While I always keep a close eye on what all of the fashion people are wearing, I’ve been paying especially close attention to their timepieces recently. I’ve been thinking about investing in my first designer watch, so have been paying attention to the brands and specific styles every fashion person is wearing. My research is more in-depth than other investment purchases I’ve made in the past like bags and shoes, since the prices can be steeper and it is a piece that I plan on wearing for the everyday.
While many of the best watch brands are household names, there are some insider brands that you may not immediately recognize. So, which ones made the cut? Ahead, the 5 watch brands to have on your radar and the key styles to know from each of them. There is no doubt that they are all iconic in their own right.
A brand synonymous with prestige and fine timepieces for over a century, Rolex’s Swiss-made watches are a cult favorite amongst the fashion set. The iconic Datejust, Oyster Perpetual, and Daytona styles are particularly noteworthy if you’re looking for a watch to add to your wardrobe from the brand. The investment-worthy pieces are something you can plan on wearing for many years and one day pass down.
Watches from Parisian jeweler, Cartier, are undeniably elegant and sophisticated, while retaining an element of cool nonchalance. It’s no wonder they are beloved by icons including Grace Kelly, Zendaya, and Dua Lipa. The Cartier timepiece collection includes styles ranging from more casual pieces finished with leather bands to dressier styles designed with fine metal bracelets. You will probably be familiar with some of their most famous watches—among them, the Tank watches which took inspiration from WWII tanks and made their debuted in 1917.
If you’re interested in a watch that doubles as a piece of jewelry, look to Italian jeweler Bulgari. The house’s Serpenti watch in particular is a favorite among the fashion set. The Serpenti watches have a distinct design that wraps around the wrist, mimicking a coiling snake—an elegant silhouette that makes it the ultimate piece to wear for a special occasion.
Swiss watchmaker Omega was founded in 1848 and continues to be recognized for their craftsmanship and elegance over 170 years later. Omega’s Seamaster is a favorite of Cindy Crawford and known as a transitional piece that can work for the everyday as well as dressier occasions. The Constellation watches, released in 1952, are designed to look like a star-studded night sky and are another style that is particularly in-demand amongst the fashion set.
Audemars Piguet was founded in 1875 and is one of the top high luxury watchmakers today. Their watches are released in very limited quantities and designed with precious metals and gems, making their timepieces amongst the most coveted in the world. Originally debuting in 1972, the Royal Oak is Audemar Piguet’s most iconic and most recognized model that you’ll spot on celebrities including Serena Williams, January Jones, and Justin Bieber, who bought himself one as a wedding gift.
