To me, one of the most interesting developments in recent years is the development of the entry-level offer. It has gone from old, dusty, and neglected to fresh, vibrant, and innovative. And we could see many examples of this among the more than 400 new releases that were presented during Geneva Watch Week. Furthermore, this development is present both among larger brands and little indies.
So, what am I talking about? Well, there is no scientific number as to what counts as entry-level. When I talk about it, I mean watches that are below 3,000 CHF in retail. Here are my current favorites: Let’s start with BA111OD Chapter 7 Skeleton (895 CHF). After seven years found Thomas Baillod has proven that you can offer unseen horological value while building up more and more in-house capacities. From Italy, check out the fashion and design world darling Unimatic (circa 600–2000), who uses its sturdy, often military-inspired models as a canvas for interesting collaborations.
When it comes to classic, vintage-inspired Frederique Constant Moneta Handwinding (1’995 CHF), has more than you could ask for at this price level: Brown-beige fumé dial, hand-wound La Joux-Perret movement, knurled inner bezel. I think we will see this time only (no date) on the wrists of many purists in the near future. With the Gallet Flying Officer Automatic (2’500 CHF) you also get a second time zone via the city ring – and an entry point into a rugged outdoor universe affiliated with Breitling. M.A.D. Editions, the sister brand if indie pillar MB&F introduced the M.A.D 3 Vincent Calabrese (2’900 CHF), with a reworked La Joux-Perret movement offering jumping hour with trailing minutes and an arrow-shaped central second hand. As these editions are wildly popular, the only way to get any M.A.D. Edition is to partake in a raffle! With the 41-millimeter ProPilot Bronze (2’250 CHF) Oris gives a fresh and contemporary update to its pilot watches. Inside ticks a Sellita-based caliber, and with a water resistance of 100 meters, this is truly a potential companion for any exploration in the city or in the nature. Last but not least, Dennison continues its eye-catching creativity with materials oftentimes connected with a much higher price bracket. With the Mini Opal Diamonds (2’650) the name says it all about this vivid mosaic-y and blingy creation!
What I like about this segment is that it is increasingly popular with both beginners and seasoned collectors. So, wherever you are on your watch journey; if you want to enrich your precious collection with something easier for daily wear, or if you want to start your collection without breaking the bank, check it out. Not only will your wallet love you – these are all great timepieces that will work in any room.
