During the Holidays
Tick-tock. Indeed, the clock is ticking on the holiday season, but there’s still time to find a last-minute gift or two for the hobbyist in your life. Here, we’ve rounded up some of the best gifts for watch lovers.
Rare Watches: The World’s Finest Timepieces
It starts with a bang here with a book on some of the rarest, best watches in the world. From one-of-a-kind collectibles to watches that graced the wrist of both fictional characters (James Bond) and Elvis (larger than life), this book has it all. Produced in partnership with Christie’s, the book’s unparalleled accessibility, untold stories, and stunning photography will give it a prominent place in any connoisseur’s library.
Bennett Winch Watch Roll
Here at HSS, we’re big fans of British leather goods maker Bennett Winch. True to the ethos of quality and craftsmanship with little quirk the watch is missingindeeda scroll. Indeed, a traditional scroll is not always straight and tends to wobble when you open it. This can be a bit confusing for the observant horologist. But, Bennett Winch solved the problem with a unique system that is both strong and flexible.
The exterior of this roll is luxurious Tuscan leather. The interior is Alcantara sueded lining to protect your precious piece. Everything is given structure with a Kevlar core. This folds into a hexagonal shape that keeps everything from folding.
Armitron x Nuts: The Lineup
Maybe it’s because the holidays are approaching mixed with good ‘ol nostalgia – I can’t be the only one with a famous Armitron calculator clock from middle school – but I really like this clock.
It’s the perfect size and a lot of fun. Isn’t that what watches should be?
Nomos Club Sport Neomatik
Nomos Glashütte, it’s under the radar from the Swiss behemoths—but when you know, you know. The Club Sport Neomatik is a refreshing twist in the overcrowded luxury sports watch segment. At first glance, this watch may look like any other. But, the best details reveal themselves upon closer inspection.
At 39.5mm, it’s a sports watch that’s big enough to be worthy of the title, but not too big and not pretty enough to pair with a jacket and trousers. And, at just 8.5mm thick, it’s subtle enough to slip under a shirt cuff.
What stands out, however, is the sunburst dial. The ‘tabac’ brown is distinctive enough to buck the trend of colored dials. The numbers are clear and easy to read, but not obnoxiously so. The see-through caseback gives a good impression of the DUW001’s thin, streamlined automatic caliber.
And, at 3,700USD, it’s in a much nicer shape than the Oyster Perpetual or the new Aqua Terra.
Rapport London Luxury Watch Cleaning Kit
Part of the joy of owning any item of value is taking care of it, whether it’s shoes, clothes, or even your car. This, of course, extends to watches. The complete cleaning kit from Rapport is an essential addition to any hobbyist’s arsenal.
This includes a cleaning spray to break down dirt and grime, a metal parts cloth, one of the metal parts, and a cleaning brush. Like a shoe shine routine, cleaning your watches can be a relaxing Sunday afternoon activity to prepare for the week ahead.
“Timepiece” A work of art
Watches are works of art in themselves. But, if you can’t find the real thing, it’s good to have a picture of it. These could be blueprints for the reversible Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso or Cartier Basculante, or something more modern like this one from Andy Blank.
The “Timepiece” series brings together 42 iconic watches—everything from the Patek Philippe Nautilus 5711 to the Apple Watch—in one clean, miniature model on museum-grade paper. Hang this 21×21 print in their office—or, better yet, above their viewing box. All pieces are also available pre-assembled for easy installation and enjoyment.
Weiss Watch Straps
Even in the luxury segment, brands seem to be cutting corners with their belts. Skins can become plasticky, crack easily, or stretch over time. Or, sometimes, they decide on a belt that doesn’t go so well with the case.
That’s where specialized cable builders come in. Weiss makes watches, yes; but also world-class straps in cowhide, cordovan, and suede. Available in black and various brown colors, it will enhance any watch.
Watch box by Mark & Graham Wood
We all know someone who just leaves their Rolex on the dresser. Don’t be that guy. Find the right watch box to get the right watch.
This beautiful look from Mark & Graham is made from sustainably sourced acacia wood, a strong and durable material with a pleasing natural character. At 5” high and deep and 12” long, it won’t take up much space on the dresser. It holds five watches in a soft linen cover. It is locked with a brass key, and has a brass plate on the top which is easily engraved.
But, the best part about this is that it is currently on sale.
Wolf Single Watch Winder
On the wish list of one of our contributors, one navigation watch is perfect for the little ones in your life. Or, the (rare) guy who has a complete and established watch collection.
If you’re going to have one of something, why not make it the best? Wolf Watch Winders are among the best and most experienced in the industry.
Julie Kraulis “Making Time” Artwork
Another take on the art world here. Prints of Julie Kraulis’ original graphite drawings of the world’s most iconic watches are available in limited quantities.
His collection includes new ideas for the amazing movement of A. Lange & Söhne Datograph (sold out at the moment, sadly), Royal Oak 5402, and the amazingly complicated crown on the Rolex Daytona. We are fascinated (pardon the pun) by the complexity of the pencil work and the decision to shade and light certain areas. It is this attention to detail that makes this collection far from ‘just another hype watch painting.’
With most available in 20 x 30 and some in 24 x 36 sizes, these are large pieces that are sure to be the star of any room.
Sonic Editions Print – Steve McQueen
Icon man. An iconic watch. Steve McQueen and that name appear frequently together. Indeed, McQueen and his style are inspirations to many in the world of menswear.
This print of the man and his Tag Heuer Monaco from the 1971 film “Le Mans” is a great gift for fans of the man and the brand, of course, but also much more. This is how the photographer captured McQueen’s eyes as he entered the frame. He is, yes, but he isin the middlea frame not a square in the middle. That would be very easy. You lookthe pastyou, the viewer, notofyou.
Maybe this is coming off a bit, but I’ll say it anyway: I’d be pushed to see this picture on my office wall. It’s a reminder to keep moving forward, no matter what life throws at you. Images are printed on museum grade paper and are available in Medium (16 x 20) or Large (20 x 24).
The Bottom Line
Mechanical watches are small machines on your wrist. Each machine is made up of dozens, if not hundreds, of delicate components that work in harmony to give you the greatest gift of all: time.
In this season of giving, time is more important than any material possessions. Call a friend you haven’t spoken to in a while. Check in with someone who, for whatever reason, may be away from home this time of year.
Cherish the time you have with loved ones, because, as Tolkien wrote, “we only decide what to do with the time we are given.”