Philosopher and sociologist Ernst Cassirer said that the human being is a symbolic animal, which means that we think and act symbolically, and that based on these symbols, we build our own universe.
We see this very clearly when, during some very important moments in our lives, we assign symbolism to inanimate objects that remind us of or deeply commit us to a person, an event, or an ideal. Such is the case of the engagement ring, with which two people (the giver and the recipient) promise to unite in a ceremony that marks the beginning of a life together.
What is an engagement watch?
Although its origins are unknown, it is said that this tradition that is gradually spreading in Mexico comes from somewhere in Spain: a man asks his girlfriend to marry him by giving her an engagement ring, and she reciprocates by giving him an engagement watch that holds great sentimental value to both and expresses their desire to commit to a lasting, meaningful relationship.
Like the ring, the watch must be carefully chosen, since it will usually be worn for the first time at the wedding (although some have worn it before), thus symbolizing the beginning of a new phase for both.
There is another type of engagement watch that is known as a countdown watch, and it is used to count the remaining time until a specific event – wedding, graduation, anniversary, or any other important date – takes place. These watches usually have a digital screen that shows the countdown in days, hours, minutes, and seconds, with the aim of maintaining motivation and enthusiasm for the event in question, revealing how much time is left before the special day arrives.
What is the difference between a promise watch and an engagement watch?
In reality, the engagement watch falls under the category of promise watches, which are given as a symbol of promise or important commitment on any special occasion and can be engraved with a personal message or important date to make it even more meaningful.
When is it appropriate to gift a man a promise watch?
- Anniversary: to celebrate any special anniversary, though especially for weddings
- Promotion: when someone is promoted at work or reaches an important professional milestone
- Graduation: when a man achieves any academic degree
- Birthday: any birthdays are appropriate, but particularly when a boy comes of age
- Wedding or engagement: a highly appropriate occasion to gift a watch to a groom, as it is a symbol of love and commitment
How to choose an engagement watch for a man
Consider the following factors:
- Style: determine the personal style of the man in question. Is he classic, elegant, modern, or sporty?
- Occasion: an elegant and sophistacted watch is more appropriate for a formal occasion, while a sporty one is more for something casual or for a man with a more active lifestyle.
- Functionality: the characteristics of the watch must meet the needs of the man. Would he appreciate a chronometer or a timer? What about digital versus analog display?
- Budget: watch prices vary according to brand, material, and functions.
- Brand: choose a quality watch with good warranty—Rolex, Omega, TAG Heuer, Breitling, Seiko, Citizen, or Calvin Klein, among others.
What are the most luxurious brands to choose from?
There are several luxury watch brands that offer exclusive models. Here are some of the most prominent:
Rolex Submariner
This model is iconic and one of the most widely recognized and valued in the world of luxury watches. Although it is advertised as “the reference diving watch” it is elegant, resistant, and perfect for any occasion.
Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch
Used by NASA on space missions, it is synonymous with precision and quality. Its 42-mm stainless steel case is asymmetrical. It is made in the classic 4th generation style used by the Apollo 11 astronauts during the first moon landing. You can choose between the model with sapphire crystal on both sides or the one with hesalite crystal and a caseback with an embossed hippocampus.
The Patek Nautilus collection is distinguished by its octagonal bezel and smooth contours. The case evokes a ship’s hatch, and you can choose between steel, rose gold, white gold, or two-tone combinations. Since 1976, the Nautilus has been the quintessential sporty-chic style. They currently offer a splendid collection of models for men and women.
With its steel case, octagonal bezel set with 8 hexagonal screws, tapisserie guilloché dial, and integrated bracelet, hand-polished and satin-finished, the Royal Oak by Audemars Piguet has become the identity of the collection. It is a watch that claims to have cracked the code in 1972 to become a modern icon. It is a unique craft that symbolizes commitment.
Jaeger-LeCoultre Master Ultra Thin
Jaeger-LeCoultre’s Master Ultra Thin collection fuses a timeless aesthetic with what they call technical virtuosity. His designs make use of minimalist and marked lines but do not forego traditional details. Available with a cream-colored dial and sunburst finish, the hour markers are elongated, adding perfect symmetry, while the Dauphine hands are polished and satin-finished.
Of course, these are just some examples of the prestige watches available on the market. You will know how to choose the right one for your moment, your man, and your promise. Just remember that the quality of your gift is crucial if you want it to become a beautiful and lasting memory.
If you enjoy topics about luxury brands, take a look at our entry on Manolo Blahnik, the 80-year-old shoe designer who is still as active and creative as he was decades ago, or explore the fashion section of our blog.
