The 30 Best White Gold Watches at European Watch Company

There’s just something special about a gold watch. Traditionally a symbol of success (think the classic yellow gold Rolex President!), they have been popular with collectors for generations. That being said, some collectors prefer a piece that is a little more understated, one that can fly under the radar. While it’s tough to go unnoticed with a yellow gold or rose gold watch on your wrist, white gold timepieces offer the perfect combination of class and restraint. For those of you looking for your next white gold watch, here’s a list of the 30 best options that have come through European Watch Company’s doors.

Dress Watches

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Greubel Forsey GF02 Double Tourbillon

Greubel Forsey is best known for making some of the most expensive, complicated watches available on the market today. In addition, they also have a very specific design language that visually differentiates their pieces from the crowd. Known for large watches with multiple complications, some might think of their dials as “busy”, but it is hard not to appreciate the technical innovation and engineering that goes into each timepiece. The GF02 Double Tourbillon is no exception. Greubel’s goal with the piece was to create a tourbillon that wasn’t just an expensive showy toy and that actually affected the accuracy of the movement. To do this, Greubel placed a tourbillon at 30 degrees within a second flat tourbillon. This ensures that the escapement is moving in a three dimensional path rather than a 2D one. From a timekeeping standpoint, this provides a mechanical advantage for chronometric performance. Additionally, the two tourbillons move at different rates with the outer cage rotating once every four minutes and the inner making a single revolution every minute. The GF02 Double Tourbillon is a true marvel of engineering.

Patek Philippe World Time Ref. 5231G

The Patek Philippe World Time Ref. 5231P is a stunning piece of engineering and artistry. The watch features a white gold case and a hand painted cloisonné enamel dial depicting different parts of the globe. Only a few examples of this world timer are produced each year because the enameling process is so laborious and each piece is unique. The 5231 is a sleeper reference in the Patek catalog. 

Patek Philippe Ref. 5204G

As far as grand complications go, the Patek Philippe 5204G-001 might be one of the most practical. Featuring a split-second chronograph and perpetual calendar, the watch is powered by the manually wound Caliber CHR 29‑535 PS Q movement. While the dial layout is very traditionally Patek, the olive green sunburst dial makes it a little more modern. And at 40mm in diameter, it is incredibly wearable compared to some of Patek’s other high complications.

Patek Philippe Ref. 5078G-010

While the Patek Philippe 5078G-010 doesn’t look like it has much going on mechanically upon first glance, you’d be sorely mistaken! The time-only dial hides the watch’s true attraction, the 342-component caliber R 27 PS movement with minute repeater complication. To match the seriousness of the complication, the dial has been dressed up quite a bit in stunning black enamel decorated with scrolls and arabesques. A truly unique piece that perfectly matches artistry with engineering.

MB&F Legacy Machine Perpetual Ref. 03.WL.B

MB&F has a reputation for mixing advanced watchmaking techniques with pure artistic design. Their watches, especially the “Horological Machine” line, are sculptures for the wrist. And while the Legacy Machine collection is a little more traditional in design, it still adheres to MB&F’s more daring aesthetic. Among the Legacy Machine collection, the Perpetual Ref. 03.WL.B is a true standout. The watch features a fully skeletonized dial, with a time display subdial at 12 o’clock and day, month and date subdials at 3, 6, and 9 o’clock, respectively. Over all of this sits MB&F’s signature flying balance wheel. The MB&F Legacy Machine Perpetual is a sight to behold on the wrist.

A. Lange & Sohne Richard Lange Perpetual Calendar Terraluna Ref. 180.026

The Richard Lange Perpetual Calendar Terraluna is a big watch, clocking in at a beefy 45.5mm. The watch takes full advantage of its size though, and packs a lot into its white gold case. The watch features a regulator display for the time, a format that actually originated in Lange’s hometown of Glashutte in the 19th Century. Additionally, it might be easily missed, but the watch also features a perpetual calendar. While the iconic Lange big date is right where you’d expect it, you’ll also discover the day of the week and month displayed in matching apertures lower in the dial. The backside of the Terraluna is just as impressive as the front, featuring not only a moon phase indicator but an earth and sky that also rotate. This is the rare piece that allows you to check the current alignment of the earth, moon, and sun whenever you need to know!

