The Ultimate Holiday Watch Gift Guide

Holidays are right around the corner, and even though we constantly find ourselves spoiled by all the choices out there, it can get overwhelming and, ironic though it might sound, more difficult to pick that special gift for that special someone. 

 

Given how consumerist culture is prompting brands to come up with heaps and heaps of “holiday-themed” products, we wanted to take a step back and come up with a small yet unique curation of watches that’s neither gendered nor fit into a single archetype, but rather, is designed to put a smile on anyone’s face. 

 

We’ve included a limited-edition Patek Philippe World Time for those of a more traditionalist proclivity, an emerald-green Parmigiani Tonda PF for the indie lovers out there and even the most loyal Audemars Piguet patrons might find something special on this list. 

Patek Philippe Complications World Time New York 2017 Limited Edition

The perfect gift for a true wayward soul, this limited edition of the Patek Philippe Complications World Time pays homage to the city that never sleeps. The watch’s dial features a stunning depiction of New York’s skyline – with One World Trade Centre and The Plaza that can be easily spotted on its blue opaline center. The bezel of the ref. 7130G features 62 rare flawless Top Wesselton diamonds (weighing 0.82 carat), with 0.21 carat worth of more diamonds on its pin buckle attached to the blue alligator leather strap. What’s even more special about this piece is that it was purchased through the Tiffany & Co. boutique in New York, thus it comes in a Tiffany blue box. 

Piaget Polo Steel Blue Dial

Piaget Polo has been a staple among gentlemen’s watches since the 70s. The textured stripes upon its blue dial harken back to the timepiece that first established the maison’s watchmaking expertise – the gold bullion-like Piaget Polo. This one is, indeed, a more subtle variation of the icon with its stainless steel case and slim profile. The elegant Dauphine hands and luminescent hour markers make this watch incredibly legible. A sapphire crystal caseback reveals the details of the 1110P Manufacture self-winding movement, complete with a blue oscillating weight engraved with the Piaget coat-of-arms. With a water resistance of 100 meters and a power reserve of 50 hours, the Polo Date is perfect for both formal occasions and casual outings.

Rolex Day-Date Yellow Gold Diamond Stella Dial

The Rolex Day-Date has established itself as a status symbol throughout the 20th century; after all, few watches have been worn by the members of the global political elite with comparable frequency and vigor. This variant features a rare, blood-red “Stella” dial elevated further with diamond indices. Encased in 18k yellow gold, this watch also features the iconic President bracelet, which earned its name because, you guessed it, Day-Date models with this specific bracelet adorned the wrists of many US Presidents. 

F.P. Journe Chronometre Souverain Platinum

The Chronomètre Souverain, a stripped-down masterpiece by F.P. Journe showcases his mastery in contemporary watchmaking. The design, inspired by early marine chronometry, exhibits two expertly crafted horological illusions that highlight Journe's genius. The dial is a marvel of balance and harmony, with the numerals varying in size and boldness to create a subtle illusion. Through the display back, one can see the mysterious detachment of the balance and escapement from the rest of the movement, beating with an enigmatic energy source. Journe has concealed the connecting train under the dial, leaving only the center wheel to emphasize the isolation of the balance. The manually-wound movement, made of 18-carat gold baseplate and bridges, is a testament to how simplicity can be captivating. Twin barrels provide stable power for up to 50 hours, thanks to their classic configuration often found in precision watches. This is all supported by Journe's patented free-sprung chronometer balance with inertia adjustment on four opposing weights, ensuring exceptional rate stability in six different positions. Year after year, F.P. Journe continues to push the boundaries of watchmaking with unparalleled skill and innovation.

Parmigiani Fleurier Tonda PF Flying Tourbillon Steel Green Dial

This limited-edition Parmigiani Fleurier Tonda Pf Flying Tourbillon with a stunning teal-green dial is a true gem for watch enthusiasts and seasoned collectors alike. The watch boasts a 42mm case made of polished and brushed stainless steel, enhanced by a textured bezel crafted from luxurious 950 platinum. Its dial is sandblasted and adorned with hand-applied indexes coated in rhodium-plated 18K gold and features an elegant skeletonized hour and minute hand for effortless legibility. The transparent sapphire back reveals the Calibre PF517 movement, complete with a 48-hour power reserve and a captivating flying tourbillon. 

Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Tantalum Rose Gold Automatic

Yes, there are a lot of Royal Oaks out there, and every single one is special in its own way, however, this one deserves a separate mention (and a spot in this gift guide, of course). An attentive reader might notice that this variant looks less bright compared to the more traditional models. That’s because this watch is made from tantalum rather than stainless steel or white gold. Tantalum is a metal known for its impressive hardness and resistance to scratches. The slate-gray colorway of this piece is complemented by the rose gold bezel, indices, and hands, making it a unique contemporary take on the beloved classic. 

TAG Heuer Monaco Chronograph Steel Blue Dial

In 1969, TAG Heuer made history when it launched the first-ever square chronograph with its Monaco model. Deeply rooted in the proud history of racing and motorsport by its association with brands like Porsche and patronage of legends like Steve McQueen and Ayrton Senna, TAG Heuer Monaco is as much a timekeeping instrument as it is a piece of heritage. The caliber 11 edition features the famous crown on the left to emphasize the manual winding of this watch is unnecessary. The racing influences that birthed this model become apparent even to those unfamiliar with the maison’s history, thanks to the blue color of its dial and red hour markers and hands. To satisfy the high-octane lifestyle of any racing enthusiast, the Monaco Chronograph features luminescent coating on its hands and indices for easy legibility even at night.