Watch hunters could spend an entire day browsing the marketplace for a timepiece on Madison Ave. But who really has the time to do that?
Between countless brand boutiques, unauthorised dealers, and multi-brand retail outlets, the best watch shop isn’t just around the corner and window shopping through each one is simply not an option. To save you time and energy, we’ve compiled the ten best watch shops in New York (NYC).
In this NYC Watches story…
Tourneau Time Machine
Whether you’re a horologist, clock collector, or first time buyer – everyone’s heard of Tourneau. Starting off as European watch sellers in 1900, the family immigrated to the US and opened up their first location in 1925.
Since then, Tourneau’s become America’s largest watch retailer with three locations in Manhattan alone. They showcase nearly 8,000 watch models from over one hundred high-end and everyday brands.
And although the service is quite awful, the selection of vintage, house, and limited edition timepieces are worth a look next time you’re in town.
12 E 57th St, New York, 10022
Cellini Jewelers
Besides curating fine mechanical timepieces, Cellini is known for their boutique in the distinguished Waldorf-Astoria Hotel. Although currently closed for renovation, the Madison Avenue shop (a few blocks over), is home to the same horological expertise. Here you’ll find collections from brands such as Maitres du Temps, de Bethune, and Greubel Forsey, as well as experimental brands like HYT. Owner Leon Adams is known to secure rare and limited edition pieces from around the world which adorn the wrist of those who shop at Cellini Jewelers.
509 Madison Ave, New York, 10022
Wempe
Wempe’s Fifth Avenue shop is a necessary stop on your New York shopping journey. After an eight million dollar renovation, this open space showroom boasts accessible display cases, elegant Verona granites and the chance to observe watchmaker’s crafting timepieces.
Not only does Wempe curate highly regarded brands – including Rolex, Patek Philippe, Officine Panerai and more – they carry gorgeous, house brand chronometers. Most notably, the exclusive stainless steel Wempe Zeitmeister found only at their Fifth Avenue location.
700 5th Ave, New York, 10019
Aaron Faber Gallery
The Aaron Faber Gallery is a vintage watch collector’s dream in the hunt for the best watch shops New York has. A shop where you’ll find everything from a Gubelin hanging wall clock and Cartier Desk Alarm, to a pristine, two-toned Rolex from the 30’s. Their boutique is one of the best watch shops in New York to discover rare, old-school model versions of today’s favourite watch brands. And offers beautiful timepieces horophiles will definitely want to add to their collection of clocks.
666 5th Ave, New York, 10103
Material Good
This lovely, second story flat in SoHo is one of the best watch shops in New York for their unforgettable buying experience. Adorned in luxury, Material Good resembles a cosy living space rather than a sales floor – decorated with a daybed, dining room table, custom foosball table and the likes. Discretely showcasing vintage designer watches from Audemars Piguet, Richard Mille, as well as fine gems and jewellery. Stop in. Enjoy a glass of champagne or cup of coffee. And shop when you’re ready in this beautiful, elegant space off Wooster Street.
120 Wooster Street, 2nd Floor, New York 10012
Madison Time
Take a step back in time with Patek Philippe in this remarkable museum/shop created by Michael Safdie. A collector for over 30 years, his horological anthology spans over a decade of prominent Philippe watches from the 20th century. In this watch shop in New York, you’ll find the world’s largest private Philippe collection available for purchase.
Appointment only (usually until 4 pm). Book by phone.
625 Madison Ave Suite 218A New York, 10022
Hour Passion
The Swatch Group concept store, Hour Passion, lies in the heart of Manhattan near Penn Station. An easy location for curious travellers who want to pop off the streets and browse a fair collection of mid-range watches.
It’s the perfect shop for those looking to purchase their first timepiece, or simply don’t want to break the bank. Offering handsome, yet affordable wristwatches from brands such as Tissot, RADO, Longines, Hamilton and more.
112 W 34th St, New York, 10120
Jacob & Co
Jacob & Co. was the spot for diamond hungry, music industry celebs who wanted high-end jewellery in the 90’s. Artists like Biggie, P. Diddy, and Nas all frequented Jacob & Co. as the brand rose into the luxury watch making industry.
In this immaculate, “mine-inspired” watch shop, you’ll discover an untapped reservoir of horological art and mechanical expertise. Unique, renowned timepieces such as Jacob The Jeweler’s signature five-time-zone watches and the Astronomia Tourbillon, price at over $1M USD with diamonds.
48 E 57th St, New York, 10022
Element iN Time
Arguably one of the best watch shops in Manhattan, Element iN Time is known for their down-to-earth, knowledgeable owners Gary and Alex, and of course – a massive selection of unworn and pre-owned timepieces.
Since the 80’s, New Yorkers find themselves in this diamond district watch shop for high-end pieces from popular brands like Rolex, as well as rarities from brands like Panerai. Outside the shop, EiT runs a seriously cool blog covering unique models, interviews, and thoughtful insights about your favourite brands.
36 W 47th St, #301, New York, 10036