Defining the 'Everyday Watch' for Collectors

rnaden · 2015-09-03T08:50:55Z

What defines an 'everyday watch'? Rnaden explores versatility, durability, and style, questioning if it's a myth or a collector's reality.

rnaden

WPS member · Horological Meandering forum

28 replies7277 views6 photos

Rnaden initiates a thought-provoking discussion on the elusive concept of an "everyday watch," prompted by his wife's observation that enthusiasts often lack a clear definition. He explores various watch types—from robust steel models to elegant dress watches—to question if the "everyday watch" is a practical reality or merely a justification for expanding one's collection.

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This is the question posed by my wife when we were out trawling the watch boutiques in Kuala Lumpur earlier today. She says that the watch blogs are full of people mentioning it, but among enthusiasts and collectors, no one seems to be able to give a definition. After all, we all do different jobs, work in different climates, live in different cultures, and yet, there is usually more than one "every day watch".

That got me thinking...what would our definition of this be?

Could it be a relatively low key, normal looking watch that can take a few hits and yet serves its purpose of telling time and date? Works in casual and formal settings as well?

Or should it be in steel to deal with moisture and humid climates? Maybe a little louder than the earlier example, but still remaining versatile? Maybe not to beat up so much.

Or forego the date completely, stick to the office wear and still be able to pull off casual when called to...not so good with water, I think

Then there is the quintessential all rounder with a metal bracelet. Works in pretty much any setting and is also quite water friendly yet remaining humble

A timer? Depending on the job we do?

Or something that tries to pass off as a do all type watch, yet somehow doesn't fit into the formal too well and some times make it difficult to think of really doing any kind of sports with, just because of the price paid?

I honestly have no clear answer. My conclusion perhaps is that this thing about an "every day watch" is a myth that we conjure up just so that we have an excuse to get yet another one? Maybe it's me. What do you think? What would your definition of this be and what criteria would make it one?

This message has been edited by MTF on 2015-09-03 21:20:26

Key Points from the Discussion

An 'everyday watch' for a collector is often a myth, as true collectors typically own multiple watches and rotate them based on mood or occasion, making the idea of a single daily wearer a phantom.
The concept of an everyday watch can be defined by durability, versatility, replaceability, and affordability, with examples like a vintage Datejust or a Grand Taille Reverso suggested.
An everyday watch with true character might be inherently unsuitable for every situation, as its distinct features could make it too edgy, sporty, or dressy for universal wear.
Some collectors find it challenging to commit to a single 'everyday watch' due to pickiness or a lack of the 'buy and collect' gene, despite appreciating many timepieces.
A Breitling Superocean on a rubber strap is suggested as a suitable everyday watch due to its durability, low-key appearance, and reasonable price, making it easy to replace if damaged.
The author questions if 'retiring' from collecting or adhering to a 'one-watch' scenario is as mythical as the concept of an everyday watch itself.
A personal anecdote highlights how a watch's flaws, like losing time, can be leveraged to one's advantage, such as arriving early for appointments, demonstrating a unique perspective on watch utility.
A Rolex GMT Master 6542 was worn almost every day for a long time, indicating that some collectors do find a single watch that serves their daily needs.

The Discussion

Dr No

Sep 3, 2015

A desirable quality of an 'everyday watch' . . .

. . . would be affordability combined with replaceability; one that doesn't break the bank, and could be replaced if lost or damaged. Perhaps that's why DateJusts are so prevalent ;-) . . .

rnaden

Sep 3, 2015

Good qualities

:-) And they all make sense. Now...if only there was just one watch and not more than half the collection that fits the bill.... Thanks for the feedback, Art!

amanico

Sep 3, 2015

My personal answer is the watch I want to wear. Everyday brings its answer.

Today, the one I posted on wristscan: And I wore this Rolex GMT Master 6542 almost everyday for a long time. Best, Nicolas

rnaden

Sep 3, 2015

Ah yes...the real every day watch... :-) [nt]

4Js

Sep 6, 2015

I agree with a twist...

I rarely wear a watch more than one day. If I have to worry about various occasions, than I just wear more watches in the day! I like variety and the mood. And I like reading purists and if someone posts a watch I haven\'t worn then I look to go wear it. So thx to all! Best Joe

Warrenjared1

Sep 3, 2015

My everyday

Watch is a Breitling superocean on a rubber ocean racer strap with deployment. The watch can take a beating and with the rubber strap it\'s a little more low key. I agree that a everyday watch should be a easy watch to replace and at a reasonable price.

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