A good watch is about more than just telling time. It is a personal accessory which reflects your personal style and character. Wearing the right watch with the right outfit at the right time and place can manifest your tastes in a manner that will make you not only stand out from others, but stand above them. Below is our pick for the top 5 luxury watch brands for 2016.

Audemars Piguet

Audemars Piguet watches are considered by most enthusiasts and industry analysts alike to be ultra-luxury time pieces. First established by Jules-Louis Audemars in 1875, the company produces no more than 36,000 watches per year. The company’s official website doesn’t bother to list prices for these watches, as they are geared towards people for who price is no issue. The company’s line of thinking seems to be that, whoever has to ask how much doesn’t have enough. The brand is also noted for being the first to introduce steel sports watches, and their movements are used by brands such as Bulgari and Tiffany.

Vacheron Constantin

This particular watchmaker is one of the oldest in Switzerland. First established in 1755, Vacheron Constantin watches are known for their precision, styling and shapes, and were worn by the likes of Pope Pius IX, Napoleon Bonaparte and American President Harry S. Truman.

Blancpain

This is another vintage watchmaker that was first established in 1735. Blancpain is today a Swatch Group subsidiary and has gone through many transformations over the last 150 years. Virtually all these changes have been positive, which is a testament to this watchmaker’s longevity. Blancpain timepieces are cherished for their durability, modern production value and minimalistic design.

Patek Philippe

First established in 1851, Patek Philippe & Co is a Swiss brand perhaps best known for producing watches which have mechanics which are incredibly intricate. The styling used in these timepieces is traditional, and historically they have been the watches preferred by royalty. Patek Philippe is notable for their classical design while still maintaining an identity which makes them unique from other timepieces. The company has also been praised for its marketing campaigns.

IWC Schaffhausen

IWC Schaffhausen was first established in 1868 and throughout its long history has consistently focused on one thing: designing premium watches. The company is superb in this regard and has become known for their cutting edge precision and engineering, distinct styling, and the high quality materials used in the design of their watches. One factor which makes IWC Schaffhausen distinct from its counterparts is its emphasis on manufacturing superior timepieces in a manner that is friendly towards the environment, and the company is known for its support of various environmental projects worldwide.

Choosing a luxury timepiece is no easy task. There are many brands, styles, colors and materials to choose from, and a watch which is appropriate for one occasion or event might be completely inappropriate for another. As you can see, knowing which watch to choose and when and how to wear it is more of an art than a science. However, with these top watch brands, you will find yourself hard to go wrong!