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Article: Summer Watches: The Latest Watch Trends and Must-Have Styles for 2023

Lifestyle image of the summer watch trends 2023

Summer Watches: The Latest Watch Trends and Must-Have Styles for 2023

As the summer of 2023 is in full swing, it's time to uncover the hottest watch trends that will elevate your seasonal style. From vibrant colors to vintage resurgences and sustainable timepieces, this article will guide you through the must-have watch styles and matching watch accessories for this summer.

Vibrant Colors

Put the omnipresence of understated neutrals on pause and embrace the vibrant colors of summer. In 2023, watch enthusiasts are gravitating towards bold and eye-catching hues that make a statement. Here is a selection of watches to add a pop of personality to your summer outfits and instantly evoke a sense of fun and adventure:

The new Rolex Oyster Perpetual, introduced at this year’s Watches and Wonders, comes alive with a vibrant and joyful dial adorned with multicolored bubbles. This effervescent timepiece, made from exclusive Oystersteel, is paired with the iconic and robust Oyster bracelet, featuring a folding Oysterclasp for added security. A watch as vivid as this one necessitates an equally lively accessory, and the Theo Watch roll by Charles Simon, with its vibrant sky blue leather and Papaya interior, is the perfect match to transport and display this colourful timepiece.

Rolex Oyster Perpetual and Theo Watch roll

Vintage Resurgence

Nostalgia meets classic elegance in the vintage watch trend that has resurfaced recently. Classic designs from the past are making a strong comeback, combining sophistication with a touch of retro charm. Iconic timepieces from legacy brands, like the Jaeger LeCoultre Reverso and the Patek Philippe Calatrava, not only exude a sense of heritage but also showcase your appreciation for traditional craftsmanship.

Vintage Jaeger LeCoultre Reverso and Eaton 3 Watch case in tan leather

Timeless design and artisanal craftsmanship are also distinct characteristics of the handmade watch accessories by Charles Simon. These sophisticated watch cases in classic colorways such as tan leather or khaki and seasand match the level of refinement of the vintage timepieces they are handcrafted to hold.

Small Watches

In 2023, smaller watch sizes are making a big comeback in the horological world. Delicate and dainty timepieces have gained popularity among both men and women, offering a refined and minimalist aesthetic. Watches like the Cartier Tank and the Franck Muller Cintrée Curvex, with their slim profiles and modest case diameters, make a subtle yet sophisticated statement, complementing any summer ensemble with their understated allure. The Theo Watch roll, with its convenient and compact format, is the ideal way of keeping your small, fine timepieces safe and protected.

Small Watch trend worn by Tyler the Creator and Timothee Chalamet

Sustainable Timepieces

As sustainability takes center stage across various industries, watchmakers are joining the movement by introducing eco-friendly and ethically sourced timepieces. And in 2023, the demand for sustainable watches is higher than ever.

Breitling is one of the luxury watch brands demonstrating its commitment to sustainability with the introduction of its inaugural "traceable watch". The Super Chronomat Automatic 38 showcases responsibly sourced small-scale gold and lab-grown diamonds, allowing for full traceability to their origins. Additionally, Breitling prioritizes social and environmental considerations throughout its supply chain by investing in infrastructure, ensuring fair wages, promoting healthy working conditions, protecting biodiversity, and facilitating land remediation after mining activities cease for all acquired gold.

Panerai has also embraced innovation by introducing 'eSteel,' a cutting-edge metal derived from 100% recycled steel scrap sourced from various industries, notably watchmaking. This eco-friendly production process substantially lowers CO2 emissions while maintaining identical chemical properties, physical structure, and corrosion resistance as non-recycled alloys. The utilization of eSteel extends beyond the watch case, as Panerai incorporates recycled PET fabric and recycled rubber straps in their Submersible and Luminor collections, further contributing to sustainable practices.

By opting for a sustainable watch, you not only enhance your summer style but also contribute to a greener planet.

At Charles Simon, we strive to work in a sustainable manner and integrate care for the environment in the best way possible. We are proud to manufacture our products locally in Quebec, Canada and primarily work with local, trusted suppliers to reduce our carbon footprint through minimized transport. In addition, Charles Simon exhibits an innovative, slow consumption approach to luxury. We take the time to develop, design and manufacture in-house with the greatest care and attention to create products that last a lifetime.

Dive Watches

Summer adventures often involve water activities, making dive watches a sought-after timepiece for the season. Designed to withstand the rigors of underwater exploration, dive watches, like the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Diver, offer a perfect blend of functionality and style. Whether you're diving into the deep sea or simply lounging by the pool, a dive watch adds a sporty and adventurous touch to your summer look that is best completed by an accessory in aquatic hues, like the Theo Watch roll in sky blue leather and deep blue interior or the Eaton 1 Watch case in marine and smoky blue.

Dive watches showing Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore underwater paired with Theo Watch roll in sky blue leather and deep blue interior

Two-tone Comeback

In line with the cyclical nature of trends, the 1980s serve as the next historical era for horological design inspiration. Accordingly, more brands are embracing the use of two-tone and yellow gold in their timepieces.

Product shot of vintage Rolex GMT Master II Root Beer and modern Rolex GMT Master II Root Beer and Eaton 1 Watch case in tan leather and black anodized aluminum

For example, Rolex introduced the Explorer I in a two-tone variation. Additionally, the GMT-Master II "Root Beer" has gained immense popularity. The contrasting tones create a visually appealing and adaptable watch that effortlessly transitions from day to night. A two-tone watch is a great accessory to elevate your summer wardrobe and is optimally accompanied by a two-tone watch case like the Eaton 1 in tan leather and black anodized aluminum.

Conclusion

As summer unfolds, it's time to embrace the latest watch trends that will elevate your seasonal style. Whether you opt for vibrant colors, vintage resurgences or sustainable designs, there's a trend to suit every taste and a matching Charles Simon watch accessory to go with every summer watch. 

Check out our comprehensive guide on watch accessories to find the right one for you.

 

Written by Elizabeth Hanisch

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