Complication watches are those that have additional functions, such as the ability to display another time zone or track the phases of the moon. Because they often cost $30,000 or more, we’ve gathered examples that deliver impressive multi-functionality at a much more attainable price.
Over the Moon
Longines Master Collection L2.909.4.78.6Founded in Saint-Imier, Switzerland in 1832, Longines has since established a well-deserved reputation for quality and innovation, as seen in this elegant complication. A moon phase display is located at the 6 o’clock position, tracking the orb’s movement across the sky, while an outer dial displays the date. The silver “barleycorn” style dial provides an excellent accent to the blued-steel hour, minute, and second hands, as well as to the stainless-steel 40mm case that protects the mechanical movement.
Cleared for Takeoff
Hamilton Khaki Pilot Auto Chrono
Established in 1892 to make watches used to synchronize U.S. train services, in 1918 Hamilton was tasked with providing timepieces to keep the brand-new U.S. Airmail service on time. The firm’s latest chronograph has features found on high-end models costing 10 times as much, such as a precision mechanical movement with a 60-hour power reserve residing within a handsome 42mm stainless-steel case, while monitoring elapsed hours, minutes, and seconds. This is an impressive traditional chronometer at a very reasonable price.
This interesting and very practical model celebrates Tissot’s 160 years of crafting sophisticated watches. It combines the ability to track multiple time zones with elegant styling that is equally at home in an office environment or a backyard barbeque. With the dial set to a specific time zone, such as Cairo or New York City, other zones can be easily monitored as well, making this COSC-certified chronometer a handy tool for those who frequently make calls to various time zones.
Another Way to Look at Time
MeisterSinger VintagoThis timepiece is a great choice for those who seek an unusual way to keep track of time and appreciate a vintage appearance. Rather than the traditional arrangement of a separate hour and minute hand, there is just one elongated black hand to clearly indicate the time as it sweeps around a dial that resembles old parchment, and is accented with clearly-legible, very functional hour and minute marks. A vertical window at the 3 o’clock position utilizes a small dot to display the day of the month.
This sleek timepiece is an ideal choice for business or formal wear, with features that are as appealing as its classic design. The 42 mm rose gold-plated, water-resistant case houses a movement that in addition to the current time on the primary dial, displays the date and counts down 100 seconds at a time on the subdial inset at the 6 o’clock position. A traditional calf leather strap keeps it securely in place. Run time is approximately 25 months between battery replacements.
