Nothing looks better on a man's wrist than a classically simple watch. Complex, over-sized, badly-proportioned giants, so beloved by football managers, simply don't exude the style and taste of a clean, well-proportioned, elegant and uncluttered design.
Here are four watches that, to me, exemplify this style. The first I've just discovered, the second I've hankered after for some time, the third I'm lucky enough to own and the fourth is British-designed.
Here are four watches that, to me, exemplify this style. The first I've just discovered, the second I've hankered after for some time, the third I'm lucky enough to own and the fourth is British-designed.
The case and the proportions of the dial make this a really beautiful watch. Easily read and with a power reserve, this is a watch for the man who likes to show off his style in a quiet, understated way. Available from Wempe and luxury jewellers, see links in the next paragraph.
The Jaeger-LeCoultre Ultra-Thin
A joy of simplicity in an extremely thin case. I've seen this watch in several guises and think that the explorer dialled versions (with numbers at the quarters, like this one) are the most beautiful. Available from luxury jewellers or watch shops like Wempe or Watches of Switzerland.
The Rolex Explorer 1016
The only vintage watch in this line-up and no longer made in this form, the Rolex Explorer has a long and noble history. Its simple robustness has created what, for some, is the ideal watch. Somewhat spoilt in looks in its later forms, this remains one of my favourites. You will need to search vintage watch dealers to find one.
Bremont Solo
Inspired by pilots' watches of the 1940s, the Bremont has more of a military feel than the other watches here, so, while it lacks the classic elegance of a dress watch, its chunky simplicity is very attractive. Bremont are working hard to return watch production to the UK and much of their production is now designed and assembled in Henley, Oxfordshire. See Bremont's website.
