Top Sports Watches to Buy in 2025

When it comes to staying active and stylish, a great sports watch is what you need. Sports watches, especially ‘luxury’ sports watches, have become one of the most in-demand and talked-about categories of timepieces in recent years, with nearly all luxury watch brands producing a model or collection that could be grouped in the genre of sports watches.

So, no doubt, there are some incredible models to choose from However, the idea of a ‘sports’ watch is more nuanced than it might seem.

Let's interpret its meaning correctly before we round up the year's top luxury sports watch suggestions.

Defining ‘Sports’ watches

What is a sports watch, really? On the one hand, it is an umbrella term that houses sub-categories like dive watches, pilots' watches, and racing watches, and on the other hand, it simply comes down to a watch with a rugged profile and sporty edge that can be worn daily.

Most collectors will agree that a sports watch is typically robust and has decent water resistance. While some sports watches have a simple and straightforward design, some are equipped with complications and additional features. Brands typically design sports watches with a specific purpose in mind.

A sports watch is a little more casual than a dress watch yet offers enough elegance to be worn with a suit. They are possibly the ‘go anywhere, do anything’ kind of piece. If you would wear only one watch for the rest of your life, a luxury sports watch would be your ideal choice.

Types of Luxury Sports Watches 

• Classic Sports Watches

Classic sports watches typically don’t include additional features and complications to perform any intended task, but they are created to be worn during different athletic activities. The classic sports watch category can take many forms depending on the watchmaker.

• Racing Chronographs

Another popular sports watch type is the Racing chronograph, featuring movements with chronograph complications that allow them to measure the elapsed time. Racing chronographs typically feature two or three sub-dials on the dial along with two pushers on the case side for operating the chronograph. Many chronographs also include a tachymeter scale on the bezel or dial to help the wearer measure distance or average speed.

• Dive Watches

Dive watches are among the most popular types of sports watches, even though very few people consider wearing a luxury sports watch while scuba diving. High water resistance is an absolute feature of dive watches, and the majority of them have rotating bezels and a highly legible dial for reading time and tracking immersion times and decompression stops.

• Regatta Timers

Regatta timers are aimed at the world of sailing, specifically at competition. Unlike racing chronographs, which measure count upwards and the elapsed time, regatta timers enable sailors to track the official countdown leading up to the start of a race.

• Pilot watches

Whether or not a pilot’s watch can be categorised under the ‘sports watch’ category is up for debate. Generally, a pilot’s watch is characterised by a large and highly legible display and often includes a secondary time zone, a slide-rule bezel and a chronograph for added utility. 

• Exploration Watches

As the name suggests, exploration watches are durable and built to withstand harsh conditions during exploration. Adventure-seeking professionals who love to explore often use exploration watches for navigation and communication. The watches withstand shocks, extreme environments and impacts and are highly water-resistant. In short, they are the best luxury watches for your next adventure.

Reasons why luxury sports watches are so popular

Luxury sports watches offer the ultimate in style, strength, accuracy, and design, making them all the more popular. With the kind of variation and mechanical finesse the luxury watchmakers incorporate in pieces, one thing is for sure: luxury sports watches are designed with more than sports in mind. Their unique appeal makes people wear them at all times of the day and for any occasion.

1. Elevate your style

The fine craftsmanship and classic aesthetic of luxury sports watches can immediately transform your regular outfit, adding a touch of prestige and exclusivity. Additionally, they’re extremely versatile, so you can wear them with casual and formal outfits and never feel out of place.

2. Premium functionality

The one thing that immediately distinguishes a luxury sports watch from a regular one is its advanced functionality. Manufacturers are always looking for ways to enhance their designs and integrate state-of-the-art features to make the watches even more appealing, functionally and aesthetically. Such a high level of craftsmanship guarantees precision and helps the watches stand the test of time.

3. Investment potential

Besides practicality and adding a touch of elegance to your wardrobe, buying a luxury sports watch is a fantastic investment. Sports watches from iconic brands like Rolex, Patek Philippe and others are made with premium materials and hold a lot of prestige. Collectors and enthusiasts highly covet these timepieces because they can hold value and even appreciate over time. So, you can always expect to fetch a handsome return as you plan to sell your watch.

Popular Luxury Sports Watches In 2025

Investing in a luxury sports watch goes beyond a stylish accessory. It is about embracing a legacy of craftsmanship, durability and accuracy. Each sports watch model brings unique features tailored to suit different lifestyles.

However, exploring the world of luxury sports watches, from aviation to diving and motorsports, can often be overwhelming due to the plethora of options available on the market.

If you’re buying a new one, it’d be good to know the best new models on offer, right? So, here’s a list of the top sports watch models from renowned watch brands we recommend adding to your collection.

1. Rolex Cosmograph Daytona, Ref. 126500LN 

Undoubtedly, the Rolex Daytona is the most famous racing chronograph in the world. The history of the Rolex Cosmograph Daytona is filled with numerous achievements and feats underlying its iconic status and desirability today. 

Launched in 1963 as a tribute to the Daytona Speedway in Florida, the Daytona entices collectors around the globe with its unique design, featuring three registers on the dial, an external tachymeter bezel and two pushers on the case side. 

