20 Best Red Watches from Affordable to Luxury for 2023
Whether you're looking for a bold statement piece to add to your collection, or simply want to add a pop of colour to your wrist, Red has got you covered. From sleek, elegant, and minimalist designs to sporty and rugged timepieces, this has carefully selected the best red watches based on design, functionality, and various different price points. So, without further ado, let's dive into the guide of our favorite red watches.
M.A.D. 1 Red by Max Busser
Price: 2,900 CHF; Case: Stainless Steel 42mm; Water Resistance:30m; Movement: Automatic; Crystal: Sapphire.
The M.A.D.1 Red is defiantly brilliant. Created by Maximillian Busser (founder of MB&F) to make his creative and crazy designs at a more accessible price-point - this piece definitely fits the brief. We are immediately drawn to the imposing triple-blade titanium and tungsten rotor that dominates the ‘face of the watch’. However, no time is told there. Instead, we have to look to the two revolving cylinders that on the side of the case. These converge at the six o’clock position to display the time in a unique fashion. The stainless steel case, the automatic movement, ornate lugs and strap are subtly complimented by the red accents that adorn them. This creates a sleek but original look. This timepiece is an incredibly impressive, yet accessible piece with a rich heritage. If you are lucky enough to be picked in the raffle, the MAD 1 Red can be purchased for 2,900 CHF.
Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra 150m
Price: $6,300 USD; Case: Stainless Steel 38mm; Water Resistance: 150m; Movement: Automatic; Crystal: Sapphire.
The Omega Seamaster Aqua-Terra is a do-it all luxury sports watch. It is a fantastic combination of form and function. This is a piece that can be dressed-up or down, discreet but not boring. The simple dial layout is beautifully crafted. The sunburst terracotta colour compliments the alternation of polished and brushed steel of the case and bracelet. The rhodium plated hands and indexes filled with Super-Luminova stand out boldly against the dial. The shape of the minute hand is reminiscent of the broad-arrow hands that were characteristic of the Speedmaster Reduced line. This Seamaster is powered by Omega’s beautiful caliber 8800 Master Chronometer movement (METAS certified). The wave finishing on this movement gives it depth and texture, which is visible through the sapphire case back. Omega's stainles steel bracelet just brings the watch to the next level. This brilliant all-rounder is an excellent addition to any collection. It retails for $6,300 USD..
Seiko Presage Red SRPE41
Price: $340 USD; Case: Stainless Steel 38.5mm; Water Resistance: 50m; Movement: Automatic; Crystal: Hardlex.
Seiko is renowned for its excellent value for money watches, and this Presage Cocktail is no exception. This line of watches is designed to be a simple yet elegant dress watch in a very affordable package. This particular model has been created to resemble a Negroni. The dial reflects the deep red tones of the Vermouth and the ombré gradient pairs brilliantly with the fractal pattern. This combination of colour and texture means that the Seiko is punching way above its weight. The ensemble is finished with polished hands, indexes, and numerals. The contrast between the dial and these components makes it very legible. The package is completed by the open caseback which lets us observe the simple detailing on the movement. Overall, this is a great piece and a perfect watch to start collecting with. The Seiko Presage SRPE41J1 is available from Amazon for $340 USD. If you want a red dial watch at an afforable price-point, this Seiko watch might be it.
Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Selfwinding Ruby “50th Anniversary”
Price: Price Upon Request; Case: 18k White Gold 37mm/41mm; WR: 20m Movement: Automatic; Crystal: Sapphire.
The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak ‘Self-winding Ruby 50th Anniversary’ is an eye-catching watch. Created as part of two limited sets of 10 watches- one in 37 mm and one in 41 mm. Every watch in the set represents a different colour of the rainbow and is fully set with 861 monochromatic gemstones. The craftsmanship and time required to produce one of these pieces is almost unimaginable; it takes over a year to find the stones required to fully set the watch and several hundreds of hours to cut, drill and set the stones into the case and bracelet. The sapphire case back displays the brilliantly finished movement and its specially produced ‘50th anniversary’ rotor which takes center stage. This watch is a splendid exhibition of AP’s timeless designs, craftmanship and prowess. While the retail price for this piece is “upon request”, we are seeing them on the secondary market for around $500,000 USD.
Breitling Endurance Ironman
Price: $3,500 USD; Case: Breitlight Alloy 44mm; WR: 100m; Movement: Quartz; Crystal: Sapphire.
