There’s no dictionary definition to describe what makes a summer watch, but you definitely know one when you see it. Bright, colourful dials are a key indicator, as are sporty details, rubber straps, and anything else that would encourage you to wear it in the pool/lake/ocean. If your summer wardrobe is missing a perfect seasonal accessory, we highly recommend snagging one of the pieces below, each offering a different take on summer vibes.
IWC Ingenieur Automatic 35 “Pool Blue”
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If the name didn’t tip you off, the latest addition to the 1970s-inspired Ingenieur line is its most summery yet. The titular dial, in an extremely inviting shade of azure, is its signature feature, but the recently added 35mm case size also makes an ideal alternative to the 40 mm and 41 mm versions. ($14,400)
Longines Conquest Heritage Central Power Reserve
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One of many releases inspired by Longines’ extensive archive of groundbreaking designs, the newest Conquest model pays homage to the 1950s with an unusual dial layout featuring (as the name suggests) a distinctive central power reserve indicator. That’s not what makes this a great summer watch, though. The combination of a new ice blue dial variant and an optional steel bracelet transforms this Conquest from an unassuming dress watch into something perfectly suited to the dog days. ($5,950)
Tudor Black Bay Chrono 39
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A classic chronograph is a great summer watch to begin with, thanks to its associations with racetracks and Formula 1, but Tudor has turned up the heat on its beloved Black Bay Chrono with the addition of a new hazard yellow dial. Keen-eyed observers will clock this as the latest in a string of summer-ready Tudor chronos including versions in pastel pink and “Flamingo Blue.” ($8,420)
NORQAIN Freedom Chrono Enjoy Life “Sprinkles” Blue Raspberry
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What if you could take the unadulterated pleasure of enjoying a sweet, cold ice cream in the summertime and transmogrify it into a watch? That’s the idea behind this dessert-inspired recent release from Norqain, aptly named to match. Not only does it feature one of the most smile-inducing dials I’ve seen in a long time, but the sprinkles also glow in the dark, and an ice cream cone appears intermittently in the date window. Plus, if blue raspberry isn’t your jam, it also comes in pink strawberry flavour. ($7,450)
Bulova Super Seville 35mm Sodalite
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Swimming pools and summer go together like hot dogs and mustard, and with a mesmerizing sodalite stone dial evoking rippling turquoise water, this new Super Seville makes a perfect complement to linen shirts, fisherman sandals, and other summer wardrobe go-tos. Better still, if you buy it now, Bulova will send you a branded trucker cap, all the better for you to show your allegiance to high-frequency timekeeping all season long. ($1,250)
H. Moser & Cie. Pioneer Centre Seconds Concept Citrus Green
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Summer watches are fun by definition, but that doesn’t make them frivolous. This piece proves it, thanks to its combination of an eye-popping lime green dial and a blue rubber strap, with a beautifully decorated in-house movement that’s visible through the sapphire case back. (Price on request)
