“I’m Obsessed With Watches – Here Are The 5 Every Man Needs”
Like many, I have become obsessed with watches. Heavily influenced by my Dad, I’ve developed a passion for building an ever-evolving collection that allows me to express a different kind of style with each watch.
My collection has changed considerably over the years. I’ve regretted selling certain watches and regretted buying others. But that’s the beauty of watches, it’s finding your own style and finding interesting pieces that tell a story. These are the five essential watch styles that I believe can form the foundations of any collection. Multiple watches are encouraged.
My collection has changed considerably over the years. I’ve regretted selling certain watches and regretted buying others. But that’s the beauty of watches.
Harry, Agency Partnerships Director
1. The dive watch
A dive watch is a staple of any watch collection. Despite my best efforts, I do not have an exciting life diving around the world, but I still want to have a watch that can do anything just in case I’m called upon
Dive watches are durable, instantly recognisable and incredibly stylish. From Sean Connery’s Dr No Rolex submariner on a striped nato strap to Daniel Craig’s Omega Seamaster in Skyfall they have become synonymous with effortless, rugged style.
A good dive watch works with any outfit. It works with a T-shirt and shorts, but looks equally at home with a black tie outfit.
Dive watches are durable, instantly recognisable and incredibly stylish.
2. The dress watch
The elegant option, something that is understated and refined. Perfect for a wedding or to smarten up an office fit. It’s understated on a leather strap, but it’s loud enough for those around you to take notice and take you seriously.
Although dress watches are usually smaller and classic in design, that does not mean they need to be boring. Interesting dial designs, unusual case shapes and vintage proportions can give them plenty of personality.
Perfect for a wedding or to smarten up an office fit.
3. The Field/GADA Watch
My personal favourite. A watch that can work in a boardroom and on a beach. These watches are tough, stylish and, more importantly, timeless.
GADA means “go anywhere, do anything”, and these watches are designed to move easily between different settings. Field watches are simple, durable and easy to read. In other words, they are designed for real life rather than sitting safely in a watch box.
These are the watches you keep reaching for because they never feel out of place in any scenario. They can take you from drinks at The Connaught to Tough Mudder without needing to leave your wrist.
A watch that can work in a boardroom and on a beach.
4. Vintage watch
This is down to personal style and preference: what do you want out of a watch? History, patina, unusual design or simply something that nobody else is wearing?
I’m personally obsessed with Tudor Oysters and vintage military watches. The process of finding one is also part of the experience. Researching old references, comparing dials and discovering unusual models can be as enjoyable as owning the watch itself.
I recently discovered a range of vintage L.L.Bean watches from the 1980s and 1990s, based on WW2 and Vietnam War watches. They are not immediately recognisable to most people, but that is exactly what makes them interesting.
They are not immediately recognisable to most people, but that is exactly what makes them interesting.
5. Chronograph watch
A chronograph or racing watch adds some depth and character to your collection. From the Rolex Daytona worn by Paul Newman to the TAG Heuer Carrera and Omega Speedmaster, these watches have an undeniable sense of character.
Vintage chronographs can also offer excellent value. Searching for watches by their movement can uncover lesser-known brands for a fraction of the price. The Valjoux 7733, for example, powered a wide range of chronographs during the 1960s and 1970s and can still be found at relatively accessible prices.
A chronograph or racing watch adds some depth and character to your collection.
These are just the key staples I think that every man should own. The main thing I would encourage is to do your research. Find the watches that best express your personality. And wear them! Wear the watch! These are the pillars that you need to start your collection.
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