Top 5 Must-See Watches Released in January 2026
Welcome back to another Friday round-up! This week marks the launch of an exciting new series where we’ll keep you updated on the top watch releases throughout 2026. Every month, we’ll showcase our five favorite watches, and as we kick off February, let’s dive into the highlights from January 2026. Contrary to the common belief that the watch world moves slowly at the beginning of the year, January has proven to be packed with remarkable releases. Let’s take a look at the standout pieces from this month!
January Highlights in the Watch World
We’ve already witnessed an incredible array of new releases this January. The year opened with the LVMH Watch Week, followed by Audemars Piguet’s Social Club event. It’s clear that the watch industry is already operating at full tilt, making it challenging to keep track of all the new timepieces hitting the market. To help you navigate this exciting landscape, we’ve curated a list of the month’s five standout releases, featuring a mix of surprises and expected highlights. Join us as we explore these remarkable watches.
1. Omega Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch “Reverse Panda”
First up, we have the eye-catching Omega Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch “Reverse Panda.” While it might not be every enthusiast’s first pick for a Moonwatch, this new model certainly had watch lovers buzzing. We were fortunate to review both the stainless steel and Moonshine Gold versions, and seeing them in person is a must to truly appreciate their appeal. Though they share a visual resemblance to the 2017 Speedy Tuesday limited edition, as Robert-Jan pointed out, the new models stand out with their glossy dials and distinctive features. Check out the full review here!
At the heart of this 42mm model lies a striking black dial with glossy white sub-dials. Featuring an impressive 20 layers of lacquer, each detail of the dial contributes to its rich depth and clarity. Completing the look is a black ceramic bezel with a tachymeter scale, accompanied by the supremely comfortable “Nixon” bracelet.
2. Atelier Wen Millésime Perception Xuán
Next on our list is the Atelier Wen Millésime Perception Xuán — a refreshing departure from traditional designs. This modern sports watch stands out with its unique pietersite dial, which varies dramatically in color and pattern due to its organic origins. Each dial is distinct, showcasing a stunning blend of blues and browns, making it a piece of wearable art. As Mike shared, the dial’s base is crafted from chalcedony, mined in China for its beauty and rarity.
Protected by a double-domed sapphire crystal, the 40mm stainless steel case of the Millésime Perception Xuán is both durable and stylish. It’s powered by a reliable self-winding movement, making it a fantastic companion for any watch enthusiast. You can pre-order this remarkable timepiece for €3,100 (excluding taxes).
3. Louis Vuitton Escale Minute Repeater
Presented during the LVMH Watch Week, the Louis Vuitton Escale Minute Repeater left a lasting impression. This exquisite timepiece features a 40mm pink gold case with a stunning guilloché dial. As mentioned by Lex, the intricate assembly of this watch takes over four weeks, underscoring the craftsmanship involved.
Equipped with a 432-part caliber, this jump-hour watch offers a retrograde minute track and a handcrafted dial that pays homage to Louis Vuitton’s iconic designs. Every detail, from the minute track to the decorative elements, highlights the brand’s commitment to excellence.
4. Toledano & Chan B/1.3r
Making waves this month is the Toledano & Chan B/1.3r, a lightweight titanium version of the original model. Phil Toledano and Alfred Chan have elevated the design with a striking 18K yellow gold ripple dial that contrasts beautifully with the brushed titanium case. This combination results in a visually stunning watch that is also incredibly comfortable to wear.
With its unique asymmetrical design and captivating sapphire crystal, the B/1.3r is a testament to avant-garde watchmaking. Inside, the reliable Sellita SW100 movement ensures precision and reliability, making this piece an intriguing addition to any collection.
5. Tiffany & Co. Tiffany Timer
Last but certainly not least is the surprising Tiffany & Co. Tiffany Timer. Celebrating the brand’s first chronograph from 1866, this luxurious piece features a 40mm platinum case adorned with a Tiffany Blue lacquer dial and baguette diamond hour markers. The depth and detail of the dial are exceptional, with multiple layers of lacquer meticulously applied over approximately 50 hours.
Powered by a customized Zenith El Primero caliber 400, the Tiffany Timer is not just about aesthetics. Each watch reflects Tiffany’s heritage, with a limited run of only 60 pieces making it a true collector’s item. It’s no wonder this watch caught everyone’s attention at the recent LVMH Watch Week.
Conclusion: What Did January 2026 Teach Us?
These five watches kicked off the year with style and sophistication, reminding us that the watch industry is far from slow at the start of a new year. What have been your favorite releases from January 2026? Share your thoughts in the comments, and join us next week for another round-up of the latest and greatest in the world of horology!