Our edit of the top new watches for 2022

Operation «buy a new wristwatch» is exciting, but it can also be daunting, no matter how many watches you have. It’s overwhelming to choose from so many options, and to learn how to navigate the complex world of watches. We’ve done all the work to bring you the most recent watch releases in one place.

There are many options, from traditional dress watches and divers to sporty chronographs and everyday-field watches. There are both affordable and expensive options. No matter your style, budget or taste, there’s a watch to suit you.

These are the top watches that we recommend adding to your collection. Or at least keeping on your wishlist.

LEICA WATCH

The watches are distinguished by Leica’s unique design language and unconventional solutions to traditional timekeeping functions. Every «Made In Germany” watch’s exterior was designed by Professor Achim Henne, who has previously designed many Leica products. The watch’s mechanical movement is manual-winding and is visible through transparent sapphire crystal back. leica-camera.com

ULYSSE NARDIN X NORRONA ARCTIC NIGHT

This timepiece is limited to 29 pieces and comes with an arktis Goretex Pro Norrona jacket. This sustainable watch is inspired by Norwegian nature, Fjords, and Volcanic Rocks. The black, grey, and white color palette invokes deep, dark, ancestral geologic formations, which are some of the oldest and best-preserved sedimentary rock on the planet. The watch’s side case and back are made from 40% Carbonium and 60% nylon, both sourced from recycled fishing nets. It also has a handsome, sandblasted dial. It is a real treat. ulysse-nardin.com

AVI-8 WATCHES ROYAL BRITISH LEGION

AVI-8 is proud to announce a second collaboration timepiece after the phenomenal success of AVI-8’s partnership with Royal British Legion 2021. 30,000 was raised and donated back to the Legion. The limited edition Flyboy Royal British Legion Falklands 41 Meca-Quartz Limited Edition, which is military inspired, will be available in 1,500 pieces. AVI-8 will donate $10 for each watch sold to charity to support those who have served or are currently serving in the British Armed Forces and their families. avi-8.co.uk

GIORGIO ARMANI — «GIORGIO ARMANI11»

The «Giorgio Armani 11», available in three materials, and five variations — steel with grey, blue, or ivory dials, rose gold with ivory dials, or grey dials — and leather straps. This brand new wristwatch features a moon phase and an automatic movement. It also has a square-shaped dial with soft corners that makes it suitable for both men as well as women. Details like the stitching patterns and logo are a nod to Mr Armani’s signature brand that blends masculine with feminine. Twelve o’clock is a reference to the Giorgio Armani label, which was found in jackets. The hands are tapered and elegant as needles and scissors. armani.com

MONTBLANC STAR LEGCY ORBIS TERRARUM 2020

Unfortunately, Latin isn’t as widely spoken today as it was 2000 years ago. Shame shame. However, a quick Google translation of Orbis Terrarum will show that it says ‘all over’. This all makes perfect sense when you consider Montblanc’s new 43mm stainless steel/rosegold showpiece has 24 time zones. This is especially true when you consider the recent vibe shift in Montblanc’s watch division under Laurent Lecamp. A worldtime complication available for as low as PS6k This is luxury travel at its best, without the need to fly anywhere. Montblanc.com

ZENITH DEFY EXTREMEXFELIPE PANTONE

Since 2020, Zenith has been working with Felipe Pantone. Pantone used Zenith’s transparent sapphire disc as the base for their latest timepiece and created hidden micro-engraved patterns just 100 nanometres in depth using a physio-chemical process. This unique process creates an iridescent effect in sapphire, allowing it to reflect different colours and make patterns visible. Optic magic! zenith-watches.com

HAMILTON RAILROAD POKETWATCH

Although a pocketwatch may make you think of Lewis Caroll’s White Rabbit, they are having a moment now in 2022. Hamilton’s version of the dangly-time-teller is limited to 917 pieces. This recalls Lancaster’s address at 917 Columbia Avenue, Lancaster, PA. It is housed in a 50mm stainless-steel case and has an enamel-like dial that echoes vintage railroad timepieces. The case back features a special engraving that shows a train and the words «130th Anniversary Railroad Special» to commemorate the thirteen decades since the firm was founded in 1892. www.hamiltonwatch.com

TOMMY HILFIGER

This vintage-racing-inspired, all-purpose sports watch is water-resistant to 5ATM and comes complete with a sunray dial, stainless steel frame and rugged mesh bracelet. The watch’s subtle Tommy Hilfiger branding is prominent against the stainless steel bracelet and navy face. This makes it a sophisticated watch for men who love fashion brands. hsamuel.co.uk