Watchlist: blow the budget

Once the bad boy of posh watches, Bamford now does collaborations with lots of Switzerland’s finest, now including long-time Mille Miglia sponsor Chopard. With 42mm DLC-coated steel case and automatic movement. Limited to 33 pieces. 

bamfordwatchdepartment.com

Dating back to the Seventies, the Explorer II is the watch to go anywhere, do anything and still look fabulous. New version has updated 42mm Oyster case offering 100m water resistance. Automatic movement with 70-hour power reserve and arrow-shape 24-hour hand. 

rolex.com

Hublots are boldly styled and punchily priced. This version of the Big Bang helps fund rhino conservation in Africa, so it is all about putting something back. With 45mm ceramic case and automatic chronograph movement. Water resistant to 100m. 

hublot.com

Case and bezel milled from a super-tough proprietary polymer called Quartz TPT – think carbon fibre, but even pricier. As a rough guide, Richard Milles start at junior supercar money and go well into million pound territory. Skeletonised automatic movement. 

richardmille.com

Panerai has been around since 1860, but recently its fortunes have rocketed. Riffing on the diving heritage, a Panerai is easily recognisable and often large. At 47mm, this Brabus special edition has plenty of heft. Automatic movement with GMT function. Water resistant to 300m. 

panerai.com

This green number is one of the most lusted after watches to come out this year. Automatic movement with central chronograph hand and 60min counter. With 42mm white gold case, water resistant to 120m. With embossed khaki dial and matching composite strap. 

patek.com