5 Watches Every Watch Lover Should Own
Whether you're just beginning your horological journey or curating a seasoned collection, a well-rounded watch box should cover every lifestyle occasion. From black-tie formality to rugged daily wear, here are five essential types of watches that every collector should consider — complete with iconic recommendations for each category.
1. The Dress Watch – Understated Elegance
A proper dress watch is all about restraint, proportion, and timeless elegance. It's slim enough to slide under a cuff and refined enough to accompany a tuxedo or formal attire.
Top Picks:
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Furlan Marri Black Sector Ref. 2116-A – A neo-vintage masterpiece from one of the most exciting independent brands today. Featuring a perfectly proportioned 37.5mm case, sector dial, and tasteful symmetry, this automatic dress watch punches far above its price point.
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2. The Chronograph – Timing with Character
Chronographs aren’t just about timing events; they bring a sense of motorsport, aerospace, and tool-watch utility to the wrist. Whether for actual use or pure aesthetics, every collection benefits from a chronograph.
Top Picks:
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Omega Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch – The definitive chronograph. Worn on the moon. Enough said.
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Kurono Tokyo Chronograph – Designed by Hajime Asaoka, this offers Japanese minimalism with a hand-assembled mechanical movement and a unique style that blends modern and vintage cues.
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3. The Diver – Rugged and Iconic
The diver’s watch is a staple — durable, legible, and made to handle anything from a desk dive to actual underwater adventures.
Top Picks:
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Seiko Prospex Limited Edition SPB149J1 – Vintage-inspired styling, premium finishing, and a dial that channels the depths of the ocean. A future classic.
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Certina DS Action Diver Powermatic 80 Ref. C032.407.11.041.00 – An underrated Swiss diver with serious specs: 300m water resistance and an 80-hour power reserve for unbeatable value.
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4. The Field Watch – Military Roots, Everyday Appeal
Originally made for soldiers, field watches are reliable, legible, and built to withstand abuse. Their practical styling makes them perfect for weekend wear or casual days.
Top Picks:
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Hamilton Khaki Field Day Date – An American military classic reborn with modern specs and day-date complication.
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Seiko 5 Sports Field – Affordable and hard-wearing, this modern Seiko 5 revives field aesthetics with dependable in-house mechanics.
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5. The GADA Watch – Go Anywhere, Do Anything
The GADA (Go Anywhere, Do Anything) watch is your everyday companion — versatile enough for work, weekend, travel, and even the occasional formal setting.
Top Picks:
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Tudor Black Bay 58 – Vintage looks, robust build, and dive-ready specs — all in a compact 39mm case that wears beautifully on any wrist.
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Oris Big Crown Wings of Hope Limited Edition – A pilot-inspired GADA watch with a story, in-house movement, and sleek vintage styling that works across occasions.
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Final Thoughts
Every collector’s tastes evolve, but these five categories are the foundation of a thoughtful collection. Whether you're dressing up, timing a race, exploring the sea, or just going about your day, there’s a watch here to suit the moment — and make it memorable.
Which of these categories are you missing in your collection?