What Is Swiss Made? A Guide to Swiss Movement Watches
Learn what makes a Swiss Made watch and why Switzerland is renowned for luxury watchmaking.
Best Swiss Automatic Watches for New Collectors in 2025
A curated guide to the most stylish and well-crafted luxury automatic watches for first-time collectors.
June 2025
Why Start Collecting Automatic Watches
Automatic watches are wearable expressions of art, engineering, and personal style. For new collectors entering the world of luxury timepieces, finding the right piece can be both exciting and overwhelming. This guide helps you discover the best automatic watches in 2025 that offer beauty, quality, and long-term value. Whether you're drawn to modern minimalism or classic craftsmanship, these are the self-winding watches worth considering.
What You'll Learn
1. What Makes an Automatic Watch Ideal for First-Time Buyers
2. Top 10 Picks for Swiss Automatic Watches in 2025
3. Key Features to Look for in Your First Automatic Watch
4. Tips on Building a Thoughtful Starter Watch Collection
5. How to Care for and Store Your Automatic Watch
FAQ on Best Automatic Watch
2. Top 10 Picks for Swiss Automatic Watches in 2025
3. Key Features to Look for in Your First Automatic Watch
4. Tips on Building a Thoughtful Starter Watch Collection
5. How to Care for and Store Your Automatic Watch
FAQ on Best Automatic Watch
Why Start Collecting Automatic Watches
Automatic watches are wearable expressions of art, engineering, and personal style. For new collectors entering the world of luxury timepieces, finding the right piece can be both exciting and overwhelming. This guide helps you discover the best automatic watches in 2025 that offer beauty, quality, and long-term value. Whether you're drawn to modern minimalism or classic craftsmanship, these are the self-winding watches worth considering.
What You'll Learn
1. What Makes an Automatic Watch Ideal for First-Time Buyers
2. Top 10 Picks for Swiss Automatic Watches in 2025
3. Key Features to Look for in Your First Automatic Watch
4. Tips on Building a Thoughtful Starter Watch Collection
5. How to Care for and Store Your Automatic Watch
FAQ on Best Automatic Watch
2. Top 10 Picks for Swiss Automatic Watches in 2025
3. Key Features to Look for in Your First Automatic Watch
4. Tips on Building a Thoughtful Starter Watch Collection
5. How to Care for and Store Your Automatic Watch
FAQ on Best Automatic Watch
1. What Makes an Automatic Watch Ideal for First-Time Buyers
1. What Makes an Automatic Watch Ideal for First-Time Buyers
Your first automatic watch marks an exciting entry into the world of mechanical timekeeping. It’s more than just an accessory, it’s a celebration of engineering and personal expression. The right piece should feel timeless, reliable, and distinctly yours. New collectors should prioritize watches that:
- Feature reliable Swiss or Japanese automatic movements like ETA, Sellita, or Miyota
- Offer Certified Swiss Made construction for unparalleled craftsmanship and precision
- Fit comfortably on the wrist, ideally with case sizes between 34mm and 42mm
- Have clean, readable dials and versatile designs that complement any outfit
- Come from brands that prioritize design authenticity and timeless appeal, ensuring your watch ages gracefully in both style and function
For a deep dive on automatic watch movements, read: How Do Automatic Watches Work? The Complete Guide.
Your first automatic watch marks an exciting entry into the world of mechanical timekeeping. It’s more than just an accessory, it’s a celebration of engineering and personal expression. The right piece should feel timeless, reliable, and distinctly yours. New collectors should prioritize watches that:
- Feature reliable Swiss or Japanese automatic movements like ETA, Sellita, or Miyota
- Offer Certified Swiss Made construction for unparalleled craftsmanship and precision
- Fit comfortably on the wrist, ideally with case sizes between 34mm and 42mm
- Have clean, readable dials and versatile designs that complement any outfit
- Come from brands that prioritize design authenticity and timeless appeal, ensuring your watch ages gracefully in both style and function
For a deep dive on automatic watch movements, read: How Do Automatic Watches Work? The Complete Guide.
