Top 8 Chronographs for less than 2000 EUR

VALUE PICKS

Despite their complicated mechanics, mechanical Chronographs are available at surprisingly attractive prices. The enduring popularity allows for production in large numbers and buyers profit from the economy of scale. The advantageous price point entices newcomers primarily to invest in the casual appeal of the mechanical timer with stop function. For this reason, we have compiled a list of the most attractive chronographs under EUR 2000 for you.

If you expect this list to be nothing but a parade of chronographs that are all driven by the same caliber classic, namely the ETA 7750, get ready for a pleasant surprise. The times of single movement market dominance may not have entirely ended, but new caliber options have entered the scene in the entry-level segment of mechanical chronographs. They are not limited to automatic bids either, but even include a model with manual winding.

1. Longines Heritage

It is a well-known fact that Longines offers beautiful heritage chronographs. So, it is no coincidence that a Heritage Chronograph ranked second in our survey of the most popular watch models from the point of view of women between 21 and 39 years of age. This timepiece also impresses with a convincing and genuine heritage look – just as if the watch was really from the 1940s. Not only does the watch look chic, but it also features a high-quality L688 movement, which is not only robust and accurate, but also easy to use: Compared to the other common chronograph designs, the coulisse-lever, column wheel chronographs are the original and more complex type and are characterized in use by softly clicking pushers. Only a low resistance is therefore required for starting, stopping and resetting the stop time.

2. Junghans Max Bill Chronoscope

Lovers of the unequivocal design of the Max Bill collection, who do not want to miss out on the chronograph function (or the typical Chrono look) will find the answer to their wish list in the Chronoscope, based on original Max Bill design with the added feature of short-time measurement. The design stays true to the conscious minimalism and embeds the two subdials and two pushers masterfully into the concept. You can even get the variant with the famous Max-Bill-Four, The Chronoscope is offered in a version with bar indexes as well as with Arabic numerals and has a moderate 40 mm diameter.

3. Longines HydroConquest

If you prefer a more athletic look, the Longines HydroConquest is a superb choice. Within just a few years the model has taken a prime position in the lineup of this tradition-steeped manufacturer as it impresses with its exhaustive model variety and decidedly robust character. We are particularly fond of the option with the bright dial and red accents. To curb the casual appearance the watch combines well with a brown vintage leather strap, which lends a somewhat quieter tone to the ensemble. Inside ticks the Longines L696 based on an ETA 07.231, a neoclassic which has been a Montredo-Top-Seller for years.

4. Mido Multifort

For a perfect compromise between casual and elegant look to the Mido Multifort Chronograph. It is slightly larger with a diameter of 44 mm, and since the trend favors oversized watches a la Panerai, it makes a great statement watch. At the heart of the Mido ticks a caliber 60, which is based on an ETA A05H31. The design is almost reminiscent of the great Heuer classics Autavia and Monza.

5. Hamilton Khaki Field

Of course, Hamilton should not be missing from this list of Swiss entry-level chronographs. The Swiss manufacturer with an American company history sells with this model of the Khaki Field a sporty and elegant timepiece with a PVD-coated case. The watch looks timeless and fits almost any outfit. The caliber H-21 is based on the ETA/Valjoux 7750, but Hamilton made some changes to it. Improvements to the winding mechanism now allow a power reserve of 60 hours. The fact that the chronograph does not have a display of the stopped hour is deliberately accepted here to make the watch appear more elegant.

6. TAG Heuer Formula 1

Speaking of the devil, no ranking of best entry-level chronographs would be complete without naming the TAG Heuer brand. With this timer, you get precisely what you expect: A robust and reliable timepiece that runs on a caliber based on the ETA 7750. Besides the Longines HydroConquest, the Formula 1 is with certainty the sportiest chronograph in this list and this model radiates a hint of Daytona.

7. Alexander Shorokhoff Avantgarde Miss Pilot 39 Blue

To wear a lady’s watch, a man must probably first jump over his own shadow. However, no matter which idea comes to mind at the mention of women’s watches, ultimately it seems that the drawing of that line is entirely arbitrary. Truthfully, there’s nothing about this watch, which makes it inappropriate for a men’s wrist. The size of 39 mm corresponds to a moderate men’s size, and it serves to restrain the otherwise striking design slightly and evokes a custom feel and stylish note. Although this avant-garde is named ‘Miss’, we find the watch very recommendable for men, and it combines well with summer leisure outfits. The timepiece houses the caliber 3133.AS, hand-wound, which is based on the Poljot 3133 in its highest level of refinement.

8. Alexander Shorokhoff Avantgarde Chrono-Regulator

If you are looking for a chronograph that is a little out of line in terms of dial arrangement, a Regulator Chronograph may be just the watch for you. Regulators have been in great demand on the vintage market for some time now, so that more and more watch manufacturers are rediscovering this dial concept, which focuses on the stop time and not the current time. Like the avant-garde Miss Pilot, the Regulator by Alexander Shorokhoff dances out of the series and shows that chronographs are not just chronographs. The best thing about it: the price is absolutely attractive and makes the watch an interesting option on the entry-level chronograph market. The Avantgarde Regulator Chronograph underscores the new trend to implement the chronograph theme on dials in playful and unique ways, a significant change from the strict standards just a few years ago.

If you have your heart set on a chronograph with manufactory movement, you will still have to dig deeper into your pocket and you may find your perfect match with manufacturers such as IWC, Omega, and Breitling.