2024’s Top Watches Unveiled: Fratello’s Picks and Your Dream Timepieces

Recently, the renowned watch magazine Fratello revealed its “Best Watches of 2024” list. This selection, which spans everything from timeless classics to groundbreaking innovations, has sparked lively discussions among watch enthusiasts!

Whether you're new to the world of horology or already have a favorite brand in mind, this list may just surprise you. Which watches stood out for their design, craftsmanship, or buzzworthiness? Is your dream timepiece among them? Let’s uncover these “winners of the year” and explore what made them capture the attention of both picky reviewers and passionate watch enthusiasts!

1. Cartier Tortue Monopoussoir

Why It’s Recommended:

The Cartier Tortue series is famous for its unique tonneau-shaped case and elegant design. The Monopoussoir continues this legacy, showcasing the pinnacle of high-end watchmaking. Its proportions are perfect, featuring a beautifully executed single-pusher chronograph movement, with meticulous attention to detail. The signature Cartier dial, with bold black numerals, adds to its distinctiveness.

Highlights:

• Case Material: Gold, exuding luxury.
• Movement: High-end single-pusher chronograph, delivering unmatched precision.
• Limited Edition: Only 200 pieces worldwide.

Price: €46,000

Why It Stands Out:

Cartier combines artistry and technical prowess. For collectors, the rarity of this limited edition makes it even more desirable.

2. Echo/Neutra Rivanera

Why It’s Recommended:

Echo/Neutra is an emerging brand that deserves attention. The Rivanera reinterprets early 20th-century design with a modern twist. The dark matte titanium case and streamlined aesthetic give it an industrial appeal.

Highlights:

• Material: Matte titanium case, lightweight and durable.
• Movement: ETA/Peseux 7001 manual-winding movement with an exhibition case back showcasing the movement's details.
• Comfort: Ergonomic design for a perfect fit on the wrist.
• Price: €1,490, offering exceptional value.

Why It Stands Out:

Though not a major luxury brand, Rivanera impresses with its precise craftsmanship, vintage-meets-modern design, and surprisingly affordable price. For those exploring new brands, it's an exceptional choice.

3. Jaeger-LeCoultre Duometre Chronograph Moon

Why It’s Recommended:

Jaeger-LeCoultre’s Duometre series is known for its dual-power system. This model excels in chronograph functionality while blending beauty with utility.

Highlights:

• Dual-Power System: Separate mechanisms for timekeeping and chronograph functions, ensuring no interference in accuracy.
• Design: Domed sapphire crystal seamlessly integrates with the case, resembling a finely polished pebble.
• Movement: The movement is a finely crafted masterpiece, showcasing Jaeger-LeCoultre’s horological artistry.
• Price: €79,000

Why It Stands Out:

The Duometre is a micro-mechanical masterpiece that stands out for its technical complexity and flawless execution, appealing to discerning collectors.

4. Rado Diastar Anatom 40th Anniversary Edition

Why It’s Recommended:

Rado Diastar has long been known for its non-circular ceramic case design. This 40th-anniversary edition combines both classic and modern elements, paying tribute to the brand’s legacy.

Highlights:

• Material: Full-black ceramic case, scratch-resistant and lightweight.
• Movement: ETA 2892 automatic movement, reliable and stable.
• Design: Rectangular case paired with black tones for a bold and distinctive look.
• Price: Around €3,000

Why It Stands Out:

This watch fuses retro and modern design elements, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a unique, yet timeless timepiece.

5. Zenith Defy Skyline Skeleton

Why It’s Recommended:

The Zenith Defy Skyline Skeleton is a perfect blend of modern technology and horological art. Its skeletonized dial and white ceramic material make it an ideal summer watch.

Highlights:

• Material: White ceramic, lightweight and durable.
• Design: A skeletonized dial reveals the inner workings of the movement, paired with a minimalist aesthetic.
• Practicality: Equipped with a rubber strap, making it comfortable and suitable for everyday wear.
• Price: Around €9,800

Why It Stands Out:

Its simple design combined with a high-tech look makes it one of the most popular choices in 2024, perfect for those who want a modern, functional watch.

6. Audemars Piguet [RE]Master02

Why It’s Recommended:

Audemars Piguet’s [RE]Master02 is a heartfelt tribute to the brand’s history and a nod to modern design trends. Its bold design and vintage elements have attracted much attention.

Highlights:

• Design: Sand-gold case paired with a segment-brushed dial, showcasing vintage brutalist style.
• Material: High-quality precious metals, adding an aura of elegance.
• Limited Edition: Extremely rare, making it a prized collector's item.
• Price: CHF 41,100

Why It Stands Out:

The [RE]Master02 perfectly blends mid-20th-century watchmaking style with modern craftsmanship, making it an exceptional choice for those who appreciate bold, history-laden designs.

Debates and Opinions Among Watch Enthusiasts

The release of this list has sparked heated discussions among watch enthusiasts. Their diverse opinions reflect their individual perspectives on the 2024 watch market.

Here’s a quick look at some of the opinions:

Cartier:
Many praised Cartier’s design, especially the Tortue Monopoussoir and the classic rectangular case of the Cartier Tortue. These designs were considered elegant and unique, with some even naming them their “favorite watches of the year.”
Trend Analysis: Some commentators noted the increasing popularity of rectangular designs, suggesting this could be a major trend in the watch industry.

Echo/Neutra:
Despite its fresh design, some pointed out that the Rivanera is not an “original” design. However, many were drawn to its rectangular shape and sporty look, making it a brand to watch in 2024.

Audemars Piguet (AP):
There was both praise and criticism for the AP ReMaster02. Some called it a “fascinating experiment,” while others compared its design to the Tesla Cybertruck, with some even deeming it “awful.” Overall, the watch received a mixed reception, but its uniqueness garnered much attention.

Rado and Zenith:
Rado’s revival design was met with moderate praise but was deemed lacking in innovation. Zenith’s new releases were not widely regarded as groundbreaking, especially as the brand failed to innovate upon its iconic El Primero series.

Other High-End Brands:
Brands like Czapek x Fratello and LUC 16/1860 Tourbillon received high praise, showing that there’s still a strong appetite for luxury and complex timepieces. Grand Seiko’s classic releases also attracted collectors who appreciate traditional yet modern designs.

Overall, watch enthusiasts have varying views on trends, historical value, and brand legacy, which creates a diverse range of preferences within the market.

Final Thoughts

This list represents just one perspective from Fratello. With so many exceptional releases in 2024, everyone has their own personal list of favorites. If you’ve been captivated by that one special watch you’ve yet to own, feel free to visit EWwatches. We’re confident that we’ll have that dream timepiece you’ve been searching for but couldn’t find anywhere else!