2. Top 10 Picks for Swiss Automatic Watches in 2025
2. Top 10 Picks for Swiss Automatic Watches in 2025
Below is a curated selection of ten exceptional automatic watches starting at around $2,000, perfect for kickstarting your luxury collection in 2025. Whether you're looking for an everyday companion with premium quality or a bold investment piece, each model offers strong value, reliable performance, and standout design, ideal for first-time buyers.
Below is a curated selection of ten exceptional automatic watches starting at around $2,000, perfect for kickstarting your luxury collection in 2025. Whether you're looking for an everyday companion with premium quality or a bold investment piece, each model offers strong value, reliable performance, and standout design, ideal for first-time buyers.
Elegant and understated, the Montblanc Tradition blends classical Roman numerals with contemporary details like a domed sapphire crystal and polished stainless steel case. Powered by a reliable automatic movement, it’s a refined everyday timepiece with timeless appeal.
Elegant and understated, the Montblanc Tradition blends classical Roman numerals with contemporary details like a domed sapphire crystal and polished stainless steel case. Powered by a reliable automatic movement, it’s a refined everyday timepiece with timeless appeal.
$2,700
$2,700
The Oris Aquis Date is a robust 43.5mm dive watch with a stainless steel case and ceramic bezel. Powered by the automatic Caliber 733 with a 41-hour power reserve, it offers 300m water resistance. Its shield-shaped hour markers and Alpha hands ensure easy readability, while the domed sapphire crystal has an anti-reflective coating for durability and clarity.
The Oris Aquis Date is a robust 43.5mm dive watch with a stainless steel case and ceramic bezel. Powered by the automatic Caliber 733 with a 41-hour power reserve, it offers 300m water resistance. Its shield-shaped hour markers and Alpha hands ensure easy readability, while the domed sapphire crystal has an anti-reflective coating for durability and clarity.
$3,500
$3,500
A sleek fusion of minimalism and modernist design, VIEREN Matte White features a crisp matte tonal dial framed by a slim rectangular stainless steel case. Hand-assembled in La-Chaux-de-Fonds and powered by the Swiss Made ETA 2671 automatic movement, this gender-neutral timepiece is both refined and versatile. With its architectural lines and clean silhouette, it’s a sophisticated masterpiece for collectors who appreciate understated luxury.
A sleek fusion of minimalism and modernist design, VIEREN Matte White features a crisp matte tonal dial framed by a slim rectangular stainless steel case. Hand-assembled in La-Chaux-de-Fonds and powered by the Swiss Made ETA 2671 automatic movement, this gender-neutral timepiece is both refined and versatile. With its architectural lines and clean silhouette, it’s a sophisticated masterpiece for collectors who appreciate understated luxury.
Sporty yet sophisticated, the Carrera Day-Date delivers bold chronograph DNA in a clean, wearable design. With its streamlined dial, day-date display, and robust automatic movement, it’s a versatile pick rooted in TAG Heuer’s racing heritage.
Sporty yet sophisticated, the Carrera Day-Date delivers bold chronograph DNA in a clean, wearable design. With its streamlined dial, day-date display, and robust automatic movement, it’s a versatile pick rooted in TAG Heuer’s racing heritage.
Featuring a COSC-certified automatic GMT movement, the Longines Spirit Zulu Time marries classic pilot watch styling with practical dual time zone functionality. Its elegant 39mm case and two-tone rose gold bezel offer a perfect blend of heritage and contemporary appeal, making it a popular choice for frequent travellers and watch collectors alike.
Featuring a COSC-certified automatic GMT movement, the Longines Spirit Zulu Time marries classic pilot watch styling with practical dual time zone functionality. Its elegant 39mm case and two-tone rose gold bezel offer a perfect blend of heritage and contemporary appeal, making it a popular choice for frequent travellers and watch collectors alike.
$5,500
$5,500
VIEREN Black Diamond pairs bold geometry with monochromatic elegance for a refined, modern aesthetic. This limited edition Swiss Made watch features a striking all-black rectangular case plated with DLC, paired with an architectural dial hand-set with 31 black diamonds. Powered by the ETA 2671 automatic movement and crafted in La-Chaux-de-Fonds, it's a modern statement piece designed for collectors looking for artistry and precision.