The Breitling Endurance Pro Ironman is a homage watch that is fit for purpose. Its rugged, durable, and active design matches the rigorous lifestyle that Ironman athletes lead. It combines functional tools with wearability in mind. It sports a 30-minute chronograph, accurate to 1/10th of second, a compass and a pulsometer. The case is made from the ultralight Breitlight alloy that is lighter 3.3 times lighter than Titanium. Paired with a bright red Ironman rubber strap, the watch stands out on the wrist whilst having a minimal impact on the wearer’s mobility- which is remarkable considering the size of the watch. This piece is powered by a COSC certified quartz movement meaning that its precision is outstanding. The Breitling Endurance Pro Ironman retails for $3,500 US.
U-Boat Darkmoon 40mm Red SS Soleil
Price: $1,290 USD; Case: Stainless Steel, 40mm; Water Resistance: 50m; Movement: Quartz; Crystal: Sapphire.
The Darkmoon Red is part of the most recent iterations of U-Boat’s watches. This piece is a sleek but quirky watch with a great finish to it. The most noticeable element is the is optical effect which is achieved by filling the case full of oil. This renders the deep domed sapphire crystal almost invisible and makes the unique dial very legible. The dial is a striking sunburst red which pops out of the contrasting ombré black edges. The layout of the indices is irregular. The numerals featuring are the 4, 8 and a U at the twelve o’clock position. The hour markers are separated by perforations in the dial which let the oil and air bubble flow through the case freely. The crown is positioned at 9 o’clock, a signature feature of U-Boat’s watches. Overall, this is a watch that sets itself apart from other brands through its unique style and design. It retails for $1,290 USD.
Orient Kamasu Red
Price: $236; Case: Stainless Steel 41.8mm; Water Resistance: 200m; Movement: Automatic; Crystal: Sapphire.
The Orient Kamasu is widely regarded as the best entry level automatic dive watch. For the grand price of around $200 you get a great watch with 200m of water resistance, a day-date function, a proper dive bezel and a steel bracelet. The dial is a wonderful deep-red and contrasts nicely with the prominent luminescent hour markers. The angular hands and 12 o’clock marker are inspired by the teeth of a Barracuda (or ‘Kamasu’ in Japanese). This staniless steel case watch is a great choice for anyone begining their collecting journey who wants a reliable, durable, and well-built watch. It is available on Amazon for an affordable $236 USD.
Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Tribute Monoface
Price: $9,050 USD; Case: Stainless Steel 45.6x 27.4mm; Water Resistance: 30m; Movement: Manual Wind; Crystal: Sapphire.
JLC is a brand with a rich heritage in luxury watches and high-horology, and the Reverso is one of their flagship pieces. Debuted in 1931, the Reverso was designed for polo players as the face can be flipped over to protect the watch face and crystal from the violent sport. This model is a revival of the original Reverso, echoing the design language of the indexes, hands, and small seconds dial layout, that was characteristic of watches of that period. However, the Reverso Tribute brings some subtle modern touches to the table. Most notably the bold colourway and burgundy sunburst dial. The JLC Reverso Tribute is a fitting synergy between heritage and modernity and will surely stand the test of time. It retails for $9,050 USD.
H. Moser & Cie Pioneer Centre Seconds
Price: 12,900 CHF; Case: Stainless Steel 42.8mm; Water Resistance: 120m; Movement: Automatic; Crystal: Sapphire.
H. Moser & Cie. is yet another Maison with extremely rich watchmaking heritage and superior craftmanship. Started in 1828 in St. Petersburg, Russia, the Heinrich Moser produced pocket watches for the Russian Aristocracy and Tsars, until relocating to Switzerland in 1848. During the quartz crisis, the brand almost disappeared, but resurfaced in the early 2000s. The Pioneer line is the brand’s capable all-rounder: 120m of water resistance, a tough stainless-steel case and a scratch resistant crystal protect the beautiful HMC 200 movement inside. The visual aesthetic of the piece is an echo of the ‘less is more’ doctrine. The dial is made up of beautiful shades of sunburst red which fade into black. The Super-Luminova filled indexes are simple yet elegantly finished, and the hands are sophisticatedly shaped. The Pioneer Center Seconds is a sleek and discreet piece reflective of its heritage without being stuck in the past. It can be purchased for 12,900 CHF. The Moser Pioneer is definitely one of our favorite red dial watches.
anOrdain Model 1 Japanese Oxblood
Price: Starting at 1,695 GBP; Case: Stainless Steel, 35/38/31mm; Water Resistance: 50m; Movement: Manual/Automatic; Crystal: Sapphire.
