As our team gears up for winter here in Detroit, we asked each member of the watch team for their ideal wrist companion with which to tackle the elements head on. The selections range from practical to surprising, ultimately proving that how we use these tools is personal, with no right or wrong answer to a given approach to the hobby. These watches may not make the winter any shorter, but will definitely make it a bit easier to bear.
David – Patek Philippe 5196G
With the weather getting cold, my outdoor activities shift to spending more time inside and my clothing choices end up including a lot more layers. So as the seasons turn, my watch choice changes from steel sport models in the warm weather to slimmer profiles and straps in cold weather. And nothing goes better sitting next to a blazing fire, sipping a hot toddy than the Patek Philippe Calatrava 5196G, in white gold and silver dial to match the snow and ice outside.
Lydia – Speedmaster Reduced
The Omega Speedmaster Reduced is a great option for those preferring a smaller case that doesn’t compromise on the soul of the Speedy. This example features a bright yellow, which can go a long way in these short winter days, as Lydia says: “so I can pretend to have the sun keep me bright during these 4pm nights.”
Jim – Seiko SNJ025 ‘Arnie’
Released by Seiko just this year as a new take on the cult classic “Arnie”, the SNJ isn’t so much ready for the season as it is full on looking forward to it. The shrouded case and rubber strap create a robust piece of hardware purpose built to take on the elements (along with a few bad guys) of either extreme. The addition of the hybrid digital/analog display tops it off with plenty of practicality. Read more about this watch right here.
Jan – Rolex Explorer II
The Rolex Explorer II was developed for spelunkers (seriously), and its tough-as-nails heritage has stood up in each successive generation. The 16570 has gained a fervent following thanks to its agreeable proportions and GMT practicality. How’s it for a winder choice? According to Jan: “the damn thing is nicknamed “Polar” and how fitting for the winter months.” Well put.
Hadjj – Grand Seiko Snowflake
My choice for this winter has to be the beautiful Grand Seiko Snowflake. Why not pick a watch that literally embodies winter?! Despite its cold white dial and hits of blue, it is a watch that holds a lot of heat on the wrist.
Leighton – Seiko Baby Monster
This Seiko Baby Monster sticks with the white dial motif for the season, accented by a blue chapter ring and hour marker accents. Despite the “Baby” in the name, this Seiko rocks a 43mm case that will make a statement in the thickest of garbs. Best of all, these can be had for under $300.
Blake – Rolex Explorer I
The Explorer I is as simple as it gets when it comes to Rolex professional models, and that makes it an easy companion to weather the elements in. It’s slim case design won’t snag on heavy coats and gloves, and the highly legible dial makes using it a breeze without the need to yank it out from under a cuff. This is a time-only watch done right, and it’s an easy choice to tackle the winter in.
