Few gifts are as meaningful, practical, and long-lasting as a fine timepiece. They’re gorgeous to look at but also function as a timekeeping tool. They’re precious objects that’ll be cherished for a lifetime but are built to wear every day. And finally, they symbolize the precious moments shared together and serve to remind the recipient of the giver’s enduring affection. So on the day dedicated to love, give that special someone in your life the gift of a luxury watch. Whether you’re buying for him or her, here’s our Valentine’s gift guide to help you pick out that perfect present. They'll love these watches almost as much as they love you.
For Him
The archetype of a “nice watch,” the classic design of the Rolex Datejust has endured for well over 70 years—and with looks like these, it’s safe to say it’ll remain popular for the next seven decades too. While all Datejust watches have the same fundamental design comprising of a round water-resistant case, a date window at 3 o’clock magnified by a protruding lens, and an automatic movement, the collection offers a wide array of options. From casual stainless steel to stylish two-tone, medium 36mm to large 41mm, sporty three-link bracelets to dressy five-link bracelets, the choices are seemingly endless. Regardless of your Valentine’s taste, there’s likely an ideal Rolex Datejust for him.
As the chronograph that went to the moon aboard Apollo 11 in 1969, the Omega Speedmaster “Moon Watch” is one of the world’s most famous watches. And if your loved one is fascinated by all things space, then that’s the ultimate watch gift to give. It doesn’t hurt that the Speedmaster Moon Watch is great looking too, pairing a steel case with a black dial and black bezel. However, aside from the “Moon Watch” variant, the Omega Speedmaster lineup is incredibly diverse with models dedicated to sailing, motorsport racing, flying, and other lively pursuits. Plus, with plenty of sizes, materials, and colorways to choose from, the only difficulty we foresee with gifting a Speedy this Valentine’s Day is choosing only one!
Bold, brash, and the ultimate head-turner, the Royal Oak by Audemars Piguet is no wallflower of a watch. In a sea of round watches with smooth dials, the Royal Oak’s eight-sided case and textured dial will make anyone stand up and notice. Moreover, its famously hefty price tag emphasizes the luxury component of its “luxury sports watch” genre. While the Royal Oak will never be accused of being simple, the most straightforward editions are craft from stainless steel and offer time and date functionality. On the other end of the spectrum are the precious metal and/or high complication versions. Choosing a Royal Oak as a Valentine’s Day gift is the watch-equivalent of shouting about your love from the rooftops.
Back in the days of traveling (which will hopefully pick up again soon), a GMT watch would be a very useful thing to wear as it lets you read two time zones, simultaneously. And with its blue and red bezel sitting on top of its steel case, the Tudor Black Bay GMT is a fantastic version that combines exceptional style and real-world practicality. And with a sister company like Rolex to live up to, Tudor works extra hard to produce top quality watches but with the added benefit of accessible prices. Even if you can’t go on a romantic trip just yet, get him the watch he’ll most definitely be excited to wear when it’s time for that dreamy vacation.
For Her
The watch of choice for some of history’s most fashionable ladies, the Cartier Tank flawlessly illustrates that French knack for understated elegance. Although there are plenty of models to choose from, the Tank’s rectangular silhouette and Roman numerals on the dial are immediately recognized as one of Cartier’s creations. Whether in steel or gold, big or small, fitted with a metal bracelet or leather strap, the Cartier Tank is always très chic—and will no doubt be a huge hit as a Valentine’s Day gift for her.
Treat her like the queen she is by bestowing her with a crown—the Rolex crown in the form of the beloved Datejust watch. And just like royal tiaras, the Datejust is available in a bevy of sizes and styles, ranging from cool stainless steel to lavish full gold or platinum. Of course, diamond embellishments are always an option too. Whichever Datejust you decide to give, this is the wear-with-everything watch that she’ll never take off and treasure forever.
It’s no secret that diamonds make many ladies happy so why not gift her a diamond timepiece where the name says it all – a Chopard Happy Diamonds watch. Pairing precious gold with dazzling diamonds, the Chopard Happy Diamonds is part jewelry, part watch, and entirely heart-melting. Though the watch is undeniably show-stopping whilst stationary, it’ll really come alive on her wrist when the floating diamonds dance around freely with every move of her hand.
Born just before the 1980s, the Piaget Polo was perfectly primed to become the must-have luxury sports watch of that glamorous and extravagant decade. As Yves Piaget, the creator of the watch declared, the Polo is “a watch bracelet rather than a mere wristwatch.” Indeed, this striking timepiece wears like a solid gold bangle on the arm and glistens thanks to a dash of diamonds on the dial. As mighty as a strike from Cupid’s arrow, once she slips a Piaget Polo around her wrist, she’ll think about you each moment she glances down at the time.
Pre-Owned Luxury Watches
Opting to buy a watch from the pre-owned market rather than retail means that you’ll not only have a much greater assortment of watches—including vintage, discontinued, and rare ones—to browse through but you may also save enough money to buy yourself a top-tier watch this Valentine’s Day too! Check out Phigora’s exceptional selection of pre-owned watches from the world’s best brands right here.
