13 Best Skeleton Watches You Can Buy

A skeleton watch is a type of watch that has a transparent or semi-transparent case back, which allows you to see the inner workings of the watch. Skeleton watches are typically more expensive than regular watches because they require more time and effort to create.

If you’re in the market for a skeleton watch, we’ve compiled a list of the 13 best skeleton watches you can buy. We will discuss the technical aspects of skeleton watches in detail, comparing and contrasting those in different price ranges from $940 to $7,600.

What are the best skeleton watches for under $2,000?

1. Mido Commander Gradient

Overview

The Mido Commander Gradient Swiss watch’s defining feature is its transparent dial, which makes the inner components visible. The gradient effect on the dial makes it appear more opaque near the edges.

You can even see the components of the Caliber 80 on both sides of the dial, thanks to its transparent case back.

Our favorite one is with the orange accents. This watch is also PVD Coated, which gives the watch a beautiful black look and increases the watch’s hardness. Orange Superluminova contrasts nicely with the black case.

Features

• Movement: Automatic Mido Caliber 80 (base ETA C07.611).
• 80 hours power reserve.
• Water resistance: 50 m.
• Case: 40 mm, Thickness: 10.8 mm, Lugs width: 21 mm.
• Material: Stainless steel with black PVD coating.
• Transparent case back.
• Superluminova (Indexes & Hands).
• Date.
• Gradient dial.

Price

$940.

Summary

Swiss-made and featuring an 80-hour power reserve, this skeleton watch is of great value. The transparent dial and case back also allow you to see the movement in full detail, making it a unique choice.

2. Hamilton Jazzmaster Skeleton

Overview

Hamilton Jazzmaster Skeleton is an entry-level Swiss-made watch with its roots in the U.S.A.

If you take a closer look through the cutaways, you’ll see the inner workings of this watch beautifully displayed. The mainspring here stores up an impressive amount of power reserve.

The Jazzmaster Skeleton watch comes in a refined, stainless steel case with a high-quality finish. It is available on either a calf leather strap or bracelet.

Features

• Movement: H-10-S (base ETA C07.611).
• 80 hours power reserve.
• Water resistance: 50 m.
• Case: 40 mm, Thickness: 11 mm, Lugs width: 20 mm.
• Material: Stainless steel case and bracelet.
• Transparent case back.
• Superluminova (Indexes & Hands).

Price

$1,295.

Summary

This skeleton watch features a transparent case back and cutaways on the dial that allow you to see the inner workings of the watch. It also has an impressive 80-hour power reserve.

3. Edox Delfin the Original Mecano Automatic

Overview

Delfin watches have been around for over half a century, with the first model released in 1961.

In 2020, Edox released a new Delfin Mecano collection with a contemporary look, featuring a skeletonized dial that exposes the Caliber 853 movement.

With double o-ring seals and a screw-down crown, this watch is greatly resistant to water damage for up to 200 m. This skeleton watch also features an open case back.

Interesting fact: Did you know that the Edox Mecano skeleton watch looks very similar to the Zenith Defy Classic, but it is much more affordable?

Features

• Movement: EDOX 853 (base SW200).
• 42 hours of power reserve.
• Water resistance: 200 m.
• Case: 43 mm, Thickness: 12.5 mm, Lugs width: 21 mm.
• Material: Stainless steel /PVD coating.
• Transparent case back.
• Luminescent hands and indices.

Price

$1,790.

Summary

The Edox Delfin the Original Mecano Automatic is a beautifully designed skeleton watch that is also affordably priced. It features a Swiss-made movement and 200 m of water resistance, making it a great option for any activity.

4. Hamilton Ventura Elvis80 Skeleton Auto

Overview

The Ventura watch made its debut in 1957 and has come a long way since then.

The new edition Hamilton Ventura Elvis80 skeleton watch has a polarizing design, with its skeletonized dial featuring a striking zigzag at the center to match its triangular case. This draws the eye to the automatic H-10-S movement underneath.

It is available in black and gold.

Interesting fact: The Ventura collection watch is featured in the movie Men in Black.

Features

• Movement: H-10-S (base ETA C07.611).
• 80 hours power reserve.
• Water resistance: 50 m.
• Case: 42.5 mm x 44.6 mm, Thickness: 10.8 mm, Lugs width: 21 mm.
• Material: Stainless steel.
• Transparent case back.
• Superluminova (Indexes & Hands).

Price

$1,795.

Summary

With a unique design, the Hamilton Ventura Elvis80 Skeleton Auto is a great choice for any watch enthusiast and especially if you are a fan of the movie Men in Black.

5. Tissot T-complication Squelette Mechanical

Overview

The Tissot T-complication Squelette skeleton watch was designed to give the wearer the best possible view of the movement. With the see-through case back, you can enjoy its movement to the fullest.