The design of the Rolex Daytona 126500LN is simply unmistakable. The watch sits in a comfortable 40mm stainless steel case with a black Cerachrom bezel featuring a tachymetric scale. The white lacquered dial has three black registers for added contrast and is worn on the robust stainless steel oyster bracelet for exceptional comfort. Sleek, modern and luxurious - the Daytona 126500LN is definitely one of the best buys.

Model	Case	Bezel	Dial	Bracelet	Crystal	Movement	RRP
Daytona 126500LN	40mm, Stainless Steel	Black monobloc Cerachrom bezel with tachymetric scale	White	Stainless Steel, Oyster	Sapphire	Calibre 4131, Automatic	£13,600

2. Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional, Ref. 310.30.42.50.01.001

Another very famous sports watch is the Omega Moonwatch. What is special about the Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch? Omega released the Speedmaster in 1957, and the Speedmaster Moonwatch was the first watch to be worn on the Moon in 1969!

Due to its historical association, many think of the Speedmaster Moonwatch as a watch for astronauts, but it was actually designed for automobile racing, hence the name ‘Speedmaster’. The Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch, like any other chronograph, features a set of pushers, a dial with registers, and an external bezel with a tachymetric scale.

The Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional 310.30.42.50.01.001 embraces the watch's cult status and is refined and upgraded in every aspect. The 42mm stainless steel case is thin and compact and surrounds an aluminium insert bezel with the famous dot over 90. This Moonwatch features hesalite glass on the front and an embossed Seahorse medallion on the case back. The step dial is black.

Model	Case	Bezel	Dial	Bracelet	Crystal	Movement	RRP
Speedmaster Moonwatch Professional 310.30.42.50.01.001	42mm, Stainless Steel	Bezel with Anodised Aluminium Bezel Ring	Black	Stainless Steel	Hesalite	Omega 3861, Manual-Winding	£6600

3. Breitling Avenger Ref. A17328101C1X1

The Breitling Avenger is the perfect pilot watch, first launched in 2001. Bold, robust, aesthetic, and great performing, it nurtures all the qualities of a striking luxury sports watch!

Breitling designed the Avenger watches to meet the demands of the most physical challenges. They are waterproof to 300 metres, and certain models, like the Avenger II Seawolf, offer water resistance of up to 3000 meters. The Avenger is the ultimate companion for life’s adventures.

At 42mm, the Breitling Avenger Ref. A17328101C1X1 has a dramatic wrist presence, keeping with its character as a pilot’s watch. The prominent unidirectional rotating ratcheted bezel helps withstand the stresses in the cockpit and is equipped with screws around the circumference for a strong industrial aesthetic. The blue dial is less cluttered with the triangular marker at 12 o’clock and bar indexes with lumed strips in the centre. Lastly, it is styled on the military-style blue calfskin leather strap to maintain a rugged sports watch design.

Model	Case	Bezel	Dial	Bracelet	Crystal	Movement	RRP
Breitling Avenger Ref. A17328101C1X1	42mm, Stainless Steel	Stainless Steel, Unidirectional Ratcheted	Blue	Calfskin Leather Strap	Sapphire	Breitling 17, Automatic	£3550

4. Tag Heuer Carrera Skipper, Ref. CBS2213.FN6002

Tag Heuer has long been associated with motorsports, and the Carrera Skipper has been part of its catalogue for over 57 years now. In 2023, Tag Heuer surprised the watch world with the rebirth of one of its iconic watches—the Skipper in a brand new package.

The Skipper was designed to commemorate the Intrepid Yacht's victory at the America’s Cup in 1967 and the yacht's vibrant colours inspired its design. The modern version draws inspiration from the original design as well. It is the ultimate blend of form and function.

This new brightly coloured Carrera Skipper CBS2213.FN6002 is an instantly recognisable regatta chronograph. The 39mm stainless steel case has a slightly larger feel on the wrist, and the bezel-free, high-dome sapphire crystal makes it feel like a Carrera. The dial is its real visual centrepiece, sporting a striking blend of orange, teal, blue, and green, and reinterprets the two sub-dial layouts of the Heuer Skipper. This Tag Heuer is paired with an attractive yet sturdy deployment strap in deep navy blue to complete the design.

Model	Case	Bezel	Dial	Bracelet	Crystal	Movement	RRP
Carrera Skipper CBS2213.FN6002	39mm, Stainless Steel	No Bezel	Blue	Navy Blue Fabric Strap	Sapphire	Calibre TH20-06, Automatic	£6350

5. Patek Philippe Nautilus, Ref. 7118/1A

In 1976, Patek Philippe entered the competition for the perfect luxury sports watch with the iconic Nautilus, inspired by a sea-faring novel. The watch's unique porthole design, fixed bezel, and embossed dial made it the ultimate sports watch. Apart from this, there are various interesting things to know about the Patek Philippe Nautilus, including the fact that it is one of the rare Patek Philippe watches to collect.