​​Breguet Tradition GMT Manual Wind Ref. 7067BB

Breguet is one of the oldest and most storied watch brands in the industry. Founded in 1775 by Abraham-Louis Breguet, the company has a long history of innovation including the invention of the tourbillon in 1801, the world’s first self-winding watch in 1780, and the world’s first wristwatch in 1810. Even recently, Breguet has maintained this spirit of innovation, having been the first brand to create a silicon balance spring and escapement. The Tradition GMT 7067BB (which makes use of this silicon escapement) is a watch that perfectly blends old and new. The 7067 has a very modern skeletonized dial with the main time displayed in a small, traditionally decorated subdial at 12. Paired with a nice alligator strap, if you are looking for something that blends history and innovation, the Breguet Tradition GMT ref. 7067BB is a great option.

Vacheron Constantin Traditionnelle Complete Calendar Openface Ref. 4020T/000G-B655

The Vacheron Constantin Traditionnelle Complete Calendar Openface is truly a sight to behold. The majority of the dial is openworked, showcasing the brand’s Calibre 2460 QCL/2 movement, that features both triple calendar and moon phase complications. While it is also offered in pink gold, we prefer this white gold variant thanks to the subtleness of the case paired with the boldness of the skeletonized dial. The Traditionnelle Complete Calendar is perfect for someone looking for a piece from the Holy Trinity that is just a little out of the ordinary.

Kari Voutilainen Vingt-8

Kari Voutilainen is a small, independent watchmaker whose reputation has grown dramatically over the past several years. When we say KV is small, we mean very small. Voutilainen produced just 60 watches in 2022. That level of production means special attention is paid to every single detail of each and every incredibly limited piece. One such example is the piece unique (one-of-one) Vingt-8 with a beautiful salmon dial color. While the watch isn’t overly complicated (it only shows the time and subsidiary seconds), the stunning salmon dial is the true star of the show. Several different styles of guilloche finishing are used including hobnail guilloché, a rosette pattern that radiates out from the center of the dial, and a checkerboard pattern in the center of the running seconds register. This rare beast is truly a sight to behold. 

Cartier Privée Collection Paris Tortue Monopoussoir Ref. 2396

Cartier may be best known for their design as opposed to their engineering, but that doesn’t mean that the brand is incapable of producing stylish pieces with worthy complications. Case in point: the  CPCP Tortue Monopoussoir (or monopusher) chronograph. This monopusher allows all functions of the chronograph to be controlled from a single “mono” pusher, a feat that is not easy to achieve. Further, the Tortue Monopoussoir Chronograph’s movement was developed by three of the most eminent watchmakers alive today, F.P. Journe, Vianney Halter, and Denis Flageollet. Don’t discount Cartier when looking for a watch with serious watchmaking chops!

Sport/Tool Watches

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Patek Philippe Nautilus 5811/1G

After Patek Philippe stunned the watch industry and discontinued the stainless steel Nautilus 5711 in 2021, there was a lot of conjecture as to what would come next. There was speculation by “people in the know” of a titanium Nautilus with no date window, however what actually came next ended up being a lot more traditional. The 5811, the natural successor to the 5711, looks almost exactly the same as the previous model. There are just two main differences, one small and one large. The small difference is the case size. Instead of 40mm, Patek Philippe sized the 5811 up to 41mm. The other change is the move from stainless steel to precious metal. The 5811 is only offered in white gold case material so if you are looking for a new three handed Nautilus, it will have to be in gold (which is just fine with us!).

Patek Philippe Advanced Research Aquanaut Travel Time Ref. 5650G

Second only to the Nautilus, the Aquanaut is another incredibly popular Patek Philippe sport watch. Known for its unique grenade-like dial and rubber strap pattern (yes we know you can get it on a metal bracelet as well), the Aquanaut has risen in collectability since the steel Nautilus 5711 was discontinued. Even better, the Aquanaut is also offered in precious metal variations, including our favorite, the Advanced Research Aquanaut Travel Time Ref. 5650G. Featuring a partially skeletonized dial and a travel time complication, the Ref. 5650G is a great, sporty travel watch.