VIEREN Black Diamond pairs bold geometry with monochromatic elegance for a refined, modern aesthetic. This limited edition Swiss Made watch features a striking all-black rectangular case plated with DLC, paired with an architectural dial hand-set with 31 black diamonds. Powered by the ETA 2671 automatic movement and crafted in La-Chaux-de-Fonds, it's a modern statement piece designed for collectors looking for artistry and precision.
$5,690
$5,690
A vintage diver reimagined, the Black Bay 54 channels the spirit of Tudor’s first dive watch from 1954. With its compact 37mm case, in-house automatic movement, and retro styling, it’s a refined everyday tool with serious heritage.
A vintage diver reimagined, the Black Bay 54 channels the spirit of Tudor’s first dive watch from 1954. With its compact 37mm case, in-house automatic movement, and retro styling, it’s a refined everyday tool with serious heritage.
A modern icon born in 1993, the Seamaster Diver 300M blends rugged dive specs with sleek sophistication. Its wave-pattern dial, ceramic bezel, and Co-Axial Master Chronometer movement deliver performance and polish for life above and below the surface.
A modern icon born in 1993, the Seamaster Diver 300M blends rugged dive specs with sleek sophistication. Its wave-pattern dial, ceramic bezel, and Co-Axial Master Chronometer movement deliver performance and polish for life above and below the surface.
TAG Heuer Monaco Chronograph x Gulf
$8,200
TAG Heuer Monaco Chronograph x Gulf
$8,200
The TAG Heuer Monaco Chronograph x Gulf is an instantly recognisable 39mm automatic racing watch, famed for its bold square case and iconic Gulf racing stripes. Equipped with a Swiss chronograph movement, it pays tribute to motorsport heritage with modern flair. This model is a top search keyword for collectors interested in vintage-inspired automatic chronographs with a racing pedigree.
The TAG Heuer Monaco Chronograph x Gulf is an instantly recognisable 39mm automatic racing watch, famed for its bold square case and iconic Gulf racing stripes. Equipped with a Swiss chronograph movement, it pays tribute to motorsport heritage with modern flair. This model is a top search keyword for collectors interested in vintage-inspired automatic chronographs with a racing pedigree.
$9,000
$9,000
VIEREN Gold Waves is a new Swiss Made luxury watch nominated for the Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève (GPHG). Its ultra-thin rectangular case draws inspiration from modernist architecture and houses a bespoke ETA 2671 automatic movement with 25 jewels and 44-hour power reserve. With a 3D radial skeleton dial inspired by the art of sound, this microbrand masterpiece piece is ideal for collectors and design aficionados seeking a unique statement watch combining heritage craftsmanship and modern aesthetics.
VIEREN Gold Waves is a new Swiss Made luxury watch nominated for the Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève (GPHG). Its ultra-thin rectangular case draws inspiration from modernist architecture and houses a bespoke ETA 2671 automatic movement with 25 jewels and 44-hour power reserve. With a 3D radial skeleton dial inspired by the art of sound, this microbrand masterpiece piece is ideal for collectors and design aficionados seeking a unique statement watch combining heritage craftsmanship and modern aesthetics.
$12,500
$12,500
Rolex’s entry-level luxury watch, renowned for its robust Oyster case, dependable in-house automatic movement, and clean, classic dial. The Oyster Perpetual offers both everyday versatility and the prestige of owning a Rolex icon.
Rolex’s entry-level luxury watch, renowned for its robust Oyster case, dependable in-house automatic movement, and clean, classic dial. The Oyster Perpetual offers both everyday versatility and the prestige of owning a Rolex icon.
