Luxury Watch Trends for 2016

A good quality, luxury watch is timeless. Look after it, and it will serve you for a lifetime, not to mention many subsequent generations.

Although luxury watches do not tend to follow the same faced-paced trends as clothing, horology still evolves with the times, with subtle changes and trends documented each year.

As we start a new year, let’s take a look at some of the luxury watch trends emerging in 2016.

Customisation

Personalising a watch with an engraving has been popular for a while, but in 2016, we are starting to see more options for making a luxury watch unique to the wearer. We’ve seen this with the launch of Apple’s Watch last year, with the array of colours, straps, metals and watch faces available. Classic luxury watchmakers, such as British brand Farer, are also offering extra straps on purchasing a new watch.

This trend is not limited to new watches, however; if you are looking to purchase a vintage watch in 2016, why not customise it by changing the strap? Last year, for example, we customised a stunning Rolex Submariner with a vintage0style leather strap by The Watch Obsession.

Slimmer watches

Over the years, men’s watches have grown in size, with some sports watches reaching 44mm or so in recent years. However, according to the experts, it seems that in 2016 we’ll be seeing a move towards slimmer, more elegant watches reminiscent of vintage styles. While the ideal size of a watch will always be a matter of personal taste, it has been predicted that a smaller watch, with a classic dial and clean lines, will be the timepiece of choice for the modern gentleman.

Smart Watches

The world of wearable tech is expanding, and while it may not replace non-digital products, the luxury watch market is certainly starting to embrace the trend. TAG Heuer is leading the way by launching its new smartwatch, Connected, which will be on sale imminently. Meanwhile Montblanc have addressed the future-proof problem by creating an e-Strap, which combines wearable technology with fine watchmaking. So, although 2015 was undoubtedly the year of the Smartwatch, 2016 will see the rise of classic watchmakers creating and showcasing their responses to Apple, Samsung and Pebble. 

Whatever the year brings, we are confident that each these trends will be prevalent in the watch industry. If you are thinking of purchasing a luxury watch in 2016, we can help you find a watch that fits current trends, but will also stand the test of time. Just visit us in Margate or Ramsgate and speak to one of our luxury watch experts.