FRIDAY WIND DOWN: 12th February, 2016, (Valentine’s Day Watch Guide Edition)

Felix Scholz

Love, to quote John Paul Young, is in the air. So is rampant consumerism. The world’s most romantic/over-rated day (depending on your perspective/relationship status/cynicism level) is a few days away, so there’s still time to grab that perfect something to express your love, commitment and passion. Now, plenty of places will give you gift options of the tried and tested flowers/chocolate/dinner-for-two variety but here at Time+Tide we’ve come up with a list of our own. Five watches (no surprise there) that are perfect not just for your loved one, but for you too. Help your partner help you. After all, the couple that shares watches together – stays together. There, it’s in writing. So, settle down with a cheeky French red and your rom-com of choice and get ready for our Valentine’s Day edition of the Friday Wind Down. Enjoy responsibly, as always. XXOO

The Cartier Clé de Cartier

There’s an inherent romance in Cartier’s curvy Clé that makes it ideal for old-school traditionalists, and is best paired with white linen and 12 red roses. It’s offered in 31mm, 35mm and 40mm case sizes. RRP from $6650 (31mm steel) Pictured in 40mm white gold.

The IWC Mark XVIII

Take your relationship to new heights with the brand new IWC Mark XVIII Pilot’s watch. The 40mm size is suitable for men and women (though you could also opt for the new 36mm Pilot’s watch), and its rugged aesthetic ensures you’re ready for action at any time. RRP from $6100

The Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Classic

The elegant (and truly iconic) JLC Reverso is the perfect shared watch. For an even more romantic touch, get it engraved with your entwined initials, or go for a Duetto model, ensuring you both get a dial. Indicative RRP of $11,600

The Nomos Metro Neomatik

A refined gift for the stylish and urbane couple (the sort whose home has been featured on The Design Files) is a Nomos Metro Neomatik. Serious, but still with a sense of fun. RRP from $4580

The Rolex Oyster Perpetual 39

Give your partner a Rolex and they know you’re in for the long haul. And while there are plenty of options to choose from (matching his and hers Everose Yacht-Masters – yes please), we’d recommend the new Oyster Perpetual 39, because it looks great on both men and women and goes with anything. The only problem is picking a dial colour you can both agree on. RRP $7200