Top 5 Luxury Watches Under 0K from 2020

Quick Questions

Which luxury watches under $100,000 released in 2020 are worth considering?
What makes the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Ice Blue Chronograph a standout?
How does the Rolex Vertical Voyager with Oysterflex compare to other Rolex models?
Is the Patek Philippe Calatrava 6007A a good investment piece?
Are limited edition watches from Jaeger-LeCoultre and Blancpain overhyped?

Last week, we highlighted our top picks in various price brackets, but due to the Christmas holiday, we paused our 2020 roundup. Today, we finally deliver the five most compelling luxury watches under $100,000 from the past year—each offering exceptional craftsmanship, distinctive design, and strong collectibility.

Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Selfwinding Chronograph (Ice Blue Dial)

AP unveiled many impressive pieces in 2020, but the Royal Oak collection stole the spotlight. The Ice Blue Plate Automatic Chronograph, limited to just 100 boutique-exclusive pieces, is a showstopper. Its 38mm 18k white gold case houses a stunning ice blue dial with the iconic Grande Tapisserie pattern, complemented by a blue subdial and white gold luminous markers. Powered by the Calibre 2385, this self-winding movement offers a 40-hour power reserve and features an 18k yellow gold oscillating weight. Priced at $470,000, it's a unisex marvel that blends iconic design with a fresh, modern colorway.

Rolex Vertical Voyager with Oysterflex Bracelet

Rolex surprised enthusiasts with the colored-dial Oyster Perpetual models, but the introduction of the Oysterflex bracelet on the Vertical Voyager (or Yacht-Master) is equally noteworthy. This marks the first time the high-performance black rubber strap has been used on a Classic Series watch. The 42mm Oyster case features a glossy black sunburst dial, 18k gold hands and markers, and a sleek profile. Equipped with the advanced Calibre 9001, it offers a 72-hour power reserve. Available in rose and yellow gold, the gold-and-black version exudes dominance. The official price is $31,200.

Patek Philippe Calatrava Ref. 6007A-001 Limited Edition

As Patek Philippe's first release of 2020, the Calatrava 6007A exceeded expectations. This steel-cased three-hand watch is youthful and stylish, with a 40mm case and a gray-blue dial featuring applied Arabic numerals and a date window at 3 o'clock. The dial's center showcases a unique carbon texture pattern, matched with a calfskin strap. Inside, the Calibre 324SC automatic movement boasts a 21k gold rotor, while the sapphire caseback is engraved with the Calatrava cross and “New Manufacture 2019,” marking a new chapter for the brand.

Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Dual Time Fagliano Limited Edition

Jaeger-LeCoultre's Reverso is a personal favorite, and the new Dual Time model (ref. 398256J) is a visual masterpiece. It features a burgundy red dial and rose gold case, with a silver dial on the reverse decorated with a Parisian clous de Paris pattern. The watch comes with a hand-crafted strap by Casa Fagliano, inspired by polo boots and combining Cordovan leather with canvas. Limited to 190 pieces, it's priced at $18,400—a tribute to the brand's rich heritage.

Blancpain Villeret Ultra-Thin with Green Dial (Boutique Exclusive)

Blancpain's 2020 lineup was full of surprises, but the Villeret Ultra-Thin Green Dial stands out. This boutique-exclusive pairs an elegant green sunburst dial with a gold case, marking the first time this combination has been used in the Villeret collection. The 40mm double-stepped case exudes vintage luxury, while the Calibre 1151 provides a 4-day power reserve. The gold oscillating weight features a twisted line pattern, and the brown alligator strap completes the look. Priced at $132,000, it's a sophisticated choice for collectors.