6 of the best engagement watches

Buffy Acacia

Marriage is an incredibly personal process, and it can mean vastly different things to different couples. There may be a lot of established traditions, but the act of getting engaged is rife with opportunities to explore what makes your relationship special. For example, many watch enthusiasts have started to embrace the idea of an engagement watch to symbolise their commitment and the passage of time. Plus, as the vast majority of men in straight couples don’t wear a ring until they’re actually married, it gives women an opportunity to reciprocate the gift of the engagement ring. No matter what your relationship dynamic is, here are some of the best options when considering an engagement watch, keeping in mind that you’ll probably want to wear it for the wedding, too.

Vario Versa Reversible Dual Time

If your budget is tight, microbrands offer some of the best value for money around. The Vario Versa is a perfect example of the creativity available out there, while remaining sophisticated and practical. It uses two ultra-slim quartz movements that can be set independently, allowing you to keep track of multiple time zones when you feel like flipping the case around. With the dual dials, you could keep things monochrome and classy during the wedding, then brighten things up with a colourful reception. The 26mm x 39mm rectangular case is also highly versatile for any gender, so be ready for your partner to borrow it on occasion. Price: US$428

Baltic Prismic

There’s no better time than an engagement to indulge in the formal decadence of a cocktail watch. With equal parts glamour and stoicism, the Baltic Prismic is a contemporary reimagining of cocktail watches from the Art Deco period of the previous century. The stainless steel bezel and lugs emphasises the 36mm case’s shine, while the titanium mid-case helps to reduce the weight for a more comfortable wearing experience. The Milanese mesh bracelet with fitted ends also heightens the watch as a whole. The dial explores a huge range of textures, and you could easily get lost in its detail. Hand-wound movements usually create a stronger bond between owners than automatics, so the Peseux 7001 calibre was a great choice on all counts. Price: €1,050 (~US$1,105), available from the T+T Shop

Fears Brunswick 40 Opaline Silver

Adapted from a heritage model from 1924, the cushion-cased Fears Brunswick 40 is an impeccable display of small scale British watchmaking in the 21st century. The Opaline Silver dial is less flashy than something like the mother-of-pearl Aurora or even just the blue version, however its sector arrangement and raised Arabic numerals gives it a subtle dimensionality which is captivating. The simple, printed logo and train track minute markers gives you everything you need from a watch dial, harnessed with effortless style and phenomenal finishing. It’s powered by the automatic La Joux-Perret G101 movement, which boasts a 68 hour power reserve and a smooth 4Hz beat rate. Price: US$3,950, available from the T+T Shop

Omega De Ville Trésor

A sorely overlooked model from Omega’s catalogue is the De Ville Trésor, which is available in a dizzying array of beautiful references. It’s rare that Omega fully leans away from sportiness and into elegance, but it does it so well. One of the standouts is the 40mm model with a blue linen dial and long, slender indices and hands, which doesn’t put a single detail out of place. Even the date window’s background carries the same colour and texture as the dial, so there are no jarring differences. It’s a timeless look that doesn’t lack intrigue, and there are also many complimentary models that are smaller and more feminine should you want to pair up with your partner. The Omega Master Co-Axial 8910 also grants a masterful view from the sapphire exhibition caseback, along with a hand wound 72 hour power reserve and METAS certification. Price: US$7,100

Cartier Tank Louis Cartier

Precious metals are used in wedding and engagement rings because of their low reactivity, and thus longevity, so if you’re going to be wearing your special watch for the rest of your life, it makes sense to go for gold. The Tank Louis Cartier has been an undisputed icon of watchmaking for over a century, and serves as proof that fashion brands can also be incredible watchmakers. In its rectangular case of 18k yellow gold, the black lacquer dial of this large size Tank Louis Cartier pulls you into its glossy abyss. Entirely genderless, timeless, and even devoid of numerals, this watch is far more about the memories you form with it rather than checking the time. Price: US$13,000

Vacheron Constantin Patrimony Perpetual Calendar Ultra-Thin

I promise that the Vacheron Constantin Patrimony isn’t just on this list because it rhymes with matrimony. One look at the dial explains everything, as the harmonious display of subdials and the sparkling moonphase comes together in an ultimate package of classicism. The parchment tone of the silver opaline dial provides a beautifully soft contrast to the 18k pink gold case and applied markers, and the 41mm diameter is remarkably comfortable thanks to the total thickness of just 8.91mm. Even at that height, the calibre 1120/3 QP/1 still winds automatically with a power reserve of 40 hours. Of course, the view from the exhibition caseback is breathtaking, and you can see why the movement has been awarded a Geneva Seal for its finishing. Price: US$150,000

Time+Tide Timeless Pick: a vintage Rolex Datejust

One way or another, Rolex has become the global default of luxury watchmaking. It’s almost synonymous with the word “watch”, and the Datejust is certainly associated with milestones, achievements, or other kinds of celebratory purchases. Sure, you could sign up to some waiting lists or pay the premium for a grey market model if you want a steel case, or you could dive into the vintage market with a timeless reference and its fluted bezel. If you’ve waited your whole life to own a Rolex, then getting engaged is one of the most significant reasons for finally buying one. There are thousands of versions to choose from with great and small variances, so you should be able to fit one in particular which suits your personality best.