Richard Mille RM002 Tourbillon

Founded just a short time ago (in watch industry terms) in 2001, Richard Mille has grown to become one of the most innovative and respected luxury watchmakers in the world. And Richard Mille’s watches were just as impressive in the brand’s early days as they are today. Case in point: the RM002 Tourbillon. Released in 2002, just a year after the brand’s founding, the model features RM’s signature tonneau case in white gold and a manual winding tourbillon movement. Indeed, Richard Mille has executed high level luxury watches with impressive technical achievements since the very beginning.

Richard Mille RM67-01 Extra Flat

The one criticism we often see of Richard Mille timepieces is that they are too large. The tonneau case shape, like square and rectangle cases, tends to wear a lot bigger than its diameter would suggest. One way Richard Mille has managed to size down some of their watches and make them more wearable is by making the case thinner. The RM67-01 “Extra Flat” is a great example of this. By utilizing the 3.6mm thick Calibre CRMA6 automatic movement, Richard Mille was able to produce a watch just 7.75mm thick. This results in an RM that is wearable by those of us with smaller wrists.

Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Chronograph “Frosted Gold” Ref. 26239BC.GG.1224BC.02-2

Audemars Piguet is well aware of the Royal Oak’s icon status and yet they are still willing to push the envelope in terms of design within the collection. From the brand new “Cactus Jack” collaboration with Travis Scott to the more “out-there” Marvel Edition Royal Oaks, AP is willing to take chances. One of the more unique variations of the Royal Oak we’ve seen released in recent years is the 26239BC Royal Oak Chronograph in “frosted” white gold. The case and bracelet have a unique sparkle thanks to the “frosted” finish which is created by hand-hammering each case and bracelet during the manufacturing process. This also means that every piece is somewhat unique. If you are looking for a mix of traditional and avant-garde, the Royal Oak Chronograph in Frosted White Gold might be the perfect piece for you.

Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Ref. 5015-1540-52

The Blancpain Fifty Fathoms is best known for being the first modern dive watch, beating the Rolex Submariner to market by just a few months. Recently, we have seen increased attention on the model, as a new generation of collectors have been exposed to the watch through the brand’s affordable collaboration with Swatch. If you prefer the design and history of the classic Fifty Fathoms but want something a little more upscale, consider the Fifty Fathoms Ref. 5015-1540-52 in white gold. This 45mm watch features a blue dial and bezel (made of sapphire!) and is water resistant to 300 meters. Not that anyone really needs a white gold watch for diving, but when you’re looking to impress some fish, this is the watch to wear!

Vacheron Constantin Overseas Perpetual Calendar Ultra-Thin Ref. 4300V/120B-B945-1

If you are looking for a casual everyday sports watch that can easily double as an elegant dress watch, or even an uber-complicated mechanical instrument, the Vacheron Constantin Overseas Perpetual Calendar is the watch for you. The Overseas’ reputation has grown in stature over recent years, reaching Royal Oak and Nautilus-esque heights of collectability. One of of our favorite variants is the white gold perpetual calendar Ref. 4300V/120B-B945-1. If you are looking to create that “one watch collection” with something that is versatile yet elegant, we think that the the Overseas Perpetual Calendar is a great choice.

Rolex Daytona “Le Mans” Ref. 126529LN

Introduced earlier this year to commemorate the 100th running of The 24 Hours of Le Mans, the white gold Rolex Daytona Ref. 126529LN has become an instant classic. With a reverse panda dial configuration and Newman-style subdial indices, the vintage callbacks are strong on this stunning piece. Because so few of these have been seen in the metal, the Le Mans just might be the most sought after modern Daytona currently on the market. If you can manage to get your hands on one, we promise you won’t be disappointed.

