As Who What Wear UK's Fashion Editor, I take great pride in finding you new and exciting trends that will instantly update your wardrobe, but just as important is spotlighting the timeless investment buys that will truly last you a lifetime too. Ready-to-wear trends may come and go quicker than you can say "mob wife", but we will always have an appetite for the accessories we wear time and time again, and nothing is more special than fine jewellery and watches. Don't believe me? Just take a look back at the evolution of the watch from timepiece to smart device and you'll see just how much value and importance we place on our arm candy as the ultimate accessory.
From Tiffany's cocktail watches to Rolex and Cartier classics, watches have become status symbols in their own right. And, as the luxury watch market continues to rise and rise, the resale market grows too, with savvy shoppers looking for quality watches at even better prices. Not since the Hermés Birkin or Cartier Love bracelet have the style-conscious wanted to invest in iconic pieces that have the longevity to span generations. With the quiet-luxury and old-money aesthetics bringing watches back to the forefront yet again, our feeds are suddenly full of editors and influencers who have made the watch an integral part of their signature style, but there are plenty of watch styles that channel high luxury in 2025, even if you're working with a tighter budget.
We spoke to Jack Stephens, in-house watch expert at pre-owed watch specialist Watchfinder & Co. to find out which watch trends are about to surface in 2025 in order to help you get one step ahead of the fashion crowd. So, from new colours to old favourites, keep scrolling to the top five watch trends that made the final list.
1. Vintage Appeal
Looking for a piece that will stand the test of time? Our advice is start shopping around vintage, antique and secondhand sellers. “Vintage watches have had a resurgence in 2024, and continue to grow in popularity into 2025," notes Stephens. "Brands such as TAG-Heuer are finding huge success in re-releasing watches from their archives, and smaller, independent brands without therich back catalogue to draw from also have found huge popularity in drawing inspiration from popular watchmaking eras like the '60s and '70s."
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2. Bold Colour and Texture
Sorry, wallflowers. According to the experts the next 12 months are all about statement pieces that are impossible to ignore. “In 2025, I predict more vibrant colours and unique textures in new models," suggests Stephens. "This trend is already being championed by brands like Tudor, TAG Heuer, and H. Moser & Cie., who have demonstrated that there is a strong market for bold and innovative colourways, moving away from the standard offerings of blue, black, or silver dials. With this trend, we can expect to see new innovations including watches with dials made from materials like wood or stone, as well as those featuring vibrant and eye-catching colours.”
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3. The Cartier Reign
If there's one name synonymous with luxury watches, it has to be Cartier, and despite their 120 year legacy, they are still just as sought after as they were when they were first released. “By continuously innovating while staying true to their heritage, Cartier is poised to maintain its dominance within not only women’s watch market but the industry as a whole,' adds Stephens. Their ability to anticipate and respond to the desires of their clientele, paired with their timeless, elegant, iconic designs and strategic use of social media to engage with a global audience, has solidified Cartier’s position as a leader in the luxury watch sector.”
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4. Genderless Styles
Supersized or slimmed-down? However you prefer your watches, you needn't worry about what category they fall under. According to Stephens, fluid, unisex styles are crossing over to watchmaking too. “Over the past year, the gender gap within the watch industry has noticeably narrowed, and I predict this trend will continue. Women are gravitating towards larger cases, appreciating the bold and substantial presence they offer. Simultaneously, men are showing a preference for smaller, more understated designs driven by the resurgence of vintage pieces. As a result of this I think we will see more brands producing watches closer to 40 MM, watches everyone can enjoy regardless of gender."
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5. Quality and Value
It goes without saying that you can find stunning watches for four figures and above, but what about those working with a more conservative budget? The answer is in smaller, up and coming brands says Stephens.“Watch lovers are increasingly looking for brands who offer strong value for money, not just a big name. Seiko and Christopher Ward, along with innovative microbrands such as Studio Underdog, are setting high standards in this area. It’s becoming essential for larger watch brands to consider how they can offer the best possible product for the best price."
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