Looking For That Menswear-Inspired Tailoring Watch Which Will Take You From AM To PM Without A Second Thought? Slip Into Neutral Territory With The Timepieces We Got For You.
As the famous adage goes… “Dress for the position you want, not the position you have.” When it comes to dressing well, one of the main “rules of thumb” is wearing a good watch. Going forward, fashion seems to be taking a similar approach and we are on board.
When it comes to accessories, shopping lists need to be shorter and smarter. Instead of filling up your outfit with unnecessary layers, make room for statement watches that can round off any look. But the hunt for one that is versatile, high on quality and in line with your style sensibilities, can get tiresome. To narrow it down, we’ve curated the ultimate list of statement watches that will stand the test of time.
1. OMEGA SEAMASTER PLANET OCEAN 600M GMT 45.5 MM
The Seamaster collection by OMEGA has a long history of revolutionary technology and innovative new materials. This year, that technical legacy continues with the release of the new Planet Ocean Dark Grey – a bold timepiece crafted in silicon nitride ceramic. This is the first time that silicon nitride has been applied by OMEGA on such a large scale in a watchmaking piece, resulting an adventure-ready timepiece that promises toughness, while keeping the weight down. The lightness of silicon nitride ceramic gives an extra level of comfort on their wrist, while the robust qualities provide reliable strength for serious explorations.
In design, this dark grey material has been used for the 45.5 mm case body, patented NAIAD LOCK case back, and bezel ring. Elsewhere OMEGA has used contrasting Grade 5 titanium for the bezel body and strap folding clasp, as well as the sand-
blasted dial with its anthracite hands and indexes. Keeping with the theme, the movement has embraced a dark aesthetic
too. But not only does this GMT feature a bezel and dial (and buckle!) made from super-light sandblasted titanium – the movement’s made from the same material, too. Add in a ceramic case made from a new compound Omega says is 2x lighter than its standard ceramic and what we have here is a new frontrunner in the Wristwatch Lightness Wars.
2. BAUME & MERCIER RIVIERA 10720, STEEL TITANIUM – 39MM
In honour of 50 years of their Riviera collection, Baume & Mercier have launched new model of their iconic dodecagonal timepieces. The new 39mm Riviera watches have translucent dials, bridging the gap between their 42mm and 36mm editions. The grey version features a sand-blasted titanium dodecagonal bezel have a gilded PVD steel ring in the middle of the case along with Roman numerals, indexes and faceted timekeeping hands in 5N gold. It offers many of the features that make the model a standout in its field, while the titanium elements give this new Riviera its own personality.
First introduced in 1973, the watches have evolved with time and despite their contemporary styling, it stays true to their distinctive appeal. Inspired by the adventurous spirit of the sporty lifestyle of the French Riviera, this watch symbolizes an easy-going view of refined watchmaking.
On the wrist, this grey rubber strap has a canvas texture that’s comfortable, but some might find it a bit too casual when paired with the gold PVD accents of the case and dial markers. That said, it’s interchangeable with other straps in the Riviera line, which may give this model a bit more versatility. As a testament to Baume & Mercier’s watchmaking prowess, the brand now offers a comprehensive eight-year warranty for all its model equipped with a Baumatic calibre.
3. IWC SCHAFFHAUSEN IW389402 PILOT’S WATCH CHRONOGRAPH 41 TOP GUN MOJAVE DESERT
IWC first launched its “Colors of Top Gun” collection in 2022, showcasing the brand’s watchmaking prowess in the way of colourful ceramics with models like the Lake Tahoe. But now, the brand expands this collection with two new colourways. The Pilot’s Watch Timezoner Top Gun Woodland is IWC’s first Timezoner to be rendered in coloured ceramic, and the Pilot’s Watch Chronograph 41 Top Gun Mojave Desert marks IWC’s first 41mm Pilot’s Chronograph with a sand-coloured ceramic case. While, boasting the Ceratanium pushers and crown will continue to divide opinion by standing out in contrast against the beige-bathed dial furniture and the rest of the case.
With each edition of IWC’s “Colors of Top Gun,” the brand works with Pantone to develop unique shades that represent the colour codes found in the world of naval aviation. Its case is crafted from sand-colored ceramic, drawing inspiration from the Mojave Desert’s earthy tones, resonating with shades of beige and khaki reminiscent of naval aviators’ flight suits and the desert landscape around China Lake, home to the U.S. Navy’s renowned TOPGUN flight school. The monochromatic look extends from the dial and hands to the rubber strap, with each component meticulously colour-matched.
4. BREITLING AVENGER B01 CHRONOGRAPH 44 IN SAND
Hear the word “Avenger” and you’d be forgiven if your mind jumped to the MCU. But Thor, Iron Man, and company all exist in a parallel, make-believe universe; in this reality, the only Avenger we have got for you is Breitling’s pilot watch. More than 20 years on from its debut, the new collection of Avenger models is testament to the brand’s long history in aviation. The brand is finding new ways to celebrate that heritage, hence the diverse line-up spanning a 44mm chronograph, a 44mm automatic GMT, and a 42mm automatic in sand. With featuring a sand-beige dial drawn from military uniform shades, luminescent batons and a red second tacker, one doesn’t need Air Force credentials to appreciate its bold design, exceptional resilience, and next-level functionality.
This new avenger equipped with Breitling Manufacture Calibre 01 offering 70 hours of power reserve, which is appreciation worthy! Moreover, combining bold style with exceptional functionality, undoubtingly embodies the robustness and precision that are the signature of the Breitling brand. Its design is enhanced by polished and brushed finishes that add a touch of sophistication to its resolutely masculine appearance. The luminous indexes and luminous-coated hands offer exceptional legibility, even in the darkest conditions. And, the case is ideally accompanied by a military-style strap in sandy calf leather.
