A small history of watches and a few tips for buying the perfect watch. Code 11.59 is a completely new family of watches from the storied Swiss brand, best known for its Royal Oak, an icon of modern watchmaking with its distinctive angular case, exposed screws and integrated bracelet. AP is calling Code 11.59 “the biggest launch since 1972”, the year the Royal Oak arrived: the plan was to make a splash with something contemporary and all-new that nods to its innovative past. Five years in the making and available in 13 references across six models with three new calibres, all Code 11.59 watches were launched simultaneously, a feat in itself. The self-winding chronograph version features a black lacquered dial, an 18k pink gold case and a double-curved sapphire crystal, something that plays with depth perception, a new design element for Code 11.59 that may yet become as iconic as the Royal Oak’s octagonal bezel.

Let’s move on to the under 1000 USD category. Cases made from solid titanium — loved for its lightweight, durable and hypoallergenic properties — are not such a common site on sub-$150 watches, which is what makes the young U.S. watch brand Bertucci an enticing option. Similarly enticing is the classic field watch dial design, the Japanese quartz movement inside, and a 100-meter depth rating. You’d be forgiven for thinking Citizen’s entire lineup is made up of its quartz Eco-Drive watches, but the brand does, in fact, make some mechanicals. The NH8350, for instance, packs a Miyota 8200 automatic movement into a clean-cut stainless steel case and comes adorned with a shimmering, sunray blue dial. You’d be hard-pressed to find a better mechanical dress watch for less.

Certina, founded in Grenchen, Switzerland in 1888, has always been a rather low-key brand. You may not know, but they were innovators in shock protection and water resistance, which is nearly weapons-grade on this watch. The rotating ceramic diving bezel on this 41mm beauty, usually a hallmark of much more expensive pieces, is scratch resistant and nearly indestructible, and the handsome strap features a deployment clasp. Shinola watches, assembled in Detroit, have sparked a renaissance in the Motor City and for American watch brands in general. One of their latest editions of their most popular design, the Runwell, is a subtle version of what can be a busy style. This is destined to become a classic design that will no doubt age well with it’s stainless steel case and durable leather strap. With a clean ivory-colored face and luminous hands, wearing this watch makes a statement that you value good design, but don’t need an overly expensive timepiece to speak for you.

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