Some people think style is something you either have or you don’t – it isn’t something you can learn. While that may be a bold statement, I have to agree with it to a certain extent. Making tasteful choices does require some natural instinct. However, I don’t think that means you can’t learn about it, and great style certainly takes many different forms. The same can be said for watches. Most watches work well with a variety of looks and are a great way to show off your personal fashion sense.
The search for an individual look is a never-ending adventure for a lot of people; whether it’s following the guidelines set out by fashion publications or pushing the boundaries of what’s currently acceptable. Unlike clothes, there are many reasons why people are attracted to watches that go beyond their appearance. Many enthusiasts are passionate about watches due to the technical mastery that goes into them or because watches often play a role in major personal or historical events. Obviously, for some people it’s a combination of all the above. If that’s the case for you, a watch is so much more than a simple accessory: It’s a conversation starter, a symbol, a personal hobby, a family heirloom, a passion, and more. That’s the power of a great watch.
It’s not as simple as just buying a fancy watch. Different styles within the world of watches are a projection of their wearers. Perhaps the most familiar category is that of the dress watch. These timepieces add a sense of refinement to any outfit and are usually worn with formal or semi-formal attire.
Then there’s the sports watch. As you may have guessed, these watches are designed for an active lifestyle. Within this category, diving watches are easily the most widespread. Despite their sporty nature, these watches are often extremely versatile and pair well with a number of clothing styles.
Tool watches share some characteristics with sports watches and are just as flexible in their style. Today, anyone can wear a tool watch. Though they used to be reserved for professional use, many models have since become fashion icons in their own right.
The fourth group includes stylish designer watches. These small treasures are like pieces of art for your wrist. They say as much about the brand as they do about the person who’s wearing them. Finally, we come to vintage watches. Vintage watches overlap with all of the previous categories; all that matters here is age. That being said, if you’re passionate about vintage watches, that says a lot about you in and of itself.
Some watches transcend categories thanks to their associations with certain celebrities. The most famous example of this is the Rolex Paul Newman Daytona. While Rolex has never officially referred to this particular model as the “Paul Newman,” Newman’s impact on it was so great that many watch fans refer to these timepieces as such. Wearing a Paul Newman Daytona will single you out as an individual of impeccable style. It also won’t limit you to any style in particular, as Paul Newman wore his with a suit, a polo shirt, and even with a leather jacket and tailored trousers for a more rugged look when riding his motorcycles.
Another great example is the watch worn by actor Steve McQueen. Today, the TAG Heuer Monaco is inseparable from this Hollywood icon, specifically the blue and white model with red details. Like Paul Newman, Steve McQueen was also known for his ability to pull off different styles. However, McQueen’s overall look was much more rugged than Newman’s. He was most often seen wearing a t-shirt and jeans or a turtleneck and blazer, though he also cleaned up well in a suit.
The final style icon we’ll be looking at is James Bond. Of the three, he’s probably had the biggest influence on men’s style, as he’s been setting the tone for the modern gentleman for over five decades. Bond’s closet is equally diverse. Depending on what he’s doing, he may don a tuxedo, trousers with a jacket and shirt, or a turtleneck and trousers. Before 1995, Bond wore many different Rolex Submariners. Since then, his watch of choice has been the Omega Seamaster. James Bond does use other Omega models as well, but the Omega Seamaster is the perfect watch for Her Majesty’s secret agent.
There are many more great style icons (and their watches) that could be added to this list, including Gianni Agnelli, John F. Kennedy, and Elvis Presley. No single style can define these men, yet they are widely recognized as having had a fantastic fashion sense. Like the rest of us, their styles evolved over time, meaning your personal look isn’t tied to one particular timepiece. Discovering the watch that best complements you is an ongoing quest. It may even be the most exciting search there is – if you’re interested in fashion and watches, that is.
Read more
101 Reasons Why Watches Are Great – Part 4
Their Iconic Designs Represent an Era
101 Reasons Why Watches are Great – Part 5
Watches are True Technological Marvels
101 Reasons Why Watches are Great: Part 6
They Add Serenity to Our Hectic Lives