3. Key Features to Look for in Your First Automatic Watch
3. Key Features to Look for in Your First Automatic Watch
Not all automatic watches are created equal. Understanding what goes into a great timepiece helps you make a confident, informed decision. This guide breaks down the technical features that matter most for first-time buyers. If you’re buying your first mechanical watch, consider these essentials:
- Case Shape: 2025 trends favour slim rectangular cases or versatile 38–40mm round cases
- Automatic Movement: Reliable calibres such as ETA 2671, Sellita SW200, or Miyota 9015
- Certified Swiss Made: Guarantees superior precision and manufacturing standards
- Sapphire Crystal: Scratch-resistant for long-lasting clarity
- Water Resistance: Minimum 30m, ideal for everyday wear
- Exhibition Caseback: Offers a view of the intricate movement inside
Looking for a new watch? Explore our beginner's guide on: Buying Your First Swiss Automatic Watch: 9 Expert Tips.
Not all automatic watches are created equal. Understanding what goes into a great timepiece helps you make a confident, informed decision. This guide breaks down the technical features that matter most for first-time buyers. If you’re buying your first mechanical watch, consider these essentials:
- Case Shape: 2025 trends favour slim rectangular cases or versatile 38–40mm round cases
- Automatic Movement: Reliable calibres such as ETA 2671, Sellita SW200, or Miyota 9015
- Certified Swiss Made: Guarantees superior precision and manufacturing standards
- Sapphire Crystal: Scratch-resistant for long-lasting clarity
- Water Resistance: Minimum 30m, ideal for everyday wear
- Exhibition Caseback: Offers a view of the intricate movement inside
Looking for a new watch? Explore our beginner's guide on: Buying Your First Swiss Automatic Watch: 9 Expert Tips.
4. Tips on Building a Thoughtful Starter Watch Collection
4. Tips on Building a Thoughtful Starter Watch Collection
Building your first collection is a personal journey. It should reflect not just your taste, but also your lifestyle and aspirations. With a thoughtful approach, even a small collection can offer incredible variety and lasting satisfaction. Start small and meaningful with a few versatile watches. Here are our top five suggestions:
1. Daily Driver: Reliable, stylish for everyday wear (e.g., Tissot PRX, VIEREN Matte White).
2. Statement Piece: Bold design reflecting personality (e.g., Nomos Club Campus, VIEREN Gold Stereo Diamond).
3. Travel Watch: Elegant leather style or GMT for on-the-go function.
4. Collector’s Pick: Limited editions or special collaborations for uniqueness and future value.
5. Favourite Memory: A special piece that marks a significant milestone or moment in your life.
Building your first collection is a personal journey. It should reflect not just your taste, but also your lifestyle and aspirations. With a thoughtful approach, even a small collection can offer incredible variety and lasting satisfaction. Start small and meaningful with a few versatile watches. Here are our top five suggestions:
1. Daily Driver: Reliable, stylish for everyday wear (e.g., Tissot PRX, VIEREN Matte White).
2. Statement Piece: Bold design reflecting personality (e.g., Nomos Club Campus, VIEREN Gold Stereo Diamond).
3. Travel Watch: Elegant leather style or GMT for on-the-go function.
4. Collector’s Pick: Limited editions or special collaborations for uniqueness and future value.
5. Favourite Memory: A special piece that marks a significant milestone or moment in your life.
5. How to Care for and Store Your Automatic Watch
5. How to Care for and Store Your Automatic Watch
A well-maintained automatic watch can last for generations, making proper care a key part of collecting. With just a few good habits, you can preserve its function and finish for years to come. Maintain your watch’s longevity by:
- Winding weekly to keep movement lubricated
- Avoiding magnets like laptops and phones to prevent timekeeping errors
- Storing on a luxury watch stand or automatic watch winder for multiple timepieces
- Servicing professionally every 3–5 years
- Cleaning gently with microfiber cloth and mild soapy water for the case and bracelet
Discover watch maintenance essentials in: How To Care For Your Luxury Automatic Watch: 10 Essential Tips.
A well-maintained automatic watch can last for generations, making proper care a key part of collecting. With just a few good habits, you can preserve its function and finish for years to come. Maintain your watch’s longevity by:
- Winding weekly to keep movement lubricated
- Avoiding magnets like laptops and phones to prevent timekeeping errors
- Storing on a luxury watch stand or automatic watch winder for multiple timepieces
- Servicing professionally every 3–5 years
- Cleaning gently with microfiber cloth and mild soapy water for the case and bracelet
Discover watch maintenance essentials in: How To Care For Your Luxury Automatic Watch: 10 Essential Tips.
