Gift Guide

Holiday Gift Guide: Watches for Every Man

The holiday season is here, and it’s never too early to start thinking about the people on your list. This season, show how much you care by making an investment in a gift that will withstand the test of time and can be passed on for generations. Whether you’ve got a loved one who’s a watch collector or you want to give the timepiece that starts someone’s collection, a watch makes an awesome gift. If you’re not sure which watch collection is best for that special someone, don’t worry—we’re here to help! We’ve rounded up the perfect watch for everyone on your list.

For the New Watch Collector:

Starting a watch collection for the very first time is an exciting moment, but it can be overwhelming. With so many different watches on the market today, it can be challenging to know where to begin. A good place to start, particularly when buying a gift for a new watch collector, is with a model that’s great for everyday wear. Make sure it will fit with anyone’s personal style, meaning it’s not too outlandish or trendy.

A Tag Heuer Carrera Chronograph, a Tudor Heritage Black Bay, and a Bell & Ross Green Ceramic Military

 

You can’t go wrong with a TAG Heuer, Tudor, or Bell & Ross for a new watch collector. The TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph is a fun and sporty model with just enough bells and whistles to be exciting without being overwhelming. The Tudor Black Bay Heritage is a classic model with that sleek and sophisticated touch backed by its parent company, Rolex. Finally, the Bell & Ross Green Ceramic Military watch is an iconic pilot watch, ideal for that special someone who loves adventure.

For the Classic Man:

There’s a certain man in everyone’s life with a classic sense of style. He’s got an eye for fashion, but doesn’t stray too far from a simple, timeless look. Finding an amazing gift for the classic guy can be difficult. However, when it comes to watches, finding the perfect style is easy.

An IWC Portuguese Chronograph, a Cartier Tank, and a Rolex Cellini

There are three watch collections that make foolproof gifts for the classic man: IWC, Cartier, and, of course, Rolex. The IWC Portuguese Chronograph is the perfect balance of innovation and elegant charm. The Cartier Tank Solo is a twist on the iconic dress watch—it’s got just the right amount of flair without being too over the top. Finally, the Rolex Cellini is the ultimate dress watch for the dapper fellow in your life.

For the Adventurer:

There are watches on today’s market specifically designed for outdoor use. They’re sturdy and durable enough to endure the elements. They have special features and are optimal for extreme conditions. Plus, their style is sporty enough for even the most rugged adventurer. If the thrill-seeker on your holiday list loves climbing, camping, boating, or diving, there’s a watch for him.

A Panerai Black Seal, a Breitling Navitimer, and an OMEGA Seamaster

When it comes to adventure watches, there are a few collections that standout: Panerai, Breitling, and Omega. The Panerai Radiomir Black Seal was built to be strong enough for the Italian Navy, so it can certainly handle wherever your avid adventurer’s journey takes him. The Breitling Navitimer is a classic pilot watch that’s great for the modern aviator and everyday wear. Finally, the OMEGA Seamaster Professional “James Bond” is one of the most popular models in the Omega family—it’s made for that thrill seeker who likens himself to 007.

For the Businessman:

Whether he’s constantly jetting around the globe for business travel or he spends long days at the office bouncing from meetings to conference calls, every businessman can use a reliable wristwatch to get him through the daily grind. For a businessman, a watch is both a fashion accessory and a useful tool. That’s why finding a watch with the perfect balance of style and function is key.

A Baume & Mercier Clifton, a Bremont ALT1-C, and a Rolex GMT Master II

No matter where his work takes him, any businessman will love a Baume & Mercier, a Bremont, or a classic Rolex to accent his suit at the office. The Baume & Mercier Clifton boasts a simple yet sleek style, complete with just enough functionality for any businessman. The Bremont Alt1-C GN pilot watch in a rich green hue is a unique choice for the avid business traveler. Finally, the Rolex GMT Master II is the quintessential pilot watch for the businessman who jets around the globe.

For the Guy Who Has Everything—Watches Over $10k:

There’s one on everyone’s holiday gift list—the guy who has everything and is nearly impossible to buy for.  At the very least, he is hard to surprise with an awesome gift. Regardless of whether he has a growing watch collection or if he’s not a watch guy (yet), you can’t go wrong with the gift of a great timepiece, even for that one person who has it all. This season, wow him with the bold gift of a watch over $10k.

A gold Rolex Datejust, an Audemars Piguet Royal Oak, and a Patek Philipe Calatrava

When it comes to high dollar watches, there are three collections that reign supreme: Rolex, Audemars Piguet, and Patek Philippe. The Rolex Datejust in 18k solid yellow gold is sure to impress any guy on your list, even the one who has everything. The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak is the epitome of luxury sports watches with its one-of-a-kind, iconic octagonal shape. Finally, the Patek Philippe Calatrava is the flagship model of the brand featuring an avant-garde design with understated sophistication.

Don’t Forget the Ladies!

The ladies on your list are sure to love a new watch just as much as the fellows. Many women are looking for a watch as a fashion accessory, but others appreciate a watch with function too. There are countless ladies watches on the market featuring bright colors, glitzy stone accents, and bold designs. Unless you know she’s particularly flashy or trendy, it’s best to stick with a watch design that’s graceful and classic. However, women’s styles aren’t all they can wear. They can also wear watches designed for men.

A Cartier Ballon Bleu, an OMEGA Aqua Terra, and a Rolex Datejust

Three tried and true collections for ladies are Cartier, Omega, and Rolex. The Cartier Ballon Bleu is one of the newer additions to the brand with a distinct balance of modern design and timeless simplicity. The OMEGA Seamaster Aqua Terra is a refined sports watch with a dressy and elegant style. Finally, the Rolex Datejust is one of the most important watches in the Rolex family with a rich history and timeless beauty.

No matter who you’re shopping for this holiday season, a watch makes an excellent gift, and buying a pre-owned watch is a great alternative to buying new. If you still can’t decide which collection is best for that special someone on your list, we’re always here to help. We want you to have the perfect gift for your loved ones this year—happy shopping!

Caitlyn Bazemore

Caitlyn is the founder of Grey Ghost, a New York City-based boutique content marketing agency with a passion for artists, entrepreneurs, small businesses, and startups. She believes in quality over quantity, creative thinking, and, above all, using language as powerful tool to build lasting connections.

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