What are you hoping Santa will bring you this year? If your family members are already busy asking you what you'd like for Christmas, figuring out what to put on the list can be a challenge. More socks? A barbecue tool set? You might gravitate towards attempting to make strictly practical selections, bypassing the things you might really want. Why not put something on your list that's not only practical, but can thrill and please you at the same time?
Whether you're already a lover of watches or you're just beginning to find your interest in timepieces, a wristwatch can be the perfect addition to your list this year. Both a slick accessory and a useful tool for everyday life, watches are eminently enjoyable gifts to receive — so which ones should go on your list? Here are five ideas that will leave you with a smile on Christmas morning.
Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean
One look at the Omega Seamaster might leave you wondering, "Where have I seen this watch before?" The answer is Bond — James Bond. Famously worn by the fictional spy of the silver screen, the Seamaster is no gimmick. The Planet Ocean carries on the tradition of not only being excellent timepieces for the active man, but honors its pedigree, too: it is waterproof down to 600 meters, or nearly 2000 feet. For divers and aficionados alike, the Planet Ocean is an excellent option to consider as you make your list.
Breitling Chronomat
Whether you prefer the visual aesthetic of watches with chronometers or you simply need to be certain you can tell the time in every manner possible, the Breitling Chronomat is the watch you want this holiday season. With bold and versatile band and strap designs meant for everyone from the businessman to the athlete, many Chronomats even include a tachymeter intended for estimating speed of travel. Whether you prefer a more classic design or one of the sleek new models, it's tough to go wrong here.
Patek Philippe Twenty-4
What about watches with a more feminine approach to design? The Twenty-4 by Patek Philippe stuns right from the start with its multitude of diamonds set around the watch. Combined with an uncomplicated yet entirely sophisticated dial with slender hands, the Twenty-4 represents some of the best in women's watch design worldwide. This line even includes slimmer, rectangular watches perfect for pairing with evening-wear and making a clear statement.
Rolex President
Made famous after President Lyndon Johnson was spotted sporting one of these Rolexes in the White House, the President remains a popular option among Rolex's many flagship products. Also known as the "Day-Date" Rolex, this model features the classic magnified date window, and also includes a special dial indicating the day. A classic, prestigious watch, yellow gold is the most common option, though you will find Day-Dates that feature other materials, including platinum. For an elegant choice, the President is hard to match.
Cartier Ballon Bleu
Certainly one of the most unique watches on this list, the Ballon Bleu exemplifies its name: the unique balloon-shape of the watch dial itself and the subtle blue hues of the watch hands make it stand out. The unique placement of the watch crown on the top of the dial, bulging the 3 o'clock position inward, creates an uncommon visual impression that will always catch the eye. Backed by the experience and history of quality of French jeweler Cartier, a Ballon Bleu might be the perfect thing to ask for this year.
Which of these five do you like best? Representing a broad selection from across the watchmaking industry, any one of them would make a fine addition to your collection — or to serve as the founding piece in one. Whatever you choose, consider your options carefully and think about what you like best. When Christmas morning arrives, who knows? Maybe you'll unwrap a package to be greeted by a timely surprise.