Anordain is a brand born out of Glasgow and combines Scottish craftsmanship with Swiss timekeeping expertise. Every watch is assembled by hand by master enamellers and watchmakers. The Model 1 Fumé is no exception to this. This microbrand prides itself with the attention to detail goes into each piece: the enamel dials are hand crafted, and the hands are individually cut, tempered, and polished. The enameling of the dial creates a grained texture which gives off fluid depth. The inspiration for dial numerals comes from the old Highland maps, really highlighting the Scottish connection. The salmon-coloured minute track stands out against the dial without interfering with the numerals. Anordain offers a few options for customization such as engraving or movement tuning. The Model 1 starts at 1,695 GBP
Bell & Ross BR 03-92 Red Radar Ceramic
Price: $4,300 USD; Case: Ceramic, 42mm; Water Resistance: 100m; Movement: Automatic; Crystal: Sapphire.
The BR 03-92 Red Radar Ceramic is a watch that sets itself apart from the bunch. The distinct contrast between the black and red makes it very visible, which helps draw the attention to its unique dial. Many watch brands, including Bell and Ross, have a history making professional instruments for pilots, but few have dared take it this far. The brand revisits the design of an aircraft radar and transforms into a time display, with a radical layout. The movement has been modified so that the hours and minutes are displayed by moving two wheels instead of hands, with fighter jets as the hour and minute pointers . This watch is a brilliant display of creative thinking and innovation, and it is matched by the limited quantity available (only 999). It is the ideal watch for someone who wants something a little different in their collection (and the all black motif looks great on its black rubber strap). The BR 03-92 retails for $4,300.
Panerai Radiomir Annual Calendar Platinumtech Experience PAM01432
Price: 85,600 CHF; Case: Platinum 45mm; Water Resistance: 100m: Movement: Automatic; Crystal: Sapphire.
The Radiomir Annual Calendar sports Panerai’s iconic rounded square case in platinum. Panerai’s annual calendar complication is beautifully laid out. The day-date window at the 3 o’clock position is balanced out by the small seconds dial at the 9 o’clock position. The month wheel nestles itself on the outside of the dial, which keeps the design simple but elegant. The piece comes on a black alligator skin strap which matches the black to red gradient on the dial. The sun brushed red center brings the whole ensemble together by giving it subtle yet classy flair. The Radiomir Annual Calendar Platinumtech PAM01432 retails for 85,600 CHF.
Casio G-Shock CasiOak GA2100-4A
Price: $76; Case: Carbon/Resin 45.4mm; Water Resistance: 200m; Movement: Quartz; Crystal: Mineral.
The ‘CasiOak’ has already become a stalwart of Casio’s G-Shock line. Its distinct octagonal case, borrowed from the Gerald Genta designed AP Royal Oak, comes with a very complete package. Another perfect example of form meeting function (and affordability). This compact ensemble from Casio comes with 200m of water resistance, excellent shock resistance, chronometer, calendar, world timer, etc. The dial pairs analogue with digital perfectly: a small LCD screen nestles itself underneath the hands, balancing out the analogue day indicator at the 9 o’clock position. This robust, well designed functionally and visually compact package offers a fun and wearable watch to collectors of all price points, after all every collection needs a G-Shock. The CasiOak GA2100-4A is available on Amazon for $76 USD.
Oris Aquis Date Relief
Price: $2,500 USD; Case: Stainless Steel 41.5mm; Water Resistance: 300m; Movement: Automatic; Crystal: Sapphire.
The Oris Aquis Date Relief is a classic dive watch: durable and dynamic. Its visuals set it apart from other dive watches, as it sports a ‘Yachtmaster-esque’ textured bezel paired with a not-so-subtle sunray red dial. The stark contrast between these materials means that the watch stands out on the wrist. The dial is very legible, regardless of illumination because of the Super-Luminova coated hands and indexes, which is very important for any high-quality dive watch. The date window is situated at the 6 o’clock position which brings balance to the dial layout. The Aquis Date Relief retails for $2,500 USD.
IWC Portugieser Automatic IW500714
Price: $13,100 USD; Case: Stainless Steel 42.3mm; Water Resistance: 30m; Movement: Automatic; Crystal: Sapphire.
The Portugieser is part of IWC’s dress watch line up but is a lot more than just a classic design. This piece is a remarkable feat of watchmaking: it boasts a huge 7-day power reserve, which is almost unequalled by any other brand. At a first glance, the simple layout of the dial with a small second’s dial, a power reserve indicator, and the date window at 6 o’clock, does not reflect the incredible feat achieved by the movement. To showcase its masterpiece, IWC has ensured that the sapphire case back displays entirety of the movement, which is beautifully finished. The ensemble is brought together through its black alligator-skin strap which really draws the focus onto the polished deep red dial and case. The Portugieser can be purchased for $13,100 USD.
