The 10 Most Expensive Watches in the World 2022

When it comes to luxury and prestige, few items command as much admiration and envy as the world's most expensive watches. The world of haute horology is filled with masterpieces of engineering, design, and craftsmanship that transcend mere timekeeping to become symbols of affluence and status. As of 2022, the following list showcases the pinnacle of watchmaking, featuring timepieces that are not just remarkable for their function but for their breathtaking prices and the sheer artistry behind them.

10. Patek Philippe Grandmaster Chime Ref. 6300A-010 - $9.57 Million

The Patek Philippe Grandmaster Chime Ref. 6300A-010 stands out as one of the most complex and valuable watches ever made. Unveiled at Baselworld 2014, this timepiece features 20 complications, including a perpetual calendar, minute repeater, and a unique grande and petite sonnerie. The watch's intricate design and rare materials contribute to its high valuation. The Ref. 6300A-010 is a one-of-a-kind piece, making it a centerpiece in any collector's collection.

9. Hublot Big Bang Ref. 415.NX.1110.RX - $10.4 Million

Hublot's Big Bang collection has always pushed boundaries, and the Ref. 415.NX.1110.RX is no exception. This watch features a case made entirely from a combination of rare materials, including sapphire crystal and black ceramic. Its high price tag reflects the advanced technology used in its creation and the exclusivity of the materials. The watch's modern design and complex mechanics make it a sought-after item among collectors.

8. Richard Mille RM 56-02 Sapphire - $10.5 Million

Richard Mille is known for his innovative approach to watchmaking, and the RM 56-02 Sapphire is a testament to his vision. This watch features a transparent sapphire crystal case that provides a clear view of its complex movement. The RM 56-02 is notable for its use of sapphire, a material that is extremely difficult to work with but provides unparalleled clarity and durability. Its unique construction and limited availability contribute to its high price.

7. Greubel Forsey Art Piece 1 - $15.8 Million

Greubel Forsey's Art Piece 1 is a masterpiece that combines intricate artistry with cutting-edge technology. This watch features a multi-axis tourbillon and a unique visual representation of time. The watch's design reflects Greubel Forsey's commitment to pushing the boundaries of traditional watchmaking. The Art Piece 1 is not just a timekeeping device but a work of art, which is reflected in its hefty price tag.

6. Patek Philippe Henry Graves Supercomplication - $24 Million

The Patek Philippe Henry Graves Supercomplication is one of the most famous and expensive watches ever created. Completed in 1933, this watch was commissioned by banker Henry Graves and features 24 complications, including a minute repeater and a perpetual calendar. The watch's historical significance and unparalleled complexity make it a highly coveted item among collectors and a symbol of Patek Philippe's watchmaking prowess.

5. Jacob & Co. Billionaire Watch - $18 Million

The Jacob & Co. Billionaire Watch is an extravagant timepiece adorned with 260 carats of emerald-cut diamonds. Its opulent design is a clear statement of wealth and luxury, with each diamond meticulously set to create a dazzling effect. The watch's high price reflects not only the cost of the diamonds but also the craftsmanship involved in setting them. The Billionaire Watch is a true symbol of excess and indulgence.

4. Rolex Daytona Ref. 6263 - $27.5 Million

The Rolex Daytona Ref. 6263 is a vintage watch that has gained legendary status among collectors. Known for its association with actor Paul Newman, this watch features a unique design with a distinctive dial that has become known as the "Paul Newman" dial. The Ref. 6263's historical significance and rarity contribute to its astronomical price. This watch is a coveted item for both its provenance and its place in Rolex's storied history.

3. Patek Philippe Ref. 1527 - $28 Million

The Patek Philippe Ref. 1527 is a rare and highly sought-after vintage watch. Completed in 1943, this watch features a chronograph and a perpetual calendar, along with an intricate design that showcases Patek Philippe's commitment to high-quality craftsmanship. Its rarity and historical significance make it one of the most expensive watches ever sold at auction.

2. Breguet Marie-Antoinette Grande Complication - $30 Million

The Breguet Marie-Antoinette Grande Complication is a watch steeped in history and intrigue. Commissioned for Queen Marie-Antoinette in the late 18th century, this timepiece features a wide array of complications, including a perpetual calendar and a minute repeater. The watch's historical significance, combined with its complex mechanics and luxurious design, make it one of the most valuable watches in the world.

1. Jacob & Co. Astronomia Tourbillon - $35 Million

The Jacob & Co. Astronomia Tourbillon is the most expensive watch in the world as of 2022. This timepiece features an intricate design with a tourbillon mechanism, a rotating globe, and a starry sky display. The watch's elaborate construction and the use of precious materials contribute to its high price. Its innovative design and the sheer luxury of the materials make it a standout piece in the world of haute horology.

These timepieces represent the pinnacle of watchmaking, showcasing the intersection of artistry, engineering, and luxury. Each watch on this list is not just a tool for telling time but a symbol of extraordinary craftsmanship and opulence.