The Dazzling New Watches of 2026
Colored ceramics and reimagined classics lead this year's design trends in high-end horology.
Top, from left: Rolex, IWC, Omega, Richard Mille, Alpina, Patek Philippe. Bottom, from left: Vacheron Constantin, Cartier, Audemars Piguet, Greubel Forsey, Oris, Panerai.
Source: CompaniesWith the biggest annual trade shows for the industry in the rearview mirror, it’s time to take stock of what’s turning into a truly interesting year for timepieces. Whether it’s trendy complications (elements of the watch that do more than tell hours, minutes and seconds), feats of engineering or just a pretty face, here are 12 watches offering fresh delights.
We’re living in a golden age of art-deco-inspired jumping-hour complications, where changing hour numerals snap instantaneously into place. Despite the style’s ubiquity, Audemars Piguet created one of 2026’s most distinctive watches with the Neo Frame. Rose-gold pillars that bend toward a basic black strap flank a rectangular sapphire crystal with a black vapor-deposited coating. At top, a simple square aperture shows the hour; below, an arched window displays the minutes. $71,000