Since then, the Patek Philippe Nautilus has remained one of the brand's most quintessential timepieces, coveted by collectors and enthusiasts worldwide. While the Nautilus has been designed in various precious materials over the years, stainless steel is arguably considered the most desirable. It is one of the most recognised sports watches available, boasting remarkable resale value.

Patek Philippe designed the Nautilus 7118/1A with sophistication and versatility in mind. Made of stainless steel, it has a blue opaline dial with gold-applied hour markers and a small date window at 6 o’clock. Ideal for women who value both style and functionality, the prestigious Nautilus has epitomised the elegant sports watch category for ages, and this model is yet another brilliant addition to the troupe.

Model	Case	Bezel	Dial	Bracelet	Crystal	Movement	RRP
Nautilus 7118/1A	35.2mm, Stainless Steel	Stainless Steel	Blue Opaline	Stainless Steel	Sapphire	Calibre 26 330 S C, Automatic	£27,860

6. Audemars Piguet Royal Oak, Ref. 26240ST.OO.1320ST.08

Audemars Piguet is famed for launching the entire luxury steel sports watch segment with the release of the iconic Royal Oak in 1972. Regarded as the first purpose-built luxury sports watch, the Royal Oak’s design was outlandish for the era.

The Gerald Genta design featured a durable and desirable stainless steel case with screws around the fixed, oversized bezel and a crown resembling a metal hut. The Royal Oak became an overnight hit, and enthusiasts treasure the model for its perfect balance of functionality and sophisticated style. It is one of the best Audemars Piguet watches for avid watch collectors.

The AP Royal Oak 26240ST.OO.1320ST.08 is a highly regarded luxury chronograph, praised particularly for its green sunburst dial, integrated steel bracelet and the overall craftsmanship associated with the brand. This specific reference is often considered part of Royal Oak’s 50th anniversary collection, featuring elements that celebrate this iconic model’s legacy. The Royal Oak is one of the world's most sought-after luxury sports watches, and this reference is no exception.

Model	Case	Bezel	Dial	Bracelet	Crystal	Movement	RRP
Royal Oak 26240ST.OO.1320ST.08	41mm, Stainless Steel	Stainless Steel	Khaki ‘Grande Tapisserie’	Stainless Steel	Sapphire	Calibre 4401, Automatic	£33,500

7. Tudor Black Bay 54, Ref. M79000N-0001

Does the Tudor Black Bay 54 need any introduction at this point? The Black Bay 54 is the best sports watch candidate from the brand, with a vintage appeal. A Rolex Submariner vs. Tudor Heritage Black Bay comparison is often going on because both combine design and functionality. Intended as a modern take on Tudor’s first dive watch in 1954, the Black Bay 54 is surely a trip down memory lane.

The Black Bay 54 M79000N-0001 remains a typical Tudor with modern features and vintage style. The steel case of the watch is 37mm in size, which is very compact. However, its smaller size doesn’t lower the water resistance; it retains 200-metre water resistance. Hence, Tudor shows that designing thin yet capable dive watches is possible.

The bezel has a new lateral design, and the dial is domed as always. However, the dial now showcases a refined sunray-brushed texture, with applied numerals, hands in rose gold and the printings and the track in a warm, vintage gilt style. It feels like this BB54 is just for everywhere.

Model	Case	Bezel	Dial	Bracelet	Crystal	Movement	RRP
Black Bay 54, M79000N-0001	37mm, Stainless Steel	60-minute unidirectional in stainless steel with aluminium insert	Black, Domed	Stainless Steel	Sapphire	Calibre MT5400, Automatic	£3450

Tips for selecting the right luxury sports watch

Buying a luxury sports watch is an important decision, and for that reason, it’s important to consider the following tips to ensure you find the right one.

• Understand your needs

Before anything else, it’s important to consider your needs and lifestyle. The sports watch may vary depending on whether you are a swimmer, pilot, runner, cyclist, or just someone who wants to elevate their style and collection. Therefore, assessing your personal lifestyle and needs will help you set the right priorities that align with the watch.

• Consider style & comfort

Comfort and style should never be compromised. A luxury sports watch is meant to be worn every day and, hence, should be well-fitted and comfortable. It may be advisable to choose options with interchangeable bands so you can wear your piece with different outfits without compromising on style. Similarly, consider the aesthetics to elevate your wardrobe.

• Set your budget

Set your budget. The prices of sports watches from luxury watch brands can vary significantly, depending on the model, features, complications, and the brand’s reputation. By setting a budget, you can narrow your search and find the best possible options within that range, and you can also restrain yourself from going over the budget.

To End With..

In today’s watch market, luxury sports watches are taking centre stage because they offer the practicality to go anywhere while offering enough versatility to be worn with almost any outfit. Among the many special occasion luxury watches you’ll ever need, the sports watch definitely has its place secured. Therefore, it’s not hard to see why their demand is increasing.

Each model noted above has unique features, so it’s important to consider your needs and style to ensure it complements your daily activities and personal taste.

Due to the rising demand and limited availability of these popular luxury sports watches, you can also consider checking the pre-owned market. This segment delights collectors with its wide assortment and accessible price, ensuring there is a sports watch for every budget, taste, and activity.