Rolex, Patek, AP, VC – you can only wear one for life. These were your responses…

Zach Blass

For a watch collector, horological monogamy is a huge challenge. The idea of limiting yourself to one watch, or one brand, is enough to give most watch collectors the sweats. But we like to have fun at Time+Tide. So we challenged you all to pick one of four brands in part one. The challenge: you can only wear one watch brand for the rest of your life – what are you wearing? Rolex, Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet, or Vacheron Constantin. Nearly 400 comments later, here are some of your responses.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Time+Tide (@timetidewatches)

Many of you cheated…

Those who followed the rules of the game understood that you could only pick between the four listed brands. But, there were definitely many, either so passionate about other brands or not registering the small “part one” text, who felt the need to shoutout other worthy brands who could potentially suit a brand-dedicated collection. Many remarked Omega would be their pick, with Seiko, Panerai, and Zenith, among others, getting shout outs as well.

In fairness, our very own Deputy Editor Borna was so conflicted he could not even follow the rules as well 😂.

The case for Rolex

While the overwhelming majority of Rolex watches follow the Oyster Perpetual framework, that is ever so slightly switched up based on complication or utility, there is enough aesthetic deviation where many feel Rolex is best suited to fill a collection with watches. You could have an OP or Datejust as your office daily, Submariner for beach vacations or summer months, or a GMT Master II for travels as well. The new 1908 collection certainly ticks off the dress category, and the Daytona is a handsome legendary chronograph for the masses and race-enthusiasts. Ultimately, they do have robust-elegance down to a science. So, you can really wear the watches whenever you want – at least from a functional perspective.

Interestingly, one user pointed out their case for Rolex was due to the fact they could be comfortably worn anywhere. But, if we are being honest, all of the brands within this little game of ours can attract attention from watch thieves. The only one, for better or worse, that probably draws the least heat of the four is Vacheron Constantin. This is due to the fact the brand has not permeated popular culture as much as the others, and proudly stands within the watch community as the if-you-know-you-know, and have good taste, watchmaker.

The case for Patek Philippe

Patek Philippe is a strong option as well, as @adocandhiswatch points out. The Aquanaut or Nautilus, functionally and aesthetically speaking, are among the most versatile and beloved daily wearers in the world. The Calatrava is a great classic dress reference for those more formal and sophisticated moments. And, to spice things up, there are plenty of complicated options to satiate your need for high-end watchmaking.

The case for Audemars Piguet

@2flyazeem points out what is ultimately the greatest strength, and, at times, a point of contention amongst pinky-up tea-drinking watch classicists. Audemars Piguet is the bad boy of the holy trinity, in that they are the only brand of the three that truly lets their hair down and run wild. Sure, they are fully capable of doing high-complications and traditional decorations to the highest degree. But, they are also capable of Black Panther and Spider-Man tourbillons and ceramic Royal Oaks – no ceramic Overseas, Nautilus, or even Aquanaut watches. Is it about ‘effing time?

The case for Vacheron Constantin

From a versatility perspective, Vacheron Constantin stands out with interchangeable strap integrated bracelet Overseas watch that can be bought in a variety of sizes and is bundled with both a bracelet and rubber strap (offering the utility of an Aquanaut and Nautilus in one if you think about it). Their Patrimony line, like the Calatrava of Patek, offers the clean and crisp dress pieces one would want when suiting up or keeping it classy. But, then you can have fun as well with their high complications and historiques revivals like the 222 and 1921.

Clearly there is no wrong answer. But we certainly enjoyed yours, so keep the comments coming!