Watch Insider’s Top Best-Value Chronographs

Written by Alexander Linz

As we approach another Baselworld watch fair, let’s revisit last year’s Top 10 Best-Value Watches lists, which I assembled for my blog. We’ve covered my favorite chronograph watches and men’s dress watches already; now I put the spotlight on chronograph watches offering the best value for money.

To be clear, I do not endeavor in this list to name the “cheapest” chronographs, but to recognize those that offer the most at their price point. I am sure that some brands might offer chronograph watches similar to these for less money; to me, that doesn’t necessarily make that other watch more attractive. The price differences in many of these cases are usually very small, in any case. To reiterate from my previous lists: this is an alphabetical listing and not a ranking. As always, the watches listed here are my own personal favorites. No jury has voted, no one has whispered anything into my ear, and — most importantly — no brand has paid me to be listed here. If you would like more information about one of the watches on the list, please use the search function on my blog. I have reported on all of them during the year, and you are likely to find many more pictures and additional technical information on them. Many of the watches have also been covered separately here on WatchTime.com.

Finally, I am interested in your own feedback. Which chronographs do you find represent the best bang for the buck? Please use the comments section to let us all know what you think.

Alpina Genève Alpiner4 Chronograph

I find the design of this chronograph to be fabulous. The 44-mm case houses a modified Sellita SW500 caliber with only two chronograph counters. I also love the watch’s ergonomics: I wore the Alpina Alpiner 4 Chronograph several times this year and found nothing to complain about. Price: starting at $3,495.

Baume & Mercier Clifton Chronograph

This 43-mm Baume & Mercier is not the cheapest chronograph powered by an ETA 7750, but it is one of the most attractive. I like its sporty-elegant look and top-quality build. You might pay a bit more for a Baume & Mercier, but in my opinion the watch you get will absolutely not be overpriced. Compare this Baume & Mercier to its competitors the next time you are at your retailer and you will understand what I mean. Price: starting at $3,900.

Certina DS Action Diver

This is a top-notch divers’ chronograph for a minimal cost, waterproof to 200 meters and ISO 6425-certified. (The criteria for dive watches are regulated by the ISO 6425 international standard.) It is difficult to beat that price! The 45.2-mm case houses an ETA 7753 caliber, and the watch is also sold with a rubber strap for a slightly lower price. Price: 1,770 euros.