Chanel's watches are as recognisable as its handbags: the J12 in glossy black or white ceramic, the octagonal Première, the masculine Boy·Friend. They are designed in Paris and made in Switzerland. We have 69 Chanel watches in stock, from $1,190 to $29,035.
A short history
Chanel launched its first watch, the Première, in 1987; its octagonal case echoes the stopper of the Chanel N°5 bottle and the shape of Place Vendôme in Paris. In 2000 it introduced the J12, designed by Jacques Helleu, in black high-tech ceramic, a material then rarely used for a whole watch. A white version followed, and the J12 became one of the defining watches of the 2000s.
In 2019 Chanel updated the J12 with the Caliber 12.1, an automatic movement developed with Kenissi, a Swiss movement maker. The Boy·Friend and Code Coco followed as fashion-led collections.
The collections
J12 automatic (Caliber 12.1 and 12.2). The current J12 in 38 mm (Caliber 12.1) and 33 mm (Caliber 12.2), in black, white or mixed ceramic. In stock: 14 with Caliber 12.1 and 5 with Caliber 12.2.
J12 quartz. Smaller, earlier and often more affordable J12s. In stock: 14, from $3,960.
Première. The octagonal ladies' watch, often on a chain bracelet threaded with leather. In stock: 13.
Boy·Friend. A rectangular watch with a more masculine style. In stock: 10.
Code Coco. A watch inspired by the quilting and clasp of Chanel bags. In stock: 4.
What Chanel costs
Our Chanel watches run from $1,190 to $29,035, with a median of $6,910. New pieces start at $3,635 and pre-owned at $1,190. Quartz J12s and Premières are the entry points; automatic J12s with diamonds are at the top.
Ceramic: what to know
Chanel's ceramic is very hard to scratch and keeps its gloss for years, and it is light and hypoallergenic. But it can chip or crack under a hard knock, especially at the bracelet edges. On a pre-owned J12, check the links and the bezel closely.
What to check on a pre-owned Chanel
- Bracelet size. Ceramic links can only be removed or added; ask how many spare links are included.
- Chips. Look at bezel edges and bracelet links.
- Diamonds. On Joaillerie models, check that every stone is present.
- Quartz or automatic. The listing states the movement.
- Papers. See why box and papers matter.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Chanel J12 a Swiss watch?
Yes. It is designed in Paris and made in Switzerland; current automatic models use Chanel's Caliber 12.1 and 12.2.
What is the Chanel J12 made of?
High-tech ceramic, in black or white, which is very scratch-resistant but can chip if knocked hard.
What sizes does the J12 come in?
Mainly 38 mm and 33 mm today; older models also come in other sizes.
How much is a Chanel J12?
Our Chanel watches start at $1,190. See also our ladies' luxury watch buying guide.
