Watches: six timepieces under £5000

Paris-based B&R paired up a while ago with the Renault F1 team and each year they make a limited edition. The Alpine F1 – BR03-92 A522 in B&R speak – is limited to 999 pieces. Automatic movement in 42mm matte black ceramic case. Water resistant to 100m.

bellross.com

This British brand is continuing to lead the revival of the British watch industry from its base in Henley. This watch is made in collaboration with American surf legend Laird Hamilton. Automatic movement with GMT function in 43mm steel case. Water resistant to 500m.

bremont.com

Founded by an American in Switzerland around 150 years ago and originally called the International Watch Company. Lewis Hamilton wears one – sometimes two. Automatic Spitfire has in-house movement with three-day power reserve and 39mm steel case.

iwc.com

Best known for pilots’ watches and the rescue team summoning Emergency, there is loads more to Breitling. For a combo of looks and quality, the Superocean is pretty hard to beat. Automatic movement in 44mm stainless steel case, water resistant to 300m.

breitling.com

The Autavia line was introduced in the Sixties to appeal to both drivers and pilots. Anniversary model has sunray brushed dial and 42mm polished
steel case with in-house automatic movement. Water resistant to 100m.

tagheuer.com

New model from the Swiss company with an automatic movement that ticks at 10 beats per second – most are six – increasing accuracy. Water resistant to 300m, 43mm steel case. Available on a steel bracelet, or leather strap that swaps out for this two-tone cloth strap.

longines.com