  On right: A watch with vintage-style silver dial and eagle motif and black leather strap (Guess Watches style W10217G1, $175), skeleton-style watch with a gunmetal dial and dark brown cuff strap (Guess Watches style #W12601G2, $215) and a three-hand analog watch with iced out skull symbol on the dial and black ionic plated bracelet (Marc Ecko's The Vibe, $285). On left: A gunmetal-tone watch with burnished silver dial and brown leather cuff strap (Guess Watches, style W90025G1, $140, and a dual-time, black and silver watch featuring a silver dial with black accents and strap (Marc Ecko's The Maestro, $295). (Mike Hensen/QMI Agency) |
If you're hunting for a Christmas present for the man in your life, it's time to consider a stylish timepiece.
“A watch is one of the most memorable gifts you can give since it keeps track of something that is of the utmost importance — time,” says Rudy Chavez, president of Baume & Mercier.
Most men will be delighted if you take the time to choose a wristwatch that suits their philosophy.
“It is one of the few ways a man can express his personal style,” says Anne Sue-Pin, a senior brand manager for Guess watches.
If you’re not quite sure how to go about choosing a time keeper, start by determining whether your guy’s style
is contemporary, classic or trendy. If he likes vintage styling or is gadget-minded, there are also watches that will suit his taste.
For the man who prefers classic suits and button-front shirts with French cuffs, match him with a classic watch with contemporary styling. A round or tank-style face in yellow or rose-gold tones with a crocodile embossed or plain leather strap is sure to please.
Silver and stainless steel faces give modern edge to both classic and fashion-forward watch styles, while gun metal often appears on watches that show case vintage style. Vintage style watches may also feature brushed metal dials and Roman numerals.
Fashion forward guys who prefer trendy clothing may gravitate toward silver-toned metal and ‘80s-inspired black leather- and rubber-strapped watches, some of which are made of hi-tech materials such as tungsten carbide.
“In keeping with the year’s hottest punk rock trend, we’re also seeing tons of skulls on the dials from silver outlines to those that are jewel–encrusted,” says Julia Che of Lotus Leaf Communications, and a spokesperson for Marc Ecko watches.
Trendwatchers may also enjoy slipping a wrist into a flashy watch with blinged- out, jewel-encrusted bezels on snazzy, metal chain link bracelets or dog tag style necklaces.
If your guy is sporty or fond of technology, he might like a chronograph racer or diver-style watch. Or try a skeleton-style that features a transparent case that offers a window to view the movement.
“Most men love gadgets and will be happy to receive a gadget-minded watch, such as a skeleton style, as a gift,” says Taryn Doobay, a national brand manager for Rado.
Even if your intended recipient already owns a watch or two, chances are that he will appreciate the gift of another timepiece.
“When it comes to watches, it’s nice to have a variety of choices to suit your ever changing mood,” says Melanie Clark, a buyer for the West 49 retail chain.
heather.toskan@sunmedia.ca
