With Christmas around the corner, it might be a bit late to be sending out gift guides. But if you’re anything like me, you’ll be scrambling around for inspiration right up to the last minute. And this list isn’t just to give you ideas for gifts to buy for watch lovers, you can forward it on to anyone who’s asked you “What do you want for Christmas” and don’t forget that we need to treat ourselves sometimes, too.
Straps
When we think about watch accessories, we usually start with straps. They offer that “new watch” feeling at a fraction of the cost and you can switch things up depending on your mood, outfit or activity. Black tie? Swap for a black leather strap? Day at the beach? It’s got to be a blue rubber. And feeling fun? Why not a brightly coloured NATO?
Travel Cases
I can never have enough watch cases – stackable ones for the safe, round ones for watches with chunky bracelets, slim ones to slip into a bag, extra luxurious ones for that extra special piece, larger cases for multiple watches. The options are endless!
Watch winders
The ideal gift for the busy watch enthusiast, because we don’t always have the time to set our perpetual calendar as we’re dashing out of the door.
Books
I could write a whole article (and probably should) on the best-selling, and lesser-known, watch books. They fill us with knowledge, are a feast for the eyes and make for a fantastic photo prop. Cue a cosy Sunday afternoon, a log fire, a large armchair, a large glass of wine, and a large hardback watch book.
Magazine subscription
I think that a magazine subscription makes for a great gift, one that the recipient is reminded of each month. It’s a regular update of the latest releases and industry news and a great excuse to take time out to sit and read. Cue a cosy Sunday afternoon….
Other / industry subscriptions
While there are a number of other subscriptions, there are two that initially spring to mind. The first is the British Watch and Clock Makers. For £55 a year, you receive membership to the alliance, priority event access, various magazine subscriptions, and even a lapel pin. And it’s nice to know that you’re supporting the British watchmaking industry. The second is the Watch Collector’s Club. They’re doing a fabulous job of hosting various events throughout the year, predominantly in London however they are extending to the north of the UK and even hosted events in Geneva earlier this year. Membership starts from £75 a year.
Artwork
The world of horological artwork is vast – beautiful photographic prints, impressive ideas from brands, detailed hand-drawn pieces and fun cartoon-style gifts.
Random memorabilia
I’ve come across some really random gifts from brands over the years, and have also seen them come up on eBay – a Jaeger-LeCoultre candle, Grand Seiko incense sticks, a Hublot tea set. It’s worth having a look and seeing what you can find.
Tools
Maybe a little less glamorous but still kind of fun. Us enthusiasts love to look after our watches and want the best equipment for the job – spring bar tools, UV lights, cleaning equipment, timing machines… the list goes on!
Gift Card
The easy option.
London Watch Tour
Lastly, one of my favourite things to be able to offer my clients is a tour of London’s best watch boutiques. Whether you’re looking for a specific watch, need help narrowing it down, easily get lost in the big smoke, find boutiques a little scary or just want a fun day out, I can plan a tour for you.
We are pleased to stock a number of gifts and accessories on our website, but please also get in touch for more advice and inspiration, and take a look at some of the links below.
Additional links:
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