Which Watches to Wear in 2020?

Watches follow the same trends as accessories. Every year, they reinvent themselves to surprise us. While the great classics continue to win us over, I have a slight preference for references that draw inspiration from the fashions of the moment. In this article, we’ll take a quick look at the watch models to wear in 2020.

Wooden watches, a must for eco-minded wearers

If you’re looking for an original model, the wooden watch offers a composition that catches the eye. For the past few seasons, it has been seen as an accessory that appeals to eco-conscious types. It’s gradually carving out a place among the models we already know, and is even making its way into department stores. Wooden watches won me over thanks to their design. It’s natural and never short on elegance. The accessory is sophisticated, and is slowly finding its way into fashion designers’ catalogues.

Since the wooden watch became popular, this must-have has been released in a wide range of models. While you can find different versions available directly in stores, I recommend having it personalised to suit your tastes and your personality. That way, you can choose the type of wood, the design of your strap, the final aesthetic, or even the movement the accessory will house.

It’s a gift I would recommend if you like unique accessories and want to be sure of the quality of your investment. Manufacturers specialising in wooden watchmaking use everything from bamboo to rosewood, walnut, and even sandalwood. With artisans, you can customise every detail and request additions that match your preferences.

Smartwatches, multitasking options

Also known as a SmartWatch, the connected watch is one of those accessories I can no longer do without. Beyond its design—which always makes an impression—the smartwatch is first and foremost a functional accessory that follows me through all my activities. It’s a clear-headed companion that improves not only my quality of life, but also the way I manage my day-to-day.

Contrary to popular belief, it isn’t reserved for the young. This miniaturised gadget offers functions that allow me to trigger actions on my smartphone. If it’s a small object of innovation, it’s first and foremost because it serves me just as well during my workouts as it does at work. The smartwatch is an accessory I use when I can’t use my smartphone, or when I’m facing long days during which I need to keep my hands free. Once strapped to the wrist, it saves me time and delivers information instantly.

It’s also a gadget I’d recommend if you’re looking for a practical accessory to find your routes, monitor your health, or analyse your physical and sporting activity. For some, it also makes sleep “tracking” easier. More broadly, the smartwatch makes it easier to check notifications that I can’t read directly on a screen.

The classic, a safe bet

The classic watch is an accessory that suits all ages and all outfits. It is neither too sophisticated nor too casual. It’s a watch I like to wear with casual looks, to underline the overall chic without losing any versatility. The classic watch is the one with a handsome leather strap and the ability to remain discreet. The model is particularly appreciated by men who want to keep a low profile while maintaining a certain coherence in their outfits. It works just as well with a suit as with jeans or tailored trousers. It slips under a sweater, or sits on a jacket it highlights with distinction.

Everyone around you has at least one that they won’t hesitate to bring out for any occasion. The classic is also timeless, and flatters every silhouette. It’s a watch I could just as easily give to my father as to a friend whose style I know well. It can also be worn by women who like boyish looks and embrace its sometimes imposing size.

Since the classic watch is worn by every kind of person, it now comes in affordable models made from ordinary metals. Pay attention to the overall look, which should remain elegant in every circumstance. Even among entry-level pieces, you won’t have any trouble finding compositions with carefully executed finishing.

Vintage watches, models to collect

Vintage watches are older models, often made by major brands. They’re pieces I appreciate for their unique character and their quality, which doesn’t diminish over time. While they’re accessories I recommend for all ages and all styles, it’s also necessary to choose them carefully.

The 2020 trends confirm their status as unshakeable staples, even if wooden watches are gradually catching up. Condition makes all the difference. These aren’t accessories you choose at random, and many manufacturers try to reproduce them with varying degrees of success. The ones worth considering are original models, with no repairs to the movement or dial. Counterfeits offer lower quality that strips the accessory of all its appeal.

Don’t turn your nose up at older models with a spotted dial. These small details tell the story of the piece and add character. A vintage watch pairs with fluid city outfits, casual looks, or office attire where you want to maintain a minimum of sophistication. These are watches that notably favour smaller sizes, and suit every wrist. More broadly, it’s an accessory I can wear with anything, without it looking out of place.

However, major brands aren’t the only ones offering beautiful vintage watches. It’s also possible to find good-quality models from former French artisans known for their watchmaking work.