5 Iconic Watches for Christmas
What if you treated yourself to a “must-have” automatic watch—a classic, an essential piece for any self-respecting watch collection—all for under €3,000?
Beyond the agonising choice among hundreds of models, the question of budget remains paramount. Classic automatic watches come at a certain cost—especially those fitted with an in-house movement, produced in a limited series, or made from precious materials.
The solution may well lie in the pre-owned market. Of course, it’s perfectly reasonable to feel some hesitation about buying second-hand (authenticity, fear of scams, the condition of the movement, case or bracelet), despite the appeal of vintage. Just watch a tribe of hipsters in lumberjack shirts drool over a rotary phone displayed in a vintage shop window and you’ll see that vintage is a safe haven. What’s more, it’s worth knowing that, like wine, older models can be sound investments and sometimes carry more value than brand-new pieces.
Ideally, then, you should walk into a watch retailer offering pre-owned watches—someone who can provide the necessary guarantees.
That’s where Cresus comes in: a specialist in pre-owned watches and jewellery for 20 years, with brick-and-mortar boutiques in Lyon, Paris, Cannes, Aix-en-Provence, Luxembourg and… online at www.cresus.fr.
So here is my small selection of interesting watches to buy for under €3,000 at Cresus.
Tudor Black Bay
The Tudor Black Bay is a little gem that was recently honoured at the Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève in the Revival category.
Rolex’s little sister brand, Tudor has enjoyed a meteoric momentum in recent years—fuelled by the strength of the Rolex Group, but also by the quality of its products. The Tudor Black Bay is a handsome dive watch born in 1954.
To complete the look, I’d recommend buying it on the leather strap.
Price: €2,280 instead of €2,680
Tag Heuer Carrera Chronograph McLaren Mercedes
Released in 2,500 pieces to mark Lewis Hamilton’s 2008 World Championship title, this chronograph could make an excellent first Tag—and is interesting from a collector’s standpoint thanks to its limited edition status.
Price: €2,700
Frédérique Constant Healey Chronograph
Let’s be clear: Frédérique Constant is making very strong progress. This model, issued in 1,888 pieces, is reportedly fitted with an in-house calibre. Its retro charm is hard to resist, with its handsome dial and alligator strap. And as for the price, it’s extremely attractive!
Price: €1,490
Chopard Mille Miglia Chronograph
A flagship model for Chopard, the Mille Miglia Chronograph pays tribute to the most beautiful race in the world. The only fly in the ointment: the version for sale does not come with the famous original Dunlop tyre-style strap.
Price: €2,400
Bell & Ross BR03-94 Chronograph
With Bell & Ross, it’s a case of strict love-it-or-hate-it. If you like this very distinctive design, then the BR03 Chronograph is made for you. This 2007 aviation watch features a 42mm case—an ideal size for wearing this shape comfortably on the wrist.
Price: €2,900 instead of €4,300