The blued skeletonized hands aid with time readability while not getting in the way of the movement.

The movement is beautifully brushed and contrasts beautifully with blue screws and hands.

Important to note that this watch is not an automatic watch it is a hand-wound watch.

Features

• Movement: ETA 6497.
• 46 hours power reserve.
• Water resistance: 50 m.
• Case: 43 mm, Thickness: 12 mm, Lugs width: 22 mm.
• Material: 316L stainless steel case.
• Transparent case back.
• Luminescent hands and indices.

Price

$1,950.

Summary

You will not regret your decision to choose Tissot, as it is a well-recognized Swiss watchmaking brand. This timepiece is unique in this list by featuring the hand-wound movement.

What are the best skeleton watches for under $5,000?

6. Rado True Square Automatic Open Heart

Overview

Rado is a Swiss watchmaker that stands out for its expertise in using ceramics. The Rado True Square Open Heart skeleton watch has a sleek, monobloc ceramic case and a matching bracelet.

The ceramic composition of this watch results in a smooth, polished surface that is resistant to scratching.

The case houses an automatic movement with an open heart which allows you to see the balance wheel in action.

Features

• Movement:  Caliber C07 (base ETA C07.111).
• 80 hours power reserve.
• Water resistance: 50 m.
• Case: 38 mm, Thickness: 9.7 mm.
• Material: High-Tech Ceramic.
• Transparent case back.
• Luminescent hands and indices.

Price

$2,300-2,900.

Summary

The Rado True Square is not only light and scratch resistant but also comfortable for everyday wear. If you have an affinity for ceramic watches, this one might be an option for you. It features a unique design.

7. Maurice Lacroix Aikon Automatic Skeleton

Overview

With its sleek lines and contemporary style, the AIKON Skeleton watch from Maurice Lacroix makes a bold statement. It takes inspiration from urban architecture.

The 39 mm Aikon Automatic has a universal case diameter that appeals to both men and women.

The indices on the chapter ring are plated with rhodium and filled with Superluminova. The hour and minute hands are plated with rhodium too and have lume inserts for improved legibility.

Interesting fact: This watch reminds me of the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Openworked timepiece, which is a very expensive watch. Audemars Piguet is considered to be one of the holy trinity Swiss brands.

Features

• Movement: ML115 (base Sellita SW200-1 a).
• 38 hours power reserve.
• Water resistance: 200 m.
• Case: 39 mm, Thickness: 11 mm.
• Material: Stainless steel case and strap.
• See-through case back.
• Superluminova (Indexes & Hands).

Price

$3,450.

Summary

This watch is on the pricier end, but if you like its design, it’s worth considering. Not only does it have a sporty feel, but it is also water resistant up to 200 m, so you can engage in many activities without having to worry about your watch.

8. Raymond Weil Freelancer Skeleton

Overview

Raymond Weil Freelancer skeleton watch boasts a 42 mm stainless steel case with a solid bronze bezel, giving it a unique patina and luxurious sheen.

This new design has a fully skeletonized dial, the design provides more transparency and depth to the illustrations of the exclusive, in-house developed movement. Raymond Weill partnered with Sellita to develop a proprietary movement.

The aged, brown leather strap gives this watch an extra edge.

Features

• Movement: Calibre RW1212 (base Sellita SW255).
• 38 hours power reserve.
• Water resistance: 100 m.
• Case: 42 mm, Thickness: 10.6 mm.
• Material: Stainless steel with a bronze bezel.
• Transparent case back.
• Superluminova (Hands only).

Price

$3,095.

Summary

With its unique movement and sleek design, this watch is a great addition to any collection.

The bronze bezel will gradually change colors and develop a patina over time, depending on the wearing conditions, giving it a one-of-a-kind look.

With a relatively attainable price point, it’s worth considering.

9. Accutron Spaceview 2020

Overview

Accutron Spaceview 2020 skeleton watch is a special watch in this list because it possesses electrostatic movement technology.

This watch has twin electrostatic turbines that rotate due to hand motion. It is powered by an accumulator that then provides energy to two motors – one which keeps track of the seconds, and one for minutes and hours.

The second hand on this watch has a very smooth operation, and there is a power-saving mode that can deactivate its operation.

The interesting bubble-shaped sapphire crystal protects all the innovative work that went into this piece.

Features

• Movement:  NS30-Y8A.
• 2 years power reserve.
• Water resistance: 50 m.
• Case: 43.5 mm, Thickness: 15.9 mm.
• Material: Stainless steel case, alligator strap with double-press deployant closure.
• Superluminova (Indexes & Hands).
• Date.
• Gradient dial.

Price

$3,500.

Summary

With its unique electrostatic movement and innovative design, it’s sure to impress anyone who sees it. Keep in mind that this watch is fairly thick, measuring 15.9 mm in height.