FAQ on Buying an Automatic Watch
What should I consider when buying my first automatic watch?
Focus on the watch’s purpose, quality of the movement, durable materials, comfort, and personal style.
Why is the watch movement important?
Swiss automatic movements represent the pinnacle of quality. They define the accuracy, durability, and performance of your timepiece.
What materials should I choose for durability and value?
Look for high-grade stainless steel and scratch-resistant sapphire crystal for durability. Premium materials like gold or diamonds enhance value and aesthetics.
How do I select a watch that fits my style?
Find a watch that complements your wardrobe and lifestyle, from case shape to dial design to finishing details.
Why choose sustainable brands?
Support sustainable brands with ethical production practices, aligning your purchase with environmental and social values.
Focus on the watch’s purpose, quality of the movement, durable materials, comfort, and personal style.
Why is the watch movement important?
Swiss automatic movements represent the pinnacle of quality. They define the accuracy, durability, and performance of your timepiece.
What materials should I choose for durability and value?
Look for high-grade stainless steel and scratch-resistant sapphire crystal for durability. Premium materials like gold or diamonds enhance value and aesthetics.
How do I select a watch that fits my style?
Find a watch that complements your wardrobe and lifestyle, from case shape to dial design to finishing details.
Why choose sustainable brands?
Support sustainable brands with ethical production practices, aligning your purchase with environmental and social values.
FAQ on Buying an Automatic Watch
What should I consider when buying my first automatic watch?
Focus on the watch’s purpose, quality of the movement, durable materials, comfort, and personal style.
Why is the watch movement important?
Swiss automatic movements represent the pinnacle of quality. They define the accuracy, durability, and performance of your timepiece.
What materials should I choose for durability and value?
Look for high-grade stainless steel and scratch-resistant sapphire crystal for durability. Premium materials like gold or diamonds enhance value and aesthetics.
How do I select a watch that fits my style?
Find a watch that complements your wardrobe and lifestyle, from case shape to dial design to finishing details.
Why choose sustainable brands?
Support sustainable brands with ethical production practices, aligning your purchase with environmental and social values.
Focus on the watch’s purpose, quality of the movement, durable materials, comfort, and personal style.
Why is the watch movement important?
Swiss automatic movements represent the pinnacle of quality. They define the accuracy, durability, and performance of your timepiece.
What materials should I choose for durability and value?
Look for high-grade stainless steel and scratch-resistant sapphire crystal for durability. Premium materials like gold or diamonds enhance value and aesthetics.
How do I select a watch that fits my style?
Find a watch that complements your wardrobe and lifestyle, from case shape to dial design to finishing details.
Why choose sustainable brands?
Support sustainable brands with ethical production practices, aligning your purchase with environmental and social values.
SUMMARY
Starting your watch collecting journey in 2025 is all about finding timeless pieces that reflect your identity and taste. Automatic watches offer a rewarding blend of art, precision, and personal expression. Whether you're looking for your very first Swiss Made watch or refining your entry-level collection, choosing well-crafted, design-forward timepieces ensures your collection begins with intention and style. A modern automatic timepiece like VIEREN is a story you wear every day.
SUMMARY
Starting your watch collecting journey in 2025 is all about finding timeless pieces that reflect your identity and taste. Automatic watches offer a rewarding blend of art, precision, and personal expression. Whether you're looking for your very first Swiss Made watch or refining your entry-level collection, choosing well-crafted, design-forward timepieces ensures your collection begins with intention and style. A modern automatic timepiece like VIEREN is a story you wear every day.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Jess Chow, Founder and CEO VIEREN
As Canada’s first female founder of a luxury watch brand, Jess is passionate about horology and dedicated to crafting Swiss Made automatic timepieces that merge modern artistry and precision to inspire a new generation of collectors with confidence and style.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Jess Chow, Founder and CEO VIEREN
As Canada’s first female founder of a luxury watch brand, Jess is passionate about horology and dedicated to crafting Swiss Made automatic timepieces that merge modern artistry and precision to inspire a new generation of collectors with confidence and style.
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