"In the realm of mechanical watches, it all boils down to one of two things: manual winding or automatic," explains Vincent Brasesco, VP of Sotheby's Luxury & Watches Specialist. "In a manual winding watch, you must manually turn the crown every day to power it. Conversely, in an automatic watch, a weighted rotor attached to the back of the movement handles the task for you! As you move your wrist throughout the day, this rotor winds the replica watch, ensuring it keeps accurate time." It sounds straightforward because it is. However, watch purists in collector circles might argue otherwise. Nicholas Biebuyck, TAG Heuer's Heritage Director, notes, "By winding the watch yourself, you create an emotional connection, keeping your watch alive. But it's not akin to caring for a Tamagotchi; it's about convenience." So, if convenience is your priority and you've never been adept at tending to digital pets, explore this year's hottest automatic watches, where telling time becomes the easiest part of your day. 1. Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Selfwinding Flying Tourbillon Openworked Audemars Piguet unveiled its latest wrist-worn marvels for 2024, including this 41mm selfwinding sandgold piece. Crafted from a novel gold alloy with a mesmerizing appearance shifting between steel and rose gold tones, it features an openworked flying tourbillon, elevating it to grail-worthy status. Price available upon request at audemarspiguet.com. 2. Bulgari Bulgari 38mm Embracing the glamor of the '80s, Bulgari revisits its classic Bulgari Bulgari design with a 38mm polished gold case, evoking the excesses of the era. Priced at £12,700, available at bulgari.com. 3. TAG Heuer Carrera With its deep emerald dial and vintage-inspired sub dial at 3 o'clock, the new TAG Heuer Carrera 39mm exudes timeless elegance. Featuring TAG's signature Glass Box design, it's priced at £6,000, available at goldsmiths.co.uk. 4. Praesidus DD45 Featuring a striking plum burgundy tropical dial, the Praesidus DD45 pays homage to its British War Office heritage. Originally commissioned for WWII soldiers, these rugged replica watches are now accessible at £687, available at praesidus.com. 5. Seiko Presage Classic 'Araigaki' A modern interpretation of mid-century chrono-grails, the Seiko Presage Classic 'Araigaki' boasts a clean, contemporary design. With a 40mm case and 100m depth rating, it's perfect for everyday wear at £900, available at seikoboutique.co.uk. 6. Tissot Chronograph Offering a seamless blend of style and functionality, Tissot's new chronograph model is ideal for both everyday wear and action-packed days. Priced at £1,720, available at goldsmiths.co.uk. 7. Longines Flagship Automatic Staying true to its heritage while embracing modernity, the Longines Flagship Automatic offers a timeless design with a Moon Phase complication. Priced at £2850, available at berrysjewellers.co.uk. 8. Rolex Sky Dweller Replica Rolex's Sky Dweller, a landmark in horological history, receives a contemporary makeover in 2024. Featuring a new color palette and a 72-hour power reserve, this automatic watch is fit for globetrotters. Price available upon request at rolex.com. 9. Tudor Black Bay Tudor's Black Bay line expands with a new automatic model boasting a 41mm stainless steel case and a robust 70-hour power reserve. Priced at £3,630, available at tudor.com. 10. Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Control Chronograph Calendar The Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Control Chronograph Calendar in rose gold offers a captivating blend of elegance and performance. With a 65-hour power reserve and exhibition caseback, it's a horological masterpiece. Priced at £18,300, available at jaegerlecoultre.com. 11. Tissot PRX The Tissot PRX sets a new standard for entry-level automatic watches. With an impressive 80-hour power reserve and a stylish integrated bracelet, it's perfect for everyday wear at £610, available at tissotwatches.com. 12. Seiko 62MAS Reissue Seiko's iconic diver's watch returns in a limited edition with a slimline movement and a 45-hour power reserve. Priced at £POA, available at seikowatches.com. 13. Hermès H08 Monopusher Chronograph Combining haute couture with haute horology, the Hermès H08 Monopusher Chronograph features a lightweight carbon fiber composite case and integrated pusher functions. Price available upon request at hermes.com. 14. TAG Heuer Original Skipperera Inspired by the original Skipper and Carrera models, the TAG Heuer Original Skipperera pays homage to the brand's rich heritage. With an 80-hour power reserve and a unique design, it's a standout choice for watch enthusiasts. Priced at £5,900, available at tagheuer.com. 15. Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Self-Winding Audemars Piguet's 36mm self-winding model, crafted from white ceramic with pink-gold accents, offers a bold yet elegant aesthetic. With its superb in-house movement and eye-catching design, it's a statement piece. Priced at £45,600, available at audemarspiguet.com. 16. Bulgari Aluminum Watch Bulgari's Aluminum Watch combines understated style with exceptional performance. With a 42-hour power reserve and a contemporary design, it's a versatile choice for any occasion. Priced at £3,110, available at bulgari.com.