10. Norqain Independence 22 Skeleton

Overview

Norqain is an independent watch manufacturer that was established in 2018. The company produces sports and adventure watches.

The Norqain Independence 22 skeleton watch is the first model in the collection that is not a limited edition and will be made based on demand.

It features both anti-reflective and scratch-proof sapphire glass, so you can easily see its inner workings.

Interesting fact: All Norqain models have a personalized message plate on the left side of the case, you can engrave it with your message.

Features

• Movement: NN08S (base Sellita SW200-1 S).
• 38 hours power reserve.
• Water resistance: 100 m.
• Case: 42 mm, Thickness: 11.8 mm, Lugs width: 21 mm.
• Material: 316L polished, satined, sandblasted stainless steel.
• Transparent case back.
• Superluminova (Indexes & Hands).

Price

$3,990.

Summary

Norqain is a new Swiss watchmaking brand that has an interesting value proposition: you can join them on the journey as one of their early buyers and see how the brand develops over the years.

What are the best skeleton watches for under $10,000?

11. Bell & Ross BR 05 Skeleton Green

Overview

The BR 05 Skeleton is an open-worked watch with an integrated bracelet, where the case and bracelet flow seamlessly together.

This timepiece is equipped with a skeleton dial that offers a completely transparent view of the movement. However, the movement itself is not in-house made and is based on Sellita SW300-1a. One would expect more special movement for the given price point, but it comes strong in build quality.

The 40 mm case has a square shape, which means it wears larger than a round-shaped watch.

The satin finish and polish on this item give it a luxuriously smooth feel.

This skeleton watch is also quite reminiscent of an Audemars Piguet Royal Oak.

Features

• Movement: BR-CAL.322 (base Sellita SW300-1 a).
• 38 hours power reserve.
• Water resistance: 100 m.
• Case: 40 mm, Thickness: 10.33 mm.
• Material: Satin-finished and polished steel.
• Transparent case back.
• Superluminova (Indexes & Hands).

Price

$6,500.

Summary

The build quality is great, but the movement is quite simple for the price; it all comes down to what you value most in a watch.

12. Tag Heuer Carrera Heuer 2

Overview

Tag Heuer Carerra Heuer 2 is a sporty watch with a rich motor-racing heritage.

Unlike Bell & Ross for the same price point, this watch features an in-house movement.

It has column wheel control and tactile buttons giving it a smooth satisfying operation.

Since it is an automatic chronograph, it measures quite big at 45 mm with a thickness of 15.65 mm.

It is also featuring a ceramic bezel which will not scratch easily and gives it a nice gloss.

Features

• Movement: Calibre HEUER02 Automatic.
• 80 hours power reserve.
• Water resistance: 100 m.
• Case: 45 mm, Thickness: 15.65 mm, Lugs width: 22.5 mm.
• Material: Stainless steel.
• Transparent case back.
• Superluminova (Indexes & Hands).
• Date.
• Ceramic bezel.

Price

$6,500.

Summary

Skeleton watches and chronographs are both expensive on their own, but when you combine the two, you’re paying a lot of money. The Tag Heuer Carrera Heuer 2 is the perfect skeleton watch for those who participate in motorsports.

13. Oris Big Crown Propilot X Calibre 115

Overview

This skeleton watch is a display of what Oris can achieve.

The whole watch is made from titanium, including the case and bracelet. This makes it very lightweight. The bracelet links are held together with screws instead of pins, which makes it much higher quality.

The Oris Big Crown ProPilot X Calibre 115 is powered by a movement that has been fully skeletonized and made in-house specifically for this watch. The movement has 38 jewels, making it quite intricate.

It is a hand-wound and can last an unbelievable 10 days before needing to be rewound and has a patented non-linear power reserve indicator.

The inner workings are not polished but rather galvanized, following the technical design theme.

Pro Pilot X is a watch made for pilots, and its design was inspired by jet turbines. The clasp mechanism was created with aerospace belt buckles in mind.

The water resistance on this watch is 100 meters, much higher than what is typically seen on a pilot watch.

Features

• Movement: In-house Caliber Oris 115 manually wound movement.
• 10 days power reserve.
• Water resistance: 50 m.
• Case: 44 mm, Thickness: 13 mm, Lugs width: 22 mm.
• Material: Titanium case and bracelet.
• Transparent case back.
• Superluminova (Indexes & Hands).
• Hand wound.

Price

$7,600.

Summary

The key selling points of this product are its in-house movement with a huge power reserve, its titanium construction, and its modern design. It is one of our favorites on this list.

Conclusion

Below, we have compiled a list of the best skeleton watches and gone into detail about their technicalities and designs. Keep your needs and priorities in mind when choosing a watch, then you will be able to select the perfect one from this list.

Thank You for reading!

Illustration by Ekaterina Belousova: https://www.pexels.com/photo/a-grayscale-photo-of-a-man-s-half-face-8049538/