The Latest Watch Trends In Time For Father's Day

Forbes

2 days ago

TSUYOSA, Citizen watches with strong colors, a Father's Day trend this year.
If you're looking for a Father's Day gift, you might want to consider a watch. From sports designs to vintage styles, several strong trends are emerging this summer that cater to all tastes. Handpick the perfect timepiece to create a unique and meaningful gift.
According to Research and Markets, the global watch market size was valued at USD 78.0 Billion in 2024. Looking forward, the analyst estimates the market to reach USD 113.8 Billion by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of 4.25% during 2025-2033. They attribute some of the key factors driving this growth to shifting fashion and lifestyle trends, notable technological advancements, rising economic prosperity, increasing demand for high-end accessories, effective branding and marketing, as well as to the rapid growth of online retail and e-commerce. They also tell us that consumers seek watches that align with their personal style, whether it's classic, minimalist, sporty, or avant-garde, and that the influence of celebrities, fashion influencers, and social media further amplifies the impact of these trends. As an industry, Research and Markets concludes, it is successfully adapting to changing lifestyles and trends, offering a range of options to cater to a diverse range of consumers.
I met David Silver, owner of The Vintage Watch Company, at his beautiful store in London's Burlington Arcade, which showcases the largest collection of vintage Rolex on display anywhere in the world. He told me that watches have become the ultimate fashion accessory, with many customers spending more time selecting a strap than the watch itself. We discussed what makes a watch such a wonderful gift for a father. It's the fact, we agreed, that it can be worn every day, admired and appreciated, with that ever-present memory of who it was given by. David tells me that another reason for its appeal is the knowledge that you are merely its custodian, and that eventually it will be handed down to the next generation.
'While a luxury timepiece makes for a memorable gift, owning one can be a smart investment, as they often increase in value over time—so what could be a Father's Day gift this year could potentially become a family heirloom for generations to come,' he says.
Indeed, finding the perfect Father's Day gift can be a challenge, but, as Bruce Andrews, Head of Watches at Beaverbrooks tells me over email, there is nothing quite like a classic timepiece to show him he means the world to you.
Rolex's vintage collection featuring colored dials, a strong Father's Day trend.
There is a strong move towards watches with color this season, David Silver explains, both on the strap and the dial. Many luxury brands are embracing this trend, including Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Breitling, TAG Heuer, and OMEGA. The Citizen Tsuyosa collection (Tsuyosa is the Japanese word for strength) is available in many shades, with three options featuring a 37mm case size: ice blue, pastel pink, and dark green. Another elegant colored watch is the Classic Power Reserve Big Date Manufacture, from Frederique Constant, with a large date, a moon phase and a power reserve indicator, now for a total of 50 hours.
Speaking over email to Julie Yoakum, President and Chief Brand Merchant at Helzberg, she confirms that color is having a moment in men's watches this Father's Day. 'We're seeing a surge in demand for timepieces with vibrant dials—deep greens, rich blues, and even bold reds," she says, explaining that the addition of color adds a modern twist that allows dads to express their style and individuality through their wristwear.
A Gucci watch with a colorful dial.
Bruce Andrews confirms that colored dials have become a leading trend in the watch space as brands continue to expand and experiment. 'The great thing about this trend is its versatility,' he says. From bold shades to softer pastel hues, there are countless palettes and combinations to choose from.
If you're after a vintage style, there are some highly coveted Rolex Stella dial watches in a variety of colors, primarily aimed at the Middle Eastern market during the 1970s-1990s. Adding color with these fun timepieces will provide a touch of personality to any outfit.
1972 vintage Rolex oyster datejust (blue).
TAG Heuer Formula 1 Chronograph 43mm Men's Watch
Alpina Seastrong Diver Extreme Automatic, a beautiful timepiece for sports lovers.
Another prominent trend is the rise of the sports watch. One such example is the Alpina Seastrong Diver Extreme Automatic, designed for use both on land and at sea. Certified as a diver's watch, it features a sporty yet compact design, with water-resistance up to 300 meters. It is available in three variations: an anthracite dial with an integrated steel bracelet, navy blue with a rubber strap, and a bold, orange-accented model.
For car enthusiasts, the iconic TAG Heuer Carrera, designed for professional drivers, is now available in a new style. Drawing inspiration from the heat and speed of the track, with its blazing orange colors, this TAG Heuer Carrera Chrono Extreme Sport 44mm Red Automatic Watch embodies a spirit of adventure. It features a beveled domed scratch-resistant sapphire crystal glass with an anti-reflective coating.
