Words: Russell
Popping the question was never going to be easy. There you are, down on one knee, with the rest of your life ahead of you. Of course, it’s exciting, but men often feel a little short-changed from the exchange…
"Men often feel a little short-changed from the exchange…"
Forget the life of happiness and companionship for a minute, because women get a ring out of it. And, while most men wouldn’t want a diamond-encrusted band, it would be nice to have at least something to commemorate the occasion. After all, it’s the man who makes the move 95 per cent of the time.
You’ll be glad to know, then, that the male engagement ring is a thing; it’s just not a ring. It’s a watch. And, from a Rolex to a Patek Philippe, we’re convinced that they are more beautiful than any precious stone you could lay your hands on. It’s high time men started celebrating their side of the engagement, and we’ve got just the watches for the job…
For the man with an eye for detail: Rolex Day-Date 40 Platinum
Encased in 950 platinum and forged by Rolex’s very own in-house metal workers, this Day-Date is a truly special watch for a truly special moment in your life. While the platinum will ensure that your watch stays looking incredible for years to come, the ice blue dial gives this watch an incredible fresh look that will amaze even those at the back of the church.
Keeping track of those last few days of freedom before you tie the knot is important and thanks to the day spelt out in full you’ll be sure to know exactly how long you have left until you commit to your partner forever.
For the timeless gent: Patek Phillipe Golden Ellipse 5738P-001
For a tradition as enduring and endearing as an proper one-knee proposal, you want a watch that can stand the test of time, and tell a story across generations. The Golden Ellipse, with a case shape that floats between a circle and a rectangle, has remained an understated icon for decades — and will continue to be one for decades to come.
The deep blue dial and white gold hands and markers afford this watch a real sense of class and a softly-spoken style that will match your fiancée’s ring perfectly. It will also match in metal: the most precious platinum.
For the man making a quick change before the reception: Jaeger LeCoultre Reverso Tribute Duoface Large
If you’re taking inspiration from Prince Harry, as we all should, then you’ll be expected to rock two outfits on your wedding day. But you can make both your day and suit change that little bit easier by wearing just one watch. This Reverso has two dials, one of which has a spectacular Sunray-brushed black dial.
The white dial is just as stunning, with a great mix of silvered and opaline surfaces that give great legibility and an elegant look. Nothing better for the wedding ceremony — and the rest of your life together.
For the man who can’t wait to tie the knot: Vacheron Constantin Fiftysix Complete Calendar
Staying on time for your wedding is obviously very important. But, just as important is the anticipation of counting down the days until you walk down the aisle. Keep track of both — and even the phase of the moon — with this complete calendar from Vacheron Constantin.
Not only is this an incredibly practical watch, it also comes in beautiful rose gold with a slim profile. It’s an achievement for such a complication, but something Vacheron Constantin have mastered over the past 260 years of continual production.
For a non-traditional wedding: Chopard L.U.C Quattro
Pairing 18ct rose gold with this deep blue is a stroke of genius from Chopard. The colours match perfectly and, in an age when a wedding suit doesn’t have to be a black tux or traditional morning dress, this watch will go perfectly with any alternative suiting option you throw at it.
Not only does the aesthetics of this model stand out, but the mechanics behind the satin brushed dial are exceptional. With an in-house calibre and 9-day power reserve, you’ve no need to worry about this watch giving up before you make it down the aisle.
Looking for something a little more reserved? These are the best black watches money can buy…
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