Growing up in the 1980s and 1990s, I don’t remember watches being such a big deal — certainly not to the extent they are today. Yet, as I’ve grown older and advanced in my career, I’ve noticed just how important timepieces have become among men of my generation.
One of the deepest human needs is recognition — to feel admired, respected, or even envied. Luxury brands have long understood this, and in today’s consumer culture, they cater to that desire more than ever. Watches, in particular, have risen in prominence as symbols of status, refinement, and achievement.
For men, the options for recognizable luxury items are fewer than for women. While women have handbags, jewelry, shoes, and more, men are largely left with two highly visible symbols: cars and watches. And unlike a car, which stays parked most of the day, a watch is a constant companion — a personal statement visible indoors and out.
The Three Essential Watches Every Man Should Own
I believe every gentleman needs just three core watches. Anything beyond that marks the start of a collection.
The Everyday Watch
Your daily companion: versatile, robust, and stylish without being flashy. It should pair as easily with a suit as with jeans. Examples include the Longines Conquest, TAG Heuer Carrera, Omega Constellation, or Rolex Air-King. Choose metal or leather straps over rubber for this one.
The Casual Watch
A “weekend” watch for holidays, sports, or rugged activities. It should be durable and comfortable, such as a Casio G-Shock, Omega Seamaster, Rolex Explorer, or Panerai Luminor. Rubber or metal straps are best, as leather wears out quickly in active use.
The Dress Watch
A refined, elegant timepiece reserved for weddings, galas, or black-tie events. Often crafted in precious metals with leather straps, it represents the pinnacle of a man’s watch wardrobe. Options range from the Baume & Mercier Clifton to icons like the Vacheron Constantin Patrimony, Patek Philippe Calatrava, or Harry Winston Midnight.
With these three, you cover all occasions: everyday life, casual leisure, and formal elegance. Any additional watch you acquire will inevitably fit into one of these categories.
Building Your Collection
Watches can last a lifetime if well cared for — serviced regularly, worn in rotation, and stored properly. For those on a budget, here are some practical tips:
- Create a Watch Fund: Save specifically for your next purchase, just as you would for a car.
- Do Your Research: Know what you want before you buy.
- Shop Smart: Compare local dealer offers with overseas prices, but beware of deals that seem too good to be true.
- Consider Pre-Owned: Second-hand dealers can be excellent sources, but always demand box, papers, and authenticity checks.
- Upgrade Wisely: Aim for higher craftsmanship, complications, or precious metals as your collection grows.
- Trade-In When Needed: Many second-hand dealers accept trade-ins, helping finance your next acquisition.
Personally, I began my journey over twenty years ago with a Baume & Mercier Hampton Spirit. Since then, I’ve bought, sold, and traded many pieces, and today I enjoy a collection of around twenty watches. What started as a passion gradually became a profession. For the past several years, together with my friend and business partner Jean-Philippe, I have been trading and dealing in pre-owned watches, advising clients and helping them curate meaningful collections. We are honored to have earned their trust and to share this journey with them.
Article originally written by Omar, Founder of The Watch Curators
