Wristwatches for the modern man: Top styles for 2021

The wristwatch has always been an exhibition of a man’s unique look (or looks, depending on the occasion!). Ever a symbol of style and sophistication, opulence, tech savvy, athleticism or quirkiness, time-telling arm candy is an opportunity to express one’s take on the world.

Since the smartwatch burst onto the scene, watches have explored completely new directions, with functionality including integration with phones for texts, calls and emails, heart rate and sleep monitors, GPS and more. While the functional style of the Apple watch has become a popular option, many men remain devotees of traditional wristwatch style, and, even with classic analogue modelling, most feature at least some of the technological advantages of their less stylish high-tech cohorts.

This article explores some of the newest trends in luxury watches for men in 2021, from Tudor to Rolex, with something to suit almost any taste.

Vintage chic

Fashion is always in flux, but vintage pieces stay forever in vogue, and the display in 2021 is no exception. Some of the most expensive pieces available to buy are vintage models, and many people like a watch that can tell a story. By definition, single-owner wristwatches are increasingly rare, and so they’re both an impressive visual statement and a great investment – particularly if the previous owner was somebody important. Rolex sports models are especially popular, but there’s an endless range to explore.

Golden days

The gold wristwatch has maintained a steady appeal since the first gold pocket watches were made hundreds of years ago, though it has shifted in and out of fashion over the decades. In 2021 the price of gold is particularly high, even amid the post-pandemic downturn in many markets, so gold watches could offer a lot of relative value for the investment required to purchase them. Not least, they’re a classic, opulent look that stands the test of time.

A splash of colour

Men’s watches have habitually been relatively simple-looking, compared with women’s counterparts, with muted or monochrome colours and classic design. In recent years, colour has become more of a feature in the market, with Rolex leading the way with their Oyster Perpetual collection, and brands such as Hublot and Breitling bringing their own brightly hued offerings to the scene.

Technological innovation

The timepiece has evolved dramatically over the years, with modern versions offering all kinds of technological advantages. Luxury brand Patek Philippe has often been at the forefront of new ideas, pioneering the first all-electronic models, calendar functionality, lightweight silicone-based components in the mechanism and most recently releasing the Grandmaster Chime Ref 5175 – one of the world’s most complicated wristwatches. In recent years, makers such as Girrard-Perregaux and Doxa have led the way with exciting new features.

Black magic

Many brands of late have explored black as the canvas for their newest designs, with Armani and, notably, Tudor watches emerging with individual takes on the midnight trend. A black wristwatch offers a clean, modern look with minimal fuss that will easily blend with any sartorial ensemble, casual or formal. Wearing a black watch makes a daring, but at the same time sophisticated statement.

Whatever the context or taste and whoever the wearer, the possibilities for luxury wristwatches are multitudinous and ever increasing. A watch can be a way to display the attributes one is most proud of, from sporting flair to high-class elegance or an artistic bent, and, with options to explore from Audemars Piguet to Richard Mille, there’s something for everyone.

The editorial unit