Rolex GMT-Master II Meteorite Ref. 126719BLRO

If you like the classic “Pepsi” look but want something a little more elevated, check out the Rolex GMT-Master II Ref. 126719BLRO. The model features the iconic red and blue “Pepsi” bezel, however, instead of steel, the watch is cased in white gold and sports a stunning meteorite dial. In true Rolex style, the 126719BLRO is a beautiful blend of heritage and luxury.

Omega Seamaster Diver Skeleton 50th Anniversary Ref. 2932.80.00

The Omega Seamaster is one of the most popular dive watches ever produced with hundreds of variants made over the years. In addition to the cache that comes with being seen on James Bond’s wrist, the Seamaster Diver is also just a good looking watch. For those collectors who like the Seamaster aesthetic but want something a little bit different, the fully skeletonized white gold Ref. 2932.80.00 (introduced in 1998 in honor of the 50th anniversary of the model and made in a limited edition of 50 pieces) will satisfy. Each component of the openworked movement has been hand-engraved by master watchmaker Armin Strom, turning the piece into a true work of art. And while it is incredibly rare and luxurious, this is still a Seamaster with an impressive 300 meters of water resistance. 

Everyday Wear

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Laurent Ferrier Galet Traveler Ref. LF230.01

Like Richard Mille, Laurent Ferrier is a relatively new player in the watch industry. Founded in 2009, Mr. Ferrier earned his bona fides working at Patek Philippe for 4 decades, ending his career there as the brand’s creative director. While Ferrier only produces a few hundred watches a year, the attention to detail can be seen in each and every piece. The Galet Traveler seen here is a true testament to this. The focal point of this limited edition piece is the cloisonné enamel dial depicting a map of North America. The level of detail of the enameling is second to none, yet it somehow doesn’t make the dial any less legible. While many of Laurent Ferrier’s timepieces tend to be on the sportier side (Ferrier was a racecar driver after all!), the Galet Traveler showcases Ferrier’s Patek Philippe roots. White gold, enamel, and an interesting complication. What more could you ask for!?

Romain Gauthier Insight Micro-Rotor Ref. MON00360

Romain Gauthier, another small independent watchmaker, has been producing fine timepieces since its founding in1975. The Insight Micro-Rotor Ref. MON00360 is one of our favorite pieces from the brand. While the movement with its 80-hour power reserve, 22k gold micro-rotor, and relatively thin 6.8mm profile, are impressive enough, it’s the partially skeletonized dial that we really like. The micro-rotor can be seen dial side at 9 o’clock and a large escapement wheel is visible at 6. While the dial is openworked, the skeletonization is subdued, making the watch not appear too busy. A limited edition of just 10 pieces, it is pretty obvious why the Insight Micro-Rotor is one of our favorite white gold watches!

Patek Philippe Calatrava Pilot Travel Time Chronograph Ref. 5924G-010

Given Patek’s reputation for grand complications and dress watches, one might expect the Calatrava Pilot Travel Time Chronograph to be a more under the radar collection from the brand. Under the radar or not, though, there is a lot to like. The Ref. 5924G truly offers something unique. With many pilot’s watches coming in at 44mm-plus in diameter, the 42mm white gold case is very attractive. Additionally, the olive green dial is unique and really plays into the pilot/military theme of the watch. A white gold pilot’s watch from Patek Philippe might seem a little out of the ordinary, but it remains one of our favorite modern references from the storied manufacture.

Patek Philippe Calatrava Annual Calendar Travel Time Ref. 5326G-001

If a Patek Travel Time is not “enough watch” for you, perhaps you’ll like the Calatrava Ref. 5326G-001, which pairs Travel Time and Annual Calendar complications. Beyond the complications, the watch features a hobail patterned caseband and a unique granulated anthracite dial that, along with the applied indexes and vintage lume, reminds us of vintage field watches. If you are looking for something a little bit different from Patek Philippe, take a look at the Patek Philippe Ref. 5326G-001.

