Giving gifts to watch lovers seems like a difficult feat, as finding something as great as their perfect timepiece may be a little too grand. But, true enthusiasts also love what I like to call “watch adjacent” pieces, like rare merch or niche memorabilia. These Christmas gift guide items are arguably more covetable than a watch proper and tend to be a re-giving gift for watch collectors. Below is a list any man would appreciate if they appreciate a good watch.
Christmas gift guide: TerryCrafted watch strap
From 9-5 Terry, of Terrycrafted, is an investment manager but is a watch lover 24/7. He managed to turn his side business of making custom, exotic leather watch straps into a full-time venture just through word of mouth. From classic ostrich layer to opalescent string ray, Terry offers some of the wildest, mot unique strap options on the market and are not just meant to make a statement, but to last forever. These handcrafted leather straps can be ordered via Instgram DM or by emailing hello@terrycrafted.com.
Ralph Lauren x Revolution x The Rake Watch
The triple collaboration between Ralph Lauren, Revolution, and The Rake is more than a remarkable alliteration. Ralph Lauren’s ode to Raekwon’s (of Wu-Tang Clan) parka worn in the “Can It Be All So Simple” music video is a current heirloom any 90s wrap fan would recognize.
The jacket, emblazoned with the words “Snow Beach”, was created by America’s king, Ralph Lauren, the same year the video was shot. It acted as the piece de resistance of his new urban sportswear line, inspired by the loose-fitted snowboarding parkas of the slopes, as it quickly became just as coveted on the streets of New York.
The cult-following of Snow Beach is still celebrated 30 years later, and with The Rake’s 15th anniversary, Revolution brought the two together to create a piece watch lovers, rap lovers, and Ralph Lauren lovers would want to add to their collection.
Santos De Cartier belt
A good, high-quality belt isn’t a groundbreaking gift but is always appreciated, used, and a safe bet. But, a Cartier belt is all of those things combined. This belt features a reversible black and brown cowhide strap with a golden ardillon buckle and embossed Cartier marking. An everyday staple with a slight edge, this is a true IYKYK piece.
Vintage memorabilia
Vintage memorabilia is always the way to go for watch lovers, collectors, and enthusiasts. Search for vintage merch of their favorite watchmaker on Etsy, eBay, and local vintage markets. This vintage Must de Cartier cologne is a gift a true Cartier fan would appreciate in their collection.
This oriental scent features top notes of layered aldehydes, green mandarin, pineapple, galbanum, bergamot, Brazilian rosewood, peach, and lemon. The heart notes combine to create a floral paradise filled with carnation, yellow narcissus, musk, leather, orchid, orris root, jasmine, vetiver, neroli, ylang-ylang, and rose. The base notes assemble amber, sandalwood, vanilla, vetiver, tonka bean, and civet.
Vintage stationery, wallets, pens, sweaters, and homeware are only some of the things you can find on the market. Though this may seem labor-intensive, it’s the type of gift that will keep on giving.
Christmas gift guide: Rare watches book
This book is for those who want what they can’t have. Featuring over fifty of the most unusual watches in the world, including incredible one-off models and collector’s editions. From recording-breaking auctions to defying engineering, this book appeals to professionals, collectors, and amateurs alike. The best part is the photography, which was organized in collaboration with Christie’s auction house, displaying some of the rarest, most expensive, and most desirable watches of all time.
Dial mousepad
The mousepads from Wind it on the Move are surefire stocking stuffers for watch addicts. With dozens of options, they’re made to last with a durable, non-slip backing and are stain-resistant. This little detail adds personality to anyone’s desk flat-lay and is the perfect conversation starter at the office. Perfect all ages and collectors, these mousepads are both functional and fun.
Omega hat
A baseball cap is a pretty standard gift, whether it’s representing a favorite sports team, university, or hometown. But if you’re reading this, a cap from a watch brand would be even more fitting. Omega, arguably being in everyone’s top 5 watchmakers, is a brand whose brand merch is underrated. It’s not as flashy as Rolex or AP merch, but it makes just as much of a point for watch purists. You can find an array of options online, but the simple, Omega-red embroidered hat, is as classic as the Moonwatch.
Ad Patina Print
A framed vintage watch ad is something all collectors can agree upon being a must-have. Instead of buying wall art, home decor, or a typical hosting gift like wine, a watch ad is a great addition for homeowners. Whether it’s for the office, living room, or bedroom, a vintage watch ad is an iconic piece of history hung. Whether you choose from the iconic Patek Phillipe Nautilus or Rolex Explorer ads, there’s something for everybody! This is a great option for work parties, white elephant, or host/hostess gifting.
Margo Vartanian is a bicoastal freelance writer between Toronto and Los Angeles, always in journalistic pursuit. She studied English Literature, Rhetoric, and Media at the University of Toronto while holding congruent internships at Narcity and StyleDemocracy. Post-grad, she worked as the social media manager of multiple companies before fully freelancing. She now develops written content strategies for various luxury and corporate brands and directs website copy. Her admiration for fashion stems from her interest in fusing the creative with the functional and mimics the concept of utilitarian frivolity through her written approach.
