Watch Guru: Valentine's Gift Guide 2021
As an avid consumer of affordable watches with amazing quality, our Watch Guru Joshua Clare-Flagg from the popular watch blog Watch It All About is giving an insight into his thoughts on the watch world.
Whilst we’ve all been persevering with lockdown 3.0, time keeps ticking away. There’s something to look forward to on the horizon: valentine’s day. It’s a chance to give a thoughtful gift to your other half, to show how much you care about them; and what better gift to give than a watch? In this article I’ve hand-picked 4 men’s and women's watches, as well as an item of jewellery each - at a variety of price points.
Men's Watches
Men don’t have the opportunity to wear much jewellery, which is why a special timepiece means so much to us. Whatsmore, the importance of, and appreciation for a watch is reinforced when it is received as a gift from a loved one. I know this as a fact - I still have my first watch gifted to me from my wife of 12 years from when we started courting! My picks below are 4 splendid watches for the man in your life who loves watches.
Depth Charge
The Depth Charge automatic diver watches (available in black, blue or green ADD LINKS) offer truly unbelievable value for money. Brilliant specs (such as Seiko automatic movement, sapphire crystal, and ceramic bezel insert) coupled by impressively solid build quality for a mere £179 (currently on offer for even less!) makes this a brilliant choice for anyone who wants a substantial watch on a budget.
Casio G-Shock GA-2100
Exact model below is currently unavailable. Alternative: Casio G-Shock Watch GA-2100SU-1AERThe Casio G-Shock GA-2100 has quickly become a tremendous cult classic since its release in August 2019. Also dubbed as the “casioak” in watch enthusiast circles, if you want a rugged, hard-wearing watch that will get you some serious brownie points, this is the choice for you.
Seiko SRPE99K1
This Seiko is also known as the PADI Turtle, and is another watch that will impress your watch aficionado buddies. Seiko know a thing or two about making tremendous diving watches, and this is a part of their “Prospex” line (professional specs), a result of years of fine-tuning and honing their masterful timepieces.
Tissot Visodate
The Tissot Visodate is a beautiful iconic, vintage inspired Swiss Made watch which is available in so many colorways you’ll be sure to find one that suits you. Built to impressive standards with a classy design, this watch is for the discerning gentleman. My pick is the black dial and leather strap model, with contrasting gold accents.
Men's Jewellery
An item of jewelry is a great alternative for a valentine’s gift for the man in your life. Jewelry can be a more affordable gift instead of a watch, but will still have the same positive connotations. A classy and subtle item of jewelry can enhance a man’s outfit and overall appearance.
BOSS Insignia Bangle
This is a sophisticated yet understated piece of jewellery, A sturdy and simple solid stainless steel with a brushed top angle against a polished bottom angle, it’ll easily work well in any situation with any outfit.
Ladies Watches
A well thought-out watch can be a real statement piece. If the woman in your life doesn’t have a decent watch yet, what are you waiting for? Not only will it show you care for her, but it’ll provide another dimension in her day-to-day life. If your other half has a watch already and wears it regularly, then you can be sure that another complimenting model will go down well as a Valentine’s gift.
Calvin Klein Accent Watch
The Accent by Calvin Klein is a Swiss Made beauty at a very reasonable price. Elegant and sure to go with anything, it’s a beautiful watch with a graceful and very versatile design.
Rotary Mother of Pearl Aquaspeed
This is a watch that’s a lot more fun and eye-catching. With a stunning pink mother of pearl dial, flanked with a crystal studded bezel insert and crystal hour markers, it’s a watch that will wow any woman.
Festina Skeleton Automatic F20538
For those who like to see the movement working, this skeleton automatic from Festina is a wonderful choice. With a sapphire crystal, stunning skeletonised movement, and beautiful rose gold accents on the hands, hour makers and crown, it’s a superb option for those who want a high-specced timepiece.
Bulova Octava Chronograph
If you’re after something seriously blingy, then look no further than the Bulova Octava Chronograph. Designed to be noticed, this watch is boldly embellished with 300 Swarovski® Crystals, and as it’s a Bulova, you can be sure it’s very well built.
Ladies Jewellery
A well-considered piece of jewelry is an excellent option as a Valentine’s gift for the woman in your life. I’m told by my wife that you can never have enough earrings, necklaces, bangles and the like. I feel the same way about watches, so I totally understand where she’s coming from.
Thomas Sabo Glam & Soul Clear Stud Earrings
Stud earrings are a staple for any jewellery collection, and these sophisticated earrings by Thomas Sabo feature a glistening crystal at the heart. Gracefully set in sterling silver, these are sure to be the perfect gift for any woman.
