Essential Accessories: A Timeless Timepiece

One of the finishing touches for any look is a classic timepiece.

When you are talking about a polished and put together look, the devil is always in the details. Though the little things are often subtle and may sometimes go unnoticed by some—a classy pocket square fold or a properly worn tie bar, for example—they play a vital role in any look’s overall success. Besides, an accessory should never call undue attention to itself and become the topic of conversation. There’s a reason sprezzatura is a word often heard in the context of style. And as far as essential menswear accessories go, one of the best finishing touches for any look is a classic timepiece.

A wrist watch is more than simply an accessory, however—it’s practical. Yes, your phone tells time too, but depending on the situation nothing can be more disruptive, distracting, and disrespectful than someone constantly pulling their phone out to check the time. Though the intent may be to just see what time it is, there might be a text to answer, emails to read, or some other alert pulling you deeper into your phone and out of the environment in which you are supposed to be engaged. In contrast, a quick glance at a wrist watch is subtle and singular.

As with all things style related, choosing a wrist watch is personal. But if you are going to have just one timepiece in your collection, it is important that it be versatile. Having something that pairs with all colors and works in all situations—whether formal, business, or casual—is a must. In this case, a neutral metal such as a silver or gold with a white or off-white watch face is definitely the way to go. A black watch face can also work and is always striking, but if you only see one timepiece in your future, I’d go with a white watch face.

Watch Bands: Maximize Your Watch’s Versatility

One watch, five ways. As I’ve said before, never underestimate a watch band’s ability to completely transform a look. Beyond that, having at least two options—like a black as well as a brown leather band—is a good idea because even though brown shoes can work with black pants, a brown watch band generally won’t pair well with a black suit. And if you’ve chosen a versatile wrist watch, you can definitely maximize its style and versatility even more by having a few different watch bands to choose from.

If simplicity is your goal, having a black and brown leather band will keep you covered in just about any situation. Another great option for dressing a watch down and getting maximum return for casual looks are nylon NATO G10 straps. They come in a ton of colors and are a breeze to swap out.

Stylishly Yours,

He Spoke Style