2019 was a landmark year in modern watchmaking—an era defined by daring innovation, ultra-thin engineering, and the kind of design purity that only the world’s most revered maisons can achieve. From Geneva’s grand complications to Tokyo’s handcrafted artistry, the year delivered timepieces that didn’t merely measure hours but reshaped the boundaries of mechanical possibility. These were the watches that dominated juried competitions, captivated collectors, and set new standards across the industry. Here, we revisit the six standout creations that emerged as true winners of 2019—pieces that continue to command respect long after their debut.
1. Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Selfwinding Perpetual Calendar Ultra-Thin
Winner: Aiguille d’Or – GPHG 2019 (Best Watch of the Year)
This was the watch of 2019 — the thinnest automatic perpetual calendar ever made at its debut (just 6.3mm). A landmark in modern haute horlogerie.
Why It Won
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Groundbreaking engineering
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Ultra-thin calibre 5133
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Titanium & platinum case
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A perfect storm of elegance and technical audacity
2. Vacheron Constantin Traditionnelle Twin Beat Perpetual Calendar
Winner: Innovation Prize – GPHG 2019
A technological marvel capable of switching from a 5 Hz high-precision rate to a slow-beat 1.2 Hz “standby mode,” extending power reserve to 65 days.
Why It Stood Out
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Two-frequency movement (never seen before)
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Exquisite Geneva-level finishing
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Intelligent energy-use approach
3. Bvlgari Octo Finissimo Chronograph GMT Automatic
Winner: Chronograph Watch Prize – GPHG 2019
Bvlgari dominated the 2010s with its ultra-thin innovations, and 2019 was no exception. This piece became the world’s thinnest automatic chronograph.
Highlights
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6.9mm thin
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Integrated GMT function
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Architectural titanium case
4. Audemars Piguet Royal Oak “Jumbo” Extra-Thin
Winner: Men’s Watch Prize – GPHG 2019
Not to be confused with the Perpetual Calendar winner, this “Jumbo” won for capturing pure horological proportion and finishing.
What Made It a 2019 Icon
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Legendary 39mm proportions
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Ultra-thin AP calibre 2121
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Hallmark “Petite Tapisserie” dial
5. Seiko Presage Arita Porcelain Dial SPB093
Winner: Challenge Watch Prize – GPHG 2019
A stunning, high-quality Japanese mechanical watch priced under $4,000, featuring fired Arita porcelain — rare at this price.
Why It Won
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Handcrafted porcelain dial
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Seiko’s strong 6R27 movement
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Impressive value in the luxury segment
6. Tudor Black Bay P01
Winner: “Best of 2019” – Multiple Global Publications. While polarizing, the Black Bay P01 dominated headlines in 2019. Based on a 1960s U.S. Navy prototype, it became one of the most important releases of the year.
Why It Was a 2019 Breakout
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Unique crown-locking bezel system
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1968 prototype revived
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High reliability MT5612 movement
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One of the most talked-about watches of the year
Great watches outlive their moment, and the champions of 2019 prove exactly that. These six models—each a triumph of craft, engineering, and unmistakable character—remain just as compelling today as when they first took center stage. Whether through radical innovation or quiet mastery, they shaped the trajectory of contemporary horology and still inspire the next generation of collectors and creators. As trends come and go, these timepieces endure as the rarest kind of luxury: design and technical brilliance that stand the test of time.
