to-lug length make it comfortable and surprisingly refined in its wrist presence.

One of the perks of this model? It's readily available. Unlike the more elusive Daytona, you can simply visit a boutique and leave with one the same day. Priced at £4,790, it offers a no-fuss experience and delivers on both style and functionality. It’s definitely worth a try for anyone in search of a high-quality chronograph without the headache of waiting lists.

You're likely familiar with the Bell & Ross aesthetic, particularly the "sqround" or rounded square GMT model with that striking blue dial (BR05G-PB-ST/SRB). This watch is a standout, combining elegance with a pop of vibrant colour in a design that’s instantly recognizable. Bell & Ross has a unique identity, and this piece is unmistakable, even from across the room.

The 41mm soft square case features a clean, no-nonsense dial, with the familiar three hands plus an additional GMT hand. The Sky Blue sunray dial truly shines under natural light, with its crisp white numerals, indices, and hands providing a perfect contrast.

The satin-finished case exudes sophistication, while the polished edges of the stepped bezel enhance its allure. The signature screws in each corner give the case a balanced, harmonious look. On the back, the exhibition case reveals a 360-degree skeletonized rotor, offering a glimpse of the movement at work. Completing the package, the fully integrated rubber strap is perfectly matched in colour. And at £4,500, this timepiece sits comfortably within budget.

I've always appreciated Panerai, though for a long time I hadn't tried on many of their models. This year, however, that changed as I explored various pieces, each offering its own unique feel. Among them, the 45mm Radiomir Officine (PAM01383) stood out. It features a striking blue sunburst dial paired with cream Arabic numerals—a combination that works beautifully.

The polished 45mm cushion case brings a contemporary edge to Panerai's timeless design. Its signature sandwich dial, with luminous numerals and markers, ensures exceptional legibility, while the blue alligator leather strap adds a touch of luxury.

At the heart of this watch is the dependable P.6000 calibre, providing a three-day power reserve. The Radiomir Officine exemplifies Panerai's dedication to craftsmanship and innovation, making it a standout piece at £4,300. Its wire lugs and onion-shaped crown harken back to the brand’s early dive watches, while the bold colour scheme and meticulous finish make it feel distinctly modern. This blend of heritage and contemporary style makes it a must-have for both avid collectors and those just starting their journey into fine watches.

What sets this model apart is Cartier's "high-autonomy" quartz movement, offering up to six years of battery life—making it an ideal low-maintenance timepiece for those who don’t want to worry about winding or resetting.

At £4,000.00, it's considerably more affordable than the automatic Santos model. While some purists might turn their noses up at the idea of a quartz movement, this watch is perfect for those who value simplicity and style over mechanical complexity. Plus, it comes in three sizes—small, large (this one), and XL—so there’s a fit for everyone.

Nomos continues to impress with their distinctive approach to watchmaking, consistently striking the right balance between form and function. The Club Sport (Ref. 761) is a prime example of this, serving as a strong contender for the perfect sports watch. Its sleek 39.5mm case is impeccably proportioned, with a polished, rounded bezel that adds an element of sophistication.

The dial is a true standout, featuring a warm ember sunburst finish with a recessed seconds sub-dial adorned with radial grooves. Arabic numerals mark the even hours, while stick indices fill the odd ones, creating a harmonious and balanced aesthetic. Rhodium-plated hands and hour markers, coated in crisp white Super LumiNova, ensure excellent readability and a sharp, clean look.

The watch comes on a multi-link bracelet that articulates smoothly and features quick-release spring bars for easy strap changes. Through the exhibition case back, you can admire the DUW 3001 automatic movement, which provides a 43-hour power reserve. With 200m of water resistance and a price tag of £2,820.00, the Club Sport delivers incredible value, combining durability, style, and performance in a single, well-crafted timepiece.