A. Lange & Söhne Zeitwerk Date Ref. 148.038

Released in 2019, the A. Lange & Söhne Zeitwerk Date Ref. 148.038 bridged the gap between the standard Zeitwerk and the more complicated Striking Time. The watch added a date display around the outside of the dial, but kept the Zeitwerk’s main attraction, digital jumping hour and minute displays. Instead of hands, the watch utilizes minute and hours discs that snap in unison to the next minute (or hour) exactly when the seconds hand strikes 60. Due to its unique time display and quintessential German design, these Zeitwerk models have quickly become favorites for collectors.

Rolex Perpetual 1908 Ref. 52509-0002

Watches & Wonders 2023 saw the Cellini, Rolex’s dress watch line, discontinued. But at the same time, Rolex introduced the new Perpetual 1908, the Cellini’s successor. Featuring a domed crystal, fluted bezel, and subsidiary seconds at 6 o’clock, the watch eschews modern design elements for a more vintage feel. That’s not to say the watch isn’t modern. The Perpetual 1908 features the brand new Caliber 7140 automatic movement, which is visible through a display caseback (something Rolex only started to do this past year). Additionally, we’d argue that the Perpetual 1908 is more wearable than the Cellini, having been slimmed down to 9.5mm thick (about 1.5mm thinner than the Cellini). If you are looking for a white gold watch to slip under the cuff, the Rolex Perpetual 1908 is a great option.

Rolex Day-Date President Ref. 228239

You can’t have a list of best white gold watches and not include the Rolex Day-Date. One of our favorites is the Ref. 228239 in white gold with distinctive olive green dial. Featuring a fluted bezel, Rolex’s famous (and extremely comfortable) president bracelet, and applied Roman numeral indexes, it doesn’t get more classic than this. To us, the white gold variant of the Day-Date is a little bit less formal than the rest. There’s something to be said for a classic yellow gold Day-Date (we see you Tony Soprano!), but white gold just doesn’t shout the same way that other metals do upon first glance. So if you want a versatile, everyday men’s watch with class, history, and serious cred, the Rolex Day-Date Ref. 228239 is the perfect choice.

Audemars Piguet Code 11.59 Ref. 15210.BC.OO.A321CR.01

When the Audemars Piguet Code 11.59 collection was first released in 2019, it was met with some serious skepticism from the watch community. As AP has expanded the collection, though, and as more and more collectors have seen the Code 11.59 in the metal, many have changed their tune. Given some of the model’s unique details, including the octagonal mid-case, double curved crystal, and lug profiles, the Code 11.59 is really a watch you need to see in person before forming an opinion. Although the white gold ref. 15210.BC looks like a traditional three-handed watch with a blue dial on first glance, it transforms into something exceptional when seen in person. The lugs are openworked and the octagonal mid-case is stepped, showcasing a level of detailing rarely seen on these areas of a watch. Because of this attention to detail, we would definitely recommend the Code 11.59 Ref. 15210 to anyone looking for a classic white gold watch.

Grand Seiko Snowflake Ref. SBGA361G

The biggest criticism of Grand Seiko among collectors is that they are “too perfect.” Call us crazy, but if that’s your biggest criticism of the brand, they must be doing something right! Among white gold Grand Seikos, the Snowflake Ref. SBGA361G is a favorite of ours. The watch features a clean white textured dial with power reserve indicator between 7 and 8 o’clock. Seiko’s Spring Drive movement, a unique automatic movement with one second a-day accuracy, powers the piece. Seiko claims that the Spring Drive is the only watch movement in the world that is powered by a main spring and has a regulator without an escapement. Clearly, Grand Seiko’s attention to detail, craftsmanship, and engineering rivals its Swiss competition, so don’t hesitate to pick up the Snowflake Ref. SBGA361G if the feeling strikes.

Urwerk 103.09

If you are looking for something way out of the ordinary, the Urwerk Ref. 103.09 (or really any Urkwerk) might be for you. Featuring a curved “Targa” case, the real star of this watch is the unique way the time is displayed. Time is shown using a revolving satellite complication with wandering hours and telescopic minutes. While not a traditional complication by any means, once you get the hang of it, the watch is actually incredibly simple and easy to read. If you have a taste for the avant-garde, check out the Urwerk 103.09.