A passion for watches goes above and beyond the watch itself. If you want to take your passion to the next level, it’s time to take a closer look at watch accessories. Some watch accessories are absolute essentials, others may not be as necessary, but are certainly good fun. If you’re looking to gift a watch lover (or yourself) some holiday cheer this Christmas, you’re in the right place. Keep reading to discover some top watch accessories that would make perfect gifts.
Straps
Let’s start things off with straps. I’ve personally never bought a watch without a strap – watch enthusiasts refer to this as “head only” – but I have purchased additional straps immediately after buying a watch. I’ve even bought extra straps before the watch has arrived; some watches are just screaming for a new look. When I bought my Speedmaster Reduced, I knew I wanted to wear it with a khaki NATO strap to match my bomber jacket; however, a cognac leather strap provides just the right touch of class for more formal occasions.
Don’t be shy about changing a watch strap to better suit a specific occasion, outfit, or activity. The privileged owners of watches with integrated stainless steel straps, e.g., the Royal Oak or Nautilus, will unfortunately have to pass on this one. For everyone else, however, know that if you want to show off something new or different on your wrist, it doesn’t always have to be a new watch. Whenever I purchase a leather strap, I make sure the layers of leather (upper and lining) are tightly bound together with seamless edges. Both elements should be made of full-grain leather. The lining is decisive for a strap’s longevity, and the stitching needs to be more than just aesthetically pleasing. It must have safety stitches and seams.
The clasp should be made of stainless steel or another durable metal. Water-resistant rubber straps are an ideal option for summer vacations near the ocean. Keep these points in mind when selecting a strap to suit a particular person. Check out our list of straps to see even more interesting choices. I recommend taking a look at Watchgecko, Two Stitch Straps, and Phenomenato for NATO straps. There are countless dealers online, each with a wide selection.
Tools
If you’ve purchased a strap or received one as a gift, you’re probably eager to try it on your watch. First, you’ll need a spring bar tool, one of the most popular watch tools and accessories. Something to keep in mind: In my experience, the spring bar tools that are included with watches or straps aren’t always the most durable. Have you ever found yourself in the following situation? Ten minutes before it’s time to meet your friends, you get the brilliant idea to quickly change to a black leather strap. To your dismay, the tip of your spring bar tool breaks off or worse, slips and scratches the lug. Don’t let this be you! The value of a high-quality spring bar tool cannot be stressed enough. A good-quality tool from the traditional brand Bergeon will only set you back about 30 USD. If you really want to make seasoned watch fans salivate, however, why not get a complete watch tool kit? These professional-grade kits list for anywhere between 300 and 1,200 USD. In addition to a spring bar tool, they often include pliers, tweezers, a movement holder, dial bracket, and magnifying glass. The latter is just what you need to get a closeup view of the tritium marker on your Rolex 5513.
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View this post on InstagramPepsi or Sub? Both available in the shop (link in bio ?)
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Prints
If your Instagram grid is full watches, chances are you’ll eventually come across some enticing ads geared toward watch lovers. This is how I got hooked on watch prints. I loved one so much that I just had to have it, even though I knew an argument would ensue when I tried to hang it up at home (no, not in the bedroom). Is there anything better than waking up in the morning, turning on the coffee machine, and winding your watch, all while admiring a perfect illustration of the exact same timepiece? Okay, I’ll admit there are a few things that top it, but having these prints are still great – and they make thoughtful, personalized gifts. Browse Etsy and Art of Horology to find these works of art. Watch enthusiasts should also be sure to check out the Watches&Pencils shop for more creative, watch-inspired pieces.
Storage
For most people, Christmas is synonymous with family and food, but it’s also one of the busiest travel seasons. Whether you’re headed away for the holidays or simply planning your next trip, have you thought about how you’re going to pack your favorite timepieces? Stuffing your precious watches into socks won’t quite cut it. Why not invest in a watch box or watch roll? They are available in a wide range of sizes and materials, including canvas and suede. Find one that meets your budget and needs, e.g., storage for one, three, or five watches. They are great for safely and stylishly storing your watch collection at home, too. Entry-level models cost around 50 USD. Handmade or custom boxes and rolls are even more enticing and reflect a true passion for collecting timepieces. Visit CareofCarl and WatchVice to explore some options.
View this post on InstagramReal luxury is understanding quality, and having time to enjoy it ⌚ Happy Saturday #watchfam
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Fashion
If a gold Day-Date isn’t flashy enough for you or your loved one, this section might be for you! Why not add some watch-themed clothing to the mix? All jokes aside, more and more fashion brands are targeting the watch community. I recently came across WatchRats, a shop selling socks (it is Christmas after all) with GMT Pepsi and Nautilus designs that will make most watch enthusiasts smile. Patches are another fashion accessory that may appeal to watch lovers. Pastiche Patches sells Doxa, Rolex, and Grand Seiko patches along with other brands. Iron one onto your jeans or bomber jacket, pair the look with a vintage strap, and you’ll have the perfect watch-nerd ensemble.
Books
Social media may be replacing print media when it comes to entertainment, but books are still irreplaceable when it comes to researching your next watch purchase – or if you want to impress a group of watch fans with some cold, hard facts. I think books counteract the flood of information out there; they force you to stick to one topic at a time. Next time you’re hankering for an evening in, brew yourself a nice cup of coffee or tea and crack open a great watch book – absolute bliss.