Farer Discovery Red 36mm
Price: $995 USD; Case: Stainless Steel 36mm; Water Resistance: 50m; Movement: Automatic; Crystal: Sapphire.
Named after the polar expedition ship RRS Discovery, the Farer Discovery II is a fantastic package that brings together British design and Swiss manufacturing. This watch is an accessible and classy everyday watch, packed with features. The dial sports a two-tone colour pattern that fades as the watch is turned away from the wearer. The appliqué Super-Luminova numerals and hour-markers stand out against the burgundy backdrop giving the dial great legibility in all situations. The hands are a classic design but have been rethought with modernity: polished and sharp, with a blue tip on the seconds hand they really tie the watch together. Farer offers plenty of strap option, which means the look of the piece can be altered to suit occasion and taste. The Discovery II comes in at $995 USD, which is great value for money.
Tag Heuer Carrera Red Dial Chronograph Limited Edition
Price: $6,750 USD; Case: Stainless Steel 39mm; Water Resistance: 100m; Movement: Automatic; Crystal: Sapphire.
This Limited-Edition TAG Heuer Chronograph could not be more symbolic of its racing heritage. The design hails from the vintage chronographs, but has been modernized with a sharp finish on the dial and case. The indexes, hands, and minute track more angular whilst the case retains its classic shape. The new sapphire case back lets us into the inner workings of the Calibre 02 movement. The influence of racing is ever present inside the watch: the black skeletonized rotor resembles a racing hub, contrasting with the côtes de Genève finish on the steel movement. This watch could not be a better homage to racing, whilst remaining sleek and elegant. The TAG Heuer Carrera retails for $6,750 USD.
Ressence Type 1 Slim Red
Price: 16,800 CHF; Case: Titanium 42mm; Water Resistance: 10m; Movement: Hand Wound; Crystal: Sapphire.
The Type 1 Slim is a truly unique design from Limited. Created to evoke the smooth and rounded shape of a pebble, this watch has really taken watchmaking to another level. The dial has 3 sub-dials that rotate in relation to the seconds hand, a time display that has never been seen from anyone else. The piece shows seconds, minutes, hours and weekdays, and is driven by a radically modified movement. The case has no bezel or crown, and instead all the adjustments and winding are done by rotating the case back. This futuristic design has flawlessly paired the art of watchmaking with avant-garde design and vision. The Type 1 Slim stands out technologically and visually and will continue to amaze watch enthusiasts. It can be purchased for 16,800 CHF at retail and might now be found for well over $20,000 USD second hand.
Roger Dubuis Excalibur Spider Perelli Black DLC Titanium
Price: $155,000 USD; Case: Black DLC Titanium 39mm; Water Resistance: 100m; Movement: Manual Wind; Crystal: Sapphire.
The Roger Dubuis Excalibur Spider Pirelli Edition is a stunning watch which comes with several impressive features. From the black DLC coated titanium case to the fully skeletonized iconic Excalibur movement regulated by a Tourbillion that takes center stage this piece is technically very potent and a testament to the Maison’s craftmanship. However, the collaboration with F1 tire provider Pirelli is what really makes this watch stand out. The strap and bezel are made from recycled F1 tires and are fully interchangeable with several different colour ways. The red configuration really emphasizes on the dynamic and adrenaline filled sport of motor-racing. The watch retails for $155,000 USD and is limited to only 28 pieces.
F.P. Journe Centrigraphe Souverain F
Price: Price On Request; Case: Platinum 34mm; Water Resistance: Unknown Movement: Mechanical; Crystal: Sapphire.
The F.P Journe Centigraphe Souverain F is one of the most complicated and elaborate wrist watches ever created. The movement is made of 18k rose gold and the case is solid platinum, but it’s not the precious metals that make it so impressive. It boasts the one of the only mechanical chronographs accurate to 1/100th of a second and all of this in a 34mm case. It took over 15 years of research and testing for the design to be fully completed, and this hard work was rewarded with the prestigious Aiguille d’Or of the Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève in 2008. Part of the profits generated by the sale of these watches are donated to the Institute of Brain and Spinal Cord Injury in Paris to fund groundbreaking research. This exceptional piece is a standalone in its class and supports a really important cause. Other Centigraphe models are available second hand for well over $130,000 on the second hand market. You can learn more from F.P. Journe’s website.