i learned recently that, among watch people, rolex is actually considered peasant tier. i don’t know what’s the most “prestigious” holy grail watch brand, and really don’t care if i ever do

That’s just plain wrong. Rolex is considered “entry level luxury” by the real big spenders.
And basically every serious watch collector has at least one in their collections.
For most, it’s the first or second expensive watch they buy.
It’s also the biggest watch brand in the world, by revenue.

In my research I was unable to find any other brand that offers better quality for less money.
There are plenty that offer better quality for more money, or very close to the same quality for much less, though.