1978 vintage Rolex submariner with ghost bezel.
For vintage sports options, there are some superb Rolex Submariner styles created in the 1970s that are quintessentially James Bond, and even a 1960s Rolex Submariner famously worn by Sean Connery in Dr No in 1962.
When buying antiques or vintage pieces, David Silver tells me that they are far more individual and special and have that added allure of mystery and luxury you cannot get from a modern timepiece. 'It's so nice to have something on your wrist that others don't, for a change,' he says. Finishing touches are also important. He explains that many of his customers either select a vintage watch to match the year of their father's birth or engrave the case back with a scanned handwritten message.
The Tissot Men's Pocket Watch is a fun gift this Father's Day.
Some modern watches evoke specific eras and interests. Frederique Constant's Vintage Rally Healey automatic is a Limited Edition tribute to classic cars, with only 888 produced worldwide. This watch has a brown leather strap with off-white stitching and a striking green matte finish dial, complemented by a seconds' counter at the 9 o'clock position and a red hand. The timepiece comes in a special gift box featuring a miniature green Healey car. For music lovers, take a look at limited editions, such as Bulova's collaboration with Marc Anthony, that capture the musician's style. The Marc Anthony Series includes a dial accented with diamond hour markers at 1, 3, and 5 o'clock, chosen by Marc for personal significance, and visible through both the dial aperture and an exhibition case back.
And there are pocket watches too, which evoke a certain sartorial elegance and decorum, such as the Tissot Men's Pocket Watch. Julie Yoakum adds that these watches are incredibly versatile—whether dad dresses up or keeps it casual, as they can add character to any look. She also tells me that for many, vintage-style timepieces evoke memories of their own fathers and grandfathers, making them especially meaningful gifts for Father's Day. "Plus, the longevity of these pieces is the gift that keeps giving as collections are often passed down through generations,' she confirms.
Andrews tells me that vintage design watches are also continuing to capture the imagination this season, thanks to their perfect blend of timeless appeal and modern updates, and that by opting for a new watch with vintage-inspired elements, you get the best of both worlds: classic design with the reliability and performance of a contemporary model.
Frederique Constant Vintage Rally Healey Automatic, is a great watch for drivers.
There are many high-tech watches available, including some smartwatches, such as the Apple Watch, while others feature a minimalist, understated design with simple square and rectangular styles. These have become more than a watch in the traditional sense and perform a number of functions, from tracking your fitness to connecting to your phone and other devices.
Bruce Andrews explains to me that over the past few years, sports watches have become a popular choice for those seeking to blend style with functionality. At their core, these watches are designed to perform under pressure, telling not just the time, but a story of adventure, resilience and precision engineering. He expands by telling me that they're ideal for those who enjoy exercise or are looking to start their fitness journey. 'A high-tech watch is just that—a timepiece that incorporates advanced technology to offer features beyond traditional timekeeping,' he says. With everything you need at the flick of a wrist, high-tech watches, or smartwatches, often feature notifications, apps, fitness tracking or GPS. They can be worn daily or for specific purposes, like fitness tracking for visits to the gym or when training for an upcoming sporting event.
The latest Apple Watch, the Series 10, includes a collection of Hermès bands that draws on the maison's rich history in textiles and craftsmanship. They come in several finishes: the Torsade (a cable-knit band inspired by nautical chains, available in single and double tour versions in one of three bold colors), the Twill Jump Attelage (a narrow, delicate single tour band with a contrasting edge and silky feel) and the Grand H, Hermès's first metal band for Apple Watch, made with interlocking links of satin-finished stainless steel. It features two H-shaped, removable links that allow for size adjustment, as well as a traditional double butterfly closure.
Apple Watch Series 10 Hermes, Grand H band, in collaboration with Hermes.
Other fun straps can be bought to customize your smartwatch in different colors and finishes, such as the Konsu NYC, which are crafted in New York City using Italian top-grain calfskin leather.
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Garmin Tactix 8 47mm AMOLED Smartwatch
Whether you opt for a classic or modern design, gifting a watch can be a meaningful and practical gift that dads can enjoy all year round. Bruce Andrews highlights that whether it's for your own father, father-in-law, or a father figure, you're sure to find a match that perfectly suits his style—and give a gift which he can treasure for many years to come.
KONSU NYC Apple watch straps can add personality to your smartwatch.